The BLU G73 and TCL 40 XL represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone space. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at a low price point, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The G73 leverages a MediaTek octa-core processor with Cortex-A75 performance cores, while the 40 XL opts for the Helio G37. This comparison will dissect the key differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing responsiveness in everyday tasks and occasional light gaming, the BLU G73 offers a slight edge due to its Cortex-A75 cores. However, the TCL 40 XL provides a more balanced experience, potentially offering better sustained performance in less demanding scenarios, and a more modern chipset architecture. The TCL 40 XL is the better all-rounder for the average user.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - USA |
| 4G bands | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 38, 66, 71 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 - USA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, June | 2023, February 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, June | Available. Released 2023, May |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, eco leather back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 168.3 x 78.8 x 9.9 mm (6.63 x 3.10 x 0.39 in) | 167.9 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm (6.61 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM + eSIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 210 g (7.41 oz) | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~258 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 111.6 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~85.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G37 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13, TCL UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.3 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Grey, Orange, Burgundy | Dark Gray |
| Models | - | T608M |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 140 EUR |
BLU G73
- Potentially faster app loading and multitasking due to Cortex-A75 cores.
- More responsive user experience for demanding tasks.
- Slightly better peak performance in benchmarks.
- Potentially higher power consumption under load.
- Older CPU architecture compared to the Helio G37.
TCL 40 XL
- More modern chipset architecture (Helio G37).
- Potentially better sustained performance in less demanding tasks.
- Potentially better power efficiency.
- Slower CPU cores compared to the BLU G73’s Cortex-A75.
- Less responsive for demanding applications.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the price bracket, we can assume both utilize IPS LCD panels. Detailed specs like resolution and peak brightness are missing, but the focus here is on processing power. Bezels are likely comparable, and color accuracy will be standard for this segment. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like LTPO is expected.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the quality will heavily depend on sensor size and image processing. We can assume both will include a primary sensor, and potentially depth or macro lenses. The presence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is unlikely in this price range. Image processing will likely be heavily reliant on software algorithms to enhance image quality, and differences in these algorithms will be a key differentiator.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPU architecture. The BLU G73’s octa-core processor, featuring 2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 cores and 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, offers a significant performance advantage over the TCL 40 XL’s MediaTek Helio G37. The A75 cores are substantially more powerful than the G37’s 4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 configuration. While the G37 has a higher clock speed on its A53 cores, the A75 architecture provides superior instructions per clock (IPC). This translates to faster app loading times and smoother multitasking on the G73. However, the Helio G37’s 12nm process node *could* offer slightly better power efficiency under sustained loads, potentially mitigating thermal throttling. RAM speed is also unknown, but likely LPDDR4X on both.
Battery Life
Both the BLU G73 and TCL 40 XL support 18W wired charging. Actual charging times will depend on the included charger and battery capacity (which is not specified). The impact of battery size will be more significant than the charging wattage. A larger battery will provide longer usage times, even if it takes slightly longer to charge. Without knowing the battery capacities, it’s difficult to determine which device offers better overall battery life. However, the potentially more efficient Helio G37 in the TCL 40 XL could translate to slightly longer runtimes.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU G73 if you frequently switch between apps, need a phone that feels snappier for basic tasks like browsing and social media, and value the potential for slightly better peak performance. Buy the TCL 40 XL if you prioritize consistent performance in less demanding applications, prefer a more modern chipset design, and are looking for a reliable daily driver without pushing the processor to its limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU G73 struggle with graphically intensive games like PUBG Mobile?
While the BLU G73’s processor is capable of running PUBG Mobile, you’ll likely need to lower the graphics settings to achieve a playable frame rate. The Cortex-A75 cores provide a boost, but the GPU is likely entry-level and will be the limiting factor. Expect occasional frame drops and potential stuttering.
❓ Is the Helio G37 in the TCL 40 XL sufficient for everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Yes, the Helio G37 is perfectly adequate for everyday tasks. The Cortex-A53 cores are efficient and capable of handling browsing, social media, and messaging without issue. You shouldn’t experience any significant lag or slowdown during these activities.
❓ Does either phone support fast charging beyond 18W?
Neither phone officially supports charging speeds beyond 18W based on the provided specifications. While some chargers may offer faster charging protocols, the phones themselves are limited to 18W input.
