Flip phones are making a comeback! For those seeking a simple, reliable, and pocket-friendly device, the Alcatel Go Flip 4 and ZTE Cymbal 2 are popular contenders. But which one truly delivers the best experience? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Alcatel Go Flip 4 and ZTE Cymbal 2 are remarkably similar, sharing the same core chipset. The Go Flip 4 edges out slightly due to potentially better software support and a slightly more refined design, making it a marginally better choice for most users seeking a basic flip phone.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 | 2, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September | 2020, January. Released 2020, January |
| 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) | 109 x 56 x 19.5 mm (4.29 x 2.20 x 0.77 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 133 g (4.69 oz) | 135 g (4.76 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 (~39.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TN TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| | Second external TN TFT display, 1.44 inches, 128 x 128 pixels | Cover display:
TFT LCD, 1.77 inches |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm) | Qualcomm QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 308 | Adreno 308 |
| OS | KaiOS 3.0 | Linux 3.18.71 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 8GB 1GB 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 | No |
| 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 |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | - | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1850 mAh | Li-Ion 1600 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue | Black |
| Models | 4056W | - |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 60 EUR |
| SAR | 0.78 W/kg (head) 1.27 W/kg (body) | - |
alcatel Go Flip 4
- Potentially better software support
- Slightly larger battery
- More refined design (subjective)
- Emergency button feature
- Limited app compatibility
- Basic camera quality
- Low-resolution display
ZTE Cymbal 2
- Very affordable
- Simple and easy to use
- Compact and pocketable
- Reliable for calls and texts
- Limited app compatibility
- Basic camera quality
- Low-resolution display
- Potentially shorter software support
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 2.8-inch QVGA display, offering a basic viewing experience. Expect limited resolution and color accuracy. Neither screen is particularly impressive, but they are functional for the intended purpose.
Camera Comparison
Both devices typically include a basic VGA camera on the rear. Image quality is expected to be low, suitable only for quick snapshots in good lighting conditions. Don't expect high-resolution photos or video recording.
Performance
Powered by the Qualcomm QM215 Snapdragon 215 chipset and a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU, both phones offer adequate performance for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light media playback. Don't expect to run demanding apps or games smoothly. Performance will feel sluggish with multitasking.
Battery Life
The Alcatel Go Flip 4 generally boasts a slightly larger battery capacity (around 1500mAh) compared to the ZTE Cymbal 2 (around 1400mAh). This translates to slightly longer talk time and standby time on the Go Flip 4. Both offer decent battery life for a flip phone, easily lasting a full day with moderate use.
Buying Guide
The Alcatel Go Flip 4 is ideal for seniors, those needing a simple backup phone, or anyone wanting a nostalgic flip phone experience. The ZTE Cymbal 2 is a good option for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing affordability above all else. Both are excellent for calls and texts, but not for heavy app usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones good for social media?
No, these phones are not suitable for heavy social media use. Their limited processing power and low-resolution displays make browsing and using apps difficult.
❓ Can I use these phones with any carrier?
Both phones are typically unlocked and compatible with GSM carriers. Check with your carrier to ensure compatibility.
❓ Do these phones have access to the Google Play Store?
Yes, both phones have access to the Google Play Store, but app compatibility is limited due to the low processing power.
