If you’re looking for a phone that is less than $500, that provides a near-flagship experience on both software and hardware fronts, there are quite a few solid options. The Pixel 4a 5G is the first device that comes to mind, but that’s priced at $499, while the OnePlus Nord N10 5G is the other, as it’s priced at just $299. OnePlus Nord N10 5G Review: This doesn’t feel like a $300 phone But there’s actually a device wedged right in between which could cause some ripples in the budget market. Earlier this year, ZTE announced the Blade X1 5G, bringing many of the bells and whistles you would like to see in a phone priced at less than $400. ZTE Blade X1 5G Specs Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD, 2340 x 1080 resolution Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G RAM: 6GB Storage: 128GB, expandable via microSD card Front Camera: 16MP Rear Cameras: 48MP primary, 8MP Ultrawide, 2MP Macro, 2MP Monochrome Battery: 4,000mAh, 18W Fast charging Software: Android 10 Extras: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack Other than a mouthful of a name, the Blade X1 5G is equipped with the same Snapdragon 765G processor found in the Pixel 5 and the Pixel 4a 5G. This is coupled with 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of expandable storage. There’s also a quad-camera array on the back, along with a rear-mounted (and recessed) fingerprint scanner. The display measures at 6.5-inches, and features a resolution of 2340 x 1080, but is missing out on a faster refresh rate. ZTE also included just a 4,000mAh battery capable of taking advantage of 18W fast charging speeds, which is a bit less than we would expect to see in 2021. Hardware Taking the phone out of the box, you’ll come to realize rather quickly that you’re going to want to slap a case on this. The back is a fingerprint magnet which drives us absolutely crazy. But before you put a case on it, take a moment to appreciate the unique design when it comes to the frame. The sides of the Blade X1 5G start wide at the back of the phone while coming inward at an angle until the frame meets the display. In our time with the X1 5G, this became one of the best “features”, as using the phone was extremely comfortable, even when performing finger gymnastics. The top and bottom feature more of a “valley” design, with an indentation going from side to side and recessing the headphone jack, USB-port, and speaker on the bottom. The same goes for the microSD / SIM card slot and top-mounted microphone. Instead of throwing any unnecessary buttons onto the Blade X1 5G, the Power button and Volume rocker are located on the left side of the frame. This isn’t something that you should be super-excited about, but it’s just a relief to see that ZTE didn’t try to go above and beyond for this sub-$400 phone.
