The ZTE Blade L5 (model T520) is an ultra-budget 3G smartphone designed for basic communication, often sold by carriers like Digicel. It features a compact 5.0-inch display and runs on a MediaTek MT6572 processor with Android 5.1 Lollipop. This guide provides official stock ROMs for both generic and carrier variants, which are essential for unbricking a device, fixing software glitches, or performing a complete factory restore.
Important: This firmware is specifically for the ZTE Blade L5 (T520). As a MediaTek device, it requires the SP Flash Tool for flashing. Flashing this on a different model (like the L5 Plus) will cause a hard brick. This process will erase all data on your device.
Quick Device Specs
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- Device: ZTE Blade L5 (T520)
- Release year: 2016
- Chipset: MediaTek MT6572 (3G)
- Display: 5.0″ TFT Display
- Battery: 2150 mAh
- Original OS: Android 5.1 Lollipop
Required Downloads
To flash a MediaTek device, you will need the specific drivers and flashing tool. You can find the downloads for these in our main guide linked below.
- SP Flash Tool
- MediaTek VCOM USB Drivers
Stock ROM (Firmware)
| Region / Carrier | Build Date | Android | Type | Download |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digicel | 2016-08-09 | 5.1 | SP Flash Tool Firmware | Download |
| Generic | 2017-02-06 | 5.1 | SP Flash Tool Firmware | Download |
| Generic | 2016-11-07 | 5.1 | SP Flash Tool Firmware | Download |
How to Flash the Stock Firmware
Restoring your ZTE Blade L5 to its original factory software requires a Windows PC and the SP Flash Tool. The core steps involve installing the correct MediaTek drivers, loading the single MT6572_Android_scatter.txt file from the firmware into the tool, and connecting your phone while it is powered off to begin the process.
For the complete, step-by-step guide with pictures and download links for the tools, please see our main pillar article: How to Flash Firmware with SP Flash Tool.
Device-Specific Troubleshooting for ZTE Blade L5
- PC Not Detecting the Phone? Check Drivers: The most common problem is a driver issue. The SP Flash Tool will not see your phone if the drivers aren’t installed correctly. You must install the MediaTek VCOM drivers, which often requires disabling ‘Driver Signature Enforcement’ in Windows first.
- Using the Correct Boot Key Sequence: The phone must be fully powered off. Click the “Download” button in the flash tool first. Then, press and hold the Volume Down button on your phone and connect the USB cable. Do not release the button until you see the ‘Downloading’ progress bar appear.
- Stuck on Google Account (FRP Lock): If you are stuck on the Google account setup screen after a factory reset, flashing this stock ROM will completely wipe the device and remove the FRP lock, allowing you to set it up from scratch.
- 3G Network Decommissioning: Be aware that the Blade L5 is a 3G-only device. Many mobile carriers around the world are shutting down their 3G networks. After flashing, if you have no signal, it may be because 3G service is no longer available in your area.
FAQs
Q1. Which firmware should I choose?
For most users, the newest generic firmware (dated 2017-02-06) is the best option. Only use the “Digicel” firmware if your phone was originally from that carrier and you want to restore its specific branding and apps.
Q2. Will flashing the generic ROM unlock my Digicel phone?
No. Flashing a different firmware will not remove the SIM/network lock. Your device will remain locked to the Digicel network.
Q3. What is the difference between the Blade L5 and the Blade L5 Plus?
The Blade L5 Plus is a significantly better device with a larger 5.5-inch HD display and a more powerful quad-core processor. Their firmwares are not interchangeable.
Q4. What is a “scatter file”?
The scatter file (e.g., MT6572_Android_scatter.txt) is a crucial map for MediaTek firmware. It tells SP Flash Tool the name, size, and location of every partition on the device’s storage, ensuring each part of the software is flashed to the correct place.
