The ZTE Blade series consistently delivers affordable smartphones, but choosing between models can be tricky. We're pitting the ZTE Blade A72 5G, boasting 5G connectivity and a more powerful chipset, against the ZTE Blade A52 Lite, a budget-friendly option focused on essential features. Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The ZTE Blade A72 5G is the clear winner for most users, offering significantly better performance thanks to its 5G capabilities and Dimensity 700 chipset. The A52 Lite remains a viable option for those prioritizing the absolute lowest price and basic functionality, but compromises heavily on speed and features.
| 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 | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, June 10 | 2022, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, June 10 | Available. Released 2022, August |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.5 x 9.2 mm (6.46 x 2.97 x 0.36 in) | 164.8 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm (6.49 x 2.99 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 211 g (7.44 oz) | 188 g (6.63 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 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | - |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | - |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 13 MP, AF |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | Yes |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh | Li-Ion 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Gray | Gray, Green |
| Models | 7540N | - |
| Price | About 160 EUR | - |
ZTE Blade A72 5G
- 5G Connectivity
- Faster Performance (Dimensity 700)
- Better Camera System
- Larger & Higher Resolution Display (likely)
- More Modern Features
- Higher Price
- Potentially slightly shorter battery life than A52 Lite (usage dependent)
ZTE Blade A52 Lite
- Lower Price
- Decent Battery Life
- Lightweight and Compact
- Slow Performance
- Lower Resolution Display
- Basic Camera
- No 5G
Display Comparison
The Blade A72 5G likely features a slightly larger display (around 6.5 inches) with a higher resolution (likely FHD+) compared to the A52 Lite (around 6.3 inches, likely HD+). Expect better image clarity and a more immersive viewing experience on the A72 5G. Both likely use IPS LCD panels, so don't expect OLED-level contrast.
Camera Comparison
The A72 5G likely has a more versatile camera system, potentially including a higher resolution main sensor (48MP or higher) and additional lenses for ultrawide or macro photography. The A52 Lite likely has a simpler camera setup, possibly a 13MP main sensor. Image quality and features will be noticeably better on the A72 5G.
Performance
This is where the A72 5G shines. Its Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset and Octa-core CPU (with Cortex-A76 cores) provide a substantial performance boost over the A52 Lite's generic Octa-core CPU. Expect faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the A72 5G. The A52 Lite will struggle with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature batteries in the 5000mAh range. Battery life will depend on usage, but the A72 5G's more efficient chipset *might* offer slightly better endurance despite the 5G capabilities.
Buying Guide
The ZTE Blade A72 5G is ideal for users who want 5G connectivity, smoother performance for everyday tasks and light gaming, and a more modern smartphone experience. The ZTE Blade A52 Lite is best suited for users on a very tight budget who primarily need a phone for calls, texts, and basic apps, and aren't concerned about speed or advanced features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the ZTE Blade A72 5G worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you value 5G connectivity, better performance, and a more capable camera. The A72 5G offers a significantly improved experience.
❓ Can the ZTE Blade A52 Lite handle social media and basic apps?
Yes, it can handle basic tasks like browsing, texting, and using social media apps, but performance will be noticeably slower than the A72 5G.
