Spice was a name synonymous with budget smartphones, and the Mi-515 Coolpad and Mi-535 Stellar Pinnacle Pro represent that era. Both phones aimed to deliver affordable Android experiences, but subtle differences might make one a better choice than the other. Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison to see which one comes out on top.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones share the same core chipset, meaning performance will be very similar. The Mi-535 likely edges out the Mi-515 due to potentially improved software optimization and possibly slightly better camera hardware. Ultimately, the best choice depends on price and availability.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2013, June. Released 2013, June | 2013, May. Released 2013, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 140 x 73 x 9.9 mm (5.51 x 2.87 x 0.39 in) | 152 x 79 x 10.3 mm (5.98 x 3.11 x 0.41 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM |
| Weight | 161 g (5.68 oz) | 196.3 g (6.91 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~220 ppi density) | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~208 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~67.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.3 inches, 77.4 cm2 (~64.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6589 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6589 (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX544 | PowerVR SGX544 |
| OS | Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) | Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 4GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | 5 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 3.0 | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 700 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 4 h 12 min |
| Type | Li-Ion 2000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 2550 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Brown |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 210 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.37 W/kg (head) | - |
Spice Mi-515 Coolpad
- Extremely affordable
- Basic Android functionality
- Compact size
- Limited performance
- Low-resolution display
- Basic camera
- Potentially shorter battery life
Spice Mi-535 Stellar Pinnacle Pro
- Slightly better camera (potentially)
- Potentially better software optimization
- Slightly longer battery life (potentially)
- Still very affordable
- Limited performance
- Low-resolution display
- Basic camera
- May be harder to find
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar, budget-friendly displays – probably around 4.5-5 inches with resolutions around 854 x 480 or 960 x 540. Expect decent viewing angles but limited brightness and color accuracy. The Mi-535 *might* have a slightly improved panel, but it's unlikely to be a significant difference.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are often understated in budget phones. While both likely have 5MP or 8MP rear cameras, the Mi-535 *might* have a slightly better sensor or image processing algorithms, resulting in marginally better photo quality, especially in low light. Front cameras are likely 1.3MP on both.
Performance
Powered by the same Mediatek MT6589 chipset and Cortex-A7 quad-core processor, raw performance will be nearly identical. However, software optimization plays a crucial role. The Mi-535, being a slightly later model, *could* benefit from more efficient Android distribution, leading to marginally smoother operation. Expect some lag with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is a key differentiator. The Mi-535 likely has a slightly larger battery (around 2000mAh vs. potentially 1800mAh on the Mi-515), offering a bit more usage time. However, battery life will still be modest given the screen size and processor.
Buying Guide
The Spice Mi-515 Coolpad is a good option for users on an extremely tight budget who prioritize basic functionality and affordability. The Spice Mi-535 Stellar Pinnacle Pro is better suited for those who want a slightly more refined experience, potentially better camera quality, and are willing to spend a bit more (if available).
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still worth buying in 2024?
Given their age, these phones are primarily suitable for very basic tasks or as secondary devices. Modern smartphones offer significantly better performance, features, and security.
❓ What operating system do these phones run?
Both phones likely shipped with Android 4.2 or 4.4. Updates were likely limited, so they are running outdated versions of Android.
