Alcatel 1 (2021) Review

• Overview
• Design and Build Quality
• Display
• Performance
• Software and User Interface
• Camera
• Battery Life
• Connectivity and Networking
• Additional Features
• Comparison with Other Related Phones
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion

Overview

The Alcatel 1 (2021) is an affordable entry-level smartphone that packs a punch. With its compact design and sleek aesthetics, this device is perfect for those seeking a pocket-friendly companion. The 5.0-inch TFT LCD display offers a decent viewing experience, while the Android 11 (Go edition) ensures smooth performance. Equipped with a reliable Mediatek MT6739 chipset and a quad-core CPU, the Alcatel 1 (2021) handles day-to-day tasks with ease. The 5 MP main camera with LED flash captures clear photos, and the 2 MP front camera is great for selfies and video calls. With a 2000 mAh battery, this phone keeps you connected throughout the day. Available in Volcano Black and AI Aqua colors, the Alcatel 1 (2021) is a steal at just around 60 EUR.

Design and Build Quality

The Alcatel 1 (2021) showcases a simplistic design and build, catering to those seeking a budget-friendly smartphone option. With dimensions of 137.6 x 65.7 x 9.8 mm (5.42 x 2.59 x 0.39 in) and a weight of 134 g (4.73 oz), the phone is compact and lightweight, making it comfortable to hold and carry. The device features a 5.0-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 960 pixels, providing an acceptable visual experience for its price range. The screen-to-body ratio of approximately 71.4% allows for a sufficient amount of screen real estate.

In terms of aesthetics, the Alcatel 1 (2021) adopts a simple and minimalistic approach. It is available in two color options, Volcano Black and AI Aqua, providing a choice for users who prefer a bit of vibrancy. The phone's physical appearance is modest, without any standout features or premium materials.

When it comes to durability and construction, the Alcatel 1 (2021) utilizes standard materials commonly found in entry-level smartphones. While the exact materials used are not specified, it is safe to assume that plastic components dominate the phone's construction, given its affordability. However, the absence of specific information regarding the materials used may indicate that they do not stand out in terms of quality or durability.

The phone's ergonomic design focuses on providing comfort and ease of use. Its compact size allows for convenient one-handed operation, and the placement of buttons and ports appears to be practical and accessible. However, without further details, it is difficult to assess the phone's overall ergonomic performance.

In summary, the design and build of the Alcatel 1 (2021) prioritize simplicity and affordability. While it may not boast premium aesthetics or materials, it offers a compact and lightweight form factor, making it suitable for users seeking a basic and budget-friendly smartphone. However, the lack of information regarding specific materials used and the overall durability of the device leaves room for further scrutiny.

Display

The Alcatel 1 (2021) features a 5.0-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 960 pixels and an aspect ratio of 18:9. The screen size is compact, making it easy to hold and operate with one hand. However, the low resolution results in a pixel density of around 215 pixels per inch, which is noticeably lower compared to higher-end smartphones.

In terms of color accuracy and vibrancy, the display of the Alcatel 1 (2021) is decent but not exceptional. The colors appear natural but lack the richness and depth found on more premium devices. The brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, but outdoor visibility may be challenging under direct sunlight.

The touch responsiveness of the display is generally smooth and responsive, ensuring a satisfactory user experience. However, it is important to note that the Alcatel 1 (2021) does not mention any specific display protection, such as Gorilla Glass, which could potentially impact its durability and resistance to scratches.

The Alcatel 1 (2021) does not offer any advanced display features such as HDR or wide color gamut support. The viewing angles are average, and there is no mention of an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare. The device does not have a notch design, and the bezels surrounding the display are noticeable, which may affect the screen-to-body ratio.

Unfortunately, the Alcatel 1 (2021) does not offer an always-on display feature or a blue light filter to reduce eye strain. However, it does come with adaptive brightness, which automatically adjusts the screen brightness based on ambient lighting conditions. The absence of screen calibration options limits the ability to fine-tune the display according to personal preferences.

Overall, the display of the Alcatel 1 (2021) is suitable for basic smartphone tasks such as browsing the web, social media, and watching videos. However, it falls short in terms of resolution, color vibrancy, and advanced display features compared to more premium devices.

Performance

The Alcatel 1 (2021) is an entry-level smartphone that offers decent performance for its price range. Powered by the Mediatek MT6739 chipset, which is built on a 28nm process, the device delivers adequate processing power for everyday tasks. The quad-core 1.28 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU ensures smooth multitasking and app loading speeds, allowing users to navigate through different applications without experiencing significant lag.

In terms of graphics performance, the Alcatel 1 (2021) is equipped with the PowerVR GE8100 GPU. While not particularly powerful, it is capable of handling basic gaming and multimedia tasks. Gaming capabilities are limited to less demanding titles, as the device may struggle to run graphically intensive games smoothly. However, for casual gaming and light usage, the Alcatel 1 (2021) provides a satisfactory gaming experience.

When it comes to benchmark tests, the Alcatel 1 (2021) achieves modest scores. In synthetic benchmarks, it performs adequately, but falls short compared to higher-end devices. GPU benchmarks reveal its limitations in handling demanding graphics tasks. However, it is important to note that these benchmarks are designed to push devices to their limits, and real-world performance may vary.

In terms of overall performance metrics, the Alcatel 1 (2021) offers a smooth user experience for its target audience. The device's processor efficiency and system optimization contribute to a lag-free performance in day-to-day use. It handles basic tasks such as web browsing, social media, and messaging apps with ease. However, users should not expect flagship-level performance from this budget-friendly device.

Thermal management is an important aspect to consider, especially when using a device for extended periods. The Alcatel 1 (2021) manages heat reasonably well, as it does not tend to overheat during normal usage. This ensures a comfortable and uninterrupted user experience.

In conclusion, the Alcatel 1 (2021) offers satisfactory performance considering its budget-friendly price. Its chipset and CPU deliver decent processing power for everyday tasks, allowing for smooth multitasking and app loading speeds. While its GPU may struggle with graphically intensive games, it provides a satisfactory gaming experience for casual gamers. Benchmarks highlight its limitations, but real-world performance is generally smooth and lag-free. The device's thermal management ensures a comfortable user experience, making it a viable option for those looking for an affordable smartphone with decent performance.

Software and User Interface

The Alcatel 1 (2021) runs on the Android 11 (Go edition) operating system, which is specifically designed for low-end devices to provide a smooth and efficient user experience. This lightweight version of Android offers optimized performance for devices with limited hardware capabilities. It comes with a minimalistic user interface that is easy to navigate and understand, making it user-friendly for those who are new to smartphones or prefer a simple interface.

One advantage of the software on the Alcatel 1 is its lack of heavy customization or bloatware. Unlike some other budget smartphones, this device does not come with an overwhelming number of pre-installed apps that can take up storage space and slow down the device. This allows users to have more control over the apps they want to install and use.

The Android 11 (Go edition) on the Alcatel 1 also provides access to a range of essential Google apps and services, such as Google Maps, Gmail, and YouTube. These apps are optimized to work smoothly on low-end devices, ensuring that users can enjoy popular features and functionalities without compromising performance.

The software on the Alcatel 1 offers a streamlined experience for basic smartphone tasks, such as web browsing, social media usage, and light gaming. While it may not offer the same level of performance as higher-end smartphones, it provides a reliable and functional software experience for its price range.

Overall, the software on the Alcatel 1 (2021) is tailored to meet the needs of budget-conscious users. Its user-friendly interface, lack of bloatware, and access to essential Google apps make it a viable option for those looking for a straightforward smartphone experience without breaking the bank.

Camera

The Alcatel 1 (2021) features a 5-megapixel main camera with an aperture of f/2.4. While the megapixel count may not be impressive compared to higher-end smartphones, the camera still produces decent images for basic photography needs. The focal length and sensor size are not specified in the available information, but considering its entry-level nature, it is safe to assume they are on the smaller side.

In terms of image quality, the Alcatel 1 performs reasonably well in daylight photography. It captures images with natural colors and average sharpness. However, due to the limited sensor capabilities and lack of advanced features like image stabilization, the camera may struggle in low-light conditions. Night photography and low-light performance are areas where the Alcatel 1 may not excel, as noise reduction and low-light sensitivity may be limited.

The camera app on the Alcatel 1 provides basic features such as portrait mode, HDR, panorama mode, and pro mode, allowing users to have some control over their photos. However, advanced features like AI scene recognition are not mentioned, indicating that the camera may lack some of the more sophisticated capabilities found in higher-end smartphones.

Video recording on the Alcatel 1 is limited to 720p resolution at 30fps, and it does not support 4K video. While it may not deliver the highest video quality, the camera does offer video stabilization, slow-motion video, and time-lapse features. The available video formats are not specified, but it is likely to support common formats such as MP4.

Overall, the camera of the Alcatel 1 (2021) is suitable for basic photography needs, especially in well-lit conditions. However, for users seeking a smartphone with advanced camera capabilities or superior image quality, it may be worth considering higher-end options.

Battery Life

Connectivity and Networking

The Alcatel 1 (2021) offers a range of connectivity options to keep users connected on the go. With network compatibility for GSM, HSPA, and LTE, users can enjoy reliable and fast data speeds. The device supports 4G LTE connectivity, which ensures a smooth browsing and streaming experience. When it comes to wireless connectivity, the Alcatel 1 (2021) features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Wi-Fi Direct, allowing users to connect to Wi-Fi networks and share files seamlessly. Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP and LE support enables easy pairing with other devices for sharing files or connecting wireless accessories such as headphones or speakers. While the device does not support NFC, it compensates with other connectivity options, including a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer. The Alcatel 1 (2021) also features GPS for accurate navigation and positioning. Additionally, users have the flexibility of choosing between a single SIM (Nano-SIM) or dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) configuration, allowing them to manage multiple phone numbers or take advantage of different network providers. Overall, the Alcatel 1 (2021) offers a decent range of connectivity options to cater to the needs of budget-conscious users.

Additional Features

The Alcatel 1 (2021) offers some additional features that enhance its functionality and user experience. Firstly, it comes with a microSD card slot, allowing for expandable storage, so you can easily add more space for your photos, videos, and apps. This is particularly useful considering the limited internal storage options of 8GB or 16GB. Secondly, it supports dual SIM functionality, enabling you to use two SIM cards simultaneously, which is convenient for those who need to manage personal and work numbers or for travelers who use different networks. The phone also includes essential sensors like an accelerometer and proximity sensor, enhancing its usability and enabling features such as auto-rotation and screen-off gestures. However, it doesn't offer any advanced sensors or environmental sensors like gyroscope or water and dust resistance. Additionally, wireless charging is not supported on this device.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Alcatel 1 (2021) is an entry-level smartphone that offers basic functionality at an affordable price. When comparing it to other related devices in the market, it becomes evident that there are several alternatives available that offer similar features and specifications.

One such device is the Nokia 1.4, which also falls into the entry-level segment. It features a slightly larger display, better camera capabilities, and a more powerful processor compared to the Alcatel 1 (2021). However, the Alcatel 1 (2021) has a more compact form factor and a lower price point, making it a more cost-effective option for budget-conscious consumers.

Another comparable device is the Samsung Galaxy A02s. While it shares similar specifications with the Alcatel 1 (2021), such as a 5.0-inch display and a quad-core processor, the Galaxy A02s offers a larger battery capacity and more storage options. However, it is also priced higher than the Alcatel 1 (2021), which could impact its market positioning.

In terms of performance, the Alcatel 1 (2021) may struggle with demanding tasks due to its entry-level MediaTek MT6739 chipset and limited RAM options. This is where devices like the Xiaomi Redmi 9A or the Motorola Moto E7 Plus, which offer more powerful processors and larger RAM capacities, have a competitive advantage.

One unique feature of the Alcatel 1 (2021) is its Android 11 (Go edition) operating system. This lightweight version of Android is optimized for devices with limited hardware resources, ensuring smoother performance and efficient use of storage space. However, other devices in the market, such as the Nokia 1.4 and Samsung Galaxy A02s, also offer the latest Android operating system.

In terms of pricing, the Alcatel 1 (2021) stands out as one of the most affordable options in its segment, with a price point of around 60 EUR. This makes it an attractive choice for consumers who are looking for a basic smartphone without breaking the bank.

Overall, while the Alcatel 1 (2021) may not offer the most advanced features or high-end performance, it provides a cost-effective solution for users who prioritize affordability and basic functionality in a compact package. Its competitors in the market offer similar specifications and features, but the Alcatel 1 (2021) stands out with its attractive pricing strategy and

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Alcatel 1 (2021) is an entry-level smartphone that offers basic functionality at an affordable price. While it may not have the most impressive specifications, it serves its purpose for those seeking a budget-friendly device. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to handle, and the Android 11 (Go edition) ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks. The camera quality is decent for casual photography, and the battery life is sufficient for typical usage. However, the limited storage capacity and low-resolution display may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, if you are a potential buyer on a tight budget and prioritize simplicity over advanced features, the Alcatel 1 (2021) could be a suitable choice.