Google Pixel 6a vs TCL 30+: A Deep Dive into Performance and Value
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🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Google Pixel 6a is the superior choice. Its Google Tensor chipset delivers significantly faster performance and superior image processing, justifying the price difference. However, the TCL 30+ remains a viable option for those prioritizing absolute affordability and basic smartphone functionality.
| PHONES | ||
|---|---|---|
| Phone Names | TCL 30+ | Google Pixel 6a |
| Network | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM) | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EMEA/APAC | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EMEA | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 48, 66, 71 - GX7AS, GB62Z (USA/Canada) |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 12, 20, 25, 28, 30, 38, 40, 41, 48, 66, 71, 77, 78 SA/NSA/Sub6 - GX7AS (USA/Canada) |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 38, 40, 66 - LATAM | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 12, 20, 25, 28, 30, 40, 48, 66, 71, 77, 78 SA/NSA/Sub6 - G1AZG (International) | |
| Launch | ||
|---|---|---|
| Announced | 2022, February 27 | 2022, May 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 20 | Available. Released 2022, July 21 |
| Body | ||
|---|---|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), aluminum frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 75.2 x 7.7 mm (6.48 x 2.96 x 0.30 in) | 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9 mm (5.99 x 2.83 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) | Nano-SIM + eSIM |
| Weight | 184 g (6.49 oz) | 178 g (6.28 oz) |
| - | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 min) | |
| Display | ||
|---|---|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~393 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~429 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~87.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.1 inches, 90.7 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED, 650 nits (typ), 900 nits (peak) | OLED, HDR |
| - | Always-on display | |
| Platform | ||
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.80 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.25 GHz Cortex-A76 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) | Google Tensor (5 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G78 MP20 |
| OS | Android 12, TCL UI 4.0 | Android 12, upgradable to Android 15, up to 5 major Android upgrades |
| Memory | ||
|---|---|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | No |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| eMMC 5.1 | UFS 3.1 | |
| Main Camera | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dual | - | 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm, (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS 12 MP, f/2.2, 17mm, 114˚ (ultrawide), 1.25µm |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1.12µm |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.9, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro) 2 MP, f/2.4, (depth) | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps; gyro-EIS, OIS |
| Selfie camera | ||
|---|---|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.3, 19mm (ultrawide), 1/3", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound | ||
|---|---|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | - | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms | ||
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (T676K only) | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 3.1 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features | ||
|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Battery | ||
|---|---|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired, PD3.0 |
| Type | Li-Po 5010 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 4410 mAh |
| Misc | ||
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Tech Black, Muse Blue | Chalk, Charcoal, Sage |
| Models | T676K, T676J | GX7AS, GB62Z, G1AZG, GB17L |
| Price | About 220 EUR | $ 138.99 / C$ 228.74 / ₹ 23,999 |
| Tests | ||
|---|---|---|
| Battery life | - | Endurance rating 94h |
| Display | - | Contrast ratio: Infinite (nominal) |
TCL 30+
- Significantly faster processor with Google Tensor
- Superior camera performance and image processing
- Brighter and higher contrast display
- Higher price point
- May not offer expandable storage
Google Pixel 6a
- More affordable price
- Decent battery life (94h endurance)
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Slower processor and limited performance
- Inferior camera quality
- Less refined user experience
Display Comparison
The Pixel 6a boasts a significantly brighter display, reaching 876 nits measured, compared to an unspecified brightness for the TCL 30+. This higher peak brightness translates to better visibility outdoors under direct sunlight. While both likely utilize LCD panels given their price points, the Pixel 6a’s ‘infinite’ (nominal) contrast ratio suggests superior black levels, enhancing the viewing experience. The TCL 30+’s display specifications are less detailed, suggesting a more basic panel focused on cost reduction.
Camera Comparison
While both phones likely feature multi-camera systems, the Pixel 6a’s image processing capabilities, powered by the Tensor chip, are a major advantage. Google’s computational photography excels in dynamic range, detail, and low-light performance. The TCL 30+’s camera performance will likely be adequate for casual snapshots, but it won’t match the Pixel 6a’s consistently high image quality. Without specific sensor details for the TCL 30+, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison, but the Pixel 6a’s software optimization is a key differentiator.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Google Pixel 6a’s Google Tensor (5nm) is a substantial upgrade over the TCL 30+'s MediaTek Helio G37 (12nm). The Tensor’s octa-core configuration, featuring Cortex-X1 and A76 cores, provides significantly more processing power for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. The Helio G37, with its four Cortex-A53 cores at 2.3 GHz, is geared towards basic functionality. The 5nm fabrication process of the Tensor also contributes to better thermal efficiency, reducing the likelihood of performance throttling during sustained workloads. The Pixel 6a will offer a demonstrably smoother and more responsive user experience.
Battery Life
Both devices share an endurance rating of 94 hours, suggesting comparable battery life despite the Pixel 6a’s more powerful processor. This indicates efficient power management on the Pixel 6a. Both support 18W wired charging, but the Pixel 6a adds PD3.0 support, potentially allowing for faster charging with compatible chargers. The actual 0-100% charging time will depend on the charger used, but PD3.0 gives the Pixel 6a an edge in charging flexibility.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL 30+ if you need a functional smartphone for essential tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use, and your budget is extremely limited. Buy the Google Pixel 6a if you prioritize a smooth user experience, excellent camera quality, and access to Google’s latest software features, even if it means spending a bit more.