Both the BLU Studio C 8+8 and the ZTE Zmax Pro represent attempts to deliver affordable smartphone experiences. However, they diverge significantly in their core processing power. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on how the chipset choices impact real-world performance and suitability for various user needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and multitasking, the ZTE Zmax Pro is the clear winner. Its Snapdragon 617 chipset, with its octa-core configuration, provides a substantial performance uplift over the BLU Studio C 8+8’s quad-core Mediatek MT6580, making it better suited for demanding apps and smoother operation.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - S270Q | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | - | 2, 4, 12 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2016, August. Released 2016, August | 2016, July. Released 2016, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 144.4 x 72.5 x 8.5 mm (5.69 x 2.85 x 0.33 in) | 165.1 x 83.8 x 8.9 mm (6.5 x 3.30 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 152 g (5.36 oz) | 174.9 (6.17 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) | 1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~367 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~65.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.0 inches, 99.2 cm2 (~71.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.0 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6580 (28 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8952 Snapdragon 617 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400MP2 | Adreno 405 |
| OS | Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) | Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 13 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide), PDAF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 775 h (2G) / Up to 650 h (3G) | Up to 400 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 32 h (2G) / Up to 24 h (3G) | Up to 25 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3400 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Rose Gold, Bronze | Black |
| Models | - | Z981 |
| Price | - | About 110 EUR |
BLU Studio C 8+8
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- May be more readily available in certain regions
- Significantly weaker performance
- Limited multitasking capabilities
- Likely slower app loading times
ZTE Zmax Pro
- Superior processing power with octa-core CPU
- Better multitasking and app responsiveness
- More efficient chipset for potentially longer battery life
- May be slightly more expensive
- Potentially larger physical size
- Software updates may be less frequent
Display Comparison
Neither device is known for display excellence. Given the market segment, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. Without specific resolution or brightness data, it’s difficult to make a definitive statement. However, the Zmax Pro, being a slightly later release, *may* benefit from minor improvements in color calibration. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, typical of phones in this price range. The absence of high refresh rates or HDR support is standard.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications beyond the presence of cameras, a direct comparison is challenging. It’s safe to assume both devices feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The Zmax Pro, benefiting from the more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Snapdragon 617, likely offers slightly better image processing, particularly in low-light conditions. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is expected on both. Focusing on sensor size and aperture would be crucial for a more accurate assessment, but this data is unavailable.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The ZTE Zmax Pro’s Qualcomm MSM8952 Snapdragon 617 is a significant upgrade over the BLU Studio C 8+8’s Mediatek MT6580. The Snapdragon 617 boasts an octa-core CPU (4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.0 GHz Cortex-A53) compared to the MT6580’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. This translates to substantially better multitasking capabilities and smoother performance in applications. The Cortex-A53 architecture, while not cutting-edge, is more efficient than the Cortex-A7 found in the BLU device. While both are built on a 28nm process, the Snapdragon 617’s architecture allows for better sustained performance under load. Users who intend to run multiple apps simultaneously or play moderately demanding games will find the Zmax Pro far more capable.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given the more efficient chipset in the Zmax Pro, it’s reasonable to expect comparable or slightly better battery life despite potentially having a similar capacity battery to the BLU Studio C 8+8. The Snapdragon 617’s power efficiency, stemming from its architecture and manufacturing process, allows it to deliver more performance per watt. Charging wattage is also unknown, but faster charging is a potential advantage the Zmax Pro *could* have, depending on its implementation.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU Studio C 8+8 if you need a basic smartphone for essential tasks like calls, texts, and light social media use, and your budget is extremely limited. Buy the ZTE Zmax Pro if you prefer a device capable of handling more demanding applications, moderate multitasking, and occasional gaming without significant slowdowns, even if it means a slightly higher initial investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the ZTE Zmax Pro handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
While the Snapdragon 617 isn't a gaming powerhouse, it can handle PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile at lower to medium settings with acceptable frame rates. Expect some occasional stuttering, especially in intense scenes. The BLU Studio C 8+8 would struggle significantly with these titles.
❓ Is the difference in performance between the two phones noticeable for everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Yes, the difference is quite noticeable. The ZTE Zmax Pro will feel significantly snappier when switching between apps, loading web pages, and scrolling through social media feeds. The BLU Studio C 8+8 may exhibit noticeable lag and slowdowns during these common tasks.
❓ Which phone is likely to receive more software updates?
Historically, ZTE has a slightly better track record of providing software updates, even for budget devices, compared to BLU. However, neither brand is known for extensive long-term support. Expect limited updates for both devices.
❓ Does the Snapdragon 617 support 4G LTE bands commonly used in North America?
Yes, the Snapdragon 617 supports a wide range of 4G LTE bands, including those commonly used by major carriers in North America. However, it's always best to verify compatibility with your specific carrier before purchasing.
