Looking for an affordable smartphone without breaking the bank? The TCL Ion X and T-Mobile REVVL 4 are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But which one offers the best bang for your buck? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The TCL Ion X edges out the REVVL 4 thanks to its octa-core processor and slightly better overall performance. While both are budget devices, the Ion X provides a more responsive experience for everyday tasks. However, the REVVL 4 might be a better choice if you prioritize T-Mobile's network and specific carrier features.
| 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 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 | 2, 4, 5, 7, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, January 26 | 2020, August 27. Released 2020, September 04 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, January 26 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 156.5 x 75.2 x 8.9 mm (6.16 x 2.96 x 0.35 in) | 159 x 76 x 8.1 mm (6.26 x 2.99 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) | 158.5 (5.61 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~78.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.22 inches, 96.6 cm2 (~79.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8300 |
| OS | Android, TCL UI | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, (wide) 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF | 13 MP, PDAF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, (wide) 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| 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 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| | Virtual proximity sensing | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3500 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Graphite |
| Models | - | 5007Z, 5007W, TMRVL4G |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 100 EUR |
TCL Ion X
- More powerful processor (Octa-core)
- 10W charging is slow
- Potentially less carrier support outside of specific retailers
T-Mobile REVVL 4
- T-Mobile carrier support and features
- Likely more readily available through T-Mobile
- Less powerful processor (Quad-core)
- Basic display and camera
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic LCD displays, probably around 6.5 inches. Expect resolutions in the HD+ range (720 x 1600). The Ion X *might* have slightly better color accuracy due to potentially more advanced panel technology, but both will be adequate for everyday viewing. Brightness will likely be a limiting factor in direct sunlight.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely similar – both will probably feature a primary rear camera around 13MP, with a secondary depth sensor. Image quality will be decent in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The Ion X *might* have slightly better image processing due to its more powerful chipset, but don't expect flagship-level photography from either device.
Performance
This is where the Ion X has a clear advantage. Its Mediatek Helio G25 chipset with an octa-core processor significantly outperforms the REVVL 4's Helio A22 quad-core. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user experience on the Ion X. The REVVL 4 will handle basic tasks, but may struggle with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range. Battery life should be comparable, offering a full day of moderate use. However, the Ion X's more powerful processor *could* lead to slightly faster battery drain under heavy load.
Buying Guide
The TCL Ion X is ideal for users seeking a bit more processing power for light gaming and multitasking on a tight budget. The T-Mobile REVVL 4 is a good option for T-Mobile subscribers who want a basic, reliable smartphone with carrier-specific features and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What operating system do these phones use?
Both the TCL Ion X and T-Mobile REVVL 4 typically run Android, likely a slightly older version (Android 11 or 12) due to their budget nature. Updates may be limited.
❓ Are these phones 5G compatible?
No, neither the TCL Ion X nor the T-Mobile REVVL 4 support 5G connectivity. They are 4G LTE devices.
