The BLU J6 2020 and Alcatel 1x (2019) represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting users prioritizing affordability above all else. Both devices aim to deliver basic smartphone functionality at the lowest possible price point, but significant differences in their underlying hardware dictate which one offers a better user experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Alcatel 1x (2019) emerges as the slightly better choice. While the BLU J6 2020’s Cortex-A7 CPU is present, the Alcatel 1x’s Mediatek MT6739, built on a 28nm process, offers a more modern Cortex-A53 architecture and a higher clock speed, resulting in noticeably smoother performance for everyday tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - 5059A |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 28, 38, 40 - 5008T |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28 - 5008Y |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, October. Released 2020, October | 2019, January. Released 2019, Q1 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 160.7 x 78.4 x 10.3 mm (6.33 x 3.09 x 0.41 in) | 146.4 x 68.8 x 8.3 mm (5.76 x 2.71 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 227 g (8.01 oz) | 130 g (4.59 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~73.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~77.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400 | PowerVR GE8100 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 8.1 (Oreo) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP
2 MP |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | - |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP | 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, 5008T only), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Black, Violet, Tan | Pebble Blue, Pebble Black |
| Models | - | 5008T, 5008Y, 5008U, 5008R, 5008D_EEA, 5008Y_EEA, 5008D |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 120 EUR |
BLU J6 2020
- Potentially newer Android version
- May have slightly better software support (depending on BLU's update schedule)
- Lower price point (potentially)
- Older, less efficient Cortex-A7 CPU
- Likely slower performance in everyday tasks
- Potentially lower build quality
alcatel 1x (2019)
- More modern and efficient Cortex-A53 CPU
- Better performance for basic tasks
- 28nm process for improved power efficiency
- Potentially older Android version
- May have limited software updates
- Build quality may be similar to BLU J6 2020
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the context data, we can assume both utilize low-resolution LCD panels. However, the Alcatel 1x’s chipset likely allows for slightly better image processing, potentially resulting in marginally improved color reproduction. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, reflecting their budget nature. Brightness levels will likely be similar, adequate for indoor use but struggling in direct sunlight.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be extremely limited. Both are likely to feature basic, low-resolution sensors. Given the market segment, it’s safe to assume both will struggle in low-light conditions and produce images with limited detail. Any mention of a 'macro' camera on either device should be viewed with extreme skepticism, as its 2MP resolution will yield minimal usable results. The Alcatel 1x’s slightly more powerful chipset *might* allow for marginally faster image processing, but the sensor itself will be the primary limiting factor.
Performance
The core difference lies in the processors. The Alcatel 1x’s Mediatek MT6739, with its quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 cores, benefits from a more efficient and modern architecture compared to the BLU J6 2020’s 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. The 28nm manufacturing process of the MT6739 also contributes to better power efficiency. While both are quad-core, the A53 cores offer a significant performance uplift over the older A7 cores, translating to faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. RAM configurations are likely similar (1-2GB), further emphasizing the CPU’s role in overall responsiveness.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified, but both devices likely house batteries in the 2000-3000 mAh range. The Alcatel 1x’s more efficient MT6739 chipset will likely translate to slightly longer battery life under typical usage. Charging speeds will be slow on both, likely utilizing Micro-USB and taking several hours to fully charge. The difference in battery life will be more noticeable during moderate use, such as browsing or light video playback.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU J6 2020 if you absolutely need a device with the latest Android version, even if performance is minimal. Buy the Alcatel 1x (2019) if you prioritize a more responsive user experience for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light web browsing, and are willing to potentially accept an older Android version. Both are suitable for first-time smartphone users or as emergency backup devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Alcatel 1x (2019) struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
While the Alcatel 1x can run these apps, expect a slow and sometimes laggy experience. The MT6739 chipset is sufficient for basic functionality, but resource-intensive apps will push its limits. Using 'Lite' versions of these apps is highly recommended.
❓ Is the BLU J6 2020 a good choice for a first smartphone?
The BLU J6 2020 can function as a first smartphone, but its limited performance may lead to frustration. The slower processor means apps will take longer to load and multitasking will be difficult. It's best suited for users with very basic needs.
❓ Can either of these phones play modern mobile games?
Playing modern mobile games on either device is not recommended. The processors lack the power to run demanding games smoothly, and the limited RAM will cause frequent crashes. Simple, older games might be playable at low settings.
