Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The TCL 306 and TCL 406 are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But with subtle differences, which one truly delivers the best experience? Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The TCL 406 edges out the 306 primarily due to likely software updates and potentially a slightly improved camera experience (though both are basic). Both offer similar performance, but the 406's potential for longer software support makes it the slightly better choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - EMEA, APAC | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EMEA | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/75 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 66 - LATAM | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 31 | 2023, February 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, February | Available. Released 2023, February 26 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) | 164.7 x 75.4 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12, TCL UI | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.12µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide) 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm |
| Triple | 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 | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide) 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Space Gray, Atlantic Blue | Dark Grey, Lavender Purple |
| Models | X668, 6102H | T506K |
| Price | About 40 EUR | About 110 EUR |
TCL 306
- Extremely affordable
- Large battery
- Decent for basic tasks
- Limited performance
- Basic camera
- Slow charging
- Likely shorter software support
TCL 406
- Slightly improved camera (potentially)
- Potentially longer software support
- Large battery
- Decent for basic tasks
- Limited performance
- Basic camera
- Slow charging
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a 6.5-inch HD+ display. While the resolution is similar, the TCL 406 might have a slightly brighter panel or improved color accuracy, though this is often difficult to discern without specific testing data. Expect adequate viewing for everyday tasks, but don't expect a vibrant or high-resolution experience.
Camera Comparison
The TCL 406 likely has a slightly improved camera system, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor or better image processing algorithms. Both phones will offer basic camera functionality, suitable for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance will be subpar on both.
Performance
Both devices share the same Mediatek Helio G25 chipset and CPU configuration. Performance will be adequate for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Don't expect to run demanding games or applications smoothly on either device. Multitasking will be limited.
Battery Life
Both phones feature a 5000mAh battery and 10W charging. Battery life should be comparable, offering a full day of moderate use. The 10W charging is slow, so be prepared for extended charging times.
Buying Guide
The TCL 306 is a good option for users on an extremely tight budget who prioritize basic functionality and affordability above all else. The TCL 406 is better suited for those who want a slightly more modern experience, potentially longer software support, and a marginally better camera, even if it's still a budget offering.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the TCL 306 and 406?
The main differences are likely in the camera and software support. The TCL 406 may offer a slightly better camera and potentially longer software updates, while both share the same chipset and CPU.
❓ Are these phones good for gaming?
No, neither phone is well-suited for gaming. The Helio G25 chipset is entry-level and struggles with demanding games. You can play basic games at low settings, but don't expect a smooth experience.
