The BLU G5 and G5 Plus represent BLU's continued push into the competitive budget smartphone market. While appearing similar on the surface, a closer examination reveals nuanced differences that could sway your purchasing decision. Both devices target users seeking affordability, but the G5 Plus aims to offer a slight performance edge within that segment.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the BLU G5 Plus is the better choice. Despite sharing the same Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU, the G5 Plus likely benefits from optimizations in RAM management and software, resulting in a smoother overall experience. The price difference, if minimal, justifies the upgrade.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - G0090UU | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - G0190UU |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 28 - G0090LL, G0090VV | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 28 - G0190LL, G0190VV |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 - G0090UU | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 - G0190UU |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, July. Released 2019, July | 2019, July. Released 2019, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 150.5 x 71.5 x 10.4 mm (5.93 x 2.81 x 0.41 in) | 161.4 x 78 x 9.6 mm (6.35 x 3.07 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 187 g (6.60 oz) | 181 g (6.38 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~72.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~73.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 |
| GPU | IMG8322 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, AF | 13 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP | 4.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 600 h (2G) / Up to 550 h (3G) | Up to 575 h (2G) / Up to 525 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 21 h (2G) / Up to 16 h (3G) | Up to 20 h (2G) / Up to 15 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red, Twilight, Chameleon Blue | Black, Red, Twilight, Chameleon Blue |
BLU G5
- Likely the most affordable option.
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks.
- Simple and straightforward user experience.
- Potentially slower performance compared to the G5 Plus.
- May have limited storage options.
- Camera quality likely to be basic.
BLU G5 Plus
- Potentially smoother multitasking and app loading.
- May offer slightly better camera performance.
- Likely benefits from software optimizations.
- Slightly higher price point.
- Still limited by the Cortex-A55 CPU.
- May not offer significant improvements over the G5.
Display Comparison
Given the lack of display specifications, we can infer both devices likely utilize IPS LCD panels common in this price bracket. The absence of details like resolution or refresh rate suggests a focus on cost reduction. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both models. Color accuracy will likely be standard for the segment, prioritizing vibrancy over precise calibration. Without further data, it's impossible to definitively state a display advantage.
Camera Comparison
Without camera specifications beyond the existence of cameras, a detailed comparison is impossible. It's highly probable both devices feature a multi-camera setup with a primary sensor and potentially depth or macro lenses. However, the quality of these sensors is likely to be modest. Image processing will likely prioritize scene recognition and software enhancements over optical excellence. Users should expect acceptable results in good lighting conditions but limited performance in low light.
Performance
Both the BLU G5 and G5 Plus are powered by the same Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU. This indicates similar raw processing power. However, the 'Plus' model *may* feature a slightly faster RAM configuration (though not specified) or optimized software that allows for more efficient multitasking. The Cortex-A55 is an efficiency-focused core, meaning it excels at handling everyday tasks but will struggle with demanding games or applications. Thermal management will likely be passive on both devices, relying on the chassis to dissipate heat, potentially leading to throttling under sustained load.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not provided. Given the budget nature of these phones, we can anticipate a battery size in the 3000-4000 mAh range. Charging speeds will likely be relatively slow, potentially utilizing a Micro-USB port. Real-world battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but users should expect a full day of moderate use. The G5 Plus *might* have a slightly larger battery or more efficient power management, but this is speculative.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU G5 if you need a functional, basic smartphone for essential tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use, and are prioritizing the absolute lowest possible price. Buy the BLU G5 Plus if you prefer a slightly more responsive experience for multitasking, occasional gaming, and a generally smoother user interface, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU G5 or G5 Plus struggle with popular social media apps like TikTok or Instagram?
While both phones can run these apps, the Cortex-A55 CPU is not particularly powerful. Expect some lag when scrolling through feeds or recording videos. The G5 Plus *may* offer a slightly smoother experience due to potential software optimizations, but don't expect flagship-level performance.
❓ Are either of these phones likely to receive software updates?
Given BLU's history and the budget nature of these devices, consistent and timely software updates are unlikely. Expect limited security patches and potentially no major Android version upgrades. Users should not rely on long-term software support.
❓ Can either phone handle basic mobile gaming?
Both phones can handle simple 2D games. However, demanding 3D games will likely experience significant frame rate drops and lag. The Cortex-A55 CPU and likely limited GPU resources are not designed for intensive gaming.
