Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely compromise on features? The TCL 30 XL and TCL 30+ are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The TCL 30+ edges out the 30 XL thanks to its slightly faster processor and generally better performance. While both offer large screens and decent battery life, the G37 chipset in the 30+ provides a smoother user experience, making it the preferable choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM) |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EMEA/APAC |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EMEA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 38, 40, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, June 01 | 2022, February 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, June 01 | Available. Released 2022, April 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 172.2 x 77 x 9.1 mm (6.78 x 3.03 x 0.36 in) | 164.5 x 75.2 x 7.7 mm (6.48 x 2.96 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 204.4 g (7.20 oz) | 184 g (6.49 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~393 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.82 inches, 110.5 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~87.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | AMOLED, 650 nits (typ), 900 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762V Helio A25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12, TCL UI 3.0 | Android 12, TCL UI 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 50 MP, f/1.9, 29mm (wide), PDAF
5 MP, 17mm, 115˚ (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Single | 13 MP, (wide) | - |
| 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 | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 13 MP, (wide) | 13 MP, f/2.3, 19mm (ultrawide), 1/3", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (T676K only) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5010 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Blue | Tech Black, Muse Blue |
| Models | T671G | T676K, T676J |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 220 EUR |
TCL 30 XL
- Large 6.67-inch display
- 5000mAh battery
- Affordable price point
- Decent for basic tasks
- Slower processor (Helio A25)
- Average camera performance
- Can feel sluggish with multitasking
TCL 30+
- Slightly faster processor (Helio G37)
- Smoother performance
- Good value for money
- Large 6.67-inch display
- Average camera performance
- LCD display (not OLED)
- Plastic build
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large 6.67-inch displays, likely with similar resolutions (likely FHD+). While both are LCD panels, the TCL 30+ might offer slightly better color accuracy or brightness due to potential panel variations. Expect similar viewing experiences overall, suitable for everyday use and media consumption.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely similar, with both phones featuring a primary sensor (likely 13MP) and additional lenses for ultrawide and macro shots. Image quality will depend heavily on software processing. Expect decent daytime photos from both, but low-light performance will be average. The 30+ *might* have slightly improved image processing due to the newer chipset.
Performance
The TCL 30+ holds a clear advantage here. Its Helio G37 chipset boasts slightly higher clock speeds on its Cortex-A53 cores compared to the Helio A25 in the 30 XL. This translates to snappier app loading, smoother multitasking, and a generally more responsive feel. The A25 is adequate for basic tasks, but the G37 is noticeably better.
Battery Life
Both phones feature large 5000mAh batteries, suggesting excellent battery life. However, the TCL 30+'s more efficient chipset could give it a slight edge in real-world usage. Expect a full day of moderate use from either device.
Buying Guide
The TCL 30 XL is a good option for users prioritizing a larger screen and potentially slightly better battery life (though real-world usage will vary). The TCL 30+ is ideal for those seeking a more responsive and fluid experience, even on a budget, and who value slightly improved performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the TCL 30 XL and 30+?
The main difference is the processor. The 30+ has the Helio G37, which is faster and more efficient than the Helio A25 in the 30 XL. This results in better overall performance.
❓ Which TCL 30 phone has better battery life?
Both have 5000mAh batteries, but the TCL 30+’s more efficient chipset *may* provide slightly longer battery life in real-world usage.