The Blackview Wave 8 is an entry-level smartphone designed to cater to budget-conscious users seeking a practical daily driver. With its affordable price tag, large display, solid performance for basic tasks, and long-lasting battery life, the Wave 8 is an attractive choice for students, casual users, and first-time smartphone buyers.
However, if you're a heavy multitasker, gamer, or someone who requires advanced photography features, this device might fall short of expectations.
Let's dive into its specs and features to see how it stacks up.
Body: Modern Looks in a Compact Form
The Blackview Wave 8 features a minimalist and modern design, with dimensions of 163.2×75.16×8.75 mm and a weight of 192 grams, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. Its build feels durable, and the side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrates seamlessly into the frame, providing added security without compromising aesthetics. The smartphone is available in three vibrant colors: Dawn Blue, Dusk Black, and Sunset Purple, appealing to users who want both style and variety. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| General |
|
| Dimensions | H: 163.2 mm (6.43″), W: 75.16 mm (2.96″), D: 8.75 mm (0.35″) |
| Mass | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Colors | Dawn Blue, Dusk Black, Sunset Purple |
The body of the Blackview Wave 8 strikes a balance between practicality and comfort, which is crucial for an entry-level smartphone. Those dimensions make it slim and compact enough to fit comfortably in most hands without being unwieldy, even during extended use.
While it's not the lightest phone on the market, the 192 g weight provides a reassuring heft without feeling cumbersome, making it easy to carry around in a pocket or a bag without any noticeable strain.
For prolonged usage, such as watching videos or scrolling through social media, the slim profile and curved edges contribute to an ergonomic grip. At 8.75 mm thickness, it's not ultra-thin, but the dimensions are well-balanced, so it doesn't dig into your palms or feel awkward during long sessions.
Its size makes it suitable for everyday portability. It fits well in most standard-sized pockets, and its weight is light enough to carry without feeling bulky in a small purse or bag. It's practical for users who are always on the go.
The Blackview Wave 8 is available in three attractive colors - Dawn Blue, Dusk Black, and Sunset Purple - each with a distinct personality that can appeal to different user preferences:
- Dawn Blue: A fresh, youthful color with a calm and vibrant vibe. It's perfect for users who want a touch of sophistication while maintaining a playful personality. Ideal for students and professionals looking for something stylish but not overly flashy.
- Dusk Black: A classic and understated choice. This color exudes elegance and is best suited for users who prefer a minimalistic and professional look. It's versatile and timeless, making it a safe bet for any personality.
- Sunset Purple: A bold and eye-catching option for those who love to stand out. It's perfect for creative individuals or anyone who wants one's smartphone to make a statement. The warm, lively hue reflects a fun and outgoing personality.
Overall, the dimensions and weight of the Blackview Wave 8 make it comfortable for long sessions and easy to carry, while the color options cater to a range of personalities - from classic and refined to bold and expressive. Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone who values style, there's likely a variant that aligns with your vibe.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
So, the Blackview Wave 8 doesn't come flaunting an official IP rating, bringing it into the uncharted territory in the world of smartphones. While it might raise an eyebrow or two, it does not mean the phone will dissolve into a puddle if caught in the rain. An IP rating is a neat reassurance against water and dust, but many phones survive everyday spills without the official stamp.
For users who want to shield their device from the environmental elements, a proactive approach becomes paramount. Here are some practical steps to safeguard your Blackview Wave 8:
- Protective Case: Investing in a quality protective case is a smart move. Choose a case that offers not just aesthetic appeal but also robust protection. A rugged case with reinforced corners and raised edges around the screen and camera can provide an added layer of defense against accidental drops.
- Screen Protector: The display is often the most vulnerable part of a smartphone. Applying a tempered glass or film screen protector helps guard against scratches and minor impacts. Not only does this preserve the display's clarity, but it also adds an extra layer of defense against everyday wear and tear. It maintains the pristine look of your screen while acting as a sacrificial layer in case of accidents.
- Dust Covers: Even in the absence of an official dust resistance rating, you can combat dust infiltration with simple measures. Consider using dust plugs for ports to prevent particles from settling in and compromising functionality.
- Environmental Awareness: While it might sound basic, being conscious of your surroundings can go a long way. Avoid exposing your Wave 8 to excessive moisture, and be mindful of dusty environments. Simple precautions like keeping your phone in a secure pocket or bag can prevent unwanted exposure.
- Regular Cleaning: Treat your Wave 8 to a periodic checkup. Inspect ports for any debris, and ensure that the case is in good condition. A gentle wipe-down with a microfiber cloth can help remove accumulated dust, grime, and smudges. Regular cleaning not only keeps your device looking sharp but also minimizes the chances of environmental particles causing harm. A well-maintained phone is more likely to weather the challenges of daily life.
In conclusion, while the absence of an IP rating is a consideration, it shouldn't overshadow the Blackview Wave 8's overall value. By incorporating practical protective measures, you can enjoy the device without constant worry. After all, a little TLC (tender loving care) goes a long way in maintaining the longevity and performance of any smartphone, regardless of its official water resistance status.
Display: An Immersive Viewing Experience
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
The Blackview Wave 8 boasts a 6.56-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720×1612 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of about 269 PPI. While this is not Full HD, it delivers decent sharpness for casual browsing, streaming videos, and light gaming.
The 450 nits of peak brightness ensures readability indoors, though visibility might be a challenge under direct sunlight. The approximately 81% screen-to-body ratio and 20:9 aspect ratio offer a modern, immersive experience for watching content.
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| Size | 6.56″ (167 mm) diagonal |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90 Hz |
| Resolution (px) | 720×1612, about 269 PPI |
| Brightness | 450 nits |
The display of the Blackview Wave 8 is a solid offering for its price range but comes with its share of limitations, particularly in brightness and resolution. The IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) is a common choice for budget-friendly devices, offering several benefits like color accuracy, wide viewing angles, affordability, and reliability.
IPS panels are known for their good color reproduction, providing natural tones suitable for viewing photos, videos, and web content. Unlike older display technologies like TN panels, IPS ensures consistent colors and brightness even when viewed from sharp angles, making it suitable for sharing content with others.
While it lacks the vibrancy and deep blacks of OLED displays, IPS LCDs are a cost-effective solution for delivering decent visuals.
One of the standout features of the Blackview Wave 8's display is its 90 Hz refresh rate. This refresh rate is higher than the standard 60 Hz found in many budget devices, offering a smoother visual experience. Scrolling through social media feeds, navigating menus, and playing games will feel more fluid, which can make the overall user experience more enjoyable.
While high-end devices often sport 120 Hz or even 144 Hz displays, the 90 Hz on the Wave 8 strikes a good balance between performance and power consumption, especially given its price point.
With a 720×1612 pixel resolution (around 269 PPI), the Blackview Wave 8 offers HD+ clarity, which is adequate for casual content like:
- Streaming content on YouTube or Netflix in HD.
- Browsing social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
- Basic productivity tasks like reading emails, using messaging apps, and navigating Google Maps.
However, the resolution starts to show its limitations when dealing with more demanding content, such as:
- Text-intensive content, where smaller fonts may not appear as crisp as they would on a Full HD display.
- High-quality gaming or photo editing, where higher resolutions allow for greater detail.
- VR or AR experiences, which demand pixel-dense displays for immersion.
For casual users, this resolution is perfectly acceptable, but pixel peepers or anyone who frequently consumes high-quality media might find it lacking.
The 450 nits peak brightness is sufficient for indoor use, offering a good viewing experience under normal lighting conditions. However, under very bright outdoor settings or direct sunlight, this level of brightness can become a significant limitation.
You might find text and icons harder to read in daylight, especially with reflective glare. Watching videos or viewing images outdoors might also be a bit of a struggle unless you seek shade.
Ideally, a brightness level of 700 nits or higher is preferred for optimal outdoor visibility. The 450 nits level puts the Blackview Wave 8 behind some of its competitors in this aspect.
In conclusion, the 6.56-inch IPS LCD panel of the Blackview Wave 8 offers good color reproduction and wide viewing angles but falls short in brightness and resolution for demanding users. The 720p resolution works well for most casual tasks, but the 450 nits brightness is indeed on the lower side, potentially affecting usability in direct sunlight.
While the display is well-suited for an entry-level device, improvements in brightness levels and a higher resolution would elevate the experience, particularly for users who frequently use their phones outdoors or consume high-definition content.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Navigating through the tech landscape, the Blackview Wave 8 supports the GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies.
GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality.
SIM
The Blackview Wave 8 supports dual Nano-SIM.
Chipset - Performance: Efficient Everyday Use
Under the hood, the Blackview Wave 8 is powered by the Unisoc T606 chipset built on a 12-nm process. The octa-core CPU includes two types of cores. The Mali-G57 MP1 GPU handles graphical processing, suitable for casual gaming and video playback. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (2×1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 + 6×1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 |
The chipset, CPU, and GPU of the Blackview Wave 8 reflect a balanced approach for an entry-level smartphone, delivering sufficient power for everyday tasks while maintaining energy efficiency. The Unisoc T606 is a budget-friendly chipset designed for devices in the entry-level to lower mid-range segment.
Built on a 12-nm process, it is efficient but not cutting-edge in terms of power consumption or raw performance. While not a performance beast, it offers reliable support for daily operations and moderate multitasking.
The octa-core CPU inside the Unisoc T606 is composed of two distinct types of cores:
- 2×1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 cores: These are high-performance cores, responsible for handling demanding tasks like app launches, multitasking, light gaming, and rendering web pages. The Cortex-A75 cores deliver higher IPC (Instructions Per Cycle), meaning they are optimized for performance, capable of processing more complex instructions efficiently.
- 6×1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores: These are efficiency cores, designed for lighter tasks such as texting, background app management, and maintaining system responsiveness during idle periods. They consume less power than the A75 cores, ensuring better battery life when the phone isn't under heavy load.
The reason for using two different core types despite their identical 1.6 GHz clock speeds lies in their design philosophy. Cortex-A75 cores focus on performance, with larger, more complex pipelines and more resources for executing heavy workloads. Even at the same clock speed, these cores can perform significantly better in tasks requiring computational power.
On the other hand, Cortex-A55 cores prioritize power efficiency by using simpler pipelines and smaller caches, which makes them more suitable for sustained low-power operation without overheating or draining the battery.
This big.LITTLE architecture allows the device to balance performance and efficiency dynamically, activating the A75 cores only when needed, such as during gaming or multitasking, while the A55 cores handle day-to-day operations to conserve battery.
The Mali-G57 MP1 is a single-core GPU designed for entry-level gaming and basic graphics rendering. While not powerful enough for intensive gaming, it can handle casual games like Candy Crush, Subway Surfers, and Clash of Clans; video playback at 1080p resolution; and light 3D applications with moderate graphical demands.
However, the GPU will struggle with more demanding games like PUBG Mobile and Genshin Impact, especially at higher graphics settings.
Given these components under the hood, the Blackview Wave 8's configuration is well-suited for everyday needs like:
- Basic tasks like calling, texting, browsing, and social media usage.
- Multitasking with lightweight apps, such as switching between messaging apps and web browsing.
- Casual gaming and watching HD videos.
- Basic productivity apps, such as note-taking, word processing, and online meetings.
However, the device's performance will feel constrained in scenarios requiring more powerful hardware, such as:
- High-Performance Gaming: Games with advanced graphics and fast-paced action will be challenging, even at low settings.
- Photo and Video Editing: Tasks requiring real-time rendering or high-resolution assets may feel sluggish.
- Advanced Multitasking: Running multiple demanding apps simultaneously will push the chipset to its limits.
- Future-Proofing: The Unisoc T606 is a capable chipset for today's lighter workloads but may struggle to keep up as apps and games become more resource-intensive.
In summary, the Blackview Wave 8's Unisoc T606 chipset with its octa-core CPU and Mali-G57 MP1 GPU offers sufficient power for entry-level users and casual multitaskers. The use of two types of cores (performance and efficiency) ensures that the device delivers a good balance between speed and battery life.
That said, it's not designed for demanding applications like intensive gaming or heavy multitasking. For users seeking advanced performance and long-term hardware resilience, a mid-range or flagship smartphone with a more powerful chipset would be a better fit.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Internal Storage | 256 GB |
| Memory Card Slot | microSDXC (shares with SIM) |
With 4 GB of RAM, the phone offers decent multitasking for basic apps and light workloads. The highlight, however, is its 256 GB internal storage, which is exceptionally generous in this price range, allowing you to store photos, videos, and apps without constantly worrying about running out of space.
Cameras: Basic but Functional
The Blackview Wave 8 features a 13 MP rear camera and an 8 MP front camera, both of which are capable of recording 1080p videos at 30 fps.
The 13 MP rear shooter is ideal for casual photography in well-lit conditions. However, low-light performance is average, which is expected at this price point. The 8 MP selfie camera produces decent results for video calls and social media uploads.
While these cameras won't rival premium devices, they deliver satisfactory results for everyday users.
Rear Camera
The main camera setup of the Blackview Wave 8 is a modest but functional offering for entry-level smartphone users. With a single 13 MP wide-angle lens, it's designed to handle basic photography and casual videography, while features like LED flash, HDR, and panorama add a touch of versatility. Let's dive into the details of what it can do and where it may fall short. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| Number of Cameras | 1 (Single) |
| Resolution (Megapixels) | 13 MP (wide, Samsung ISOCELL 4H7 sensor) |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps |
| Other Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
The 13 MP resolution is fairly standard for smartphones in this price range. The wide-angle lens allows for capturing more of the scene, making it ideal for landscape shots, group photos, and general everyday photography.
It performs well in good lighting conditions, delivering decent sharpness and detail. However, in low-light scenarios, you may notice noise and reduced detail, as budget sensors typically struggle without ample light.
The LED flash helps in low-light situations, though it's most effective at close ranges, such as for indoor photography or dimly lit environments.
It's also useful as a makeshift flashlight for emergencies.
Panorama mode allows you to take wide, sweeping shots of landscapes or large groups by stitching together multiple frames into a single image.
It's ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of nature or travelers aiming for scenic cityscapes.
And HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode improves the balance of lighting in high-contrast scenes. For example, if you're taking a photo of a sunset, HDR can prevent the sky from being overexposed while bringing out details in the darker foreground.
It's particularly beneficial for outdoor photography, ensuring that both shadows and highlights are well-exposed.
The main camera supports 1080p video recording at 30 fps, which is sufficient for capturing casual videos for social media and everyday memories. It delivers acceptable quality under good lighting conditions but lacks advanced features like image stabilization or 4K resolution, which would make videos smoother and crisper.
It's great for vlogging for beginners, short family videos, and casual use. But it lacks stabilization for motion-heavy recording and fine detail that higher-resolution video offers.
Overall, the Blackview Wave 8's main camera setup is perfect for users with basic photography needs, including:
- Casual shots of friends, family, and pets.
- Outdoor scenes in natural lighting.
- Social media uploads that don't require professional quality.
- Recording short videos for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
However, for users with more advanced photography and videography requirements, the 13 MP single camera may feel limiting. Scenarios where it might fall short include:
- Low-Light or Night Photography: Without a larger sensor or a dedicated Night Mode, photos will likely be grainy and lack detail.
- Portrait Photography: The absence of a dedicated depth sensor or secondary camera makes it difficult to create a proper bokeh effect for professional-looking portraits.
- High-Quality Video Recording: The lack of 4K resolution and advanced stabilization limits its appeal for serious videographers.
- Zoom Capabilities: With no telephoto lens, zooming relies solely on digital cropping, which significantly reduces image quality.
- Dynamic Scenes: The absence of fast focusing and high-speed frame rates limits its ability to capture moving subjects clearly.
In conclusion, the main camera setup of the Blackview Wave 8 is adequate for beginners, casual users, and those who prioritize simplicity over advanced features. While it's capable of taking decent photos and videos in well-lit environments, it's not suited for users seeking professional-grade photography and advanced features like multiple lenses, optical zoom, or enhanced low-light performance.
For everyday memories and social media content, this camera gets the job done. However, if you're a photography enthusiast or frequently capture dynamic scenes or low-light environments, a smartphone with a more sophisticated camera array would be a better fit.
Front Camera
The selfie camera sits inside a centered, waterdrop notch on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 8 MP (wide) |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps |
Battery: All-Day Power
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 10 W |
The 5000 mAh battery is one of the Wave 8's standout features, providing enough juice to last through a full day of moderate use. Whether you're streaming, browsing, or texting, this battery won't leave you stranded.
Charging is handled via 10 W wired charging through a USB Type-C port. While it's not the fastest charging solution, it aligns with the phone's entry-level positioning.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Blackview Wave 8 |
|---|---|
| Loudspeaker | Yes |
| Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | Yes |
The inclusion of a 3.5 mm headphone jack is a win for those who prefer wired audio.
Connectivity
The Blackview Wave 8 doesn't skimp on essential connectivity options. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, it ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The Wave 8 boasts Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
With support for GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BDS, you can navigate seamlessly in any environment.
While the Wave 8 lacks NFC, which might be a downside for those who use mobile payments, it includes FM radio for entertainment on the go.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.
Sensors
The Blackview Wave 8 comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the Wave 8.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
Final Verdict: Is the Blackview Wave 8 Worth It?
The Blackview Wave 8 is an excellent choice for users seeking a budget-friendly smartphone with plenty of storage, a large display, and solid battery life. Its design is modern and appealing, and it delivers adequate performance for basic tasks like social media, streaming, and messaging.
That said, power users or those seeking advanced gaming performance and professional-grade photography might want to explore mid-range or flagship options.
Overall, the Blackview Wave 8 is a dependable, entry-level smartphone that delivers great value for its price.
What are your thoughts on the Blackview Wave 8? Let us know in the comments!
Feature (top) image credit: Blackview.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Blackview Wave 8 release date?
The Blackview Wave 8 was announced and released in November 2024.