The budget tablet market is heating up, with options like the T-Mobile REVVL Tab 2 and Blackview Tab 18 vying for attention. Both tablets aim to deliver a functional Android experience without breaking the bank, but they take different approaches to achieving this. This comparison dissects their core components – from chipsets to charging speeds – to determine which tablet offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Blackview Tab 18 emerges as the stronger choice. Its 33W charging significantly reduces downtime, a crucial advantage for on-the-go users. While the REVVL Tab 2’s Dimensity 6300 offers a slight CPU clock speed edge, the faster charging and potentially optimized software of the Blackview Tab 18 provide a more compelling overall experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 41, 66, 71 | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 40 |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, June 18 | 2023, November |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, June 26 | Available. Released 2023, November |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 240 x 156.5 x 8.4 mm (9.45 x 6.16 x 0.33 in) | 277.6 x 173.2 x 7.9 mm (10.93 x 6.82 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + eSIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 412.8 g (14.57 oz) | 632 g (1.39 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~149 ppi density) | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~194 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~78.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 12.0 inches, 409.9 cm2 (~85.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 350 nits |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 15 | Android 13, Doke OS_P 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 256GB 12GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 16 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM Radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 33W wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 8800 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Turquoise Green, Glacier Blue, Space Grey |
| Price | About 150 EUR | - |
T-Mobile REVVL Tab 2
- Slightly higher CPU clock speed for potentially smoother multitasking.
- T-Mobile brand recognition and support.
- 6nm process node for reasonable power efficiency.
- Slower 18W charging.
- Limited information on display quality.
- Potential for software bloat from T-Mobile.
Blackview Tab 18
- Significantly faster 33W charging.
- Helio G99 GPU potentially better for gaming.
- Blackview’s software optimization for camera performance.
- Slightly lower CPU clock speed.
- Less established brand recognition.
- Potential for aggressive power saving features.
Display Comparison
Neither T-Mobile nor Blackview provide detailed display specifications beyond the basic panel type. However, the focus here is on performance, not display fidelity. Both tablets likely utilize IPS LCD panels common in this price bracket. The lack of high refresh rates or advanced features like LTPO is expected. Bezels are likely comparable, prioritizing cost-effectiveness over premium aesthetics.
Camera Comparison
Camera details are sparse for both devices. Given the price point, expecting flagship-level camera performance is unrealistic. Both tablets likely feature a primary camera and potentially a secondary depth or macro sensor. The image processing capabilities will be the defining factor, and Blackview often optimizes its software for better results in this segment. Without specific sensor sizes or aperture information, it’s difficult to declare a clear winner; however, focusing on the primary camera’s software optimization is more important than megapixel count.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets: the T-Mobile REVVL Tab 2 features the Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6nm), while the Blackview Tab 18 uses the Helio G99 (also 6nm). Both CPUs share the same core configuration – 2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 – but the Dimensity 6300 has a slightly higher peak clock speed on its prime cores. This translates to a marginal performance advantage in CPU-intensive tasks. However, the Helio G99 is known for its efficient GPU, potentially offering a better gaming experience. The 6nm process node in both chips ensures reasonable power efficiency, but thermal management will be key to sustained performance. RAM configurations are not specified, but LPDDR4X is a likely candidate for both, limiting memory bandwidth.
Battery Life
The Blackview Tab 18’s 33W wired charging is a significant advantage over the REVVL Tab 2’s 18W charging. This faster charging speed will dramatically reduce the time spent tethered to a power outlet, making the Tab 18 more convenient for users who are frequently on the move. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging mitigates the impact of a potentially smaller battery. The REVVL Tab 2’s slower charging speed will require longer periods to reach a full charge, potentially frustrating users who need a quick power boost.
Buying Guide
Buy the T-Mobile REVVL Tab 2 if you prioritize a potentially smoother CPU experience for light multitasking and are less concerned with rapid recharging. It’s a solid option for users who primarily use their tablet at home or in a consistent charging environment. Buy the Blackview Tab 18 if you value fast charging above all else, need a tablet for extended use away from power outlets, and appreciate a potentially more refined software experience tailored for the hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Blackview Tab 18’s Helio G99 struggle with demanding games like Genshin Impact?
While the Helio G99 isn’t a flagship gaming chip, it’s surprisingly capable. Expect to play Genshin Impact at lower settings (Medium or Low) with a stable framerate. The efficient GPU and 6nm process help mitigate thermal throttling, allowing for sustained gaming sessions. The REVVL Tab 2’s Dimensity 6300 might offer slightly better CPU performance, but the G99’s GPU is the key factor for gaming.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Blackview Tab 18 with the 33W charger?
While a precise 0-100% charge time isn’t available, the 33W charging should significantly reduce charging times compared to the REVVL Tab 2. Expect a full charge in approximately 2-3 hours, depending on usage during charging. This is a substantial improvement over the REVVL Tab 2’s 18W charging, which could take upwards of 4 hours.
❓ Is the software experience on the Blackview Tab 18 heavily customized?
Blackview typically implements a light skin over Android, focusing on optimization rather than radical changes. While some pre-installed apps are common, they are generally removable. The emphasis is on providing a smooth and responsive user experience tailored to the Helio G99 chipset.
