The Lava Z2 and Realme Narzo 30A represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a low price point, but they diverge significantly in their core processing power. This comparison dissects these differences, focusing on how the chipset choices impact everyday use and performance.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme Narzo 30A is the better choice. Its Helio G85 chipset provides a noticeable performance boost over the Lava Z2’s Helio G35, translating to smoother multitasking and a more responsive gaming experience. While the Z2 may offer slightly better value depending on current pricing, the Narzo 30A’s performance advantage is significant.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, January 07 | 2021, February 24 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, January 11 | Available. Released 2021, March 05 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 75.8 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) | 164.5 x 75.9 x 9.8 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 205 g (7.23 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 470 nits (typ), 570 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.12µm, AF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Red | Laser Black, Laser Blue |
| Models | LMG02 | RMX3171 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 450 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.37 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) |
Lava Z2
- Potentially lower price point
- May offer longer standby time due to less powerful processor
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Significantly weaker performance compared to the Narzo 30A
- Slower charging speeds
- Less responsive user interface
Realme Narzo 30A
- Superior performance with the Helio G85 chipset
- Faster 18W charging
- More responsive user experience
- May be slightly more expensive than the Lava Z2
- Potentially slightly shorter battery life under heavy load
- Realme UI can be preloaded with bloatware
Display Comparison
Neither Lava nor Realme provide detailed display specifications beyond the basic panel type. Given the price bracket, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. However, the focus should be on the processing power needed to drive the display smoothly. The Narzo 30A’s more powerful GPU will likely result in slightly smoother animations and transitions, even if the resolution and refresh rate are identical.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature a primary camera and potentially depth/macro sensors. However, the image signal processor (ISP) within the Helio G85 will likely offer better image processing capabilities, resulting in slightly improved image quality on the Narzo 30A, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The Z2’s ISP will be less sophisticated, potentially leading to softer images and less dynamic range.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme Narzo 30A’s MediaTek Helio G85 (12nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Lava Z2’s Helio G35 (12nm). The G85 features a dual-core Cortex-A75 setup clocked at 2.0 GHz alongside six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz. This contrasts with the Z2’s quad-core Cortex-A53 setup at 2.3 GHz and another quad-core Cortex-A53 at 1.8 GHz. While the Z2’s cores are clocked higher, the G85’s newer architecture (A75 vs A53) provides significantly better single-core and multi-core performance. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience on the Narzo 30A. The G85’s GPU is also more capable, handling graphically demanding games with higher frame rates.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for the Lava Z2, but given the segment, it’s likely around 5000mAh, similar to the Narzo 30A. However, the Narzo 30A’s 18W wired charging with 5W reverse wired charging provides a significant advantage. The Z2 likely supports standard 10W charging, meaning a considerably longer time to fully charge the device. The 18W charging on the Narzo 30A will allow for quicker top-ups, crucial for users who rely heavily on their smartphones throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the Lava Z2 if your primary needs are basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media – and you prioritize absolute affordability. It’s a suitable option for first-time smartphone users or those needing a reliable secondary device. Buy the Realme Narzo 30A if you want a phone capable of handling moderate multitasking, occasional gaming, and demand a more responsive user experience. The 18W charging is also a significant benefit for those who value convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme Narzo 30A handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Helio G85 in the Narzo 30A is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings with reasonable frame rates. While it won't deliver a flagship gaming experience, it provides a playable experience, unlike the Lava Z2 which will struggle with these titles.
❓ Is the difference in performance between the Helio G35 and Helio G85 noticeable in everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Yes, the difference is quite noticeable. The Helio G85’s more powerful CPU and GPU result in faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive overall experience when browsing the web, using social media, and switching between apps. The Lava Z2 will feel sluggish in comparison.
❓ Does the Realme Narzo 30A support fast charging with any charger other than the one in the box?
Yes, the Realme Narzo 30A supports the Power Delivery (PD) and Quick Charge (QC) protocols, meaning you can use compatible chargers to achieve faster charging speeds than standard 5W charging. However, using a non-compatible charger may result in slower charging or no charging at all.
❓ How does the Lava Z2 compare to the Narzo 30A in terms of software updates and support?
Realme generally provides more consistent software updates and a longer support lifecycle for its devices compared to Lava. While Lava has improved in this area, Realme’s established track record makes the Narzo 30A a more reliable choice for long-term software support.
