Gionee's M series brought back the classic candy bar design, offering a unique alternative to modern smartphones. The M3 and M2017 are two standout models, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to see which one deserves your attention.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Gionee M2017 edges out the M3 thanks to its QC3 fast charging and slightly more powerful CPU. While both offer a nostalgic design, the M2017's improved charging and performance make it the more compelling choice for most users, despite the M3's newer chipset.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | CDMA 800 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, April 07. Released 2021, April 14 | 2016, December. Released 2016, December |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.2 x 75.9 x 9.3 mm (6.43 x 2.99 x 0.37 in) | 155.2 x 77.6 x 7.4 mm, 10.8 cc (6.11 x 3.06 x 0.29 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 201 g (7.09 oz) | 238 g (8.40 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 1440 x 2560 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~515 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~83.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.7 inches, 89.6 cm2 (~74.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x1.95 GHz Cortex-A72 & 4x1.4 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6771 Helio P60 (12 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8976 Pro Snapdragon 653 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G72 MP3 | Adreno 510 |
| OS | Android | Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), Amigo 3.5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | No |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 12 MP, PDAF
13 MP, 2x optical zoom |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Quad | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired, QC3 |
| Stand-by | - | Up to 915 h (3G) |
| Talk time | - | Up to 25 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 7000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Green, Sky, Gray | Black, Gold |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 1150 EUR |
Gionee M3
- Newer Chipset (Helio P60)
- Slightly more modern design
- 12nm process
- No fast charging (QC3)
- Potentially weaker single-core performance
- Limited camera capabilities
Gionee M2017
- QC3 Fast Charging
- Cortex-A72 cores for better single-core performance
- Large Battery Capacity
- Nostalgic Design
- Older Chipset (Snapdragon 653)
- 28nm process
- Limited camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Both phones feature relatively small displays, typical of their retro design. The M3 likely has a slightly improved panel due to its newer manufacturing date, but the resolution and overall viewing experience are likely comparable. Expect a basic, functional display rather than a vibrant, high-resolution screen.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are scarce for both devices. Both likely feature basic camera setups suitable for casual snapshots. Image quality will be heavily dependent on software processing and lighting conditions. Don't expect flagship-level camera performance from either phone.
Performance
The M2017's Snapdragon 653, while built on a 28nm process, benefits from its Cortex-A72 cores, which offer better single-core performance than the M3's Cortex-A73 cores. The M3's Helio P60 has a slight advantage in multi-core performance due to its 12nm process and optimized architecture, but the difference is likely minimal in real-world usage. Expect both phones to handle basic tasks well, but struggle with demanding games.
Battery Life
Both phones have substantial battery capacities, typical of their design. The M2017's QC3 fast charging provides a significant advantage, allowing for quicker top-ups compared to the M3's 18W wired charging. Battery life will likely be similar under moderate usage, but the M2017 offers faster replenishment.
Buying Guide
The Gionee M3 is ideal for users prioritizing a very recent chipset and a slightly more modern design aesthetic within the retro candy bar format. The Gionee M2017 is better suited for those who value faster charging and a bit more processing power, even if it means accepting a slightly older design.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still supported with software updates?
Unfortunately, both the Gionee M3 and M2017 are very old devices and are unlikely to receive any further software updates. Security patches are highly unlikely.
❓ Where can I buy these phones?
Due to their age, these phones are primarily available through online marketplaces like eBay or from resellers. Availability and pricing can vary significantly.
