BLU consistently targets the ultra-budget smartphone market, and the M8L and G5 Plus represent their current offerings. Both devices aim to deliver a functional Android experience at a low price point, but subtle differences in their specifications could make one a better fit for specific users. This comparison dissects those differences to help you choose.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance in everyday tasks, the BLU G5 Plus offers a slightly better experience. While both phones share the same CPU, the G5 Plus's potential for optimized software and potentially better thermal management gives it a slight edge. However, the M8L remains a viable option for those on the absolute tightest budget.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - G0190UU |
| 4G bands | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 66 | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 28 - G0190LL, G0190VV |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 - G0190UU |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, August. Released 2020, August | 2019, July. Released 2019, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 208 x 125 x 9 mm (8.19 x 4.92 x 0.35 in) | 161.4 x 78 x 9.6 mm (6.35 x 3.07 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 352 g (12.42 oz) | 181 g (6.38 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~73.8% 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 | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 13 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@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, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 575 h (2G) / Up to 525 h (3G) |
| Talk time | - | Up to 20 h (2G) / Up to 15 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black, Red, Twilight, Chameleon Blue |
| Price | About 60 EUR | - |
BLU M8L
- Potentially lower price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Likely lightweight and compact
- May exhibit more noticeable performance throttling
- Potentially less optimized software
BLU G5 Plus
- Potentially smoother performance in multitasking
- May have slightly better thermal management
- Potentially better software optimization
- Likely slightly more expensive
- May not offer a significant performance leap over the M8L
Display Comparison
Both the BLU M8L and G5 Plus lack detailed display specifications in the provided data. Given their price point, it's reasonable to assume both utilize IPS LCD panels. The absence of information regarding resolution, refresh rate, or brightness suggests neither device will excel in outdoor visibility or color accuracy. Users should expect a standard viewing experience, prioritizing functionality over visual fidelity. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both models, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is limited. It's highly probable that both devices feature a multi-camera setup, likely including a primary sensor and potentially a depth or macro lens. However, the quality of these sensors is likely to be modest. Image processing will play a significant role in the final image quality, and BLU's software optimization will be a key factor. Users should not expect exceptional low-light performance or detailed images from either device. The absence of OIS suggests images may suffer from blur in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Performance
Both the BLU M8L and G5 Plus are powered by the same Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU. This indicates similar processing power for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and basic app usage. However, the real-world performance difference may stem from RAM management and software optimization. The Cortex-A55 is an efficiency-focused core, meaning it prioritizes power saving over raw speed. While capable, it won't deliver a flagship-level gaming experience. Thermal management will be crucial; sustained loads could lead to throttling, impacting performance over extended periods. The G5 Plus *may* benefit from slightly better thermal design, but this is speculative without further data.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not specified for either device. Given the budget nature of these phones, it's reasonable to expect a battery capacity in the 3000-4000 mAh range. Charging speeds are likely to be relatively slow, potentially utilizing a 5W or 10W charger. Real-world battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but users can anticipate a full day of light to moderate use. The efficiency of the Cortex-A55 CPU should contribute to reasonable battery endurance.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU M8L if you need a functional smartphone for basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media – and are prioritizing the lowest possible price. Buy the BLU G5 Plus if you prefer a device capable of handling slightly more demanding tasks, such as occasional gaming or running multiple apps simultaneously, and are willing to spend a little more for a potentially smoother experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will either of these phones struggle with popular social media apps like TikTok or Instagram?
While both phones can run these apps, the Cortex-A55 CPU is not a powerhouse. Expect some lag or stuttering when scrolling through feeds or recording videos, especially with multiple apps open simultaneously. The G5 Plus *may* handle these tasks slightly better due to potential software optimizations.
❓ Are these phones likely to receive software updates and security patches?
Given BLU's track record and the budget nature of these devices, consistent and timely software updates are unlikely. Users should not expect major Android version upgrades. Security patches may be infrequent, so it's crucial to exercise caution when downloading apps and browsing the web.
❓ Can I play demanding games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile on these phones?
Playing graphically intensive games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile is possible, but you'll need to significantly lower the graphics settings to achieve playable frame rates. Expect noticeable lag and stuttering, even on the lowest settings. These phones are not designed for serious gaming.
