The Energizer U680S and TCL 30 SE represent the ultra-budget end of the smartphone spectrum, targeting users prioritizing affordability above all else. Both devices aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality, but significant differences in their underlying hardware dictate distinct performance characteristics. This comparison dissects these differences to determine which device offers the best value for money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the TCL 30 SE is the better choice. While both phones are entry-level, the Helio G25’s 12nm process and Cortex-A53 cores provide a noticeable performance advantage over the older 28nm Unisoc SC9863A, translating to a smoother user experience and better app compatibility. The 15W charging is also a plus.
| 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 - EMEA/APAC |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EMEA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | 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, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June 29. Released 2021, Q3 | 2022, February 27 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, April 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | - | 165.2 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Micro-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12, TCL UI 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm |
| Triple | 13 MP, AF
2 MP
VGA | 50 MP, f/1.9, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0 | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (6165H/6165H1 only) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 7000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Green, Black | Atlantic Blue, Space Gray, Glacial Blue |
| Models | - | 6165H, 6156H1, 6165A, 6165A1, 6165S |
| Price | About 120 EUR | - |
Energizer U680S
- Potentially lower price point
- May include Energizer's ruggedized design elements (unconfirmed)
- Basic smartphone functionality
- Outdated and less efficient Unisoc SC9863A chipset
- Likely slower performance and more throttling
- Slower charging speeds (estimated)
TCL 30 SE
- More efficient MediaTek Helio G25 chipset
- Faster 15W wired charging
- Smoother user experience for everyday tasks
- Still an entry-level processor
- Limited camera capabilities
- Basic display quality
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Specifications are unavailable for the U680S's panel, but given its price point, it likely utilizes a basic IPS LCD. The TCL 30 SE also features an IPS LCD, but details regarding its brightness or color accuracy are absent. Both will likely suffer from limited outdoor visibility and unremarkable color reproduction. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both models, reflecting their budget nature.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices, meaning limited in low-light conditions. Details on sensor sizes and apertures are unavailable, but both are expected to feature basic camera setups. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely a marketing gimmick, offering minimal practical benefit. Image processing will likely be basic, prioritizing speed over quality. Expect acceptable results in well-lit environments, but significant noise and lack of detail in challenging conditions.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The TCL 30 SE’s MediaTek Helio G25, built on a 12nm process, offers a clear advantage over the Energizer U680S’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The G25’s Cortex-A53 cores, clocked at 2.0 GHz, are more efficient and capable than the U680S’s mix of 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This translates to faster app loading times and smoother multitasking on the TCL 30 SE. The older 28nm process of the Unisoc chip will also generate more heat, potentially leading to performance throttling under sustained load. While neither phone is a gaming powerhouse, the G25 will handle less demanding titles with greater ease.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for the Energizer U680S. The TCL 30 SE offers 15W wired charging, a significant advantage over what the U680S likely provides (likely 5W or 10W). While battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, the more efficient Helio G25 in the TCL 30 SE will contribute to longer runtimes. The faster charging speed of the TCL 30 SE also means less time tethered to a wall outlet.
Buying Guide
Buy the Energizer U680S if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and are primarily focused on basic communication tasks like calls and messaging. Its older chipset will struggle with demanding apps. Buy the TCL 30 SE if you want a more responsive experience, even for light multitasking and social media, and appreciate the convenience of faster charging. It’s a small premium for a significant usability boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio G25 in the TCL 30 SE handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Helio G25 isn't a gaming powerhouse, it can run PUBG Mobile at lower settings (balanced graphics, medium frame rate). Expect occasional frame drops and stuttering, especially during intense firefights. The Energizer U680S's Unisoc chip will struggle even more with this title.
❓ Is the TCL 30 SE a good choice for someone who primarily uses their phone for social media and browsing?
Yes, the TCL 30 SE is well-suited for these tasks. The Helio G25 provides sufficient performance for smooth scrolling through social media feeds and browsing the web. The 15W charging is also beneficial for quickly topping up the battery after extended use.
❓ How much storage does each phone offer, and can it be expanded?
Storage details are not provided in the context data. However, given the price point, both phones likely offer 32GB or 64GB of internal storage. It's highly probable that both devices support microSD card expansion, allowing users to increase storage capacity.
❓ What software version do these phones run, and will they receive updates?
Software versions are not specified. Both phones likely run a customized version of Android Go Edition, designed for low-RAM devices. Software update support is likely to be limited, with only essential security patches potentially being released.
