In a market dominated by smartphones, the demand for simple, reliable feature phones persists, particularly among seniors and those prioritizing essential communication. The Plum Flipper LTE and the alcatel Go Flip 4 represent two compelling options in this space. This comparison dives deep into their capabilities, focusing on what truly matters for users seeking straightforward connectivity.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user needing a no-frills, LTE-enabled flip phone, the alcatel Go Flip 4 offers a slight edge due to its Snapdragon 215 chipset providing a more responsive experience than the Plum Flipper LTE, for which detailed specifications are unavailable. However, the Flipper LTE's potential for customization and broader carrier compatibility makes it a viable alternative.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17, 41, 66 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, February 02 | 2021, September |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, February 02 | Available. Released 2021, September |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 103 x 53 x 21.2 mm (4.06 x 2.09 x 0.83 in) | 107.3 x 55.6 x 19.9 mm (4.22 x 2.19 x 0.78 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 80 g (2.82 oz) | 133 g (4.69 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~32.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~40.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 256K colors | TN TFT LCD |
| | External display: 1.77 inches, 128 x 160 pixels | Second external TN TFT display, 1.44 inches, 128 x 128 pixels |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | Adreno 308 |
| OS | - | KaiOS 3.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | - |
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128MB, 64MB RAM | 4GB 512MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 0.3 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | Yes | 480p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio, built-in antenna | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | No | - |
| Java | No | - |
| Messaging | SMS | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1850 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Pink, Blue | Midnight Blue |
| Models | - | 4056W |
| Price | - | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.78 W/kg (head) 1.27 W/kg (body) |
Plum Flipper LTE
- Potential for broader carrier compatibility
- Customization options (based on brand reputation)
- Likely affordable price point
- Lack of detailed specifications
- Potentially lower performance than alcatel Go Flip 4
- Uncertain software support
alcatel Go Flip 4
- Known Snapdragon 215 performance
- Reliable and straightforward user interface
- Readily available from major carriers
- Limited customization options
- Basic camera capabilities
- Smaller internal storage (likely)
Display Comparison
Given the lack of display specifications for the Plum Flipper LTE, a direct comparison is difficult. The alcatel Go Flip 4 features a 2.8-inch internal display, typical for flip phones, prioritizing readability over immersive viewing. The resolution is likely QVGA (240x320), sufficient for basic text and icon display. The Flipper LTE likely offers a similar display experience, but without concrete details, we can only assume comparable size and resolution. Both phones prioritize function over form in this area, focusing on clear visibility for calls and messages.
Camera Comparison
Neither phone is designed for photography. The alcatel Go Flip 4 includes a 5MP rear camera, adequate for quick snapshots in good lighting conditions. The Plum Flipper LTE's camera specifications are unavailable, but it likely features a similar, low-resolution sensor. Image quality on both devices will be limited, and these cameras are best suited for occasional documentation rather than serious photography. The focus is on functionality, not fidelity.
Performance
The alcatel Go Flip 4 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 215 (QM215) chipset, a 28nm processor with a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. This provides a baseline level of performance suitable for making calls, sending texts, and basic feature phone tasks. The Plum Flipper LTE's performance remains unknown due to missing specifications. However, given its positioning as a budget-friendly option, it likely utilizes a similarly low-power chipset, potentially from MediaTek or Unisoc, but likely with less processing power than the Snapdragon 215. This difference translates to potentially slower app loading times and less responsive navigation on the Flipper LTE.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key strength of feature phones. While specific mAh ratings are unavailable for either device, both the Plum Flipper LTE and the alcatel Go Flip 4 are expected to offer several days of standby time and hours of talk time on a single charge. The Snapdragon 215's 28nm process contributes to the alcatel Go Flip 4's efficiency. Charging times are likely similar, utilizing micro-USB, and are not a primary consideration for this user segment.
Buying Guide
Buy the Plum Flipper LTE if you need a highly customizable feature phone with potential for broader carrier support and are comfortable with a potentially less refined software experience. Buy the alcatel Go Flip 4 if you prioritize a readily available, reliably performing device with a known chipset and a straightforward user interface, especially if you're on a major US carrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the alcatel Go Flip 4 work with my existing carrier (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile)?
The alcatel Go Flip 4 is generally compatible with major US carriers, but it's crucial to verify compatibility with your specific plan and network technology (4G LTE). Check your carrier's website or contact their support to confirm before purchasing.
❓ Can I use my existing SIM card with either the Plum Flipper LTE or the alcatel Go Flip 4?
Yes, both phones utilize standard SIM cards. You can transfer your existing SIM card from your current phone to either the Plum Flipper LTE or the alcatel Go Flip 4, provided the SIM card size is compatible (most modern SIMs are standard size).
❓ Is the alcatel Go Flip 4 easy to use for someone who isn't tech-savvy?
The alcatel Go Flip 4 is specifically designed for simplicity. Its large buttons, straightforward menu system, and basic functionality make it exceptionally easy to use for individuals unfamiliar with smartphones or complex technology. The interface is intentionally uncluttered and intuitive.
❓ Does the Plum Flipper LTE support hearing aid compatibility (HAC)?
While specific HAC ratings for the Plum Flipper LTE are unavailable, many feature phones prioritize hearing aid compatibility. It's recommended to check the product documentation or contact Plum directly to confirm HAC support if this is a critical requirement.
