The BLU M8L and C5 Max represent two distinct approaches to the ultra-budget smartphone market. The M8L aims for a more modern experience with an octa-core processor, while the C5 Max relies on a simpler, older quad-core design. This comparison dissects the implications of these CPU choices for everyday users.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the BLU M8L is the superior choice. Its octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU provides a significantly more responsive experience for multitasking and app loading compared to the C5 Max’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. While neither phone is a performance powerhouse, the M8L offers a better long-term user experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 66 | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, August. Released 2020, August | 2022, January |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 208 x 125 x 9 mm (8.19 x 4.92 x 0.35 in) | 159.2 x 76.5 x 9.8 mm (6.27 x 3.01 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 352 g (12.42 oz) | 164 g (5.78 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) |
| Size | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~68.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 5 MP
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 4.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 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 | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 2700 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black, Blue, Red, Green, Bronze |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 60 EUR |
BLU M8L
- More powerful octa-core CPU for smoother multitasking.
- More efficient Cortex-A55 architecture potentially improves battery life.
- Likely to receive more software updates due to being a newer model.
- Specific display and camera specs are unknown.
- May be slightly more expensive than the C5 Max.
BLU C5 Max
- Likely the most affordable option.
- Simple and straightforward user experience.
- Sufficient for basic communication tasks.
- Significantly slower quad-core CPU.
- Older Cortex-A7 architecture is less efficient.
- Limited multitasking capabilities.
Display Comparison
Display specifications are not provided, so a direct comparison is impossible. However, given the price points, both devices likely utilize LCD panels with 720p resolution. The M8L, being a newer device, *may* benefit from slightly improved color accuracy or brightness, but this is speculative. Bezels are likely substantial on both models, typical for this segment.
Camera Comparison
Camera details are unavailable beyond the existence of cameras on both devices. It’s safe to assume both phones feature basic camera setups geared towards casual snapshots. Without sensor size or aperture information, it’s impossible to assess image quality. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is unlikely to significantly impact the user experience, serving primarily as a marketing feature.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPUs. The BLU M8L’s octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 processor offers a substantial advantage over the BLU C5 Max’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. The Cortex-A55 architecture is more efficient and delivers better performance per clock cycle than the older Cortex-A7. The increased core count on the M8L allows for better multitasking and smoother operation of demanding apps. While neither CPU is suited for intensive gaming, the M8L will handle simpler titles with fewer stutters. RAM specifications are unknown, but a larger RAM capacity on the M8L would further amplify its performance advantage.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not specified. Given the budget nature of these phones, expect modest battery life – likely sufficient for a full day of light use. The M8L’s more efficient Cortex-A55 CPU *may* translate to slightly longer battery life under similar usage conditions, but this is dependent on software optimization and battery capacity. Charging speeds are likely slow on both devices.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU M8L if you need a phone capable of handling multiple apps simultaneously, enjoy occasional light gaming, and prioritize a smoother overall user experience. Buy the BLU C5 Max if your primary needs are basic communication – calls, texts, and very light web browsing – and you are seeking the absolute lowest possible price point, accepting significant performance limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU M8L be able to run popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the BLU M8L’s octa-core processor and Cortex-A55 architecture should provide a reasonably smooth experience with social media apps. While it won’t offer the same performance as a flagship device, it’s capable of handling the demands of these applications without significant lag.
❓ Is the BLU C5 Max suitable for someone who primarily uses their phone for making calls and sending text messages?
Absolutely. The BLU C5 Max is perfectly adequate for basic communication tasks like calls and texts. Its quad-core processor is sufficient for these functions, and its simplicity can be an advantage for users who prefer a straightforward experience.
❓ Can I expect to play games on either of these phones?
While both phones can technically run games, the experience will be limited. The BLU M8L will handle simpler, less demanding games better than the C5 Max. However, don't expect to play graphically intensive titles like PUBG or Call of Duty smoothly on either device.
