Choosing between a tablet and a smartphone can be tough, especially when both offer compelling features. The TCL Tab 11 and TCL 40 XL are both budget-friendly options, but cater to slightly different needs. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The TCL Tab 11 generally edges out the 40 XL due to its significantly more powerful Helio P60T chipset, offering a smoother overall experience. However, the 40 XL's larger screen and potentially better camera (depending on specific models) might appeal to some. It's a close call, but performance is key.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - USA |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 17, 20, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 - USA | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 - USA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, February 26 | 2023, February 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, May | Available. Released 2023, May |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 259 x 163.6 x 6.9 mm (10.20 x 6.44 x 0.27 in) | 167.9 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm (6.61 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | · Nano-SIM + eSIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 462 g (1.02 lb) | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| | Stylus support | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~213 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.95 inches, 341.3 cm2 (~80.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~85.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT8183 Helio P60T (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G37 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13, TCL UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | - | 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, 100˚, (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Unspecified | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Unspecified | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | Unspecified | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| 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 Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity (accessories only) | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 8000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Digital Lavender, Dark Gray | Dark Gray |
| Models | 9166G, 9466X | T608M |
| Price | About 180 EUR | About 140 EUR |
TCL Tab 11
- Superior Performance (Helio P60T)
- Larger Display for Immersive Viewing
- Potentially Longer Battery Life
- Good Value for Money
- Camera may be less impressive than 40 XL
- Larger size less pocketable
- May lack some smartphone features
TCL 40 XL
- Larger Screen (for a phone)
- Potentially Better Camera
- More Compact and Pocketable
- Traditional Smartphone Features
- Weaker Performance (Helio G37)
- Slower App Loading Times
- Less Immersive Media Experience
Display Comparison
The TCL 40 XL typically features a larger display (around 6.7 inches) compared to the Tab 11 (around 10.8 inches). While the Tab 11 offers a more immersive viewing experience for media, the 40 XL's smaller size makes it more pocketable. Both likely use IPS LCD panels with decent color accuracy but not exceptional brightness.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality varies significantly between specific models of both devices. Generally, the TCL 40 XL is expected to have a slightly better camera setup, potentially including a higher resolution main sensor and more advanced features. However, the Tab 11's camera is still capable of capturing decent photos in good lighting conditions.
Performance
This is where the Tab 11 shines. The Helio P60T chipset is considerably more powerful than the Helio G37 in the 40 XL. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the Tab 11. The 40 XL will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both devices offer a respectable battery life thanks to their 18W charging and efficient chipsets. The Tab 11's larger size allows for a larger battery capacity, potentially giving it a slight edge in overall battery endurance, especially with moderate usage.
Buying Guide
The TCL Tab 11 is ideal for users prioritizing performance for tasks like browsing, light gaming, and media consumption on a larger screen. The TCL 40 XL is a better choice for those seeking a more traditional smartphone experience with a larger display for media viewing and casual photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the TCL Tab 11 good for gaming?
The TCL Tab 11's Helio P60T chipset provides a better gaming experience than the 40 XL, but it's still a budget device. Expect to play less demanding games smoothly, but high-end titles may require lower settings.
❓ Which device has better call quality?
The TCL 40 XL, being a smartphone, is designed for calls and will generally offer better call quality and network connectivity than the Tab 11.