TCL 50 NxtPaper vs 40 NxtPaper 5G: A Deep Dive into Battery, Performance, and Display

TCL's NxtPaper series aims to deliver eye-comfort and long battery life at accessible price points. The TCL 50 NxtPaper and 40 NxtPaper 5G represent two distinct approaches within this philosophy. The 50 NxtPaper prioritizes endurance, while the 40 NxtPaper 5G adds 5G connectivity and a brighter display. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which device best suits your needs.
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🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing all-day battery life and sustained performance, the TCL 50 NxtPaper emerges as the stronger choice. Its Dimensity 6300 chipset and impressive 45:11h endurance rating outweigh the 40 NxtPaper 5G’s 5G connectivity and brighter screen for most everyday tasks.

PHONES
Phone Names TCL 50 NxtPaper TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 17, 20, 26, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 421, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 42
5G bands1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 48, 77, 78 SA/NSA1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 78 SA/NSA
SpeedHSPA, LTE, 5GHSPA, LTE, 5G
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5GGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
Launch
Announced2024, September 042023, August 29
StatusAvailable. Released 2024, SeptemberAvailable. Released 2023, October
Body
Dimensions167.6 x 75.5 x 8 mm (6.60 x 2.97 x 0.31 in)164.5 x 75.4 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.97 x 0.35 in)
SIMNano-SIM + eSIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight196 g (6.91 oz)192 g (6.77 oz)
Display
ProtectionMohs level 7-
Resolution1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density)720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density)
Size6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~86.8% screen-to-body ratio)6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.4% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCD, 120HzLCD, 90Hz, 500 nits
Platform
CPUOcta-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetMediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm)Mediatek Dimensity 6020 (7 nm)
GPUMali-G57 MC2Mali-G57 MC2
OSAndroid 14, up to 2 major Android upgradesAndroid 13, TCL UI
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)
Internal256GB 8GB RAM256GB 6GB RAM
Main Camera
FeaturesLED flash, HDRLED flash, HDR, panorama
Triple108 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/1.67", 0.64µm, PDAF 8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm 2 MP (macro)50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF 2 MP (macro) Auxiliary lens
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
FeaturesHDR-
Single8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm8 MP, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker Yes, with stereo speakersYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.3, A2DP, LE5.1, A2DP, LE
NFCYesYes
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEOGPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO
RadioUnspecifiedFM radio
USBUSB Type-C 2.0USB Type-C 2.0
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi DirectWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Features
SensorsFingerprint (side-mounted), gyro, accelerometer, proximity, compass, barometerFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging33W wired15W wired
Type5010 mAhLi-Ion 5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsMoon Gray, Midnight Blue, Pale Gold, Rosy PurpleStarlight Black
ModelsT702DT771K
PriceAbout 230 EURAbout 250 EUR
EU LABEL
Battery45:11h endurance, 1000 cycles-
EnergyClass B-
Free fallClass B (180 falls)-
RepairabilityClass B-

TCL 50 NxtPaper

  • Exceptional battery life (45:11h endurance)
  • More efficient Dimensity 6300 chipset
  • Potentially better sustained performance

  • Lacks 5G connectivity
  • Display brightness likely lower than the 40 NxtPaper 5G

TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G

  • 5G connectivity for faster data speeds
  • Brighter display (611 nits) for outdoor use
  • Faster charging (15W)

  • Shorter battery life (estimated)
  • Less efficient Dimensity 6020 chipset

Display Comparison

The TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G boasts a significantly brighter display, reaching a measured 611 nits, making it more usable in direct sunlight compared to the TCL 50 NxtPaper (brightness data unavailable). While both utilize TCL’s NxtPaper technology designed to mimic the texture of paper for reduced eye strain, the 40 NxtPaper 5G’s 1892:1 contrast ratio suggests deeper blacks and a more vibrant image. The absence of high refresh rate information for both models suggests a standard 60Hz panel, focusing on power efficiency rather than fluid motion.

Camera Comparison

Detailed camera specifications are limited, but the focus should be on the primary sensors. Without specific details on sensor size or aperture, it’s difficult to definitively declare a winner. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera on both devices is largely a marketing feature with limited practical utility. Image processing algorithms will likely play a larger role in differentiating image quality than raw hardware, and TCL’s software tuning will be a key factor.

Performance

Both devices are powered by Mediatek Dimensity chipsets, but the TCL 50 NxtPaper’s Dimensity 6300 (6nm) holds a slight edge over the 40 NxtPaper 5G’s Dimensity 6020 (7nm). The 6nm process node generally translates to improved power efficiency and thermal performance. While both CPUs feature the same core configuration – 2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 – the 6300’s architecture benefits from newer optimizations. This difference, though subtle, will be noticeable in sustained workloads and multitasking.

Battery Life

The TCL 50 NxtPaper’s 45:11h endurance rating is a standout feature, indicating significantly longer battery life than the TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G (endurance data unavailable). This is partially attributable to the more efficient Dimensity 6300 chipset. However, the 40 NxtPaper 5G compensates with faster 15W wired charging, while the 50 NxtPaper is limited to 33W. While 33W is faster, the 50 NxtPaper’s larger capacity and efficiency mean it’s less reliant on frequent top-ups.

Buying Guide

Buy the TCL 50 NxtPaper if you need exceptional battery life for extended use, such as travel or demanding workdays, and prioritize consistent performance over 5G connectivity. Buy the TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G if you frequently rely on 5G networks, value a brighter display for outdoor visibility, and are willing to trade some battery endurance for these features.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Does the Dimensity 6020 in the TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G struggle with demanding games like Genshin Impact?
While the Dimensity 6020 is capable of running Genshin Impact, expect to lower graphics settings to maintain a stable frame rate. The 6nm Dimensity 6300 in the TCL 50 NxtPaper will offer slightly better sustained performance, but neither chipset is designed for high-end gaming.
❓ How does the NxtPaper display affect reading ebooks compared to a traditional LCD?
The NxtPaper display aims to reduce eye strain during prolonged reading sessions by mimicking the texture of paper. This reduces blue light and glare, making it more comfortable to read ebooks for extended periods compared to a traditional glossy LCD screen. However, color accuracy may be slightly reduced.
❓ Is the 15W charging on the TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G fast enough for quick top-ups throughout the day?
15W charging is relatively slow by modern standards. While it will provide a noticeable charge boost in 30 minutes, it won't rapidly replenish the battery. The TCL 50 NxtPaper’s 33W charging is faster, but its superior battery life means you’ll likely need to charge it less frequently.