The BLU View 1 and TCL 30 SE represent the ultra-budget end of the smartphone market, targeting users prioritizing affordability above all else. However, even within this segment, significant differences exist. This comparison focuses on the core hardware – specifically the chipsets – to determine which device delivers the best user experience for the price.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the TCL 30 SE is the clear winner. Its Helio G25 chipset, built on a more efficient 12nm process and featuring an octa-core CPU, provides a substantial performance advantage over the BLU View 1’s aging MT6739. While both phones are entry-level, the TCL 30 SE offers a smoother, more responsive experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EMEA/APAC |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 66, 71 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EMEA |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, November. Released 2019, November | 2022, February 27 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, April 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 142.2 x 71.1 x 10.1 mm (5.60 x 2.80 x 0.40 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 | 153 g (5.40 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 (~77.2% 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 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 12, TCL UI 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | 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 | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| 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 |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 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, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 2500 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Atlantic Blue, Space Gray, Glacial Blue |
| Models | - | 6165H, 6156H1, 6165A, 6165A1, 6165S |
BLU View 1
- Lowest possible price point
- Functional for basic communication
- Simple and straightforward interface
- Outdated and slow processor
- Poor multitasking performance
- Limited gaming capabilities
TCL 30 SE
- Significantly faster processor
- More efficient power consumption
- 15W fast charging support
- Still an entry-level device
- Camera quality likely remains basic
- May cost slightly more than the BLU View 1
Display Comparison
Neither BLU nor TCL provide detailed display specifications in the provided data. Given the price point, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. The TCL 30 SE, benefiting from a newer design cycle, *may* have slightly better color accuracy and viewing angles, but this is speculative. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, reflecting their budget nature.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, a direct camera comparison is difficult. However, it’s safe to assume both phones feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The TCL 30 SE, being a newer model, *may* benefit from improved image processing algorithms, resulting in slightly better image quality in good lighting conditions. The presence of a 15W charger on the TCL 30 SE suggests a more modern design, potentially extending to camera software features.
Performance
The TCL 30 SE’s Mediatek Helio G25 (MT6762G) is the defining advantage. Built on a 12nm process, it’s significantly more power-efficient than the BLU View 1’s 28nm MT6739. The G25’s octa-core configuration (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) provides a substantial uplift in multi-core performance compared to the View 1’s quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface. The G25 also includes a slightly more capable GPU, offering a better, though still limited, gaming experience.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for either device. However, the TCL 30 SE’s 15W wired charging is a clear advantage. The MT6762G’s 12nm process contributes to better power efficiency, meaning the TCL 30 SE will likely offer comparable or better battery life despite potentially having a similar capacity battery. The faster charging will also reduce downtime, allowing users to quickly top up their device.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU View 1 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and your smartphone usage is limited to basic tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing. Buy the TCL 30 SE if you want a more capable device for social media, streaming video, and occasional gaming, even if it means spending a little more. The TCL 30 SE’s improved processor will significantly enhance daily usability.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the TCL 30 SE be able to run popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the TCL 30 SE’s Helio G25 chipset is significantly more capable than the BLU View 1’s processor. It should handle TikTok and Instagram with reasonable smoothness, although demanding features or multitasking with other apps may cause some slowdown. The View 1 would likely struggle with these apps.
❓ Is the 15W charging on the TCL 30 SE a significant improvement over what the BLU View 1 likely offers?
Absolutely. While the BLU View 1 likely uses a standard 5W charger, the TCL 30 SE’s 15W charging will reduce charging times considerably. Expect a noticeable difference in how quickly you can get your phone back up and running.
❓ Can I expect to play modern mobile games on either of these phones?
Both phones are limited in gaming capabilities. While the TCL 30 SE will offer a *slightly* better experience due to its more powerful GPU, you’ll need to stick to less demanding games and lower graphics settings. Expect frame rate drops and lag in more intensive titles.
