BLU consistently targets the ultra-budget smartphone market, and the J9L and Vivo X5 represent their current offerings. Both devices feature an octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 processor, suggesting similar performance on paper. However, subtle differences in design, software optimization, and potential component sourcing can significantly impact the user experience. This comparison aims to dissect those nuances and determine which BLU phone provides the most value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a balance of affordability and functionality, the BLU Vivo X5 emerges as the slightly better choice. While both phones share the same CPU, the Vivo X5 likely benefits from more refined software optimization and potentially a slightly better display, making it a more polished overall experience.
| 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 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June. Released 2021, June | 2019, September. Released 2019, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 161.6 x 76.9 x 9.7 mm (6.36 x 3.03 x 0.38 in) | 153 x 73.4 x 9.1 mm (6.02 x 2.89 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 191 g (6.74 oz) | 160 g (5.64 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~179 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~74.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~74.7% 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 |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 13 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| 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 | 4.0, 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 | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 550 h (2G) / Up to 500 h (3G) |
| Talk time | - | Up to 20 h (2G) / Up to 15 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh | Li-Po 2800 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Black, Green, Red | Black |
BLU J9L
- Potentially the lowest price point in BLU's lineup
- Octa-core processor provides adequate performance for basic tasks
- Likely offers a large display size for media consumption
- Camera performance is likely subpar
- Display quality may be compromised to keep costs down
BLU Vivo X5
- Potentially better software optimization for smoother performance
- May feature a slightly more refined design
- Likely offers a more visually appealing display
- May be slightly more expensive than the BLU J9L
- Camera performance is still likely limited
Display Comparison
Given the limited data, we can assume both devices utilize LCD panels common in this price bracket. The absence of specifications like resolution or refresh rate suggests both are likely 720p displays. The user experience will hinge on color accuracy and brightness, which are not specified. However, BLU often prioritizes size over quality in this segment, so the Vivo X5 may have a slightly more vibrant display due to potential differences in panel sourcing. Bezels are likely substantial on both devices, typical for budget phones.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is a significant unknown. Without sensor specifications, aperture details, or image processing information, it's impossible to make a meaningful comparison. BLU often includes multiple rear cameras, but these frequently include low-resolution sensors (e.g., 2MP depth sensors) that offer limited practical benefit. Image quality will likely be acceptable in good lighting conditions but will struggle in low light. Expect basic functionality rather than flagship-level photography.
Performance
Both the BLU J9L and Vivo X5 are powered by the same octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU. This processor is designed for efficiency rather than raw power, making it suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light app usage. The performance will be largely identical for most users. The real-world difference will come down to RAM capacity and software optimization, which are currently unknown. Without knowing the RAM configuration (e.g., 2GB, 3GB, 4GB), it's difficult to predict multitasking performance. Thermal management is unlikely to be a concern with this processor, as it generates minimal heat.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not specified. Given the processor's efficiency, both phones should offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. However, the actual battery life will depend on the battery capacity (mAh) and the level of software optimization. Faster charging is always a plus, but without knowing the charging wattage, it's impossible to estimate 0-100% charging times. The user experience will be similar in terms of battery endurance, assuming comparable battery capacities.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU J9L if you need a strictly no-frills device for basic communication and light tasks, and are prioritizing the absolute lowest possible price. Buy the BLU Vivo X5 if you prefer a slightly more refined experience with potentially better software and a more visually appealing display, even if it means spending a small premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will either of these phones run demanding games like PUBG Mobile smoothly?
While both phones have an octa-core processor, the Cortex-A55 architecture is not designed for intensive gaming. PUBG Mobile may be playable at the lowest settings, but expect significant frame rate drops and lag, especially during intense action. These phones are better suited for casual gaming.
❓ What kind of storage options are available on the BLU J9L and Vivo X5?
Storage capacity is not specified. However, budget smartphones typically offer 32GB or 64GB of internal storage. It's highly recommended to check if the phone has a microSD card slot for expandable storage, as this is crucial for storing photos, videos, and apps.
❓ Do these phones support fast charging?
Fast charging support is unknown. Given the price point, it's unlikely that either phone supports fast charging technologies like Quick Charge or Power Delivery. Expect standard 5W or 10W charging speeds.
