The TCL 20Y and Alcatel 3X (2020) represent the fiercely competitive entry-level smartphone market. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at an incredibly affordable price point. However, subtle differences in their core specifications, particularly the CPU clock speed, can impact real-world performance. This comparison dissects these nuances to help you choose the best option for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness in everyday tasks, the Alcatel 3X (2020) edges out the TCL 20Y. Its slightly faster 2.0 GHz CPU, compared to the 20Y’s 1.8 GHz, translates to a marginally smoother user experience, despite both utilizing the same Mediatek Helio P22 chipset. However, the difference is minimal.
| 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 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 07 | 2020, June. Released 2020, June |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 07 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 165.6 x 75.6 x 8.8 mm (6.52 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) | 165 x 75 x 9.1 mm (6.50 x 2.95 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 186 g (6.56 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762D Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, TCL UI | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | - | 16 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.8", 1.12µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide) 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue | Black, Blue |
| Models | 6156D | 5061U, 5061K_EEA, 5061K, 5061U_EEA, 5061A |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 170 EUR |
TCL 20Y
- Potentially better brand recognition (TCL)
- Likely similar battery life to Alcatel 3X
- Affordable price point
- Slightly slower CPU clock speed (1.8 GHz)
- May be slightly more expensive than Alcatel 3X
alcatel 3X (2020)
- Faster CPU clock speed (2.0 GHz) for improved responsiveness
- Potentially lower price point
- Good value for money
- Less established brand recognition
- May have limited software updates
Display Comparison
Both the TCL 20Y and Alcatel 3X (2020) likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price segment. Specific details like resolution and brightness are not provided, but we can assume they are similar, aiming for a 720p+ resolution. The absence of higher-end panel technologies like AMOLED or high refresh rates means users should expect standard color reproduction and viewing angles. Bezels are likely to be noticeable on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a budget-friendly design.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, it’s difficult to make a definitive camera comparison. Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the quality will heavily depend on the main sensor’s resolution and aperture. The inclusion of 2MP macro or depth sensors is common in this segment, but their utility is limited. Image processing will likely be basic on both devices, prioritizing speed over advanced features. Expect acceptable results in well-lit conditions, but performance will degrade significantly in low light.
Performance
Both devices are powered by the Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) chipset, but the Alcatel 3X (2020) boasts a CPU clocked at 2.0 GHz, while the TCL 20Y is clocked at 1.8 GHz. This 0.2 GHz difference, while seemingly small, can result in a measurable performance increase in CPU-bound tasks. Both utilize an octa-core configuration (4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 for the TCL 20Y, and 8x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 for the Alcatel 3X). The Alcatel 3X will likely exhibit slightly faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. Thermal management is unlikely to be a concern with this chipset, as it’s designed for efficiency rather than raw power.
Battery Life
Both the TCL 20Y and Alcatel 3X (2020) support 10W wired charging. Battery capacity is not specified, but typical capacities for phones in this price range fall between 3000mAh and 4000mAh. Given the power-efficient Helio P22 chipset, both devices should comfortably last a full day with moderate usage. The 10W charging speed will result in a relatively slow charge time, likely taking over 2.5 hours to reach 100%.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL 20Y if you prioritize brand recognition within the TCL ecosystem and are looking for a phone primarily for basic communication and light social media use. Buy the Alcatel 3X (2020) if you prefer a slightly more responsive experience for everyday tasks and appreciate a potentially lower price point, given Alcatel’s focus on value-driven devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Alcatel 3X (2020) struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
While the Mediatek Helio P22 isn't a powerhouse, the Alcatel 3X (2020)'s 2.0 GHz CPU should handle apps like Facebook and WhatsApp without significant lag. However, expect longer loading times compared to more powerful devices. Multitasking with several apps open simultaneously may also slow down performance.
❓ Is the 10W charging speed on either phone sufficient for daily use?
10W charging is relatively slow by today's standards. Both the TCL 20Y and Alcatel 3X (2020) will take over 2.5 hours to fully charge from 0%. It's best to charge overnight to ensure the phone is ready for the next day. Consider a faster charger if charging speed is a priority, though compatibility isn't guaranteed.
❓ Can either of these phones play modern mobile games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
Both phones can *run* PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but only at the lowest graphics settings and frame rates. Expect significant lag and stuttering, even on minimal settings. These phones are not designed for demanding gaming experiences.
