The Micromax In Note 1 and Maxwest Nitro 5 represent two ends of the ultra-budget smartphone spectrum. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a low price point, they differ dramatically in their internal hardware. This comparison dissects these differences, focusing on how the chipset choices impact real-world performance and usability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and the ability to handle modern apps, the Micromax In Note 1 is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Helio G85 chipset offers a substantial performance leap over the Maxwest Nitro 5’s Spreadtrum SC7731, making it a more future-proof and enjoyable daily driver. However, the Nitro 5 remains a viable option for extremely basic use cases.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | - |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat7 300/150 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, November 03. Released 2020, November 24 | 2015, June. Released 2015, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 77 x 9 mm (6.50 x 3.03 x 0.35 in) | 145.6 x 72 x 9.6 mm (5.73 x 2.83 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Dual SIM (dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 196 g (6.91 oz) | 155 g (5.47 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Oleophobic coating | - |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~220 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~84.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~65.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 450 nits (peak) | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Spreadtrum SC7731 |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-400 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 4GB 512MB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 115˚ (ultrawide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Single | - | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@25fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | VGA |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 2.1 |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Stereo FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired | - |
| Stand-by | - | Up to 170 h (3G) |
| Talk time | - | Up to 12 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 2000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Green, White | Silver, Black, Gray |
| Models | E7746 | - |
| Price | About 130 EUR | - |
| SAR | 0.57 W/kg (head) 0.96 W/kg (body) | - |
Micromax In note 1
- Significantly faster processor (Helio G85)
- Better gaming performance
- 18W fast charging
- More responsive user experience
- Potentially higher price
- Specific display details unknown
Maxwest Nitro 5
- Lower price point
- Simple and straightforward operation
- Acceptable for basic tasks
- Very slow processor (Spreadtrum SC7731)
- Poor gaming performance
- Likely lower-quality display
- Slow charging
Display Comparison
Neither device’s display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the Nitro 5’s focus on cost reduction, it likely utilizes a lower-quality panel with narrower viewing angles and lower brightness. The In Note 1, positioned slightly higher in the market, likely benefits from a more refined display experience, though specifics like resolution and refresh rate remain unknown. The absence of details suggests neither device will compete with mid-range or flagship displays.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a comprehensive comparison is impossible. However, it’s reasonable to assume the Micromax In Note 1 benefits from a more capable image signal processor (ISP) integrated within the Helio G85 chipset. This translates to better image processing, improved dynamic range, and potentially more accurate colors. The Nitro 5’s SC7731 likely features a basic ISP, resulting in lower-quality images, particularly in low-light conditions. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely irrelevant, as image quality from such sensors is typically poor.
Performance
The performance gap between these two devices is significant. The Micromax In Note 1’s Mediatek Helio G85, a 12nm octa-core processor with a Cortex-A75/A55 configuration, is designed for entry-level gaming and multitasking. Its 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 cores provide a noticeable boost in single-core performance compared to the Maxwest Nitro 5’s Spreadtrum SC7731. The Nitro 5’s quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 processor is considerably less powerful, resulting in slower app loading times, noticeable lag during multitasking, and a generally less responsive user experience. The Helio G85’s integrated GPU also offers a far superior gaming experience, capable of running many popular titles at playable frame rates, while the SC7731 will struggle with even less demanding games.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, the Micromax In Note 1’s 18W wired charging is a significant advantage over the likely slower charging capabilities of the Maxwest Nitro 5. While a larger battery capacity on the Nitro 5 could offset the slower charging, the Helio G85’s more efficient architecture in the In Note 1 may result in comparable or even better battery life despite a potentially smaller battery size. The 2.5W reverse wired charging on the In Note 1 is a niche feature, allowing it to charge accessories, but is not available on the Nitro 5.
Buying Guide
Buy the Micromax In Note 1 if you need a smartphone capable of handling multitasking, moderate gaming, and running current applications smoothly. It’s ideal for users who want a device that won’t feel sluggish after a few months of use. Buy the Maxwest Nitro 5 if your primary needs are limited to calls, texts, and very light web browsing, and you are prioritizing the absolute lowest possible price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Micromax In Note 1 be able to run PUBG Mobile smoothly?
The Helio G85 chipset in the Micromax In Note 1 is capable of running PUBG Mobile at medium settings with a playable frame rate. However, expect some occasional frame drops during intense action sequences. The Maxwest Nitro 5 will likely struggle to run PUBG Mobile at all, or offer an unacceptably low frame rate.
❓ Is the Micromax In Note 1 a good choice for someone who primarily uses WhatsApp and makes calls?
Yes, the Micromax In Note 1 is an excellent choice for this use case. Its faster processor ensures a smooth and responsive experience even with multiple apps open, and the 18W charging will keep you powered up throughout the day. While the Maxwest Nitro 5 can also handle these tasks, the In Note 1 provides a more future-proof and enjoyable experience.
❓ How much storage does each phone have, and can it be expanded?
Storage details are not provided in the context data. However, given the budget nature of both devices, it's likely the Maxwest Nitro 5 will have less internal storage than the Micromax In Note 1. Both devices likely support microSD card expansion, but the maximum supported capacity may vary.
