BLU G5 Comprehensive Review – Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction

The BLU G5 is a budget-friendly smartphone that was announced and released in July 2019. It offers a range of features suitable for everyday use, making it an appealing choice for users seeking an affordable mobile device. This article provides an in-depth look at the specifications and features of the BLU G5, offering detailed insights into its capabilities.

Design and Build

The BLU G5 features a compact design, with dimensions of 150.5 x 71.5 x 10.4 mm, which makes it easy to hold and use with one hand. Weighing 187 grams, it provides a solid feel without being too heavy. The device supports Dual SIM functionality, allowing users to use two Nano-SIM cards simultaneously, which is advantageous for those who manage personal and work numbers separately.

Display

The smartphone sports a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels, providing a pixel density of approximately 293 ppi. The screen-to-body ratio is about 72.5%, which means users get a decent amount of screen real estate for their viewing pleasure. The IPS technology ensures consistent and accurate colors from various angles, contributing to a satisfactory viewing experience for an entry-level device.

Performance

Under the hood, the BLU G5 is powered by an Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 processor. This, combined with 2GB of RAM, provides basic multitasking capabilities and handles everyday tasks with relative ease. The IMG8322 GPU takes care of the graphical processing needs, making it possible to enjoy some casual games and multimedia content.

Operating System

The device runs on Android 9.0 (Pie), which brings various features and enhancements over its predecessors, such as adaptive battery and brightness, app actions, and better security features. While not the latest OS version, it still performs adequately for most tasks expected from a smartphone in this category.

Storage

The BLU G5 comes with 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDXC card. This is particularly useful for users who require additional space for their apps, photos, and other files. The ability to expand storage is a significant advantage, ensuring users are not restricted by the internal storage capacity.

Camera Capabilities

For photography enthusiasts, the BLU G5 has a single 13 MP rear camera with autofocus and an LED flash. It is capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps. The main camera provides decent image quality for its price range, suitable for capturing moments in well-lit conditions. On the front, the device is equipped with an 8 MP selfie camera, also accompanied by an LED flash, making it easier to take photos in low light conditions.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a removable Li-Po 3000 mAh battery. It promises up to 600 hours of standby time on 2G networks and up to 550 hours on 3G. For talk time, users can expect around 21 hours on 2G and 16 hours on 3G networks. This battery performance is adequate for a day's worth of use without needing frequent recharges, a plus for those with moderate usage patterns.

Connectivity and Network

The BLU G5 supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, offering robust connectivity options. It includes support for multiple LTE bands, ensuring good network coverage in various regions. For wireless connections, the device is equipped with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, and Bluetooth 4.1 with A2DP. It also features GPS for positioning but lacks NFC support, which is a common omission in budget devices. Additionally, the phone includes FM radio for entertainment and a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer.

Sound and Multimedia

The phone is equipped with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, catering to users who prefer using traditional headphones over wireless alternatives. This is an essential feature for many, as it provides versatility in audio device compatibility. The inclusion of both a loudspeaker and audio jack ensures the device meets basic multimedia and communication needs.

Sensors and Additional Features

In terms of sensors, the BLU G5 is equipped with an accelerometer and a proximity sensor. These sensors aid in enhancing the user experience by enabling various functionalities such as auto screen rotation and the ability to turn off the display during calls to save battery.

Color Availability

To cater to different user preferences, the BLU G5 is available in several color options, including Black, Blue, Red, Twilight, and Chameleon Blue. This variety allows users to choose a color that best matches their personal style.

Conclusion

The BLU G5 is a well-rounded budget smartphone offering basic features suited to the needs of everyday users. With features like a functional camera system, a decent display, dual SIM support, and expandable storage, it provides good value for its price. While not aimed at power users or those seeking the latest technology, the BLU G5 stands as a viable option for users in need of an affordable and reliable smartphone.