The sub-$200 5G smartphone market is heating up, with the Lava Blaze Pro 5G and Infinix Note 30 5G vying for dominance. Both devices leverage Mediatek's Dimensity series, but key differences in chipset fabrication and display technology create distinct user experiences. This comparison dissects these nuances to determine which phone delivers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Infinix Note 30 5G emerges as the stronger contender. Its Dimensity 6080, built on a more efficient 6nm process, offers a slight performance edge and potentially better thermal management. The brighter, 607-nit display also enhances usability, especially outdoors. However, the Lava Blaze Pro 5G remains a viable option for those prioritizing a lower initial cost.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 41, 77, 88 SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 12, 22, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66, 77, 78 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, September 26 | 2023, May 22 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, October 03 | Available. Released 2023, May 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, glass or leather back |
| Dimensions | 168.7 x 76.7 x 9 mm (6.64 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) | 168.5 x 76.5 x 8.5 mm (6.63 x 3.01 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 203 g (7.16 oz) | 205 g (7.23 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~396 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~396 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.78 inches, 109.2 cm2 (~84.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.78 inches, 109.2 cm2 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 580 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6020 (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6080 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Triple | - | 108 MP, f/1.75, 26mm (wide), 1/1.67", 0.64µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 33W wired, 50% in 29 min | 45W wired, bypass charging |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Starry Night, Radiant Pearl | Magic Black, Interstellar Blue, Sunset Gold |
| Models | - | X6711 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | - |
Lava Blaze Pro 5G
- Potentially lower price point
- 5G connectivity
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Less efficient Dimensity 6020 chipset
- Likely dimmer display
- Slower charging speed
Infinix Note 30 5G
- More efficient Dimensity 6080 chipset
- Brighter and higher contrast display
- Faster 45W charging with bypass charging
- Slightly higher price
- May not offer significant camera improvements
- Potential for software bloat (typical of Infinix)
Display Comparison
The Infinix Note 30 5G boasts a significantly brighter display, reaching a measured 607 nits, compared to an unspecified brightness for the Lava Blaze Pro 5G. This difference is crucial for outdoor visibility. Furthermore, the Note 30 5G’s 1521:1 contrast ratio suggests deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. While both likely utilize IPS LCD panels (given the price bracket), the Infinix’s superior brightness and contrast elevate the viewing experience, benefiting content consumers and users who frequently use their phones in sunlight.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications for either device beyond the presence of cameras, a direct comparison is difficult. However, given the market segment, it’s reasonable to assume both phones prioritize affordability over cutting-edge camera technology. The focus should be on the primary sensor; any claims of high megapixel counts on secondary sensors (like macro lenses) should be viewed with skepticism. Image processing algorithms will likely be the differentiating factor, and user reviews will be crucial in determining which phone produces more pleasing results in various lighting conditions.
Performance
Both phones utilize Mediatek’s Dimensity series, but the Infinix Note 30 5G’s Dimensity 6080, fabricated on a 6nm process, holds an advantage over the Lava Blaze Pro 5G’s Dimensity 6020 (7nm). The smaller node generally translates to improved power efficiency and potentially higher sustained performance under load. While both CPUs feature the same core configuration (2x2.4/2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55), the 6080’s architecture benefits from process improvements. This means the Infinix Note 30 5G is likely to exhibit less thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions or demanding tasks.
Battery Life
The Infinix Note 30 5G’s 45W wired charging is a clear advantage over the Lava Blaze Pro 5G’s 33W charging. The Infinix claims 'bypass charging,' which allows for charging while the phone is powered on with minimal heat generation – a useful feature for gamers. While battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, the faster charging speed of the Infinix Note 30 5G translates to significantly reduced downtime. The Infinix can reach 50% charge in less time than the Lava Blaze Pro 5G’s 29 minutes, making it more convenient for users on the go.
Buying Guide
Buy the Lava Blaze Pro 5G if you need a functional 5G smartphone at the absolute lowest possible price point and aren't heavily reliant on demanding applications. Buy the Infinix Note 30 5G if you prioritize a smoother user experience, a brighter and more visible display, and faster charging speeds, even if it means spending a bit more upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Dimensity 6080 in the Infinix Note 30 5G handle demanding games like PUBG Mobile smoothly?
The Dimensity 6080 is capable of running PUBG Mobile at medium to high settings. The 6nm process and slightly higher clock speeds compared to the Dimensity 6020 should result in more stable frame rates and less overheating during extended gaming sessions. However, don't expect flagship-level performance; optimization and settings adjustments will be key.
❓ Does the Infinix Note 30 5G's bypass charging feature actually make a difference while gaming?
Yes, Infinix's bypass charging allows the phone to draw power directly from the charger while gaming, reducing reliance on the battery and minimizing heat buildup. This can help maintain consistent performance and prevent frame drops during long gaming sessions. It's a valuable feature for mobile gamers.
❓ Is the Lava Blaze Pro 5G a good option for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls, texts, and basic social media?
Absolutely. The Lava Blaze Pro 5G is a perfectly adequate device for basic smartphone tasks. If your needs are limited to calls, texts, and light social media browsing, the lower price point makes it a compelling option. However, be prepared for potentially slower performance and a less vibrant display compared to the Infinix Note 30 5G.
