Let it be said, TCL does not only make televisions. The firm relaunched itself in the smartphone world a few years ago, albeit in a fairly confidential manner. At CES in Las Vegas, the company unveiled new models, thus launching its 40 series. Rather affordable products, since TCL is targeting an entry-level market with two models under the 250 € mark.
Technical data sheets to match ambitions
According to their data sheets, the two smartphones are close. While the 40 R 5G model offers a few extra features, they’re not that far apart. Both have a 6.6 inch panel with HD + definition and a teardrop notch. But the 40 R 5G has the good sense to offer a refresh at 90 Hz, while the 408 is confined to 60 Hz.
The size of the two smartphones is identical, with dimensions of 164.46 x 75.4 x 8.99 cm for a weight of approximately 190 g. Even the battery is identical, with 5000 mAh as well as a 10 W charge. The 40 R 5G can support 15 W with a power delivery block. The main module, 50 megapixels, is accompanied by a depth sensor of 2 megapixels on both models. Only the 40 R 5G stands out once again by sporting a 2 megapixel sensor dedicated to macro. We wonder where the ultra wide-angle module is, which would have been much more relevant, especially against the competition. At the front, 40 R 5G like 408 have an 8-megapixel module.
The real difference lies in the platform used. If they are both equipped at MediaTek, the 40 R 5G adopts the Dimensity 700 while the 408 opts for the MT6762. The two SoCs are each paired with 4 GB of RAM as well as 64 or 128 GB of internal storage.
The 40 R 5G model is already available in Europe for €219. The TCL 408 will be available during the first quarter of 2023 for €139. Two models that could very well be found among operators, as has been the case for certain previous models.