The ultra-budget smartphone segment is fiercely competitive, and the Wiko Y50 and Alcatel 1B (2022) represent two of the most affordable options available. Both aim to deliver basic smartphone functionality at a minimal cost, but significant differences in their underlying hardware dictate which device offers a more satisfying user experience. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on performance, efficiency, and overall value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and a smoother experience, the Alcatel 1B (2022) is the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, built on a 12nm process, provides a substantial performance advantage over the Wiko Y50’s older Cortex-A7, despite the lower clock speed. While neither phone excels, the Alcatel 1B offers a more usable daily driver.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - 5031D, 5031G |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.1 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 38, 40, 66 - 5031A, 5041J |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, July. Released 2019, July | 2022, May 31 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, May 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 146 x 73.5 x 8.7 mm (5.75 x 2.89 x 0.34 in) | 146.7 x 71.9 x 10 mm (5.78 x 2.83 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Micro-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 160 g (5.64 oz) | 172 g (6.07 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~196 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~64.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~74.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TN LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T820 MP1 | PowerVR GE8300 |
| OS | Android 8.1 (Oreo) (Go Edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 25 mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, 24 mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM Radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2200 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Grey, Blue, Gold | Prime Black, Atlantic Blue |
| Models | - | 5031D, 5031G, 5031A, 5031J |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 100 EUR |
| SAR | 0.86 W/kg (head) 1.40 W/kg (body) | - |
Wiko Y50
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward interface
- May be more readily available in certain regions
- Significantly slower processor
- Less efficient architecture
- Likely to struggle with multitasking
- Outdated chipset
alcatel 1B (2022)
- More powerful and efficient processor
- Modern Cortex-A53 architecture
- 12nm process for better thermal management
- Smoother user experience
- May be slightly more expensive
- Still limited in terms of overall performance
- Basic camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Neither Wiko nor Alcatel provide display specifications beyond resolution. Given the price point, both likely utilize LCD panels with similar color accuracy and viewing angles. The absence of detailed specs makes a direct comparison impossible, but the overall user experience will be more impacted by the processor's ability to render the UI smoothly than by display quality. Expect both to be adequate for basic viewing, but not vibrant or color-accurate.
Camera Comparison
Both devices are likely to feature basic camera setups. Without specific sensor details, it’s safe to assume both will struggle in low-light conditions. The focus should be on usability, not image quality. Any claims of advanced features on either device should be viewed with skepticism. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on either phone means image stabilization will rely solely on software, which will likely be limited in effectiveness.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Alcatel 1B (2022) features the Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22, a quad-core processor built on a more efficient 12nm process and clocked at 2.0 GHz using Cortex-A53 cores. The Wiko Y50, conversely, relies on a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. The A53 architecture is significantly more modern and efficient than the A7, offering improved instructions per clock (IPC). The 12nm process further enhances the Helio A22’s efficiency, resulting in better sustained performance and potentially less thermal throttling. This translates to noticeably faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive user interface on the Alcatel 1B.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given the low-power chipsets and basic displays, both should offer at least a full day of light usage. Charging wattage is also unknown, suggesting both will likely rely on slow charging speeds. The Alcatel 1B’s more efficient chipset may provide a slight edge in battery life, but the difference will likely be minimal in real-world scenarios.
Buying Guide
Buy the Wiko Y50 if you absolutely need the lowest possible upfront cost and are willing to tolerate significant performance limitations for basic tasks like calls and messaging. Buy the Alcatel 1B (2022) if you prefer a more responsive experience for social media, light web browsing, and occasional app usage, even if it means spending a little more. The Alcatel 1B is the better option for anyone who doesn't want to be constantly frustrated by lag.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Alcatel 1B (2022) be able to run popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Mediatek Helio A22 chipset in the Alcatel 1B (2022) is capable of running most popular social media apps without significant lag. While it won't offer a high-end experience, it will provide a usable and reasonably responsive experience for browsing feeds and posting updates. The Wiko Y50’s older processor may struggle with these tasks.
❓ Is the Alcatel 1B (2022) suitable for playing mobile games?
The Alcatel 1B (2022) is not ideal for demanding mobile games. While it can handle very basic 2D games, it will likely struggle with more graphically intensive titles. Expect low frame rates and potential stuttering. The Wiko Y50 will perform even worse in gaming scenarios due to its significantly weaker processor.
❓ How much storage does each phone offer, and can it be expanded?
Storage capacity is not specified in the provided data. However, given the price point, both devices likely offer limited internal storage (around 16GB or 32GB). It's highly probable that both support microSD card expansion, allowing users to increase storage capacity. Check the product listing for specific details.
