The sub-$150 tablet market is fiercely competitive, offering options for casual users, students, and families. Both the Alcatel Smart Tab 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) aim to deliver a functional Android experience without breaking the bank. This comparison dissects their core components to determine which tablet provides the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is the better choice. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 chipset, built on a 12nm process, provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Alcatel’s Mediatek MT8167D, translating to smoother multitasking and app loading. While both are entry-level, Samsung’s optimization and slightly more refined software experience edge it ahead.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | N/A | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | No | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps - cellular model only |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, September. Released 2019, Q4 | 2019, July 05. Released 2019, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 176 x 126 x 12 mm (6.93 x 4.96 x 0.47 in) | 210 x 124.4 x 8 mm (8.27 x 4.90 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | No | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 268 g (9.45 oz) | 345g (Wi-Fi), 347g (LTE) (12.24 oz) |
| | Built-in kickstand | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 600 x 1024 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~170 ppi density) | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) |
| Size | 7.0 inches, 137.9 cm2 (~62.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~71.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TN TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT8167D | Qualcomm SDM429 Snapdragon 429 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG GE8300 | Adreno 504 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1.5GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 0.3 MP, f/2.4, 1/5.0" | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP, f/2.4, 1/5.0", 1.65µm | 2 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2580 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 5100 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Carbon Black, Silver Gray |
| Models | - | SM-T290, SM-T295 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.75 W/kg (head) 1.19 W/kg (body) |
alcatel Smart Tab 7
- Most affordable option
- Compact and portable 7-inch display
- Suitable for basic tasks like reading
- Significantly slower performance
- Less efficient chipset
- Likely lower build quality
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
- Faster and more responsive performance
- More efficient Snapdragon 429 chipset
- Slightly larger and more comfortable display
- Higher price point
- Still limited by entry-level hardware
- May still struggle with demanding games
Display Comparison
Neither tablet boasts a standout display. Both likely feature IPS LCD panels, typical for this price range. However, the Samsung Tab A 8.0’s 8-inch screen size offers a slightly more comfortable viewing experience than the Alcatel’s 7-inch display. Crucially, the lack of detailed display specifications (resolution, brightness) suggests both are geared towards basic content consumption, and color accuracy is unlikely to be a strong point on either device. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within their respective sizes.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is not a priority on either device, and detailed specifications are scarce. Both tablets likely feature basic rear and front-facing cameras suitable for video calls and occasional snapshots. Given the market segment, image quality will be limited, especially in low-light conditions. Focusing on megapixel counts would be misleading; the image signal processor (ISP) within the chipset plays a more significant role, and the Snapdragon 429 likely offers a slight edge in image processing capabilities. Expect both to deliver acceptable, but not impressive, camera experiences.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 429, a 12nm processor clocked at 2.0 GHz. This represents a significant advantage over the Alcatel Smart Tab 7’s Mediatek MT8167D, a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53. The Snapdragon 429’s newer architecture and smaller manufacturing process translate to better power efficiency and noticeably faster performance in everyday tasks. While both use a quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU, the higher clock speed and architectural improvements of the Snapdragon will result in quicker app launches and smoother multitasking. The Alcatel will likely struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns. While specific mAh ratings are unavailable, both tablets are likely equipped with batteries sufficient for 6-8 hours of moderate use (web browsing, video playback). The Snapdragon 429’s 12nm process contributes to better power efficiency, potentially giving the Samsung Tab A 8.0 a slight advantage in longevity. Charging speeds are also likely to be similar, with both tablets likely supporting standard 5W charging via micro-USB. Expect several hours for a full charge.
Buying Guide
Buy the Alcatel Smart Tab 7 if you prioritize absolute affordability and need a basic tablet for light tasks like reading ebooks or simple web browsing. It’s a viable option for users on a very tight budget. Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) if you value a more responsive user experience, slightly better build quality, and a chipset that can handle a wider range of apps and tasks without significant lag. It’s the better choice for students or anyone who needs a tablet for more than just basic consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Alcatel Smart Tab 7 struggle with popular games like PUBG Mobile?
Yes, the Mediatek MT8167D chipset in the Alcatel Smart Tab 7 is unlikely to provide a smooth gaming experience with demanding titles like PUBG Mobile. Expect significant lag and low frame rates, even on the lowest settings. It's better suited for casual games and less graphically intensive applications.
❓ Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) a good choice for video streaming?
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is adequate for video streaming, but don't expect a premium experience. The 8-inch display is a comfortable size, and the Snapdragon 429 can handle HD video playback without issue. However, the display's limited brightness and color accuracy may not provide the most immersive viewing experience.
❓ Can either tablet be used for taking notes with a stylus?
Neither tablet officially supports stylus input, and the displays are not designed for precise handwriting recognition. While you might be able to use a capacitive stylus, the experience will be limited and likely inaccurate. These tablets are not suitable replacements for dedicated note-taking devices.
