Flip phones are making a comeback, offering a simple and reliable alternative to smartphones. The alcatel Go Flip series caters specifically to seniors and those seeking ease of use. But which model is right for you: the newer Go Flip 4 or the slightly older Go Flip 3?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The alcatel Go Flip 4 edges out the Go Flip 3 thanks to its slightly faster processor and improved chipset. Both offer excellent simplicity and affordability, but the Go Flip 4's minor performance boost makes it the better overall choice for basic tasks and occasional use.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | CDMA 800 / 1900 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September | 2019, September 19. Released 2019, September 19 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 107.3 x 55.6 x 19.9 mm (4.22 x 2.19 x 0.78 in) | 104.9 x 53.1 x 20.1 mm (4.13 x 2.09 x 0.79 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 133 g (4.69 oz) | 118 g (4.16 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~40.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~43.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TN TFT LCD | TN TFT LCD |
| | Second external TN TFT display, 1.44 inches, 128 x 128 pixels | Second external TN TFT display, 1.44 inches, 128 x 128 pixels |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 308 | Adreno 304 |
| OS | KaiOS 3.0 | KaiOS 2.5.2 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 4GB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 480p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | No |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1850 mAh | Li-Ion 1350 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue | Prime Black |
| Models | 4056W | - |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR | 0.78 W/kg (head) 1.27 W/kg (body) | 1.28 W/kg (head) 1.16 W/kg (body) |
alcatel Go Flip 4
- Slightly faster processor
- Improved chipset (Snapdragon 215)
- Long battery life
- Simple and easy to use
- Affordable
- Basic camera quality
- Limited storage
- Not suitable for demanding apps
alcatel Go Flip 3
- Very affordable
- Simple and easy to use
- Long battery life
- Compact and durable
- External display for notifications
- Slower processor
- Basic camera quality
- Limited storage
- Less responsive than Go Flip 4
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 2.8-inch main display and a 1.1-inch external display for notifications. Display quality is standard for this category – functional but not vibrant. The Go Flip 4 might offer slightly improved viewing angles due to potential minor display panel upgrades, but the difference is negligible.
Camera Comparison
Both phones include a basic VGA camera. Image quality is expectedly low and suitable only for occasional snapshots in good lighting conditions. Don't expect high-resolution photos or impressive features from either device.
Performance
This is where the Go Flip 4 gains an advantage. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 215 chipset and 1.3 GHz Quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU are a step up from the Go Flip 3's Snapdragon 210 and 1.1 GHz Quad-core Cortex-A7. While neither phone is a powerhouse, the Go Flip 4 will feel slightly more responsive when navigating menus and using basic apps.
Battery Life
The Go Flip 3 typically offers up to 13 hours of talk time and 7 days of standby time. The Go Flip 4 boasts similar battery life, potentially slightly improved due to the more efficient Snapdragon 215 chipset. Both phones provide excellent battery longevity, a key benefit for seniors.
Buying Guide
The alcatel Go Flip 4 is ideal for seniors or anyone prioritizing a bit more processing power for smoother operation. The Go Flip 3 remains a solid option for those on a tighter budget who primarily need a phone for calls and texts, and don't require demanding features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the alcatel Go Flip 4 worth the extra cost over the Go Flip 3?
If you value a slightly smoother user experience and a more modern chipset, the Go Flip 4 is worth the small price difference. However, if budget is your primary concern, the Go Flip 3 remains a capable and affordable option.
❓ What kind of apps can I run on these phones?
These phones are designed for basic tasks like calls, texts, and simple apps like a calculator or FM radio. Don't expect to run demanding games or complex applications.
