The Alcatel 1 and TCL 30 SE represent the extreme end of the budget smartphone spectrum. While both aim to provide essential smartphone functionality at a low price, they differ significantly in their internal hardware. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on how the TCL 30 SE’s newer chipset impacts real-world performance and user experience compared to the older Alcatel 1.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the TCL 30 SE is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Helio G25 chipset, built on a more efficient 12nm process, offers a noticeable performance uplift over the Alcatel 1’s aging MT6739. While the Alcatel 1 remains incredibly affordable, the TCL 30 SE’s improved processing power and 15W charging justify the price premium.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EMEA/APAC |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EMEA |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2018, July. Released 2018, July | 2022, February 27 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, April 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 137.6 x 65.7 x 9.8 mm (5.42 x 2.59 x 0.39 in) | 165.2 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 134 g (4.73 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~215 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 64.5 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.28 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go edition) | Android 12, TCL UI 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.9, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 2 MP, f/2.8 | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (6165H/6165H1 only) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 2000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Gold, Pink | Atlantic Blue, Space Gray, Glacial Blue |
| Models | 5033X, 5033J, 5033T, 5033D, 5033G, 5033M, 5033X_EEA, 5033F, 5033E, 5033D_EEA, 5033Q, 5033O, 5033G_EEA, 5033EP, 5033XR, 5033F_EEA, 5033S, 5033D_RU | 6165H, 6156H1, 6165A, 6165A1, 6165S |
| Price | About 60 EUR | - |
alcatel 1
- Lowest possible price point
- Functional for basic tasks
- Simple and easy to use
- Slow performance
- Outdated chipset
- Slow charging
TCL 30 SE
- Faster processor for smoother performance
- 15W fast charging
- More efficient chipset
- Slightly higher price
- Still a budget device with limitations
- Camera quality is likely basic
Display Comparison
Neither device is expected to boast a high-quality display. Specifications are limited, but both likely feature 720p LCD panels. The TCL 30 SE benefits from a more modern chipset potentially allowing for better image processing, but the core panel technology is likely similar. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, reflecting their budget positioning. Color accuracy and brightness are likely to be average at best.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices is expected to be basic. Without detailed sensor information, it’s safe to assume both rely on low-resolution primary sensors. The TCL 30 SE *may* have a slight advantage due to the image signal processor (ISP) integrated into the Helio G25, potentially offering better image processing and noise reduction. However, don't expect flagship-level image quality from either device. Any secondary cameras (likely 2MP macro lenses) on either phone are unlikely to provide significant value.
Performance
The TCL 30 SE’s Mediatek Helio G25 is the clear winner here. Built on a 12nm process versus the Alcatel 1’s 28nm MT6739, the G25 offers improved power efficiency and significantly more processing power. The octa-core configuration (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) of the G25 contrasts sharply with the Alcatel 1’s quad-core 1.28 GHz Cortex-A53. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface on the TCL 30 SE. The G25 also includes a slightly more capable GPU, offering a modest improvement in gaming performance. Thermal management will likely be better on the TCL 30 SE due to the more efficient manufacturing process.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device, but both likely feature batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range. The TCL 30 SE’s 15W wired charging is a significant advantage over the Alcatel 1, which likely supports only 5W or 10W charging. This means the TCL 30 SE will charge considerably faster, reducing downtime. While the Alcatel 1 might offer slightly longer battery life due to its less powerful processor, the convenience of faster charging on the TCL 30 SE is a compelling benefit.
Buying Guide
Buy the Alcatel 1 if you absolutely need the cheapest possible smartphone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing. It’s a functional device for those with minimal smartphone requirements. Buy the TCL 30 SE if you want a smoother, more responsive experience, especially when multitasking or using slightly more demanding apps. The faster processor and charging capabilities make it a better long-term investment, even for budget-conscious buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the TCL 30 SE be able to run popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the TCL 30 SE’s Mediatek Helio G25 chipset is sufficiently powerful to run popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram without significant lag. The octa-core processor and improved GPU provide a noticeable performance boost over the Alcatel 1, resulting in a smoother user experience.
❓ Is the Alcatel 1 a good choice for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
Yes, the Alcatel 1 is a perfectly adequate choice for users who primarily need a phone for calls and texts. Its basic functionality and low price make it a suitable option for those with minimal smartphone requirements. However, be aware that its performance will be slow for anything beyond these core functions.
❓ Can I expect to play demanding mobile games on the TCL 30 SE?
While the TCL 30 SE can run some mobile games, don't expect a high-end gaming experience. The Helio G25 is an entry-level gaming chip. You'll likely need to lower graphics settings and resolution for smoother gameplay in more demanding titles. The Alcatel 1 is even less suited for gaming.
