There has been a lot of coverage on affordable mid-range Android phones, but ultimately nothing beats Android Go phones when it comes to affordability. Of course, these phones are configured with very minimal hardware requirements, so that doesn’t say much. Still, for some markets and consumers who only need a basic Android phone, Android GO Edition phones might be the way to go, and TCL just expanded its options with the addition of the Alcatel 1. (2021) and the Alcatel 1L Pro.
The name Alcatel 1 has actually been around since 2018, so there might be some confusion if you forget to put the “2021” on it. This year’s model pretty much continues the theme of packing the essentials without overwhelming users with unnecessary features or hidden costs. In this case, that translates to a 2017 1.28GHz quad-core MediaTek MT6739, 1GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage which you can expand with a 32GB micro SD card.
Cameras are where phones are these days, but the Alcatel 1 (2021) is not. With a single 5 MP fixed-focus camera and a 2 MP FF front camera, it really only offers the basics so you don’t get too left behind. However, the phone‘s 5-inch 960 × 480 screen is going to feel a bit cramped for binging videos. Available in Volcano Black and AI Aqua, the phone will launch in Europe and Latin America in August for EUR 59, or around $ 70.
As the name suggests, the Alcatel 1L Pro spices things up a bit, mainly by packing an octa-core Unisoc SC9863A processor and 2GB of RAM and at least 32GB of expandable storage. The 6.1-inch screen now reaches a maximum of 1560 × 720, just enough for HD videos and games. However, you’ll likely end up micromanaging your usage, as the 3,000mAh battery won’t last a day with continuous use, especially when 4G is involved.
The phone also steps up the camera game a bit with a 13MP AF camera assisted by a 2MP depth sensor. The front camera also goes up to 5MP but still only has a fixed focus. Launched in September, the Alcatel 1L Pro will be available in Latin American and EMEA markets for MXN 2,699, or around $ 140.
