TCL has been aggressively expanding its smartphone lineup, offering compelling options at various price points. The NxtPaper and Ion X represent two distinct approaches: the NxtPaper prioritizes a more modern chipset and extended battery endurance, while the Ion X focuses on delivering basic functionality at an ultra-affordable price. This comparison dissects the key differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the TCL NxtPaper is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6300 chipset delivers significantly faster performance and improved efficiency compared to the Ion X’s Helio G25, justifying the likely price difference. The NxtPaper’s 33W charging also provides a much quicker top-up than the Ion X’s 10W.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 17, 20, 26, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 42 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 48, 77, 78 SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, September 04 | 2023, January 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, September | Available. Released 2023, January 26 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 167.6 x 75.5 x 8 mm (6.60 x 2.97 x 0.31 in) | 156.5 x 75.2 x 8.9 mm (6.16 x 2.96 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + eSIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 196 g (6.91 oz) | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Mohs level 7 | - |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~86.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~78.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 14, up to 2 major Android upgrades | Android, TCL UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 256GB 8GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | - | 13 MP, (wide) 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF |
| Triple | 108 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) | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, (wide) 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| 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 |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), gyro, accelerometer, proximity, compass, barometer | Accelerometer |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 33W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5010 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Moon Gray, Midnight Blue, Pale Gold, Rosy Purple | Black |
| Models | T702D | - |
| Price | About 230 EUR | About 100 EUR |
| EU LABEL |
|---|
| Battery | 45:11h endurance, 1000 cycles | - |
| Energy | Class B | - |
| Free fall | Class B (180 falls) | - |
| Repairability | Class B | - |
TCL 50 NxtPaper
- Significantly faster performance with the Dimensity 6300 chipset.
- Superior battery life and faster 33W charging.
- Potentially better camera image processing.
- Likely a higher price point than the Ion X.
- Display details are currently unknown.
TCL Ion X
- Ultra-affordable price point.
- Suitable for basic smartphone tasks.
- Simple and straightforward user experience.
- Slow and inefficient Helio G25 chipset.
- Slow 10W charging.
- Limited performance for demanding apps and games.
Display Comparison
While both devices are 50-inch models, the provided data doesn't detail display specifications like resolution, panel type, or brightness. However, given the NxtPaper's name, it likely features a matte display designed to reduce glare, mimicking the look of paper. The Ion X likely uses a standard glossy LCD. Without further data, it's difficult to assess color accuracy or viewing angles, but the NxtPaper’s potential matte finish could be a significant advantage for outdoor use.
Camera Comparison
Neither device’s camera specifications are detailed beyond the chipset information. However, given the Ion X’s budget positioning, it likely features a basic camera setup with limited features. The NxtPaper, benefiting from its more powerful chipset, likely has better image processing capabilities, even if the sensor itself isn’t a flagship-level component. Expect sharper images and better low-light performance from the NxtPaper. It's reasonable to assume the NxtPaper will offer more camera modes and features.
Performance
The performance disparity is the most significant difference between these two phones. The TCL NxtPaper’s Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Ion X’s Helio G25 (12nm). The Dimensity 6300 utilizes more efficient Cortex-A76 cores alongside Cortex-A55 cores, resulting in a much faster and smoother user experience. The 6nm process node also contributes to better thermal management and power efficiency. The Helio G25, with its older Cortex-A53 cores, will struggle with demanding applications and multitasking. The NxtPaper will handle modern games and apps with greater ease, while the Ion X will likely exhibit noticeable lag.
Battery Life
The TCL NxtPaper boasts a 45:11h endurance rating, indicating excellent battery life. While the Ion X’s battery capacity isn’t specified, the combination of a less efficient chipset and slower 10W charging suggests it will require more frequent charging. The NxtPaper’s 33W wired charging will significantly reduce charging times, allowing for a quick top-up when needed. The NxtPaper’s 1000 charge cycles also suggest a longer lifespan for the battery itself.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL 50 NxtPaper if you need a phone capable of handling multitasking, moderate gaming, and future software updates without significant lag. It’s ideal for users who value responsiveness and longevity. Buy the TCL Ion X if you prioritize absolute affordability and only require a smartphone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media browsing. It’s a good option for first-time smartphone users or as a reliable backup device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the TCL NxtPaper handle demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
The Mediatek Dimensity 6300 in the NxtPaper is capable of running PUBG and Call of Duty, but likely at medium settings to maintain a stable frame rate. The Helio G25 in the Ion X will struggle significantly with these titles, resulting in a poor gaming experience.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the TCL NxtPaper with the 33W charger?
While a precise 0-100% charge time isn't available, 33W charging is considerably faster than the Ion X’s 10W. Expect a full charge in approximately 60-90 minutes, offering a significant convenience advantage.
❓ Is the TCL Ion X suitable for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls, texts, and WhatsApp?
Yes, the TCL Ion X is perfectly adequate for basic communication tasks. Its Helio G25 chipset is sufficient for these functions, and its affordability makes it a practical choice for users with minimal smartphone needs.
❓ Does the TCL NxtPaper support software updates for a longer period than the Ion X?
Generally, devices with more powerful chipsets receive longer software support. The NxtPaper’s Dimensity 6300 suggests it will receive updates for a longer duration than the Ion X, ensuring continued security and feature enhancements.
