The Alcatel 1B has been a staple in the budget smartphone market, offering affordability and essential features. But with a 2022 refresh, questions arise: is the newer model a significant upgrade, or is the older version still a viable option? Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Alcatel 1B (2022) takes the win thanks to its noticeably faster processor and improved overall performance. While both are budget phones, the 2022 model offers a smoother experience for everyday tasks, justifying its likely slightly higher price.
| 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, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.1 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 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 | 2020, January. Released 2020, May |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, May 31 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 146.7 x 71.9 x 10 mm (5.78 x 2.83 x 0.39 in) | 146.1 x 71.6 x 9.9 mm (5.75 x 2.82 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 172 g (6.07 oz) | 168 g (5.93 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~74.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~74.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Qualcomm QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8300 | Adreno 308 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 10 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 25 mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, 24 mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@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 3000 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Prime Black, Atlantic Blue | Prime Black, Pine Green |
| Models | 5031D, 5031G, 5031A, 5031J | 5002A, 5002D, 5002F, 5002I, 5002M, 5002X, 5002S, 5002R, 5002D_EEA, 5002H_EEA, 5002H, 5002B, 5002C, 5002W, 5002H_TR |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 80 EUR |
alcatel 1B (2022)
- Faster Processor (Helio A22)
- Improved Performance
- Slightly more modern design (potentially)
- Better multitasking
- Likely slightly more expensive
- Camera improvements minimal
- Still a budget phone with limitations
alcatel 1B (2020)
- More affordable
- Decent battery life
- Simple and easy to use
- Slow performance (Snapdragon 215)
- Can feel sluggish
- Limited features
- Older design
Display Comparison
Both the 2020 and 2022 Alcatel 1B feature a 6.2-inch HD+ display. While the resolution is the same, the 2022 model *may* have slightly improved color accuracy and brightness, though this is often minimal in this price range. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a single 13MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. Image quality is generally acceptable for basic snapshots in good lighting conditions. Don't expect stellar low-light performance from either device. The 2022 model *might* have slightly improved image processing, but the difference is unlikely to be dramatic.
Performance
This is where the biggest difference lies. The 2022 model's Mediatek Helio A22 chipset and 2.0 GHz CPU significantly outperform the 2020's Qualcomm Snapdragon 215 (1.3 GHz). Expect faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface on the 2022 version. The 2020 can feel sluggish at times.
Battery Life
Both models typically include a 3000mAh battery. Battery life is generally comparable, offering a full day of moderate use. Heavy users may need to charge before the end of the day on either device.
Buying Guide
The Alcatel 1B (2022) is ideal for users prioritizing basic performance and a slightly more modern experience. The 2020 model remains a good choice for those on an extremely tight budget who primarily need a phone for calls, texts, and very light usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Alcatel 1B (2022) worth the extra cost?
If you value performance and a smoother user experience, then yes. The processor upgrade makes a noticeable difference. If you're on a very tight budget and only need basic functionality, the 2020 model is still usable.
❓ What kind of storage do these phones have?
Both typically come with 32GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card. This is standard for budget phones.
