Looking for an affordable smartphone that gets the job done? The Alcatel 1B (2022) and the Alcatel 1 (2021) are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Alcatel 1B (2022) edges out the Alcatel 1 (2021) thanks to its more modern chipset and slightly improved performance. While both are budget options, the 1B offers a noticeable speed boost and potentially better future software support, making it the slightly better pick.
| 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 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - 5031D, 5031G | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.1 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, 38, 40, 66 - 5031A, 5041J | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, May 31 | 2021, June 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, May 31 | Available. Released 2021, October 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 146.7 x 71.9 x 10 mm (5.78 x 2.83 x 0.39 in) | 137.6 x 65.7 x 9.8 mm (5.42 x 2.59 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 172 g (6.07 oz) | 134 g (4.73 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Asahi Glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~215 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~74.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.0 inches, 64.5 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.28 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8300 | PowerVR GE8100 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 8GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 1GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 25 mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF | 5 MP, f/2.4, 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, 24 mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 2 MP, f/2.8 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 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 | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, removable | Li-Ion 2000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Prime Black, Atlantic Blue | Volcano Black, AI Aqua |
| Models | 5031D, 5031G, 5031A, 5031J | - |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 60 EUR |
alcatel 1B (2022)
- Better Performance (Helio A22)
- Larger Battery (4000mAh)
- Potentially better software support
- Slightly more modern design
- Still a budget phone with limitations
- Camera quality is basic
- May lack advanced features
alcatel 1 (2021)
- Lower Price Point
- Decent for basic tasks (calls, texts)
- Compact and lightweight
- Slower Performance (MT6739)
- Smaller Battery (3000mAh)
- Older Software
- Limited future updates
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.0-inch HD+ display, offering decent viewing angles for their price range. Expect similar color accuracy and brightness levels. The 1B might have a slightly newer display panel, potentially offering marginally better viewing angles, but the difference is unlikely to be significant.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a single rear camera, likely around 13MP. Image quality will be similar in well-lit conditions, but the 1B's newer chipset might offer slightly better image processing. Low-light performance on both will be limited due to the budget nature of the devices.
Performance
This is where the 1B (2022) shines. Its Mediatek Helio A22 chipset (12nm) is a step up from the Alcatel 1 (2021)'s MT6739 (28nm). The A22's more efficient manufacturing process and slightly faster clock speed (2.0 GHz vs 1.28 GHz) translate to smoother multitasking and quicker app loading times. Expect the 1B to handle basic games better.
Battery Life
The Alcatel 1 (2021) often comes with a 3000mAh battery, while the 1B (2022) typically has a 4000mAh battery. This gives the 1B a clear advantage in battery life, allowing for longer usage between charges. Expect a full day of moderate use from the 1B, while the 1 (2021) might require a top-up before the end of the day.
Buying Guide
The Alcatel 1B (2022) is ideal for users prioritizing basic performance and a slightly more modern experience on a tight budget. The Alcatel 1 (2021) remains a viable option for those seeking the absolute lowest price point and are comfortable with older hardware, primarily for calls, texts, and very light app usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Alcatel 1B (2022) worth the extra money compared to the Alcatel 1 (2021)?
Yes, the improved performance and battery life of the 1B make it a worthwhile upgrade if your budget allows. The difference in speed and longevity is noticeable.
❓ What kind of apps can I run smoothly on these phones?
Both phones are best suited for basic apps like messaging, social media, and web browsing. Demanding games or resource-intensive apps may struggle.
