Maxwest targets the ultra-budget smartphone market with the Nitro 5 and Nitro 55 LTE. While both devices aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a low price point, they differ significantly in their core processing power. The Nitro 55 LTE introduces 4G LTE connectivity and a more modern chipset, but does this translate to a better user experience? We dissect the key differences to help you choose.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Maxwest Nitro 55 LTE is the superior choice. The Mediatek MT6737 chipset, built on a 28nm process, offers a noticeable performance boost over the Spreadtrum SC7731 in the Nitro 5, and crucially adds 4G LTE connectivity for faster data speeds. While neither phone is a powerhouse, the Nitro 55 LTE provides a more future-proof and responsive experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 1700 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 2, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2015, June. Released 2015, July | 2016, November. Released 2017, January |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 145.6 x 72 x 9.6 mm (5.73 x 2.83 x 0.38 in) | 153 x 77.6 x 7.9 mm (6.02 x 3.06 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (dual stand-by) | Dual SIM (dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 155 g (5.47 oz) | 163 g (5.75 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~220 ppi density) | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~65.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 83.4 cm2 (~70.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Spreadtrum SC7731 | Mediatek MT6737 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400 | Mali-T720MP2 |
| OS | Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) | Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDHC |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 8GB 1GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.0 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@25fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | 2 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1 | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio | Stereo FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 170 h (3G) | Up to 280 h |
| Talk time | Up to 12 h (3G) | Up to 15 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 2000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Silver, Black, Gray | Dark Blue, White, Gold |
Maxwest Nitro 5
- Lowest possible price point
- Simple and easy to use
- Functional for basic tasks
- Slow performance
- No 4G LTE connectivity
- Outdated chipset
Maxwest Nitro 55 LTE
- 4G LTE connectivity
- Improved performance with MT6737
- More efficient chipset
- Still limited performance
- Basic camera quality
- Likely limited storage
Display Comparison
Neither Maxwest provides display specifications beyond size, so a detailed comparison is limited. However, given the price point, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. The Nitro 55 LTE’s inclusion of LTE suggests a slightly more modern design cycle, potentially resulting in marginally improved viewing angles or color reproduction. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, reflecting their budget nature. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a strong point on either model.
Camera Comparison
Camera details are sparse for both devices. It’s safe to assume both feature basic camera setups, likely with a primary sensor and potentially a VGA front-facing camera. Any additional sensors (like a 2MP macro) are unlikely to deliver meaningful image quality. The MT6737’s integrated image signal processor (ISP) is more advanced than the SC7731’s, potentially leading to slightly better image processing, particularly in low-light conditions. However, expectations should remain low; these are entry-level cameras designed for casual snapshots.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Maxwest Nitro 5 utilizes the Spreadtrum SC7731, featuring a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU. The Nitro 55 LTE steps up to the Mediatek MT6737, also a quad-core Cortex-A7 but clocked slightly higher at 1.3 GHz and fabricated on a 28nm process. This process node is crucial; 28nm is more efficient than whatever process the SC7731 uses, leading to better thermal management and sustained performance. While the CPU architecture is identical, the MT6737’s higher clock speed and more efficient manufacturing process will result in faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. The MT6737 also includes a Mali-T720 MP2 GPU, a significant upgrade over the SC7731’s GPU, offering improved graphics performance for basic games and video playback.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified for either device. Given the similar size and target market, they likely feature batteries in the 2000-2500 mAh range. The Mediatek MT6737’s 28nm process node contributes to better power efficiency, meaning the Nitro 55 LTE will likely offer slightly longer battery life despite potentially similar capacity. Charging wattage is also unknown, but both will likely rely on micro-USB charging with slow charging speeds.
Buying Guide
Buy the Maxwest Nitro 5 if your primary need is a basic, extremely affordable smartphone for essential tasks like calls, texts, and light app usage, and 4G connectivity isn't a priority. Buy the Maxwest Nitro 55 LTE if you require 4G LTE for data access, and want a slightly smoother and more responsive experience for everyday tasks like browsing and social media. The small price premium is worth it for the added functionality and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Mediatek MT6737 in the Nitro 55 LTE struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
While the MT6737 isn't a powerhouse, it's sufficient for running apps like Facebook and WhatsApp. You may experience some occasional lag when switching between apps or loading complex content, but it should be usable for most users. The Nitro 5, with its SC7731, will likely exhibit more noticeable slowdowns.
❓ Is the 4G LTE on the Nitro 55 LTE compatible with all carriers?
Compatibility depends on your carrier's specific LTE bands. The Nitro 55 LTE supports a range of bands, but it's crucial to check with your carrier to ensure it's fully compatible before purchasing. The Nitro 5 lacks LTE entirely, limiting it to 2G/3G networks.
❓ Can I play games on the Maxwest Nitro 55 LTE?
Basic 2D games and older 3D titles will be playable on the Nitro 55 LTE, but don't expect a smooth experience with demanding modern games. The Mali-T720 MP2 GPU is entry-level and will struggle with high graphics settings. The Nitro 5 will perform even worse in gaming scenarios.
