Looking for an affordable Android phone? BLU offers several options, and the M8L and View 3 are two popular contenders. But which one delivers the best value? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their specs and features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The BLU View 3 edges out the M8L thanks to its slightly faster processor and more efficient 12nm manufacturing process. While both are budget phones, the View 3 offers a more responsive experience, making it the better choice for everyday tasks and light gaming.
| 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 |
| 4G bands | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 66 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat6 300/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, August. Released 2020, August | 2021, September. Released 2021, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 208 x 125 x 9 mm (8.19 x 4.92 x 0.35 in) | 160.2 x 76.7 x 9 mm (6.31 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 352 g (12.42 oz) | 178 g (6.28 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 (~75.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 13 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 8 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 | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 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, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 3400 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 50 EUR |
BLU M8L
- Potentially larger screen
- Affordable price point
- Basic Android experience
- Slower processor
- Older chipset
- Potentially shorter battery life
BLU View 3
- Faster processor (Helio P22)
- More efficient chipset (12nm)
- Potentially better battery life
- Slightly more modern design
- May have slightly smaller screen
- Still a budget phone with limitations
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar LCD displays, probably around 6.5 inches with HD+ resolution. The M8L might have a slightly larger display, but the View 3's potentially better color accuracy due to the chipset could make a difference. Expect similar viewing angles and brightness levels.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are often similar in this price range. Both likely feature a primary rear camera around 13MP-16MP, potentially with a secondary depth sensor. Image quality will depend heavily on software processing, so expect similar results in good lighting. Low-light performance will likely be subpar on both.
Performance
The BLU View 3's Mediatek Helio P22 chipset (12nm) offers a noticeable performance advantage over the M8L's Cortex-A55 CPU (likely a generic octa-core). The Helio P22's higher clock speed (2.0 GHz vs 1.6 GHz) and more modern manufacturing process contribute to smoother multitasking and app loading. Expect the View 3 to handle light gaming better.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is likely around 4000-5000 mAh for both devices. The View 3's more efficient chipset (12nm vs likely 14nm or older for the M8L) should translate to slightly better battery life, potentially lasting a full day with moderate use.
Buying Guide
The BLU M8L is a good option for users prioritizing a larger screen and basic functionality. The BLU View 3 is ideal for those seeking a bit more performance and a slightly more modern chipset, even within a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What Android version do these phones run?
Both phones likely run a slightly older version of Android, possibly Android 9 or 10. Updates are often limited on budget devices.
❓ How much RAM and storage do they have?
Typically, these phones come with 2GB-4GB of RAM and 32GB-64GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card.
