ZTE Blade A51 vs. ZTE Blade A71: A Detailed Comparison

The ZTE Blade series consistently delivers affordable smartphones, and the A51 and A71 are no exception. Both offer a compelling entry point into the smartphone world, but subtle differences can make a big impact. This review breaks down the key distinctions to help you choose the right device for your needs.

Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

Both phones share the same chipset and CPU, suggesting similar performance. The A71 likely boasts a larger display and potentially a slightly improved camera system. Ultimately, the A71 offers a more modern design and potentially better features, making it the slightly better choice for most users, assuming the price difference isn't significant.

PHONES
Phone Names	ZTE Blade A51	ZTE Blade A71

Network
2G bands	GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900	GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bands	HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100	HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100
4G bands	1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41	1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41
Speed	HSPA, LTE	HSPA, LTE
Technology	GSM / HSPA / LTE	GSM / HSPA / LTE

Launch
Announced	2021, May 08	2021, October 07
Status	Available. Released 2021, May 08	Available. Released 2021, October 07

Body
Dimensions	166.5 x 75.6 x 8.5 mm (6.56 x 2.98 x 0.33 in)	165.2 x 75.2 x 8.2 mm (6.50 x 2.96 x 0.32 in)
SIM	Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM	Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight	173.7 g (6.14 oz)	180 g (6.35 oz)

Display
Resolution	720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)	720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)
Size	6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.5% screen-to-body ratio)	6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio)
Type	IPS LCD	IPS LCD

Platform
CPU	Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55)	Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55)
Chipset	Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm)	Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm)
GPU	IMG8322	IMG8322
OS	Android 11 (Go edition)	Android 11

Memory
Card slot	microSDXC	microSDXC
Internal	32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM	64GB 3GB RAM
	eMMC 5.1	-

Main Camera
Dual	13 MP, AF 2 MP	-
Features	LED flash, HDR	LED flash, HDR
Triple	-	16 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF 8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚, (ultrawide) Auxiliary lens
Video	1080p@30fps	1080p@30fps

Selfie camera
Single	5 MP	8 MP
Video	-	1080p@30fps

Sound
3.5mm jack	Yes	Yes
35mm jack	Yes	Yes
Loudspeaker	Yes	Yes

Comms
Bluetooth	4.2, A2DP, LE	4.2, A2DP, LE
NFC	Yes	Yes
Positioning	GPS, GLONASS	GPS, GLONASS
Radio	FM radio	FM radio
USB	USB Type-C 2.0, OTG	USB Type-C 2.0
WLAN	Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n	Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n

Features
Sensors	Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity	Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity

Battery
Type	Li-Ion 3200 mAh	Li-Ion 4000 mAh

Misc
Colors	Blue, Gray	Blue, Gray, Green
Models	-	A7030
Price	-	About 90 EUR

ZTE Blade A51

Very Affordable
Decent Battery Life
Compact Size

Basic Camera Performance
Lower Resolution Display
Less Modern Design

ZTE Blade A71

Larger Display
Potentially Improved Camera
Longer Battery Life
More Modern Design

Slightly Higher Price
Performance Limitations (shared chipset)

Display Comparison

The Blade A71 is expected to feature a larger display (likely 6.53 inches vs. A51's 6.3 inches) with a higher resolution, offering a more immersive viewing experience. Both likely use IPS LCD technology, so expect decent color accuracy but not exceptional brightness. The A71's larger size may also mean slightly smaller bezels.

Camera Comparison

While both phones likely feature a triple-camera setup, the A71 is expected to have a higher resolution main sensor and potentially improved image processing algorithms. The A51's camera is likely adequate for casual snapshots, but the A71 should offer better detail and low-light performance. Front-facing camera specs are also likely to be slightly better on the A71.

Performance

Given the identical Unisoc SC9863A chipset and CPU configuration, raw processing power will be very similar between the two devices. Expect adequate performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Demanding games and multitasking will likely reveal limitations.

Battery Life

The Blade A71 is expected to have a larger battery capacity (likely 5000mAh vs. A51's 4000mAh), translating to longer battery life. Both phones should comfortably last a full day with moderate usage, but the A71 should provide a more comfortable buffer.

Buying Guide

The ZTE Blade A51 is ideal for users on a very tight budget who prioritize basic functionality and affordability. The ZTE Blade A71 is a better choice for those seeking a slightly larger screen, potentially improved camera capabilities, and a more contemporary design, without breaking the bank.