The sub-$200 5G smartphone market is heating up, with the Maxwest Nitro 5 and T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G vying for attention. While both offer access to next-generation networks, they take drastically different approaches to achieving that connectivity. The Nitro 5 relies on a more basic chipset, while the REVVL V+ 5G boasts a Mediatek Dimensity 700, promising a significant performance leap. This comparison will dissect the key differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and future-proofing, the T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset delivers substantially better performance than the Maxwest Nitro 5’s Spreadtrum SC7731, making it a more enjoyable daily driver and capable of handling more demanding apps. However, the Nitro 5 remains a viable option for extremely basic use cases.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| 5G bands | - | 25, 41, 66, 71 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2015, June. Released 2015, July | 2021, July 01 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, July 12 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 145.6 x 72 x 9.6 mm (5.73 x 2.83 x 0.38 in) | 173.7 x 77.5 x 7.1 mm (6.84 x 3.05 x 0.28 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (dual stand-by) | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 155 g (5.47 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~220 ppi density) | 720 x 1640 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~257 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~65.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.82 inches, 112.3 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Spreadtrum SC7731 | Mediatek MT6833 Dimensity 700 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC | Unspecified |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 16 MP |
| Triple | - | 16 MP, (wide), AF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
2 MP |
| Video | 1080p@25fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | 16 MP |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1 | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | Yes |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Stand-by | Up to 170 h (3G) | - |
| Talk time | Up to 12 h (3G) | - |
| Type | Li-Ion 2000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Silver, Black, Gray | Nebula Black |
| Price | - | About 170 EUR |
Maxwest Nitro 5
- Extremely affordable price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Access to 5G connectivity (though limited by chipset)
- Significantly underpowered processor
- Likely slow charging speeds
- Poor performance with demanding apps
T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G
- Much faster and more responsive performance
- 18W fast charging support
- More efficient chipset for longer battery life
- Slightly higher price than the Nitro 5
- May still exhibit some limitations with very demanding games
- T-Mobile branding/software
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the price point, details like panel type and resolution are not provided. However, the focus should be on the performance impact of the chipsets driving the UI. A smoother processor, like the Dimensity 700 in the REVVL V+ 5G, will translate to more fluid scrolling and animations, even on a basic panel. The Nitro 5’s SC7731 may struggle to maintain a consistent 60Hz refresh rate, resulting in a less visually appealing experience.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, it’s difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, the chipset plays a crucial role in image processing. The Dimensity 700 in the REVVL V+ 5G includes an integrated image signal processor (ISP) capable of handling more complex image processing algorithms, potentially resulting in better dynamic range and noise reduction. The Nitro 5’s SC7731 likely has a less sophisticated ISP, limiting its ability to produce high-quality images, especially in low-light conditions. Expect the REVVL V+ 5G to offer a more versatile and capable camera experience.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G’s Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Maxwest Nitro 5’s Spreadtrum SC7731. The Dimensity 700’s octa-core configuration (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) provides significantly more processing power and efficiency compared to the Nitro 5’s quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface. The 7nm process node of the Dimensity 700 also contributes to better thermal management, reducing the likelihood of performance throttling during sustained use. Users who plan to play even moderately demanding games will find the REVVL V+ 5G far more capable.
Battery Life
Battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns. While mAh capacity isn’t specified for either device, the REVVL V+ 5G’s 18W wired charging is a notable advantage. The Nitro 5 likely charges at a slower rate. The Dimensity 700’s improved power efficiency also contributes to potentially longer battery life, even with similar capacity. The faster charging speed of the REVVL V+ 5G means less downtime and quicker top-ups when needed.
Buying Guide
Buy the Maxwest Nitro 5 if you need a functional smartphone for essential tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing, and your budget is extremely limited. You're accepting significant performance compromises. Buy the T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G if you prefer a smoother, more responsive experience, want to enjoy 5G speeds without constant lag, and anticipate using your phone for more than just basic communication – including streaming, social media, and occasional gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Mediatek Dimensity 700 in the REVVL V+ 5G overheat during extended gaming sessions?
The Dimensity 700 is a relatively efficient chipset, and the REVVL V+ 5G’s thermal design should be adequate for moderate gaming. While some throttling is possible during prolonged, graphically intensive games, it’s unlikely to cause significant performance degradation or overheating issues. The 7nm process node contributes to better heat dissipation compared to the Nitro 5’s chipset.
❓ Is the 5G connectivity on the Maxwest Nitro 5 significantly slower than on the T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G?
Yes, the 5G experience on the Nitro 5 will likely be noticeably slower and less reliable. The Spreadtrum SC7731 chipset has limited 5G modem capabilities, resulting in lower peak speeds and potentially more frequent disconnections. The REVVL V+ 5G’s Dimensity 700 offers a more robust and efficient 5G modem, providing a smoother and faster 5G experience.
❓ Can the T-Mobile REVVL V+ 5G handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The REVVL V+ 5G should be capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings with acceptable frame rates. While it won’t deliver a flagship-level gaming experience, the Dimensity 700 provides enough processing power for enjoyable gameplay. Expect some frame drops during intense action sequences.
