TCL launches a new range of smartphones, the TCL 40. Three phones inaugurate the range: the TCL 40 R 5G, TCL 40 SE and TCL 408.
In addition to new headphones, augmented reality glasses and 2-in-1 PCs, TCL announced at CES 2023 three new smartphones. Clearly positioned on the entry level, we can never advise you enough to read their technical data sheet before making the purchase. We explain why.
TCL 40 R 5G: when the most equipped is already picked up
The first is called TCL 40 R 5G. As its name suggests, it has a 5G chip, the Dimensity 700 from MediaTek. This is engraved in 7 nm, so we are far from the very latest technology in force, but it is an entry-level smartphone, let’s remember. It also only has 4 GB of RAM.
The screen is in tune since there is a 6.6-inch LCD panel in 90 Hz only with HD + definition. Difficult in 2023 to recommend a device with such a low pixel density.
To complete the picture, it comes with Android 12 and will only include one major update, to Android 13 therefore. Barely announced, already obsolete, it’s a bit of a shame. We spare you the rest of the configuration, you will understand, avoid this smartphone, even at 219 euros, it cannot be recommended.
Cheaper, but no less interesting, the TCL 40 SE
The other two devices are even cheaper. The TCL 40 SE is sold for 169 euros and the TCL 408 for 139 euros. They will both be available from the first quarter. And in a pinch, they will probably be better suited to small budgets.
The TCL 40 SE runs on a MediaTek Helio G37 chip and comes with Android 13. Yes, you read that right, the smartphone may be cheaper, but it comes with a newer software experience. Well, it will never be updated to Android 14, of course, but for 170 euros why not? Be careful however, 4G is no longer appropriate. It also incorporates an HD + screen in 90 Hz, but slightly larger with 6.75 inches. Its 5000 mAh battery should easily last two days with such a screen and such a chip.
For even tighter budgets, TCL is launching the 408, but we would really advise you to go your way. The phone is sold under Android 12 with a MediaTek 6762 chip which should have a hard time keeping up with modern uses. Refreshing the 6.6-inch HD+ screen drops to 60 Hz.
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