The TCL 50 XE and Samsung Galaxy A14 represent compelling options in the sub-$200 smartphone market. However, they take distinctly different approaches to achieving affordability. The TCL prioritizes processing power with a newer Mediatek Dimensity chipset, while the Samsung offers a familiar experience with a choice of either a Helio G80 or an Exynos 850, aiming for a balance of efficiency and features.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance and future-proofing, the TCL 50 XE is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ chipset delivers significantly better CPU and GPU performance than either version of the Galaxy A14. While the A14 offers Samsung’s established software and brand recognition, the TCL provides more bang for your buck.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66, 71 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| 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 26 | 2023, February 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 05 | Available. Released 2023, March 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.1 x 75 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.95 x 0.33 in) | 167.7 x 78 x 9.1 mm (6.60 x 3.07 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 201 g (7.09 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~80.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) - Version AOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) - Version B |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6769 Helio G80 (12 nm) - Version AExynos 850 (8 nm) - Version B |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 13, upgradable to Android 15, One UI 7 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.75", 0.64µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 17mm (ultrawide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 13 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/3.1", 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 or 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| 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, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), gyro, accelerometer, proximity, compass, barometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 15W wired |
| Type | 5010 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Blue | Black, Dark Red, Silver, Green |
| Models | T614SP, T614D | SM-A145F, SM-A145F/DSN, SM-A145M, SM-A145M/DS, SM-A145P, SM-A145R |
| Price | - | € 85.76 / $ 147.60 / £ 79.95 |
| SAR EU | - | 0.46 W/kg (head) 1.37 W/kg (body) |
TCL 50 XE
- Superior processing power with Dimensity 6100+
- Faster 18W charging
- More efficient 6nm chipset for longer battery life
- Less established brand recognition
- Potentially shorter software support lifecycle
Samsung Galaxy A14
- Familiar Samsung software experience
- Potentially longer software support
- Established brand reputation
- Significantly weaker performance with Helio G80 or Exynos 850
- Slower 15W charging
- Less efficient chipset
Display Comparison
Neither TCL nor Samsung provide detailed display specs beyond the basic resolution. However, the focus here is on internal performance, so display differences are less critical. We can assume both utilize LCD panels typical of this price bracket. The TCL’s performance advantage suggests it may be paired with a more responsive touch sampling rate, potentially improving the user experience during gaming. Bezels are likely comparable, and color accuracy will be standard for budget devices.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specs are unavailable, but given the price point, both phones likely feature a primary sensor paired with basic auxiliary lenses. The TCL 50 XE’s image processing will likely prioritize speed and clarity, leveraging the Dimensity 6100+'s ISP capabilities. The Samsung Galaxy A14’s camera performance will depend on the specific version (Helio G80 or Exynos 850), but Samsung’s image processing algorithms are generally known for vibrant colors and scene optimization. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on the A14 is largely a marketing feature with limited practical utility.
Performance
The TCL 50 XE’s Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm) is the standout performer. Its octa-core CPU, featuring 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, offers a substantial advantage over the Samsung Galaxy A14’s options. The A14’s Helio G80 (12nm) version has 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, while the Exynos 850 (8nm) version uses 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 and 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. The Dimensity 6100+’s newer architecture and smaller node size translate to significantly improved CPU and GPU performance, and better power efficiency. The Exynos 850 is a step up from the Helio G80, but still lags behind the Dimensity 6100+ in raw processing power. The 6nm process of the Dimensity also implies better thermal management, reducing the likelihood of performance throttling during extended use.
Battery Life
The TCL 50 XE supports 18W wired charging, while the Samsung Galaxy A14 is limited to 15W. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the Dimensity 6100+'s 6nm efficiency should translate to longer battery life despite potentially similar capacity. The faster charging on the TCL will also reduce downtime, allowing for quicker top-ups. The A14’s 15W charging will require more time to reach a full charge, potentially impacting usability for users who frequently need to recharge throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL 50 XE if you need a phone capable of handling demanding apps, moderate gaming, and multitasking without significant slowdowns. It’s ideal for users who value raw performance and aren’t heavily invested in the Samsung ecosystem. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A14 if you prefer a more established brand with a focus on software stability and a potentially longer software support lifecycle, and your usage is primarily focused on basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 850 chip in the Galaxy A14 overheat during prolonged gaming sessions?
The Exynos 850 is known to throttle under sustained load, meaning performance will decrease to manage heat. While it won't necessarily 'overheat' to the point of being unusable, expect frame rate drops and stuttering during extended gaming. The TCL 50 XE’s Dimensity 6100+ and 6nm process are better equipped to handle thermal demands.
❓ Is the 2MP macro camera on the Samsung Galaxy A14 actually useful for taking detailed close-up photos?
Generally, 2MP macro cameras on budget phones produce images with limited detail and sharpness. The small sensor size and lack of optical image stabilization result in blurry and noisy photos. It's primarily a marketing feature and won't deliver professional-quality macro photography.
❓ Can the TCL 50 XE handle popular games like PUBG Mobile at 60fps with medium settings?
Yes, the Dimensity 6100+ chipset in the TCL 50 XE is capable of running PUBG Mobile at 60fps with medium settings. The GPU performance is significantly higher than the options available in the Galaxy A14, providing a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.
❓ How does the software update policy differ between TCL and Samsung for these models?
Samsung generally provides longer software support for its A-series devices compared to TCL. While specific update commitments vary, Samsung typically offers at least 3 years of security updates. TCL’s update policy is less predictable, and users should expect a shorter support lifecycle.
