The ZTE Blade series consistently delivers affordable smartphones, and the A71 and A72 are no exception. But which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their features, performance, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The ZTE Blade A72 is the clear winner, primarily due to its significantly more powerful Unisoc T606 chipset and faster charging. While the A71 is a budget-friendly option, the A72's performance boost makes it a worthwhile upgrade for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 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, October 07 | 2022, June 10 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2022, June 10 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 75.2 x 8.2 mm (6.50 x 2.96 x 0.32 in) | 168 x 77.5 x 9.4 mm (6.61 x 3.05 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 180 g (6.35 oz) | 214 g (7.55 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~390 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~84.5% 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 (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) - version 1Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) - version 2 |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) - version 1Unisoc T606 (12 nm) - version 2 |
| GPU | IMG8322 | IMG8322 - version 1Mali-G57 MP1 - version 2 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | - | 5 MP |
| Triple | 16 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 22.5W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh | Li-Ion 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Gray, Green | Space Gray, Sky Blue |
| Models | A7030 | - |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 110 EUR |
ZTE Blade A71
- Affordable
- Large battery
- Decent display
- Weak performance
- Slow charging
- Basic camera
ZTE Blade A72
- Improved performance (T606 chipset)
- Faster charging (22.5W)
- Slightly better camera processing
- Slightly more expensive than A71
- Still a budget phone - don't expect flagship features
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar displays – probably a 6.5-inch HD+ IPS LCD. Expect decent viewing angles and color reproduction, but don't anticipate flagship-level brightness or sharpness. The A72 *might* have slightly improved color accuracy due to software optimizations, but this is speculative.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a triple-camera setup, with a primary sensor around 13MP. Image quality will be decent in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The A72 *might* have slightly improved image processing thanks to its more powerful chipset, resulting in marginally better photos.
Performance
This is where the A72 shines. The A71's Unisoc SC9863A is a basic chipset, adequate for light tasks but struggles with demanding apps and games. The A72's version 1 Unisoc T606 (12nm) offers a substantial performance upgrade with its Cortex-A75 cores, providing a much smoother and more responsive experience. Version 2 of the A72 with the same chipset is even better.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have a 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life under moderate usage. However, the A72's 22.5W wired charging is a significant advantage, allowing for much faster charging times compared to the A71's likely slower charging speed.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the ZTE Blade A71? Users on a very tight budget who prioritize affordability over performance. Who should buy the ZTE Blade A72? Anyone seeking a smoother, more responsive experience for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking, and appreciates faster charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the ZTE Blade A72 worth the extra cost over the A71?
Yes, the A72's improved performance and faster charging make it a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you use your phone for more than just basic tasks.
❓ What kind of games can I play on the ZTE Blade A72?
You can play many popular mobile games on the A72, but don't expect to run demanding titles at high settings. It's better suited for casual and less graphically intensive games.
