The budget smartphone market is fiercely competitive, offering incredible value for those seeking affordability. Today, we're pitting two contenders against each other: the TCL Ion X and the T-Mobile REVVL 6 Pro. Both promise a decent experience without breaking the bank, but which one delivers the most?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The T-Mobile REVVL 6 Pro is the clear winner. Its Dimensity 700 chipset offers significantly better performance and efficiency than the Ion X's Helio G25. While both are budget phones, the REVVL 6 Pro provides a smoother, more modern experience with faster speeds and wireless charging.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 71 |
| 5G bands | - | 25, 41, 66, 71, 77 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, January 26 | 2022, July 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, January 26 | Available. Released 2022, July 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 156.5 x 75.2 x 8.9 mm (6.16 x 2.96 x 0.35 in) | 173.9 x 77.8 x 9 mm (6.85 x 3.06 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) | 214 g (7.55 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~78.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.82 inches, 110.5 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android, TCL UI | Android 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | 13 MP, (wide) 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF | 16 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, (wide) 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 16 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| 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 (side-mounted), gyro, accelerometer, proximity, compass, barometer |
| | Virtual proximity sensing | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 15W wired
Wireless |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Dark Shadow |
| Models | - | TMAF035G |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 220 EUR |
TCL Ion X
- Extremely affordable
- Decent basic functionality
- Lightweight design (likely)
- Weak performance
- Outdated chipset
- Slow charging
- Limited camera capabilities
T-Mobile REVVL 6 Pro
- Significantly better performance
- More efficient chipset
- Wireless charging
- Potentially better camera
- Slightly more expensive than the Ion X
- Still a budget phone with limitations
- HD+ display (not flagship quality)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature HD+ displays, likely around 6.5 inches. Expect decent color accuracy but don't anticipate flagship-level vibrancy. The REVVL 6 Pro *might* have a slightly higher resolution or brightness, but detailed specs are needed for a definitive comparison. Viewing angles and outdoor visibility will likely be similar, adequate for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are often limited on budget phones. The REVVL 6 Pro likely has a slightly better camera system, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor and improved image processing. Expect decent daytime photos from both, but low-light performance will be a challenge. Video recording capabilities will likely be similar, around 1080p.
Performance
This is where the REVVL 6 Pro shines. The Dimensity 700, built on a 7nm process, is significantly more powerful and efficient than the Ion X's 12nm Helio G25. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive overall experience on the REVVL 6 Pro. The Ion X will likely struggle with demanding apps and multitasking.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have batteries in the 4000-5000mAh range. However, the REVVL 6 Pro's more efficient Dimensity 700 chipset should translate to better battery life despite the similar capacity. The REVVL 6 Pro also offers wireless charging, a significant advantage.
Buying Guide
The TCL Ion X is best suited for users who prioritize extreme affordability and basic functionality – think calling, texting, and light web browsing. The T-Mobile REVVL 6 Pro is ideal for those who want a more responsive phone for social media, streaming, and light gaming, and appreciate the convenience of wireless charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the TCL Ion X good for gaming?
No, the Ion X's weak processor makes it unsuitable for demanding games. You might be able to play very basic games, but don't expect a smooth experience.
❓ Does the REVVL 6 Pro support 5G?
Yes, the Dimensity 700 chipset supports 5G connectivity, offering faster data speeds where available.
