ZTE’s Blade series consistently targets the value-conscious consumer, but the A73 5G and A53 Pro represent different approaches within that segment. The A53 Pro focuses on basic functionality at an extremely low price point, while the A73 5G aims to deliver 5G connectivity and a noticeable performance boost. This comparison dissects the core differences between these two devices, focusing on the impact of their contrasting chipsets and features.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the ZTE Blade A73 5G is the superior choice. Its Unisoc T760 chipset, built on a more efficient 6nm process, provides a significant performance advantage over the A53 Pro’s SC9863A1, translating to smoother multitasking and a more responsive user experience. While both phones are budget-focused, the A73 5G offers a better long-term investment.
| 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 | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, April | 2023, August 10 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, April | Available. Released 2023, September |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.7 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.34 in) | 163.5 x 75.2 x 8.5 mm (6.44 x 2.96 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 197 g (6.95 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 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~83.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (1x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 3x Cortex-A76 & 4x Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) | Unisoc T760 (6 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | No |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, AF
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP (13 MP in Asia), (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Blue, Green | Gray, Blue |
| Price | - | About 120 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 1.42 W/kg (head) 1.69 W/kg (body) |
ZTE Blade A53 Pro
- Extremely affordable price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Outdated and inefficient chipset
- Slow charging speed (10W)
- Limited performance for demanding apps
ZTE Blade A73 5G
- 5G connectivity for faster data speeds
- Significantly more powerful Unisoc T760 chipset
- Improved performance and responsiveness
- Slightly higher price compared to the A53 Pro
- May still lack advanced features found in higher-end phones
- Charging speed likely remains relatively slow
Display Comparison
Neither ZTE provides detailed display specifications beyond resolution. However, the core difference lies in the processing power driving the display. The A73 5G’s more capable chipset can handle more complex display tasks, potentially leading to smoother animations and faster app loading times. While both likely utilize LCD panels, the A73 5G’s GPU will be better equipped to handle graphical elements. Bezels are expected to be similar on both devices, given their price points.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specifications are unavailable, but it’s safe to assume both phones feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The A73 5G’s more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the T760 chipset will likely result in better image processing, particularly in low-light conditions. While both may include a primary sensor and auxiliary lenses, the A73 5G’s processing capabilities will be the deciding factor in image quality. Expect similar limitations in terms of zoom and dynamic range on both devices.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The ZTE Blade A73 5G’s Unisoc T760, fabricated on a 6nm process, is a substantial upgrade over the A53 Pro’s 22nm Unisoc SC9863A1. The T760 features a 2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 core alongside three additional Cortex-A76 cores, offering significantly higher single-core and multi-core performance compared to the A53 Pro’s four 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores and four 1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This translates to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive overall experience. The 6nm process also contributes to better thermal efficiency, reducing the likelihood of throttling under sustained load. Users who play mobile games or use demanding apps will see a dramatic improvement with the A73 5G.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, the A73 5G’s more efficient 6nm chipset will likely result in better battery life despite potentially having a similar capacity to the A53 Pro. The A53 Pro’s 10W charging is notably slow; the A73 5G, while likely not significantly faster, benefits from the more efficient chipset requiring less frequent charging cycles. Users prioritizing all-day battery life will likely find the A73 5G more reliable.
Buying Guide
Buy the ZTE Blade A53 Pro if you need a functional smartphone for very basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media, and your budget is extremely limited. Buy the ZTE Blade A73 5G if you prioritize 5G connectivity, smoother performance for everyday apps, and a more future-proof experience, even if it means spending a bit more upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the ZTE Blade A73 5G handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
While the Unisoc T760 isn't a gaming powerhouse, it's significantly more capable than the SC9863A1 in the A53 Pro. You'll likely be able to play PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings with reasonable frame rates. However, don't expect a flagship-level gaming experience; you may need to lower graphics settings for smoother gameplay.
❓ How much faster is 5G on the ZTE Blade A73 5G compared to 4G?
5G speeds on the A73 5G can be significantly faster than 4G, potentially reaching several hundred megabits per second, depending on network availability and coverage. This translates to faster downloads, smoother streaming, and lower latency for online gaming. However, 5G coverage is still limited in many areas, so you may not always experience these speeds.
❓ Is the difference in chipset performance between the A73 5G and A53 Pro noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the difference is quite noticeable. The A73 5G’s Unisoc T760 will result in faster app launches, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive user interface. The A53 Pro’s SC9863A1 can feel sluggish, especially when multitasking or running multiple apps simultaneously.
