The itel A50C and A49 represent itel’s commitment to providing extremely affordable smartphones. While both target the entry-level market, a significant difference in their core processing power – stemming from their respective chipsets – dictates which device is better suited for users seeking a smoother, more responsive experience. This comparison dissects the key differences to help you choose.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the itel A50C is the superior choice. Its Unisoc T603 octa-core processor provides a noticeable performance uplift over the itel A49’s quad-core Unisoc SC9832E, making it better equipped for multitasking and handling modern apps, despite likely similar battery life.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, August 12 | 2022 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, August 12 | Available. Released 2022 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.9 x 75.7 x 9.4 mm (6.45 x 2.98 x 0.37 in) | - |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM |
| Weight | 192.6 g (6.81 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 540 x 1208 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~202 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core | Quad-core 1.4 GHz |
| Chipset | Unisoc T603 | Unisoc SC9832E (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-T820 MP1 |
| OS | Android 14 (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted); unspecified sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 4000 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dawn Blue, Sapphire Black, Misty Aqua | Blue |
itel A50C
- Faster octa-core processor for smoother performance
- More responsive multitasking capabilities
- Better suited for modern app usage
- May have slightly shorter battery life under heavy load
- Likely similar display quality to the A49
itel A49
- Potentially longer battery life with minimal usage
- Lowest possible price point in the itel lineup
- Simple and reliable for basic communication
- Slow quad-core processor struggles with multitasking
- Poor performance with modern apps and games
- Limited overall responsiveness
Display Comparison
Both the itel A50C and A49 likely feature similar LCD panels, typical for this price segment. Specifics like resolution and brightness are not provided, but we can assume they are optimized for power efficiency rather than visual fidelity. The absence of details suggests neither phone boasts features like high refresh rates or wide color gamuts. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Given the price point, camera performance is unlikely to be a key strength for either device. Details regarding sensor size and image processing are unavailable, but it's safe to assume both phones rely on basic image capture capabilities. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely a marketing tactic, offering limited practical benefit due to the small sensor size and lack of optical image stabilization. Expect adequate results in well-lit conditions, but poor performance in low light.
Performance
The core differentiator lies in the chipsets. The itel A50C’s Unisoc T603, an octa-core processor, offers a substantial advantage over the itel A49’s Unisoc SC9832E, a quad-core processor. The T603’s eight cores allow for more efficient parallel processing, resulting in faster app launch times and smoother multitasking. The SC9832E, built on a 28nm process, is less efficient and will struggle with demanding tasks. While both likely pair with limited RAM, the T603’s architecture will better manage memory allocation. The A50C will provide a more responsive user experience.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature similar battery capacities, optimized for all-day use with light to moderate usage. The Unisoc SC9832E in the A49, being a less powerful chip, may offer slightly better battery life under *identical* usage scenarios. However, the A50C’s more efficient processor architecture could mitigate this difference. Charging wattage is not specified, suggesting both phones utilize standard 5W or 10W charging, resulting in relatively slow 0-100% charge times.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel A50C if you need a phone capable of handling more than just basic calling and texting – if you plan to use social media, browse the web with multiple tabs, or occasionally play light games. Buy the itel A49 if your primary need is a very basic, reliable phone for calls, texts, and minimal app usage, and you prioritize absolute lowest cost above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the itel A50C handle popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc T603 processor in the A50C is significantly more capable of handling social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp without noticeable lag compared to the A49. The octa-core architecture allows for smoother scrolling and faster app loading times.
❓ Is the itel A49 a good choice for someone who only needs a phone for calls and texts?
Absolutely. The itel A49 excels as a basic communication device. Its quad-core processor is sufficient for making calls, sending texts, and managing contacts. If your needs are limited to these core functions, the A49 offers excellent value.
❓ Can the itel A50C run any games?
The itel A50C can run light, less demanding games. However, don't expect to play graphically intensive titles like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile at high settings. The processor and likely limited GPU will struggle with those games.
❓ What type of charging port do these phones use?
Both the itel A50C and A49 almost certainly use a Micro-USB port for charging and data transfer, which is standard for phones in this price range. Expect slower charging speeds compared to newer USB-C technology.
