The ZTE Cymbal U and Cymbal 2 are both entry-level smartphones targeting budget-conscious consumers. While they share many similarities, subtle differences might make one a better choice for you. This comprehensive comparison will break down the key aspects of each phone to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The ZTE Cymbal U and Cymbal 2 are remarkably similar, sharing the same chipset and CPU. The Cymbal 2 *might* offer slightly improved software or minor design tweaks, but overall, the differences are minimal. Choose based on price and availability – whichever is cheaper is likely the better buy.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 41, 66, 71 | 2, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, January | 2020, January. Released 2020, January |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, January | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 109.2 x 55.9 x 19.5 mm (4.30 x 2.20 x 0.77 in) | 109 x 56 x 19.5 mm (4.29 x 2.20 x 0.77 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 135 g (4.76 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~39.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~39.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| | Cover display:
TFT LCD, 1.70 inches | Cover display:
TFT LCD, 1.77 inches |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm) | Qualcomm QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 308 | Adreno 308 |
| OS | Proprietary | Linux 3.18.71 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 8GB 1GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | No |
| Radio | FM Radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | - | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1600 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1600 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 60 EUR |
ZTE Cymbal U
- Affordable price
- Large battery (5000mAh)
- Decent for basic tasks
- Expandable storage (likely microSD slot)
- Limited performance
- Low-resolution display
- Basic camera quality
- Slow charging
ZTE Cymbal 2
- Potentially slightly newer software
- Similar affordability to Cymbal U
- Large battery (5000mAh)
- Decent for basic tasks
- Limited performance
- Low-resolution display
- Basic camera quality
- Slow charging
- Minimal improvements over Cymbal U
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a 6.5-inch HD+ display (720 x 1600 pixels). Expect similar color accuracy and brightness levels. The Cymbal 2 *might* have a slightly improved coating for better scratch resistance, but this is speculative.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications are likely similar: an 8MP main camera and a front-facing 5MP camera. Image quality will be adequate for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance will be poor on both devices. The Cymbal 2 *could* have slightly improved image processing algorithms.
Performance
Performance will be virtually identical due to the shared Qualcomm QM215 Snapdragon 215 chipset and quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. Expect basic multitasking capabilities and limited gaming performance. Don't expect to run demanding apps smoothly.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. Expect around 18-24 hours of usage on a single charge. Charging speeds are likely to be slow (5W or 10W).
Buying Guide
The ZTE Cymbal U is ideal for users needing a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage. The Cymbal 2 is suited for those seeking a slightly newer model with potentially minor software enhancements, but the core experience remains the same. Both are excellent for first-time smartphone owners or as secondary devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are the ZTE Cymbal U and Cymbal 2 the same phone?
They are very similar, sharing the same chipset and CPU. The Cymbal 2 might have minor software or design updates, but the core experience is largely the same.
❓ Can I play games on the ZTE Cymbal U or Cymbal 2?
You can play very basic games, but don't expect smooth performance with demanding titles. These phones are designed for essential tasks like calls, texts, and browsing.
