The sub-$200 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The BLU Studio X10 2022 and OnePlus Nord N20 SE represent two approaches to delivering affordability. The BLU focuses on basic functionality at an extremely low price point, while the Nord N20 SE attempts to offer a more modern experience with faster charging and a more capable processor. This comparison dissects their key differences to determine which device provides the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the OnePlus Nord N20 SE is the clear winner. While the BLU Studio X10 2022 offers a lower entry price, the N20 SE’s significantly faster 33W charging and more powerful octa-core Helio G35 processor deliver a substantially improved user experience, justifying the price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - Global |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - Global |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 26, 28, 38, 41, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January | 2022, August 05 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, January | Available. Released 2022, August 08 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 145.9 x 73.5 x 9.8 mm (5.74 x 2.89 x 0.39 in) | 163.8 x 75 x 8 mm (6.45 x 2.95 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 175 g (6.17 oz) | 187 g (6.60 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~196 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~64.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6580 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400MP2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 12, OxygenOS 12.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 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 | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 33W wired, 50% in 34 min, 100% in 69 min |
| Type | Li-Po 2000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Green, Red, Black, Blue | Blue Oasis, Celestial Black |
| Models | - | CPH2469 |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 190 EUR |
BLU Studio X10 2022
- Lowest possible price point
- Simple and easy to use
- Acceptable for basic communication
- Outdated processor and architecture
- Slow charging speeds
- Limited multitasking capabilities
OnePlus Nord N20 SE
- Faster and more efficient processor
- Significantly faster 33W charging
- More responsive user experience
- Higher price than BLU Studio X10 2022
- Camera performance is still basic
- May not be ideal for heavy gaming
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the price points, details like panel type and resolution are not provided. However, the focus should be on usability. The lack of information suggests both likely utilize basic LCD panels. The N20 SE’s slightly larger form factor (assumed, based on typical Nord N series sizing) may offer a marginally more immersive viewing experience, but neither is expected to compete with higher-end displays in terms of color accuracy or brightness.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar in real-world results, given the focus on cost reduction in both devices. Without specific sensor details, it’s safe to assume both feature basic camera setups. The N20 SE may have a slight advantage due to its more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) integrated within the Helio G35 chipset, potentially leading to better image processing and noise reduction. However, don't expect flagship-level image quality from either device. The prevalence of 2MP macro lenses on budget phones is a marketing tactic; their image quality is generally poor.
Performance
The performance gap between these two devices is substantial. The BLU Studio X10 2022’s Mediatek MT6580, built on a 28nm process, features a quad-core Cortex-A7 CPU clocked at 1.3 GHz. This is an older architecture designed for basic tasks. In contrast, the OnePlus Nord N20 SE’s Mediatek Helio G35 (12nm) utilizes an octa-core configuration – four Cortex-A53 cores at 2.3 GHz and four at 1.8 GHz. The 12nm process node is more efficient, and the eight cores provide significantly more processing power. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface on the N20 SE. The G35 is also better suited for light gaming, while the MT6580 will struggle with anything beyond simple 2D games.
Battery Life
While battery capacity isn’t specified, the OnePlus Nord N20 SE’s 33W wired charging is a game-changer in this price segment. It can reach 50% charge in just 34 minutes and a full charge in 69 minutes. The BLU Studio X10 2022 likely supports standard 5W or 10W charging, meaning a full charge could take several hours. This difference in charging speed significantly impacts usability, especially for users who rely heavily on their phones throughout the day. Even if the BLU has a slightly larger battery capacity, the N20 SE’s faster charging mitigates any potential advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU Studio X10 2022 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and only require basic smartphone functionality like calls, texts, and light web browsing. It’s a suitable option for first-time smartphone users or as a temporary device. Buy the OnePlus Nord N20 SE if you prioritize a smoother, more responsive experience, faster charging, and the ability to handle more demanding apps and occasional gaming. It’s the better choice for everyday use and offers a longer-term investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU Studio X10 2022 struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
The Mediatek MT6580 processor is quite limited. While it can run these apps, you may experience noticeable lag and slow loading times, especially with multiple apps open simultaneously. The N20 SE’s Helio G35 will provide a much smoother experience with these and other common applications.
❓ Is the 33W charging on the OnePlus Nord N20 SE compatible with all USB-C chargers?
The OnePlus Nord N20 SE supports the USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) standard. While it will charge with any USB-C charger, you’ll only achieve the full 33W charging speed with a charger that also supports USB-PD. Using a standard 5W charger will result in significantly slower charging times.
❓ Can the OnePlus Nord N20 SE handle basic mobile games like Candy Crush or Angry Birds?
Yes, the Helio G35 in the Nord N20 SE is capable of running casual mobile games like Candy Crush and Angry Birds without significant issues. However, don't expect to play graphically demanding games at high settings. The BLU Studio X10 2022 will struggle even with these simpler titles.
