The HTC Desire 10 Compact and Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime represent a similar segment of the market – affordable Android smartphones aimed at users prioritizing value. However, they take different approaches to achieving that value, particularly in their core hardware. This comparison dissects the key differences between the Mediatek-powered Desire 10 Compact and the Exynos-equipped J7 Prime, focusing on real-world implications for performance and user experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime is the stronger choice. Its Exynos 7870 chipset, built on a 14nm process, delivers noticeably better performance and efficiency compared to the Desire 10 Compact’s Mediatek MT6737T. While the Desire 10 Compact may appeal to those seeking a slightly more compact form factor, the J7 Prime offers a more refined and capable experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2017, Q1. Released 2017, Q1 | 2016, September 01. Released 2016, November 30 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass), aluminum/plastic back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 148.6 x 72 x 7.5 mm (5.85 x 2.83 x 0.30 in) | 151.7 x 75 x 8 mm (5.97 x 2.95 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Micro-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 148 g (5.22 oz) | 167 g (5.89 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass (market dependent) |
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) | 1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~401 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~64.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 83.4 cm2 (~73.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6737T (28 nm) | Exynos 7870 Octa (14 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T720 | Mali-T830 MP1 |
| OS | Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) | Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie), One UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 16GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.0 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), AF | 13 MP, f/1.9, 28mm (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.8, 34mm (standard) | 8 MP, f/1.9 |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 4.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| | - | ANT+ |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | - | Up to 84 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 21 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 3300 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 3300 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Polar White, Stone Black | Black, Gold, Rose Gold |
| Models | Desire 10 compact | SM-G610F, SM-G610Y, SM-G610M, SM-G610 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 210 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.56 W/kg (head) 1.02 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 1.40 W/kg (body) |
HTC Desire 10 Compact
- Potentially more compact form factor.
- May be available at a lower price point.
- Simple and straightforward Android experience.
- Less powerful processor.
- Less efficient chipset leading to shorter battery life.
- Potential for performance throttling under load.
Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime
- More powerful and efficient Exynos 7870 processor.
- Better multitasking and gaming performance.
- Likely superior camera image processing.
- May be slightly larger and less pocketable.
- Potentially higher price point.
- Samsung’s software can include bloatware.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a particularly impressive display. Details on panel type and resolution are missing, but both likely utilize IPS LCDs common in this price bracket. The key difference lies in the underlying chipsets’ ability to drive the displays efficiently. The J7 Prime’s Exynos 7870, with its more powerful GPU, is better equipped to handle graphically intensive content. While both likely offer similar color accuracy, the J7 Prime’s processor could potentially offer smoother scrolling and animations.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, a direct camera comparison is difficult. However, the J7 Prime likely benefits from the more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Exynos 7870. This translates to better image processing, particularly in low-light conditions. While both phones likely feature similar megapixel counts in their primary cameras, the J7 Prime’s ISP can extract more detail and reduce noise. The Desire 10 Compact’s camera performance will likely be adequate for casual snapshots, but the J7 Prime offers a more capable imaging experience.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime’s Exynos 7870 Octa-core processor, fabricated on a 14nm process, is a substantial upgrade over the HTC Desire 10 Compact’s Mediatek MT6737T (28nm). The octa-core Cortex-A53 configuration in the J7 Prime provides superior multi-tasking capabilities and a smoother user experience. The 28nm process of the MT6737T is less efficient, leading to more heat generation and potential throttling under sustained load. This means the J7 Prime will handle demanding apps and games with greater ease and consistency. The J7 Prime’s architecture also benefits from a more modern design, improving overall responsiveness.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, the Exynos 7870’s 14nm process gives the J7 Prime a significant advantage in power efficiency. This means the J7 Prime will likely deliver longer battery life on a single charge, even with a similar capacity battery to the Desire 10 Compact. The more efficient processor reduces power consumption during both active use and standby, extending overall usability. While charging wattage is unknown for both, the J7 Prime’s more modern chipset may support faster charging protocols.
Buying Guide
Buy the HTC Desire 10 Compact if you absolutely prioritize a smaller, more easily pocketable phone and are willing to compromise on performance. It’s suitable for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use. Buy the Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime if you value smoother multitasking, better gaming performance, and a more efficient processor that translates to longer battery life. It’s ideal for users who consume more media and demand a more responsive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 7870 in the J7 Prime tend to overheat during prolonged gaming sessions?
The Exynos 7870 is a relatively efficient processor. While it will generate heat during intensive gaming, the 14nm process helps mitigate overheating. It’s unlikely to experience significant throttling unless pushed to its absolute limits for extended periods, unlike the 28nm MT6737T in the Desire 10 Compact.
❓ Is the performance difference between the two phones noticeable in everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Yes, the difference is noticeable. The J7 Prime’s octa-core processor and more efficient architecture result in smoother scrolling, faster app loading times, and a more responsive overall experience, even in everyday tasks. The Desire 10 Compact will feel comparatively sluggish.
❓ How does the Mediatek MT6737T handle multitasking compared to the Exynos 7870?
The Mediatek MT6737T, being a quad-core processor, struggles with heavy multitasking. Switching between apps will be slower, and running multiple apps simultaneously can lead to noticeable lag. The Exynos 7870’s octa-core configuration handles multitasking far more efficiently, allowing for a smoother and more seamless experience.
