The budget smartphone market is fiercely competitive, offering incredible value for your money. Today, we're pitting two contenders against each other: the TCL 406 and the Nokia G11. Both promise affordability, but which one delivers the better overall experience?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia G11 edges out the TCL 406 thanks to its faster processor, significantly quicker charging (PD3.0), and generally more refined software experience. While the TCL 406 is a decent option, the G11 provides a more compelling package for the price.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, February 26 | 2022, February 15 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, February 26 | Available. Released 2022, March 24 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 75.4 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 189 g (6.67 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.12µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 13 MP, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| 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 | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| | Virtual proximity sensing | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 18W wired, PD3.0 |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Grey, Lavender Purple | Charcoal, Ice |
| Models | T506K | TA-1401 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 100 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.47 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) |
TCL 406
- Potentially lower price
- Simple and straightforward interface
- Decent battery life
- Slower processor
- Slow charging (10W)
- Less refined software
- Lower performance
Nokia G11
- Faster processor (Unisoc T606)
- Fast charging (18W PD3.0)
- Clean Android experience
- Good battery life
- May be slightly more expensive
- Camera performance is average
- HD+ display isn't the sharpest
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large displays, likely around 6.5 inches, with HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles but don't anticipate vibrant colors or high brightness. The Nokia G11 might have slightly better color accuracy due to Nokia's generally reliable display tuning.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely similar – both will probably feature a main 50MP camera and a depth sensor. Image quality will be decent in good lighting conditions, but low-light performance will be a challenge for both. Nokia's image processing might offer slightly more natural-looking results.
Performance
Here's where the Nokia G11 shines. Its Unisoc T606 chipset, with its Cortex-A75 cores, offers a noticeable performance boost over the TCL 406's Cortex-A53-heavy processor. Expect smoother multitasking and app loading on the G11. The TCL 406 will feel adequate for basic tasks but may struggle with demanding apps or games.
Battery Life
The Nokia G11 boasts a large 5000mAh battery, comparable to the TCL 406. However, the G11's 18W fast charging (PD3.0) is a significant advantage, allowing for much quicker top-ups compared to the TCL 406's 10W charging.
Buying Guide
The TCL 406 is a good choice for users prioritizing a simple, straightforward phone experience and potentially a slightly lower price point. The Nokia G11 is ideal for those seeking better performance, faster charging, and a cleaner Android experience, even on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone has better battery life?
Both offer excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day. However, the Nokia G11's faster charging makes it more convenient.
❓ Is the TCL 406 good for gaming?
The TCL 406 is adequate for very light gaming, but don't expect smooth performance in demanding titles. The Nokia G11 is a better choice for gaming due to its more powerful processor.
