TCL has been aggressively expanding its smartphone lineup, offering compelling options in the budget and mid-range segments. The TCL 50 XE NxtPaper and TCL 40 XL represent two distinct approaches within that strategy. The 50 XE NxtPaper prioritizes a unique paper-like display experience coupled with a more modern chipset, while the 40 XL aims for a balance of features at an even more accessible price point. This comparison dissects the core differences to determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ chipset delivers significantly better performance than the Helio G37 in the 40 XL, translating to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and a more responsive user experience. While both offer 18W charging, the NxtPaper’s more efficient processor will likely result in better overall battery life.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - USA |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66, 71 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 - USA |
| 5G bands | 2, 5, 25, 41, 48, 66, 71, 77 SA/NSA/Sub6 | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, June | 2023, February 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July | Available. Released 2023, May |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.1 x 75 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.95 x 0.33 in) | 167.9 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm (6.61 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM + eSIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~85.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G37 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 13, TCL UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | 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, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), gyro, accelerometer, proximity, compass, barometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5010 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Space Blue | Dark Gray |
| Models | T614J, T614WS | T608M |
| Price | - | About 140 EUR |
| SAR | 1.19 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | - |
TCL 50 XE NxtPaper
- Significantly faster processor (Dimensity 6100+)
- More power-efficient chipset for longer battery life
- Unique NxtPaper display for comfortable reading
- Potentially higher price point
- Display may not appeal to users who prefer vibrant colors
TCL 40 XL
- Lower price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Slow processor (Helio G37)
- Less efficient chipset leading to shorter battery life
- Limited performance for demanding apps and gaming
Display Comparison
Both devices lack detailed display specifications in the provided data, but the 'NxtPaper' branding on the 50 XE is crucial. This indicates a matte, anti-glare display designed to mimic the look and feel of paper, reducing eye strain. While the 40 XL likely uses a standard LCD panel, the NxtPaper’s technology is a significant differentiator for reading and prolonged screen use. Without nit brightness or resolution data, it’s difficult to compare image quality directly, but the NxtPaper’s focus is clearly on comfort rather than vibrant visuals.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is limited. However, the chipset difference indirectly impacts camera performance. The Dimensity 6100+ includes a more powerful image signal processor (ISP), enabling faster image processing and potentially better low-light performance. While both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, the 40 XL’s Helio G37 will be a bottleneck for complex image processing algorithms. It’s reasonable to assume the NxtPaper will deliver more detailed and vibrant photos, especially in challenging conditions. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is unlikely to significantly impact image quality.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The TCL 50 XE NxtPaper’s Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm) is a substantial upgrade over the TCL 40 XL’s Helio G37 (12nm). The Dimensity 6100+ utilizes more modern CPU cores – a combination of Cortex-A76 and Cortex-A55 – compared to the 40 XL’s all-Cortex-A53 setup. This translates to a roughly 30-40% performance increase in CPU-intensive tasks. Furthermore, the 6nm manufacturing process of the Dimensity 6100+ is significantly more efficient, leading to lower power consumption and better thermal management. The Helio G37, while adequate for basic tasks, will struggle with demanding applications and multitasking. The Dimensity 6100+ also benefits from a more capable GPU, offering a better gaming experience.
Battery Life
Both devices feature 18W wired charging, suggesting similar charging speeds (approximately 2-3 hours for a full charge). However, the Dimensity 6100+’s 6nm process offers superior power efficiency. This means the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper will likely achieve longer battery life on a single charge, even with similar battery capacities (which are not specified). The more efficient processor reduces power draw during everyday tasks, extending usage time between charges. While the 40 XL might have a slightly larger battery, the less efficient Helio G37 will negate much of that advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper if you prioritize a smoother, more responsive user experience, enjoy media consumption with a unique display, and anticipate using demanding apps or light gaming. Buy the TCL 40 XL if your primary needs are basic communication, social media, and light web browsing, and you are on a very tight budget where every dollar counts. The 40 XL is a functional device, but the NxtPaper offers a substantial performance upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper handle demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
The Dimensity 6100+ is capable of running PUBG and Call of Duty, but you’ll likely need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low to achieve a smooth frame rate. The Helio G37 in the 40 XL will struggle significantly with these titles, even on the lowest settings.
❓ Is the NxtPaper display suitable for watching videos and movies?
The NxtPaper display prioritizes readability and eye comfort over vibrant colors. While it’s perfectly usable for videos, the matte finish and reduced color saturation may not provide the most immersive viewing experience for those accustomed to traditional LCD or OLED panels.
❓ How much faster will app loading times be on the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper compared to the TCL 40 XL?
Expect app loading times to be roughly 30-40% faster on the NxtPaper due to the Dimensity 6100+'s superior CPU and memory performance. This difference will be most noticeable when launching larger apps or switching between multiple applications.
❓ Does the TCL 40 XL have enough processing power for everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Yes, the Helio G37 is sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing, social media, and messaging. However, you may experience occasional lag or slowdowns when multitasking or using more demanding apps.
