The BLU J7L and Nokia C2 Tava represent the ultra-budget end of the smartphone spectrum, targeting first-time buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. While both aim for affordability, they differ in their internal hardware, leading to distinct performance characteristics. This comparison dissects those differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and a slightly smoother experience, the Nokia C2 Tava is the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, clocked at 2.0 GHz, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the BLU J7L’s 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53, despite both utilizing a quad-core configuration.
| 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 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat6 300/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, October. Released 2020, October | 2020, May 29. Released 2020, May 29 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 155 x 74.7 x 10.9 mm (6.10 x 2.94 x 0.43 in) | 150.6 x 72.4 x 9.1 mm (5.93 x 2.85 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Micro-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 173 g (6.10 oz) | 180 g (6.35 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~72.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~70.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (16 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T820 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 8 MP, AF
2 MP |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Black, Violet, Tan | Tempered Blue |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 100 EUR |
BLU J7L
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- May offer slightly longer battery life due to potentially larger battery capacity (speculation)
- Significantly slower processor
- Less responsive user interface
- Likely older chipset architecture
Nokia C2 Tava
- Faster and more efficient processor (Helio A22)
- More responsive user experience
- 10W charging for convenient top-ups
- May be slightly more expensive
- Potentially shorter battery life compared to J7L (depending on battery capacity)
- Still limited camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the lack of display specifications for the BLU J7L, we can assume it utilizes a standard IPS LCD panel common in this price bracket. The Nokia C2 Tava also features an IPS LCD, but its focus is on practicality rather than visual fidelity. Expect similar color accuracy and viewing angles on both, with neither likely supporting features like high refresh rates or HDR. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within their budget constraints.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices, leaning towards basic functionality. Without detailed sensor information, it’s safe to assume both feature a primary camera and potentially a secondary depth or macro sensor. Image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing, and users shouldn’t expect exceptional results in low-light conditions. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on either device further limits low-light capabilities. The 2MP macro cameras often found in this segment are unlikely to provide significant detail.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipset. The Nokia C2 Tava’s Mediatek Helio A22 (16nm) is a more modern and efficient design than the BLU J7L’s quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53. The 2.0 GHz clock speed of the Helio A22 provides a significant performance advantage in CPU-bound tasks. While both CPUs utilize the Cortex-A53 architecture, the Helio A22 benefits from process node improvements (16nm vs likely 28nm for the J7L), resulting in better power efficiency and sustained performance. The J7L will likely exhibit more noticeable slowdowns under moderate load.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, the Nokia C2 Tava’s 10W wired charging suggests a focus on conservative power consumption. The Helio A22’s 16nm process contributes to better efficiency, potentially offsetting a smaller battery capacity compared to the J7L. Real-world battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but the C2 Tava’s more efficient chipset should translate to longer screen-on time for similar tasks.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU J7L if you need a basic, functional smartphone for essential tasks like calls, texts, and light social media use, and are prioritizing the absolute lowest possible price. Buy the Nokia C2 Tava if you prefer a device that can handle slightly more demanding apps, occasional gaming, and offers a more responsive user experience, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Nokia C2 Tava struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
While the Helio A22 isn't a powerhouse, it's capable of running apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly for most users. Expect some loading times, but the overall experience should be usable. The BLU J7L may exhibit more noticeable lag with these apps.
❓ Is the 10W charging on the Nokia C2 Tava slow compared to other phones?
Yes, 10W charging is relatively slow by today's standards. However, for a budget device, it's acceptable. Expect a full charge to take several hours. The focus is on efficiency rather than speed.
❓ Can either of these phones handle basic mobile games?
Both phones can handle very basic 2D games. However, demanding 3D games will likely be unplayable or experience significant frame rate drops. The Nokia C2 Tava will offer a slightly better gaming experience due to its more powerful processor.
