Highlights
- Premium design with Iron Glass and curved display enhances aesthetics and ergonomics.
- Triple camera setup offers versatile photography with up to 20X digital zoom.
- MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset ensures decent performance and efficient multitasking.
- Clean Android 13.0 OS with guaranteed updates, paired with a 5000mAh battery for long-lasting use.
The Lava Blaze Curve 5G marks a significant leap towards flagship territory for Lava, traditionally known for its budget smartphones.
This launch follows the Agni 2 5G, notable for its curved display—a first in its category.
With the Blaze Curve 5G, Lava once again prioritizes premium aesthetics, showcasing a commitment to offering high-end features at accessible prices.
In this review, I am going to test out the Blaze Curve 5G to see if its external aesthetics are just a facade or if the device really is packing in the heat to challenge the big guns of the sub-Rs 20,000 segment.
Mr. Sunil Raina, Managing Director, Lava International, said, “The Blaze Curve 5G showcases the power of Indian engineering in the smartphone industry.
Developed to meet the aspirations of Indian consumers in the sub-20K price range, our aim with the Blaze series is to provide a world class experience to our customers “
Lava Blaze Curve 5G Review: Price and Availability
| Model | Variants | Price | Availability | Platform |
| Lava Blaze Curve 5G | 8+8*GB/128GB | Rs 17,999/- | 11th March 2024 | · Lava E-Store
· Amazon · Lava Retail Network |
| 8+8*GB/256GB | Rs 18,999/- |
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Premium Design | Accidental Touches on Display |
| Clean Software | Brightness Inadequate |
| Decent Performance |
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Key Specs
- 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED 3D Curved Display
- MediaTek Dimensity 7050 Chipset
- 64MP Main Camera + 8MP Ultra Wide + 2MP Macro
- 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage (Expandable)
- Android 13.0 OS (Upgradeable to Android 14)
- 5000mAh Battery with 33W Fast Charging
- 5G Connectivity
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Unboxing
Unboxing the Lava Blaze Curve 5G is quite the experience, revealing not just the device itself but a thoughtful assortment of accessories aimed at enhancing your user experience right from the get-go.
Inside the box, you’ll find the Lava Blaze Curve 5G, securely nestled alongside a 33W charger designed to quickly power up your device.
Accompanying the charger is a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, ensuring fast data transfer and charging capabilities.
For those who appreciate the convenience of wired headphones or have a preferred pair, there’s also a 3.5mm to Type-C connector, catering to your audio needs without the phone having a dedicated headphone jack.
The SIM ejector toolkit is a small but essential tool for accessing the SIM card slot, while the included paperwork provides important information about the device.
Lastly, a clear silicone case is also provided, offering immediate protection for your new phone against scratches and minor drops.
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Unboxing Video
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Design and Display
The design of the Lava Blaze Curve 5G truly makes it stand out for me and it is clear that it is a focal point of Lava.
The device is wrapped in a matte-finish dark grey back and glass construction, that Lava is calling Iron Glass, which could easily place it among flagship models in terms of looks.
The curved display is a standout feature for me, not just enhancing its visual appeal but also making it more ergonomic to hold.
The camera setup is uniquely elegant, with three distinct rings instead of a conventional island, adding to its sleek design.
I also like the inclusion of the dual speakers which actually did offer an immersive audio experience.
Despite its premium build, the Blaze Curve 5G is lightweight and easy to manage, maintaining a slim profile without compromising on durability or comfort.
The display on the Lava Blaze Curve 5G is a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED with a punch-hole design, featuring 3D curves and a 20:9 aspect ratio.
Lava claims it can display up to 16.7 million colors, making for a vibrant viewing experience.
The curved edges help minimize bezels, although I felt the 600 nits of peak brightness was a bit lacking, especially outdoors.
The 120Hz refresh rate and 240Hz touch sampling rate ensure smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions.
While it lacks Dolby Vision, HDR content still looks good.
The colours are punchy and vibrant, but the curved screen does introduce accidental touches, which I found a bit annoying.
Overall, it provides a good viewing experience with some caveats.
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Cameras
Exploring the camera capabilities of the Lava Blaze Curve 5G, I found the triple camera setup intriguing.
The primary 64MP sensor captures impressive shots in daylight, offering fine details and a slightly high saturation level, although sometimes the exposure can be inconsistent.
Shutter speeds felt slow compared to rivals, but the focus was reliably sharp.
Portrait and close-up shots exceeded my expectations, while the 2MP macro lens struggled, especially in dim lighting.
The full resolution mode, allowing for up to 20X digital zoom, retains commendable detail.
The 8MP ultra-wide camera performs adequately but suffers from softer details at the edges and inconsistent color temperatures, though it thankfully avoids distortion.
Low-light performance leaves room for improvement, with twilight images faring better than those in darker conditions.
The dedicated low-light mode uses AI to enhance images, sometimes at the expense of introducing noise.
Adjustments to exposure and shadow details met my standards, indicating a generally decent camera experience with potential for enhancements.
The 32MP front camera impressed me, accurately capturing skin tones, facial details, and background exposure.
The selfies were of high quality, with no notable issues, rounding out a solid camera experience on this device.
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Camera Samples
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Video Sample
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Performance and Features
Coming now to the processing part of things, handling the Lava Blaze Curve 5G, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset, brought me mixed feelings.
While not the top-tier processor for its price, it surprisingly managed a solid 550k on Antutu, a testament to its decent capabilities.
Graphical performance was a standout, maintaining 95% efficiency under heavy usage – a rare feat that impressed me.
The device boasts an 8GB + 256GB configuration, expandable via virtual memory, ensuring smooth multitasking and a fluid user interface, accentuated by a 120Hz refresh rate.
However, gaming at high settings proved challenging, limiting me to medium settings for a smoother 60fps experience.
Audio quality was a highlight, with the Dolby Atmos-powered stereo speakers delivering depth and clarity.
Stable 5G connectivity on Airtel’s network in Noida and the responsive in-display fingerprint sensor rounded out a reliable, albeit not gaming-centric, performance package.
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Software and Features
Navigating the Lava Blaze Curve 5G with its clean Android 13.0 OS has been a breath of fresh air.
The promise of an upgrade to Android 14and continued support with two Android upgrades and three years of security updates shows a commitment to longevity from Lava’s side.
The absence of bloatware and unnecessary pre-installed apps, combined with app cloner functionality, results in a swift browsing experience.
I appreciate the subtle customization options available, enhancing the overall user-friendly environment.
I would’ve like Android 14 out-of-the-box but a future update to it isn’t too bad either.
Battery performance has equally impressed me.
The 5000mAh capacity, supported by true 33W fast charging, consistently delivered 5-6 hours of screen-on time, surpassing my expectations for daily usage.
Recharging is remarkably efficient, requiring just over an hour to fully replenish the battery.
This combination of software refinement and reliable battery life sets the Lava Blaze Curve 5G apart in its price segment, offering a seamless and enduring user experience.
Lava Blaze Curve 5G: Final Verdict
The Lava Blaze Curve 5G emerges as a compelling contender in the sub-Rs 20,000 segment, striking a fine balance between premium aesthetics and practical features.
It challenges the norms of budget smartphones by offering a design and user experience that veers towards the flagship territory, albeit with certain limitations in processing power for heavy gaming.
Its software cleanliness, battery efficiency, and camera capabilities make it a strong option for users seeking value and performance.
Overall, a very capable offering and it is my recommendation for consumers with a budget of less than Rs 20,000.
5 Reasons to Buy
- Premium Design: Offers flagship-like aesthetics with a matte-finish and elegant camera module, making it stand out.
- Solid Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery coupled with 33W fast charging ensures prolonged usage and quick recharge times.
- Clean Software Experience: Runs on a clean version of Android 13.0, promising upgrades and minimal bloatware for smooth operation.
- Competent Camera Setup: Delivers versatile photography options with decent low-light performance and detailed shots.
- Value for Money: Provides a range of high-end features at an accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.
3 Reasons Not to Buy
- Moderate Processor: While adequate for daily tasks, it might not satisfy the demands of hardcore gamers.
- Accidental Touches: The curved screen can lead to unintended inputs, affecting the overall user experience.
- Brightness Issues: The peak brightness might not be sufficient for clear visibility under direct sunlight.
Top 5 Alternatives to the Lava Blaze Curve 5G
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G – Rs. 17,999
- Display: 6.59 inches, IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 695
- RAM/Storage: 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
- Cameras: 64MP + 2MP + 2MP Triple Primary Cameras, 16MP front camera
- Battery: 5000mAh with Super VOOC Charging
- Special Features: Decent performance, Clean UI
iQOO Z7 5G – Rs. 18,999
- Display: 6.38-inch, 2400×1080 pixels
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 920
- RAM/Storage: 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
- Cameras: 64MP + 2MP rear, 16MP front camera
- Battery: 4500mAh, supports 44W fast charging
- Special Features: Android 13 with Funtouch OS 13, in-display fingerprint scanner
Poco X5 Pro – Rs. 16,999
- Display: 6.67-inch, 1080×2400 pixels, AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G
- RAM/Storage: 6GB RAM, 128GB storage
- Cameras: 108MP + 8MP + 2MP rear, 16MP front camera
- Battery: 5000mAh, supports 67W fast charging
- Special Features: Corning Gorilla Glass 5, MIUI 14 based on Android 12
Realme Narzo 50 5G – Rs.15,998
- Display: 6.6 inches, IPS LCD, 90Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 810
- RAM/Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- Cameras: 48MP + 2MP dual primary cameras, 8MP front camera
- Battery: 5000mAh with Dart Charging
- Special Features: Smooth performance, good design
OPPO F21 Pro – Rs.16,899
- Display: 6.43 inches, AMOLED, 90Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 680
- RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM, 128GB storage
- Cameras: 64MP + 2MP + 2MP Triple Primary Cameras, 32MP front camera
- Battery: 4500mAh with Super VOOC Charging
- Special Features: Top-notch design, good daylight camera performance
LAVA Blaze Curve 5G |
|
| Top Features/4 Main Specs | 16.94 cm (6.67″) 120Hz Punch Hole 3D Curved AMOLED Display with Widevine L1 support |
| Lightning Fast Processor MTK D7050 | |
| 128GB/256 ROM UFS 3.1 & 8GB LPDDR5 RAM | |
| 64 MP Primary Rear Camera(Sony Sensor) with EIS Support and 32 MP Front Camera | |
| Stereo Speakers with Dolby Atmos | |
| GENERAL | |
| Form | Touch |
| SIM | Dual Sim (5G + 5G), Nano+nano |
| Touch Screen | Yes |
| Business Features | Gmail |
| Call Features | Vibration on call connection, Conference Call, Anonymous & Auto Call recording, VoNR, ViNR, DSS, Carrier Aggregation Supported |
| Handset Color | Iron Glass and Viridian Glass |
| In Sales Package | Handset, USB Type-C Cable, Charger, SIM Ejector Pin, Back Cover, USB-C to 3.5mm connector |
| PLATFORM | |
| Operating Freq | GSM: 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 1900 MHz |
| WCDMA: B1/B2/B5/B8 | |
| 4G VoLTE: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41 | |
| 5G: n1/n3/n5/n8/n28/n41/n77/n78 | |
| Processor | 2.6 Ghz MediaTek Dimensity 7050 Octa Core processor |
| OS | AndroidTM 13 with guaranteed upgrade to Android 14 & Android 15 with 3 years of security features |
| DISPLAY | |
| Detail | 120Hz 3D Curved Display with HDR, HDR10, HDR10+ and Widevine L1 Support |
| Size | 16.94cm(6.67″) |
| Resolution | 2400*1080 (FHD+) |
| PPI | 394 |
| Color | 16.7 M |
| Brightness | Standard maximum brightness: 500nits (Typical) Maximum brightness under sunlight: 800nits (Typical) |
| Screen to Body Ratio | 90.50% |
| CAMERA | |
| Primary Camera (Rear Camera) | 64 MP Primary + 8 MP Ultrawide + 2 MP Macro with LED Flash |
| Secondary Camera (Front Camera) | 32 MP with Screen Flash |
| Flash | Yes, Both Camera (Front Flash type – Screen) |
| Max Video Recording Resolution | 4K / 30fps |
| Other Camera Features | Slow Motion, Timelapse, UHD, Pro, Macro, Beauty, HDR,Night, Portrait , AI , Pro, Panorama, Filters, Intelligent Scanning |
| MEMORY | |
| RAM | 8+8* GB LPDDR5 (*virtual RAM) |
| Internal Memory | 128 GB/256 GB |
| Expandable Memory | NA |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| Size | 161.8*74*8.8 mm |
| Weight With Battery | 189gm |
| BATTERY | |
| Type | 5000 mAh (Typ) Li-Polymer battery |
| Charging | 33W Charger, Type C Cable |
| INTERNET & CONNECTIVITY | |
| Internet Features | Google Play Store, Gmail, Youtube, Google, Google Assistant, Maps, Files |
| Navigation | Yes |
| Preinstalled Browser | Yes (Google Chrome) |
| GPRS | Yes |
| EDGE | Yes |
| 3G | Yes |
| 4G | Yes |
| 5G | Yes |
| Wifi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax Wi-Fi6 |
| USB Connectivity | Type C |
| Bluetooth | V5.2 |
| Audio Jack | No (USB-C to 3.5mm connector available in-box) |
| OTG Support | Yes |
| MULTIMEDIA | |
| Music Player | Yes |
| Video Player | Yes |
| FM | Yes |
| Ringtone | Yes |
| OTHER | |
| SAR Value | <1.6W/Kg |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Proximity, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Ambient Light, Fingerprint |
| Additional Features | Fingerprint Scanner, Face Unlock, Battery Saver Mode, Youtube Background Stream, Dolby Atmos |
| WARRANTY | 1 Year Handset Warranty and 6 Months Warranty on Accessories |
FAQs
What distinguishes the design of the Lava Blaze Curve 5G from other smartphones in its price range?
The Lava Blaze Curve 5G sets itself apart with its sophisticated design elements, incorporating a matte-finish dark grey back and what Lava terms as Iron Glass. This unique combination not only gives the device a flagship-like appearance but also enhances its durability.
The ergonomically curved display is not just a visual treat but also makes the device more comfortable to hold and use, elevating the overall user experience.
How does the camera setup on the Lava Blaze Curve 5G cater to photography enthusiasts?
The Lava Blaze Curve 5G is equipped with a triple camera setup, headlined by a 64MP primary sensor that excels in capturing detailed and vibrant photos under varied lighting conditions.
While the device shines in daylight photography, producing images with rich details and colors, it also holds its own in low-light scenarios, thanks to its dedicated low-light mode that intelligently enhances images.
Is the Lava Blaze Curve 5G suitable for gaming and high-intensity tasks?
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset, the Lava Blaze Curve 5G delivers commendable performance across a variety of applications, from day-to-day tasks to more demanding workloads.
However, when it comes to gaming, especially high-end titles, the device is best experienced at medium graphics settings to maintain smooth gameplay at 60fps. This balance ensures that users can enjoy a good gaming experience without encountering significant frame drops or stutters.
What makes the software experience on the Lava Blaze Curve 5G stand out?
The Lava Blaze Curve 5G offers a clean and user-friendly software experience, running on Android 13.0 OS devoid of bloatware and unnecessary apps.
This not only ensures faster browsing and smoother operation but also enhances the device’s security and reliability with the promise of two Android upgrades and three years of security updates.
The availability of app cloner functionality and customizable themes further enriches the user experience by allowing for personalisation and efficient multitasking.
How does the battery performance of the Lava Blaze Curve 5G enhance its usability for active users?
The battery life of the Lava Blaze Curve 5G is a key highlight, with its 5000mAh capacity providing 5-6 hours of screen-on time, which comfortably supports a day’s worth of moderate to heavy usage.
The true 33W fast charging capability means the device can be quickly recharged in just over an hour, minimizing downtime and ensuring users stay connected and productive.
Is LAVA Blaze Curve 5G Boasting First in the segment 120Hz Curved AMOLED Display and LPDDR5 8GB RAM, Starting at Rs 17,999 ?
Lava International, the leading Indian Smartphone brand, proudly introduces the Blaze Curve 5G, a revolutionary smartphone poised to redefine the mid-range smartphone segment with the SEGMENT BEST 8GB LPDDR5 RAM for seamless multitasking coupled with First in the Segment UFS 3.1 128GB/256GB of internal storage.
The combination results in upto 100% faster App opening rates. It is powered by lightning-fast MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor delivering unparalleled speed and efficiency. The device boasts a SEGMENT BEST Antutu Score of 570K+setting new standards for gaming and app experiences in its price segment.
The Blaze Curve 5G represents Lava’s commitment to providing Indian consumers with exceptional value and performance starting at Rs 17,999.
Another SEGMENT BEST is the stunning 16.94 cm (6.67″) 120Hz 3D Curved AMOLED Display with Widevine L1 support, providing users with immersive visual experiences. It comes with Premium AG Glass Back design and boasts a 64MP primary rear camera (Sony sensor) with EIS support along with 8MP Ultrawide and 2MP Macro with LED Flash.
It is equipped with 32MP front camera, ensuring crisp and detailed selfies. Lava Blaze Curve 5G will be available in two colour variants – Iron Glass and Viridian Glass.
Furthermore, the Blaze Curve 5G features stereo speakers with DOLBY ATMOS support, delivering rich and immersive audio quality.
In line with Lava’s commitment to providing a superior user experience, the Blaze Curve 5G runs on bloatware free, ad-free and clean Android 13. Lava promises regular software updates, including assured upgrades to Android 14 and 15, along with quarterly security updates for three years.
The Blaze Curve 5G is equipped with a powerful 5000 mAh (typ) Li-Polymer battery and supports fast charging with a 33W charger, ensuring extended usage without interruption.
The Blaze Curve 5G will be available for purchase on Amazon.in, Lava E-store and across Lava Retail Network starting 11th March at 12:00 Noon. Customers can register for notifications via the following link: https://www.lavamobiles.com/curveolution/ .
FREE SERVICE @ HOME
For added convenience and peace of mind, Lava will be offering FREE SERVICE @ HOME for Blaze Curve 5G users in the event of any issues during the warranty period. To avail Service at Home, click here:
What are the key highlights of lava blaze curve 5G?
• Blaze Curve 5G comes with 16.94 cm (6.67″) 120 Hz 3D Curved AMOLED Display
• Starting at Rs 17,999, it comes with segment best 8GB LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 128/256GB ROM
• Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 7050 with highest AnTuTu score of 570K+ in the segment
• Available on Amazon, Lava E-store and Lava Retail Network from 11th March 2024
Also Read: Inside Lava’s Latest Innovations: An Exclusive Interview with Mr. Sumit Singh
Also Read: Lava Mobiles Teases Upcoming Blaze Curve 5G with Curved Display Feature
Also Read: Lava Blaze Curve 5G Set for Launch in India on 5th March: Complete Rumour Roundup