BLU Grand M Full Specs Prices Pros & Cons Revealed

Device Overview

The BLU Grand M is a budget-friendly smartphone that was released in January 2017. Known for its simplicity and essential features, the Grand M is targeted towards users looking for an affordable device with basic smartphone functionality. Despite its discontinuation, the device still serves its purpose well in fulfilling the basic communication and media needs of the users.

Network and Connectivity

BLU Grand M supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, offering 2G and 3G bands including GSM 850/900/1800/1900 for both SIM slots, and HSDPA 850/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, ensuring basic connectivity. It provides HSPA speeds of up to 21.1/5.76 Mbps, which is sufficient for most general use cases except for heavy data activities.

Launch and Availability

Initially announced and released in January 2017, the BLU Grand M is no longer in production. Its release marked it as an entry-level smartphone, setting a standard for affordable devices that prioritize basic functionality over high-end specs.

Body and Design

The smartphone measures 144.9 x 72.1 x 9.4 mm and weighs 171 grams. It is equipped with a Dual SIM feature supporting both Nano-SIM and Micro-SIM cards, allowing users to manage two numbers simultaneously. Its design, while not groundbreaking, maintains a functional aesthetic suitable for its target market.

Display

The BLU Grand M features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels. This results in a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 65.9% and a pixel density of about 196 ppi. Although the display doesn’t compete with higher-end models, it provides acceptable visual quality for everyday tasks such as web browsing and viewing photos.

Platform and Performance

Running on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the device is powered by a Mediatek MT6580 chipset and a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU. The Mali-400MP2 GPU handles graphical processing, though it is not designed for intensive gaming or demanding graphics applications. The platform provides a smooth experience for basic smartphone operations.

Memory and Storage

The device includes 512MB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDXC card slot. This limited storage capacity is suitable for users who don’t require extensive app installations or large file storage. It is ideal for light app usage and storing contacts and messages.

Camera Features

The main camera of the BLU Grand M is a single 5 MP shooter featuring an LED flash for low-light conditions. It is capable of recording videos at 720p@30fps. On the front, the device includes a 3.15 MP selfie camera, which also comes with an LED flash, providing basic functionality for video calls and simple selfies.

Audio and Multimedia

For audio output, the device includes a loudspeaker and supports a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to traditional audio standards and providing options for personal listening experiences. The device’s multimedia capabilities are modest, better suited for casual media consumption rather than demanding audio-visual tasks.

Communication and Sensors

Communication options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0 for short-range connectivity, ensuring compatibility with a range of accessories and peripherals. The BLU Grand M also includes positioning capabilities through GPS, though it does not support NFC. An accelerometer is included as its sole sensor feature, assisting in basic motion detection and screen orientation functions.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 2200 mAh battery, offering standby times of up to 900 hours on 2G and up to 750 hours on 3G. Talk time is estimated at up to 24 hours on 2G and up to 12 hours on 3G, making it capable of handling a full day's use under gentle conditions.

Color Options and Customization

The BLU Grand M was available in four different colors: Gray, Silver, Gold, and Rose Gold, allowing users to choose a finish that best matches their style preferences. These options provided a touch of personalization in an otherwise standard design.

Conclusion

In summary, the BLU Grand M represents the essence of an entry-level smartphone. While it lacks the power and features of more expensive devices, it fulfills its role as a functional communication tool, offering essential features with reasonable efficiency. Despite its discontinuation, the device serves as a reliable option for users seeking simplicity and affordability in their mobile technology.