In the ultra-budget smartphone segment, differentiation can be minimal. The ZTE Blade Vantage 2 and the Alcatel 1B (2022) exemplify this, both powered by the Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22. This comparison isn't about raw power – it's about how each manufacturer optimizes around identical hardware to deliver a usable experience, and where potential cost-cutting measures impact the user.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing absolute affordability, the Alcatel 1B (2022) likely offers a slightly better value proposition, assuming comparable pricing. Both phones deliver similar performance due to the shared Helio A22 chipset, but Alcatel's brand recognition and potential for wider availability give it a slight edge.
| 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 | 2, 4, 5, 13 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - 5031D, 5031G |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/11.1 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 38, 40, 66 - 5031A, 5041J |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, October. Released 2019, October | 2022, May 31 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, May 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 137 x 68 x 10.5 mm (5.39 x 2.68 x 0.41 in) | 146.7 x 71.9 x 10 mm (5.78 x 2.83 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 172 g (6.07 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~215 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 64.5 cm2 (~69.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~74.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8300 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 25 mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, 24 mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 2050 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Prime Black, Atlantic Blue |
| Models | - | 5031D, 5031G, 5031A, 5031J |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 100 EUR |
ZTE Blade Vantage 2
- Potentially lower price point
- Similar performance to Alcatel 1B
- Compact form factor (likely)
- Potentially limited software support
- Less established brand recognition
alcatel 1B (2022)
- Wider brand recognition
- Potentially better accessory availability
- Likely more consistent software updates
- May be slightly more expensive
- Similar performance to ZTE Blade Vantage 2
Display Comparison
Both the ZTE Blade Vantage 2 and Alcatel 1B (2022) are expected to feature displays optimized for cost. Given the target market, both likely utilize LCD panels with resolutions around 720p+. Without specific nit brightness data, it's reasonable to assume both displays will struggle in direct sunlight. The 12nm process node of the Helio A22 doesn't demand a high-refresh-rate panel, and neither device is expected to offer one. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices, relying heavily on software processing to compensate for the limitations of the hardware. While specifications aren't provided, both are likely to feature a primary camera around 8-13MP, potentially paired with a basic depth sensor. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) means low-light photography will be challenging. Any secondary cameras (often 2MP macro lenses) are unlikely to provide significant value and should be considered marketing features rather than genuine enhancements.
Performance
The core of both devices is the Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22, featuring a Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. This chipset is designed for entry-level tasks and will handle basic Android Go Edition applications adequately. The 12nm manufacturing process provides reasonable power efficiency, but don't expect sustained performance under heavy load. RAM capacity, which isn't specified, will be a critical factor; 2GB is likely the minimum, and 3GB would provide a noticeably smoother experience. Both devices will struggle with demanding games or multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is a crucial factor in the budget segment. Without specific mAh figures, it's difficult to make a definitive statement. However, given the power efficiency of the Helio A22 and the low-resolution displays, both devices should comfortably last a full day with moderate usage. Charging wattage is also unspecified, but likely to be in the 5W-10W range, resulting in relatively slow charging times – expect several hours to reach 100%.
Buying Guide
Buy the ZTE Blade Vantage 2 if you specifically find it at a significantly lower price point than the Alcatel 1B (2022) and are comfortable with potentially limited software support. Buy the Alcatel 1B (2022) if you prefer a brand with a longer history in the budget smartphone market and anticipate easier access to accessories or repairs. Both are suited for basic communication, light social media, and essential apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will either of these phones run PUBG Mobile smoothly?
No. The Mediatek Helio A22 chipset is not powerful enough to run PUBG Mobile at playable frame rates, even on the lowest settings. These phones are designed for basic tasks, not demanding gaming.
❓ Are these phones compatible with 5G networks?
No. The Mediatek Helio A22 is a 4G-only chipset. These phones will not connect to 5G networks. They are designed for areas with established 4G coverage.
❓ What version of Android do these phones run?
Both devices are likely to ship with Android Go Edition, a lightweight version of Android designed for devices with limited RAM and storage. This ensures a smoother experience on the Helio A22 chipset.
❓ How much storage space do these phones typically offer?
Expect 16GB or 32GB of internal storage, with the option to expand via microSD card. Given the limited internal storage, a microSD card is highly recommended for storing photos, videos, and apps.
