The TCL 30 5G and TCL 40 XE are both contenders in the budget smartphone arena, offering compelling features at affordable prices. But with similar specs on paper, which one truly delivers the best experience? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
It's a close call! Both phones share the same Dimensity 700 chipset. The TCL 30 5G edges out slightly due to potentially better software support and a slightly more refined design, but the 40 XE might offer a better price point depending on current deals. Ultimately, it depends on your priorities.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - USA |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 26, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 - USA |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 40, 41, 78 SA/NSA | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat13 390/150 Mbps, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, February 27 | 2023, February 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 11 | Available. Released 2023, June |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 75.2 x 7.7 mm (6.48 x 2.96 x 0.30 in) | 164.5 x 75.4 x 0 mm (6.48 x 2.97 x 0.0 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 184 g (6.49 oz) | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~393 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~87.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED, 650 nits (typ), 900 nits (peak) | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, TCL UI 4.0 | Android 13, TCL UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.3, 19mm (ultrawide), 1/3", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide) 1/3.0", 1.12µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.3, 19mm (ultrawide), 1/3", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5010 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Tech Black, Dreamy Blue | Starlight Black |
| Models | T776H | T609SPP |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 100 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.38 W/kg (head) 1.12 W/kg (body) |
TCL 30 5G
- Potentially better software support
- Slightly more premium design
- Triple camera system
- May be slightly more expensive
- Performance largely identical to 40 XE
TCL 40 XE
- More affordable price point
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks
- Large display
- Dual camera system (less versatile)
- Potentially shorter software support
Display Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 6.67-inch display, likely with a resolution around 1080 x 2400 pixels. While both offer a large viewing area, the TCL 30 5G might have slightly better color accuracy or brightness due to potentially higher panel quality, though this can vary by specific model revision. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
The TCL 30 5G generally features a triple-camera system, often including a 50MP main sensor, an ultrawide lens, and a macro lens. The TCL 40 XE typically has a dual-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor and a depth sensor. Image quality will likely be slightly better on the 30 5G due to the additional lens and potentially better image processing algorithms. Low-light performance will be comparable.
Performance
Powered by the same Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset, both phones offer adequate performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Don't expect flagship-level speeds, but they should handle most common workloads without significant lag. Software optimization will play a key role in perceived performance.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. Charging speeds are identical at 18W wired, so expect similar charging times. Battery optimization in the software will be a key factor in real-world battery performance.
Buying Guide
The TCL 30 5G is ideal for users who prioritize a slightly more premium feel and potentially longer software updates. The TCL 40 XE is a great choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and functional smartphone without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the TCL 30 5G get software updates?
TCL's software update policy can vary. Generally, expect at least one major Android update and security patches for a reasonable period, but it's best to check TCL's official website for specific details.
❓ Is the TCL 40 XE good for gaming?
The Dimensity 700 chipset is capable of handling casual games, but don't expect to play demanding titles at high settings. It's suitable for light gaming and social media games.
