Looking for an affordable tablet for browsing, streaming, and light tasks? The BLU M7L and Lenovo Tab M7 (3rd Gen) are both contenders in the budget space. But which one delivers the best experience for your money? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Lenovo Tab M7 (3rd Gen) edges out the BLU M7L thanks to its faster processor and potentially LTE connectivity (depending on the version). While both are budget options, Lenovo's slightly better performance and broader availability make it the more compelling choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 28 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, February 09. Released 2021, February 09 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, June 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 194.4 x 109.2 x 11 mm (7.65 x 4.30 x 0.43 in) | 176.2 x 102.3 x 8.3 mm (6.94 x 4.03 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 286 g (10.09 oz) | 237 g (8.36 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 600 x 1240 pixels, 18.5:9 ratio (~197 ppi density) | 600 x 1024 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~170 ppi density) |
| Size | 7.0 inches, 123.9 cm2 (~58.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 7.0 inches, 137.9 cm2 (~76.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | TDDI IPS LCD, 350 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 | Octa-core 2.0 GHz |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT8166 - Wi-Fi versionMediatek MT8766 - LTE version |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 2800 mAh | Li-Po 3750 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Iron Grey |
| Models | - | ZA8C0027US, TB-7306X |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 120 EUR |
BLU M7L
- Very affordable
- Compact size
- Basic Android functionality
- Lower performance
- Limited storage
- Basic camera
- Potentially lower build quality
Lenovo Tab M7 (3rd Gen)
- Faster processor
- Potential LTE connectivity (version dependent)
- Slightly better build quality
- More reliable brand
- Still a budget device
- Limited storage
- Basic camera
- Display quality is average
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature a 7-inch display, likely with a resolution around 1024x600. Expect decent viewing angles but limited brightness. The Lenovo Tab M7 might have slightly better color accuracy due to Lenovo's generally higher quality control, but the difference will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Neither tablet excels in the camera department. Both likely feature basic, low-resolution cameras suitable for occasional video calls but not for serious photography. Image quality will be comparable and generally poor in low light.
Performance
Here's where the Lenovo Tab M7 (3rd Gen) takes a clear lead. Its 2.0 GHz octa-core CPU significantly outperforms the BLU M7L's 1.6 GHz octa-core processor. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive overall experience on the Lenovo.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is likely around 3000mAh for both devices. Battery life will depend heavily on usage, but the Lenovo's more efficient chipset could give it a slight edge in overall endurance.
Buying Guide
The BLU M7L is a good option for users prioritizing a very low price point and basic functionality. The Lenovo Tab M7 (3rd Gen) is ideal for those needing a bit more performance, potential cellular connectivity, and a slightly more polished user experience, even within a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What Android version do these tablets run?
Both tablets likely run a slightly older version of Android, possibly Android 9 or 10. Updates are unlikely.
❓ Can I expand the storage on either tablet?
Yes, both tablets likely support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage for apps, photos, and videos.