TCL offers two compelling options in the budget smartphone space: the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper and the TCL Ion X. While both aim to deliver value, they diverge significantly in their internal hardware. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on the impact of the chipset choices on performance, charging, and overall user experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ chipset provides a substantial performance advantage over the Ion X’s Helio G25, translating to smoother multitasking and a more responsive experience. While the Ion X is cheaper, the performance trade-off is significant.
| 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 |
| 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, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| 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, January 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July | Available. Released 2023, January 26 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.1 x 75 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.95 x 0.33 in) | 156.5 x 75.2 x 8.9 mm (6.16 x 2.96 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~78.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 14 | Android, TCL UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | - | 13 MP, (wide) 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 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 (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| 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 |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), gyro, accelerometer, proximity, compass, barometer | Accelerometer |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5010 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Space Blue | Black |
| Models | T614J, T614WS | - |
| Price | - | About 100 EUR |
| SAR | 1.19 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | - |
TCL 50 XE NxtPaper
- Significantly faster processor for smoother performance
- Faster 18W charging for quicker top-ups
- Potentially better camera image processing
- Likely a higher price point than the Ion X
- May not have a significantly larger battery capacity
TCL Ion X
- More affordable price point
- Sufficient for basic smartphone tasks
- Potentially longer battery life with minimal usage
- Slow and outdated processor
- Slow 10W charging
- Noticeable lag and slowdowns with multitasking
Display Comparison
Both devices likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. However, detailed display specs (resolution, brightness, color gamut) are missing. The NxtPaper branding suggests a matte, paper-like finish designed to reduce glare and eye strain, a feature absent on the Ion X. This is a key differentiator for users who spend extended periods reading or viewing content. Without specific nit ratings, it's difficult to assess brightness, but the NxtPaper’s anti-glare coating may improve visibility in bright conditions.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specifications are unavailable. However, given the price points, both devices likely feature basic camera setups. The focus should be on the image signal processor (ISP) within each chipset. The Dimensity 6100+’s ISP is more advanced, enabling better image processing, noise reduction, and dynamic range compared to the Helio G25. While megapixel counts may be similar, the NxtPaper will likely produce more visually appealing photos, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Expect both to struggle with low-light photography.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The TCL 50 XE NxtPaper’s Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm) is a significantly more modern and powerful processor than the TCL Ion X’s Helio G25 (12nm). The Dimensity 6100+ utilizes Cortex-A76 cores for peak performance alongside efficient A55 cores, while the Helio G25 relies solely on older Cortex-A53 cores. This architectural difference translates to roughly a 50-70% performance increase for the NxtPaper in CPU-intensive tasks. The 6nm process node of the Dimensity 6100+ also offers better power efficiency, potentially leading to longer battery life despite similar battery capacities (assumed).
Battery Life
The TCL 50 XE NxtPaper supports 18W wired charging, while the Ion X is limited to 10W. This difference in charging speed is substantial. The NxtPaper can likely charge from 0-100% in approximately 2-2.5 hours, whereas the Ion X will take closer to 3.5-4 hours. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the Dimensity 6100+’s improved power efficiency may offset any capacity differences, resulting in comparable real-world battery life despite the faster charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper if you prioritize a fluid user experience, enjoy occasional gaming, or frequently use demanding apps. Its more powerful processor and faster charging will save you time and frustration. Buy the TCL Ion X if your needs are extremely basic – primarily calls, texts, and light social media – and you are on a very tight budget where every dollar counts. Be prepared for noticeable slowdowns with even moderate use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper handle demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
While the Dimensity 6100+ is a capable processor, don't expect flagship-level gaming performance. You'll likely be able to play PUBG Mobile at medium settings with reasonable frame rates. However, demanding titles may require significant graphical compromises to maintain a playable experience. The Ion X will struggle with even less demanding games.
❓ Is the NxtPaper display truly easier on the eyes for extended reading?
The NxtPaper display utilizes a matte finish designed to mimic the texture of paper, reducing glare and blue light reflection. Many users report a more comfortable reading experience compared to traditional glossy smartphone screens. However, individual sensitivity to screen flicker and eye strain varies.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the TCL Ion X from 0%?
With its 10W charging, the TCL Ion X will likely take around 3.5 to 4 hours to fully charge from 0% to 100%. This is considerably slower than the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper’s 18W charging.
❓ Does the TCL 50 XE NxtPaper support software updates?
TCL's software update policy for budget devices is often limited. While the NxtPaper will likely receive security patches, major Android version updates are not guaranteed. Check TCL's official website for the latest information on software support.
