The ZTE Blade A3Y represents the ultra-budget smartphone market, while the Google Pixel C aimed for a premium tablet experience. Can a budget phone compete with a high-end tablet from Google? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to see which device reigns supreme.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Google Pixel C decisively wins on performance and display quality thanks to its Tegra X1 chipset and vibrant screen. However, the ZTE Blade A3Y offers incredible value for those on a tight budget. It's a clear case of different priorities and price points.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | N/A |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | - |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13 | - |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | - |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, October 30. Released 2020, October 30 | 2015, September 29. Released 2015, December 08 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 146 x 71 x 9.7 mm (5.75 x 2.80 x 0.38 in) | 242 x 179 x 7 mm (9.53 x 7.05 x 0.28 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | No |
| Weight | 162 g (5.71 oz) | 517 g (1.14 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) | 2560 x 1800 pixels (~308 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~75.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.2 inches, 313.8 cm2 (~72.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.9 GHz |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Nvidia Tegra X1 |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Nvidia Maxwell |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), upgradable to Android 8.0 (Oreo) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | No |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.4 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 4.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | - |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 3.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, gyro | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2660 mAh, removable | Li-Po 9240 mAh, non-removable (34.2 Wh) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Purple | Silver Aluminum |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 340 EUR |
ZTE Blade A3Y
- Extremely Affordable
- Compact Size
- Decent Battery Life (for light use)
- Low Performance
- Basic Camera
- Low-Resolution Display
- Limited Storage
Google Pixel C
- Powerful Performance
- High-Resolution Display
- Premium Build Quality
- Excellent Battery Life
- Expensive
- Larger Size (less portable)
- Discontinued (limited availability)
Display Comparison
The Pixel C boasts a stunning 10.2-inch LCD display with a 2560x1800 resolution, offering crisp visuals and vibrant colors. The Blade A3Y features a smaller 6.2-inch HD+ display (likely around 720x1520), which is adequate but noticeably less sharp and vibrant. The Pixel C's larger size and higher resolution provide a significantly better viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality is another area where the Pixel C likely holds an advantage, although specific specs are limited. The Pixel C likely had a decent 8MP rear camera and a front-facing camera. The Blade A3Y probably features a basic 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. Image quality on both will be acceptable in good lighting, but expect noise and limited detail in low-light conditions.
Performance
Here's where the Pixel C truly shines. The Nvidia Tegra X1 is a powerhouse, capable of handling demanding games and multitasking with ease. The Blade A3Y's Mediatek Helio A22 is a budget chipset, sufficient for basic tasks but struggles with more intensive applications. Expect noticeable lag and slower loading times on the A3Y.
Battery Life
The Pixel C had a 8220 mAh battery, offering excellent battery life. The ZTE Blade A3Y likely has a smaller battery, around 3000-3500 mAh, providing adequate battery life for light usage but will drain faster with more demanding tasks.
Buying Guide
The ZTE Blade A3Y is perfect for first-time smartphone users, those needing a basic device for calls and messaging, or anyone on an extremely limited budget. The Google Pixel C is ideal for users who prioritize a premium tablet experience, powerful performance for demanding apps, and a high-quality display for media consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the ZTE Blade A3Y good for gaming?
No, the Blade A3Y's chipset is not powerful enough for demanding games. It can handle very basic games, but expect low frame rates and lag.
❓ Where can I buy a Google Pixel C?
The Google Pixel C has been discontinued, so it's difficult to find new units. You may be able to find refurbished models on online marketplaces like eBay or Swappa.
