Looking for an affordable smartphone? The ZTE Blade A3 Prime and ZTE Gabb Z2 are both contenders in the budget category. But beyond their similar price points, what sets them apart? This review dives deep into their features, performance, and overall value to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The ZTE Blade A3 Prime offers slightly more general smartphone functionality, while the Gabb Z2 prioritizes parental controls and safety features for children. If you need a basic, unrestricted phone, the Blade A3 Prime is better. For parents seeking a safe and controlled device for their kids, the Gabb Z2 is the clear winner.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, June. Released 2020, June | 2020, August. Released 2020, August |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 146 x 71 x 9.7 mm (5.75 x 2.80 x 0.38 in) | 147 x 71 x 9.7 mm (5.79 x 2.80 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 163 g (5.75 oz) | 162 g (5.71 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~73.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~73.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | 5 MP |
| Video | - | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2660 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 2650 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Models | Z5157V | - |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 140 EUR |
ZTE Blade A3 Prime
- More versatile functionality
- Dual-camera system
- Potentially better display calibration
- Wider app compatibility
- Basic performance
- Limited storage
- No parental controls by default
ZTE Gabb Z2
- Robust parental controls
- Safe communication features
- Durable design (often)
- No social media or games by default
- Limited functionality
- Single rear camera
- Less powerful processor
- Restricted app selection
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. While the displays are similar in size and resolution, the Blade A3 Prime might offer slightly better color accuracy due to potentially more refined calibration, though this is often minimal at this price point. Viewing angles and brightness are comparable.
Camera Comparison
The ZTE Blade A3 Prime typically includes a dual-camera setup (13MP main + 2MP depth sensor) and an 8MP front camera. The Gabb Z2 often has a simpler single 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. The Blade A3 Prime should offer slightly better image quality, particularly with portrait mode, but both cameras are limited by the budget hardware.
Performance
Powered by the same Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, performance is expected to be nearly identical. Expect basic app usage to be smooth, but demanding games or multitasking will likely result in noticeable lag. Neither phone is a powerhouse, but they are adequate for everyday tasks.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery. Battery life should be comparable, offering a full day of moderate use. However, the Gabb Z2's limited functionality (no social media, games) might result in slightly longer battery life in some scenarios.
Buying Guide
The ZTE Blade A3 Prime is ideal for users needing a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage. It's a good option for those on a tight budget who don't require high-end features. The ZTE Gabb Z2 is specifically designed for children and parents who want a phone with limited functionality, robust parental controls, and a focus on safety and communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What parental controls does the Gabb Z2 offer?
The Gabb Z2 provides features like contact approval, time limits, location tracking, and the ability to block specific numbers and websites. It's designed to restrict access to potentially harmful content and ensure safe communication.
❓ Can I install apps on the ZTE Blade A3 Prime?
Yes, the ZTE Blade A3 Prime runs Android and allows you to install apps from the Google Play Store. However, be mindful of the limited storage space.
