The sub-$250 5G smartphone market is heating up, with the ZTE Blade A72 5G and Realme 9 5G vying for attention. Both aim to deliver 5G connectivity without breaking the bank, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The ZTE leverages MediaTek’s Dimensity 700, while the Realme opts for Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 695 5G. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme 9 5G emerges as the better choice. Its Snapdragon 695, fabricated on a more efficient 6nm process, provides a slight performance edge and potentially better thermal management. The inclusion of 18W charging is also a practical benefit over the ZTE’s likely slower charging speeds, making it a more well-rounded package.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, June 10 | 2022, May 12 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, June 10 | Available. Released 2022, June 09 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.5 x 9.2 mm (6.46 x 2.97 x 0.36 in) | 164.3 x 75.6 x 8.5 mm (6.47 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 211 g (7.44 oz) | 191 g (6.74 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 1080 x 2412 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.8 cm2 (~84.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 600 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 660 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 660 Silver) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 619 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12, Realme UI 3.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | - |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 16 MP, f/2.1, 26mm (wide), 1/3.09", 1.0µm |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Gray | Meteor Black, Stargaze White |
| Models | 7540N | RMX3474 |
| Price | About 160 EUR | About 190 EUR |
ZTE Blade A72 5G
- Potentially lower price point
- Reliable MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset
- Supports 5G connectivity
- Less efficient 7nm process
- Likely slower charging speeds
- Potentially less refined software experience
Realme 9 5G
- More efficient Snapdragon 695 (6nm)
- Faster 18W wired charging
- Potentially better sustained performance
- May be slightly more expensive
- Software experience can be polarizing
- No significant camera advantages without further specs
Display Comparison
Neither ZTE nor Realme provide display specifications in the provided data. However, given the price bracket, both likely feature LCD panels with 60Hz refresh rates. The Realme 9 5G, based on market trends, may have slightly better color calibration and peak brightness. Bezels are expected to be comparable, prioritizing cost-effectiveness over ultra-slim designs. Without specific data, it's difficult to definitively declare a winner, but Realme’s brand reputation suggests a marginally better display experience.
Camera Comparison
Without sensor details, a direct comparison is limited. Both phones likely feature a primary camera accompanied by depth or macro sensors of limited utility. The Realme 9 5G, given its slightly higher market positioning, may incorporate a larger primary sensor, resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range. Image processing algorithms also play a crucial role, and Realme’s typically prioritize vibrant, social media-ready images. The ZTE Blade A72 5G likely focuses on a more natural, albeit potentially less detailed, image profile.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme 9 5G’s Snapdragon 695 (6nm) boasts a more modern architecture than the ZTE Blade A72 5G’s Dimensity 700 (7nm). While both CPUs feature a 2x2.2 GHz prime core configuration, the Snapdragon 695’s Kryo 660 Gold cores are generally more efficient. The 6nm process node of the Snapdragon 695 translates to lower power consumption and potentially less thermal throttling under sustained load. This benefits users who engage in moderate gaming or prolonged multitasking. The ZTE’s Dimensity 700 is still capable, but the Snapdragon 695 offers a tangible advantage in efficiency and sustained performance.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for either device. However, the Snapdragon 695’s 6nm process gives the Realme 9 5G an edge in power efficiency. Coupled with the inclusion of 18W wired charging, the Realme 9 5G offers a more convenient and potentially faster charging experience. The ZTE Blade A72 5G likely relies on a slower charging rate, meaning longer times to reach a full charge. While a larger battery on the ZTE could offset the efficiency difference, the Realme’s charging speed is a significant practical advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the ZTE Blade A72 5G if your primary need is basic 5G connectivity and you prioritize a potentially lower upfront cost. It’s a solid option for users who primarily browse, use social media, and make calls. Buy the Realme 9 5G if you value a slightly more responsive user experience, potentially better battery life due to the 6nm chipset, and the convenience of faster 18W charging. It’s ideal for users who enjoy occasional gaming or multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 695 in the Realme 9 5G handle demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
The Snapdragon 695 is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but expect to play at medium settings for a smooth experience. The 6nm process helps mitigate throttling, but it’s not a gaming powerhouse. The Dimensity 700 in the ZTE Blade A72 5G will also run PUBG, but may experience more frame drops during intense battles.
❓ How much faster is the 18W charging on the Realme 9 5G compared to the ZTE Blade A72 5G?
Without knowing the ZTE Blade A72 5G’s charging wattage, it’s difficult to give an exact figure. However, 18W is significantly faster than the typical 10W or 15W charging found in this price range. Expect the Realme 9 5G to charge from 0-100% in approximately 2-2.5 hours, while the ZTE could take 3+ hours.
❓ Does the Realme 9 5G support VoLTE and VoWiFi for improved call quality?
The Realme 9 5G almost certainly supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi), as these are standard features for modern 5G smartphones. The ZTE Blade A72 5G should also support these features, but compatibility depends on your carrier.
