ZTE Blade A71 vs. ZTE Blade A7s 2020: A Detailed Comparison

The ZTE Blade series consistently delivers affordable smartphones, and the A71 and A7s 2020 are no exception. Both offer a compelling entry point into the smartphone world, but subtle differences might make one a better fit for your needs. Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide.

Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

Both phones share the same chipset and CPU, suggesting similar performance. The A7s 2020 often boasts a slightly improved camera and potentially a more refined software experience. Ultimately, the choice hinges on price and availability, with the cheaper option likely being the more attractive buy.

PHONES
Phone Names	ZTE Blade A71	ZTE Blade A7s 2020

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, 7, 8, 28
Speed	HSPA, LTE	HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps
Technology	GSM / HSPA / LTE	GSM / HSPA / LTE
	-	HSDPA 850 / 2100

Launch
Announced	2021, October 07	2020, November 03. Released 2020, November 03
Status	Available. Released 2021, October 07	Discontinued

Body
Dimensions	165.2 x 75.2 x 8.2 mm (6.50 x 2.96 x 0.32 in)	164.7 x 77.4 x 8.2 mm (6.48 x 3.05 x 0.32 in)
SIM	Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM	Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight	180 g (6.35 oz)	182 g (6.42 oz)

Display
Resolution	720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)	720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~264 ppi density)
Size	6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio)	6.5 inches, 103.7 cm2 (~81.4% 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	Android 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Misc
Colors	Blue, Gray, Green	Black, Blue
Models	A7030	A7020
Price	About 90 EUR	About 120 EUR

ZTE Blade A71

Large Display
Affordable Price
Decent Battery Life
Expandable Storage

Basic Performance
Average Camera
HD+ Resolution

ZTE Blade A7s 2020

Slightly Better Camera
Potentially Newer Software
Good Battery Life
Expandable Storage

Slightly Higher Price
Basic Performance
HD+ Resolution

Display Comparison

Both devices typically feature a large 6.53-inch HD+ display. While the resolution is similar, the A7s 2020 might have slightly better color accuracy or brightness due to potential panel upgrades. Expect adequate viewing for everyday use, but don't anticipate flagship-level visuals.

Camera Comparison

The A7s 2020 generally features a slightly more advanced camera setup, often including a higher resolution main sensor (typically 13MP vs. 12MP on the A71) and potentially improved image processing algorithms. Expect better low-light performance and more detailed photos on the A7s 2020. Both phones likely include a secondary depth sensor for portrait mode.

Performance

Given the identical Unisoc SC9863A chipset and CPU configuration, expect comparable performance. Everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming should run smoothly. However, demanding games or heavy multitasking might reveal limitations. Software optimization plays a crucial role here, and the A7s 2020 might have a slight edge if it runs a newer Android version.

Battery Life

Both phones typically house a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. Actual battery performance will depend on usage patterns and software optimization. The A7s 2020 might offer slightly better power efficiency due to potential software improvements.

Buying Guide

The ZTE Blade A71 is ideal for users prioritizing a large display and basic smartphone functionality on a tight budget. The ZTE Blade A7s 2020 is a better choice for those seeking slightly improved camera capabilities and potentially a more modern software experience, even if the price is a bit higher.