BLU consistently targets the ultra-budget smartphone market, and the G61 and G71L represent their latest offerings. While both devices aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a low price point, subtle differences in their specifications could make one a better fit for specific users. This comparison dissects those differences to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing simplicity and basic functionality, the BLU G71L offers a negligible advantage. Both phones share identical CPUs and charging speeds, but the G71L's potential for slightly better software optimization and availability makes it the marginally better choice.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, February 09. Released 2021, February 09 | 2022, January |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 75.8 x 9.3 mm (6.48 x 2.98 x 0.37 in) | 164.4 x 75.9 x 9.6 mm (6.47 x 2.99 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 196 g (6.91 oz) | 198 g (6.98 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.7% 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 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Triple | - | 13 MP
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| 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 | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Green, Red | Blue, Green |
| Price | About 110 EUR | - |
BLU G61
- Potentially lower price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Compact and lightweight design (likely)
- Slow charging speed
- Limited performance for demanding apps
- Likely basic camera system
BLU G71L
- Potentially better software optimization
- Wider availability (potentially)
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Slow charging speed
- Limited performance for demanding apps
- Likely basic camera system
Display Comparison
Both the BLU G61 and G71L lack detailed display specifications in the provided data. Given their price point, it's reasonable to assume both utilize IPS LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. Expect similar color accuracy and viewing angles. The absence of information regarding peak brightness or refresh rates suggests neither device will excel in outdoor visibility or smooth scrolling. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both models, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Without specific camera sensor details, it's difficult to assess image quality. However, given the price bracket, both devices likely feature a primary camera paired with a depth or macro sensor of limited utility. Expect acceptable image quality in well-lit conditions, but struggles in low light. The aperture of the main sensor will be a key determinant of low-light performance, but this information is unavailable. Image processing will likely be basic, prioritizing speed over detail.
Performance
The core of both the BLU G61 and G71L is an Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU. This indicates a MediaTek Helio P22 or similar entry-level chipset. Performance will be adequate for basic tasks like web browsing, social media, and light app usage. However, demanding games or multitasking will likely result in noticeable lag. The identical CPU configuration means performance differences will be minimal, primarily stemming from RAM management and software optimization – an area where the G71L *might* have a slight edge depending on BLU’s software strategy.
Battery Life
Both the BLU G61 and G71L support 10W wired charging. This is a slow charging standard by today’s standards, meaning a full charge will take several hours. Battery capacity is not specified, but given the target market, expect a capacity between 3000mAh and 4000mAh. Real-world battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but both devices should comfortably last a full day with moderate use. The slow charging speed means topping up throughout the day is less convenient.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU G61 if you find it significantly cheaper and need a basic, functional smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage. Buy the BLU G71L if you prefer a device with potentially more consistent software updates and wider availability, even if the core hardware remains the same. Both are suited for first-time smartphone users or those needing a reliable backup device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will either the BLU G61 or G71L be able to run popular games like PUBG Mobile?
While technically capable of launching PUBG Mobile, both the G61 and G71L will struggle to deliver a smooth gaming experience. The Cortex-A55 CPU and limited GPU power will result in low frame rates and significant lag, even on the lowest graphics settings. These phones are better suited for less demanding games.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the BLU G61 or G71L with the 10W charger?
With the 10W charging standard, expect a full charge to take approximately 3-4 hours, potentially longer if the phone is being used while charging. This is a relatively slow charging speed compared to modern smartphones, so planning ahead is recommended.
❓ Are software updates likely to be provided for either the BLU G61 or G71L?
BLU's track record with software updates is inconsistent. While the G71L *might* receive occasional security patches, major Android version updates are unlikely for either device. Users should not expect long-term software support.
