The BLU Studio X10+ and TCL 30 SE represent the ultra-budget end of the smartphone spectrum. While both aim to deliver essential functionality at a low price, they take drastically different approaches to achieving this. The X10+ relies on a very basic quad-core processor, while the 30 SE leverages a more modern, octa-core Mediatek chipset. This comparison will dissect the key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the TCL 30 SE is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Helio G25 chipset provides a substantial performance advantage over the BLU Studio X10+'s aging Cortex-A7 processor, resulting in a smoother and more responsive user experience. The 15W charging is also a welcome addition.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EMEA/APAC |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EMEA |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, February 09. Released 2021, February 09 | 2022, February 27 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, April 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 146 x 72.3 x 9 mm (5.75 x 2.85 x 0.35 in) | 165.2 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 167 g (5.89 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~195 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~74.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 12, TCL UI 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.9, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (6165H/6165H1 only) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 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 | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 2550 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Green, Red | Atlantic Blue, Space Gray, Glacial Blue |
| Models | - | 6165H, 6156H1, 6165A, 6165A1, 6165S |
| Price | About 50 EUR | - |
BLU Studio X10+
- Extremely low price point
- Basic functionality for calls and texts
- Potentially longer standby time due to less powerful processor
- Very slow performance
- Outdated processor architecture
- Likely poor camera quality
- Slow charging (likely 5W)
TCL 30 SE
- Significantly faster performance
- More efficient processor
- 15W fast charging
- Better multitasking capabilities
- Still a budget device with limitations
- Camera quality likely remains basic
- Display specifications are unremarkable
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. The BLU Studio X10+’s display specifications are unavailable, but given its price point, it likely features a low-resolution panel with standard LCD technology. The TCL 30 SE also lacks detailed display specs, but its market positioning suggests a similar LCD panel. The absence of features like high refresh rates or even Full HD+ resolution on either device indicates a focus on cost reduction. Color accuracy and brightness are likely to be average at best on both.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be a weak point on both devices. Without detailed sensor information, it’s safe to assume both phones feature basic camera modules. The TCL 30 SE’s chipset may offer slightly better image processing capabilities, but the overall image quality will likely be limited by the sensor and lens quality. The prevalence of 2MP macro lenses on budget phones is a marketing tactic; their limited resolution provides minimal practical benefit. Expect acceptable results in well-lit conditions, but poor performance in low light.
Performance
The performance gap between these two devices is significant. The BLU Studio X10+ is equipped with a Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 processor, an architecture dating back several years. This processor will struggle with even moderately demanding tasks. In contrast, the TCL 30 SE utilizes the Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25, an octa-core chip built on a more efficient 12nm process. The G25’s CPU configuration – 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 – provides a substantial uplift in multi-core performance. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive overall experience. The Helio G25 also includes an integrated GPU that offers a noticeable improvement in graphics performance, making it suitable for light gaming.
Battery Life
Battery capacity for the BLU Studio X10+ is unknown. The TCL 30 SE offers 15W wired charging, a feature absent on the X10+. While the battery capacity isn’t specified, the more efficient Mediatek Helio G25 chipset in the TCL 30 SE will likely result in comparable or better battery life, even with a similar capacity. The 15W charging will also significantly reduce charging times compared to a standard 5W charger, which is likely what the BLU Studio X10+ uses.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU Studio X10+ if your primary need is a very basic, extremely affordable phone for calls, texts, and minimal app usage. It's a suitable option for those who prioritize absolute cost savings above all else. Buy the TCL 30 SE if you want a phone that can handle everyday tasks, light multitasking, and even some casual gaming without significant lag. The improved processor and faster charging make it a more versatile and future-proof choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the TCL 30 SE be able to run popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Mediatek Helio G25 chipset in the TCL 30 SE is capable of running popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram without significant lag. While it won't offer a high-end experience, it provides a much smoother experience than the BLU Studio X10+'s older processor.
❓ Is the TCL 30 SE a good option for playing mobile games?
The TCL 30 SE can handle light mobile gaming, but it's not designed for demanding titles. Games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile will likely require low graphics settings and may still experience occasional frame drops. The BLU Studio X10+ would struggle even with the simplest games.
❓ How much storage does the TCL 30 SE offer, and is it expandable?
While the exact storage configuration isn't specified in the provided data, TCL 30 SE models typically come with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage. It's highly likely to include a microSD card slot for expandable storage, allowing you to add more space for photos, videos, and apps.
