Looking for an affordable smartphone that won't break the bank? The TCL 403 and Alcatel 1B (2022) are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But which one offers the better experience? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones share the same core chipset, resulting in similar performance. The TCL 403 likely edges out the Alcatel 1B (2022) due to potentially better software support and a slightly more modern design, making it a marginally better choice for most users seeking a budget device.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - T431D | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28 - T431D | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - 5031D, 5031G |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/75 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.1 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - T431Q | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 38, 40, 66 - 5031A, 5041J |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, January 05 | 2022, May 31 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, April 04 | Available. Released 2022, May 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 x 78.2 x 9.6 mm (6.27 x 3.08 x 0.38 in) | 146.7 x 71.9 x 10 mm (5.78 x 2.83 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 182 g (6.42 oz) | 172 g (6.07 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~179 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~74.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~74.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8300 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF
or
5 MP, f/2.4, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm - T431Q only | 8 MP, f/2.0, 25 mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps or 720p@30fps (T431Q only) | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.8
or
2 MP, f/2.8 - T431Q only | 5 MP, f/2.2, 24 mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Prime Black, Mauve Mist | Prime Black, Atlantic Blue |
| Models | T431D, T431U, T431Q, T431P, T431A, T431E | 5031D, 5031G, 5031A, 5031J |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 100 EUR |
TCL 403
- Potentially better software support
- Slightly more modern design
- Likely better camera quality
- TCL brand reputation
- May be slightly more expensive than Alcatel 1B
- Performance limited by chipset
alcatel 1B (2022)
- Very affordable price point
- Decent battery life
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Older design
- Potentially limited software updates
- Basic camera performance
- Performance limited by chipset
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar 6.5-inch HD+ display. Expect adequate brightness and color accuracy for everyday use, but don't anticipate flagship-level visuals. The TCL 403 might have a slightly better panel based on TCL's reputation for displays, but it's likely a minor difference.
Camera Comparison
The TCL 403 likely boasts a slightly more capable camera system, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor and improved image processing. Expect decent daytime photos, but low-light performance will be limited on both devices. The Alcatel 1B (2022) will offer acceptable image quality for casual snapshots.
Performance
With the identical Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, expect comparable performance. Both phones will handle basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming without issue. Demanding games and multitasking will likely result in noticeable slowdowns. RAM configuration (likely 2GB or 3GB) will be a key factor in overall responsiveness.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature a 4000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. Battery optimization and software efficiency will play a crucial role in real-world performance. Expect around 8-10 hours of screen-on time.
Buying Guide
The TCL 403 is ideal for users prioritizing a slightly more modern design and potentially longer software updates. The Alcatel 1B (2022) is a good option for those seeking the absolute lowest price point and are comfortable with a more basic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What chipset do both phones use?
Both the TCL 403 and Alcatel 1B (2022) utilize the Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 chipset.
❓ Which phone will receive longer software updates?
The TCL 403 is likely to receive longer software updates due to TCL's generally better software support compared to Alcatel.
