Alcatel 1S (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 1S (2021) is an entry-level smartphone that packs a punch. With its sleek design and affordable price tag, it offers a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. The device features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display, providing a vibrant and immersive viewing experience. Powered by a Mediatek Helio P22 processor and coupled with 3GB of RAM, it delivers smooth performance for day-to-day tasks. The triple camera setup on the rear, including a 13MP main camera, enables users to capture stunning photos and videos. The device also comes with a fingerprint sensor for added security. With its attractive price of around 130 EUR, the Alcatel 1S (2021) is certainly worth considering for those seeking a reliable and affordable smartphone option.

Design and Build Quality

The Alcatel 1S (2021) boasts a design that is both simple and functional. With its dimensions of 165.6 x 75.6 x 8.8 mm (6.52 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) and weight of 190 g (6.70 oz), the phone feels sleek and compact in the hand. It features a glass front, plastic back, and plastic frame, which gives it a lightweight feel without compromising on durability. The device is available in Elegant Black and Twilight Blue, offering options for users with different preferences.

In terms of aesthetics, the Alcatel 1S (2021) presents a clean and modern look. The 6.52-inch IPS LCD display dominates the front, with slim bezels that maximize the screen-to-body ratio, coming in at approximately 82%. This allows for an immersive viewing experience, whether you are browsing the web, watching videos, or playing games. The resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and 20:9 aspect ratio provide decent clarity and sharpness, although it may not offer the same level of detail as higher-end smartphones.

When it comes to ergonomics and comfort, the Alcatel 1S (2021) does a decent job. The size of the device allows for easy one-handed use, and the placement of the physical buttons is convenient and intuitive. The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor is well-positioned, ensuring quick and secure access to the phone. Additionally, the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome feature for those who still prefer wired audio connectivity.

In terms of durability and construction, the Alcatel 1S (2021) is built to withstand daily usage. While the phone's plastic construction may not offer the same premium feel as devices with glass or metal bodies, it does contribute to its lightweight nature. The materials used are sturdy enough to withstand minor bumps and scratches, although a protective case is still recommended for added protection. Overall, the Alcatel 1S (2021) strikes a balance between design, functionality, and affordability, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable entry-level smartphone.

Display

The Alcatel 1S (2021) features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and an aspect ratio of 20:9. The screen size provides a decent viewing experience, allowing for comfortable browsing, media consumption, and gaming. Although the resolution may not be the sharpest in its class, with a pixel density of approximately 269 ppi, it still offers acceptable clarity for everyday use.

In terms of color accuracy and vibrancy, the display of the Alcatel 1S (2021) performs adequately. While it may not offer the same level of color reproduction as more advanced OLED technology, it still delivers decent saturation and clarity for an entry-level smartphone. Additionally, the display offers good brightness levels, ensuring visibility even in well-lit environments.

Outdoor visibility is reasonable, although direct sunlight may pose some challenges due to the lack of an anti-reflective coating. However, the Alcatel 1S (2021) does not offer any specific features like HDR or wide color gamut support, which are typically found in higher-end devices.

The viewing angles of the display are satisfactory, allowing for comfortable sharing of content with others. Although the device does not feature a notch design, it does have noticeable bezels that may affect the overall screen-to-body ratio. This may be a consideration for those who prefer a more immersive, bezel-less display.

The Alcatel 1S (2021) does not offer an always-on display feature, but it does include a blue light filter to reduce eye strain during prolonged usage. Additionally, the device features adaptive brightness, which adjusts the screen brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.

Overall, the display of the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a satisfactory visual experience for its price range, with decent size and clarity. While it may not have the most advanced display technology or additional features, it provides a functional and usable screen for everyday tasks.

Performance

The Alcatel 1S (2021) is powered by the Mediatek MT6762D Helio P22 chipset, which offers decent performance for an entry-level smartphone. The octa-core processor consists of four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz and four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.5 GHz. This combination allows for smooth multitasking and app loading speeds, ensuring a lag-free user experience.

In terms of GPU performance, the Alcatel 1S (2021) features the PowerVR GE8320 GPU. While not the most powerful GPU on the market, it is capable of handling basic gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. Gaming capabilities on this device are adequate for casual gaming, but it may struggle with more demanding games that require higher graphics settings.

When it comes to benchmark tests, the Alcatel 1S (2021) performs reasonably well for its price range. In synthetic benchmarks, it achieves average scores, reflecting its entry-level status. However, it's important to note that synthetic benchmarks don't necessarily translate to real-world performance, so it's always best to consider real-life usage scenarios.

The processor efficiency of the Alcatel 1S (2021) is commendable, as it utilizes a 12nm manufacturing process. This contributes to better power management and thermal control, resulting in optimized system performance and improved battery life. The device is equipped with a non-removable 4000 mAh battery, which provides a decent amount of usage time before requiring a recharge.

In terms of gaming benchmarks, the Alcatel 1S (2021) may not deliver the highest graphics scores compared to more high-end smartphones. However, it still manages to provide a satisfactory gaming experience for casual gamers. It is capable of running popular games with moderate graphics settings, ensuring a smooth gameplay experience.

Overall, the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a decent level of performance for an entry-level smartphone. Its chipset and GPU provide adequate processing power and gaming capabilities for everyday tasks and casual gaming. While it may not excel in benchmark tests or handle demanding games with ease, it delivers a smooth user experience, thanks to its system optimization and thermal management. Considering its affordable price point, the Alcatel 1S (2021) is a suitable option for budget-conscious users looking for a reliable smartphone that meets their basic performance needs.

Software and User Interface

The Alcatel 1S (2021) runs on the Android 11 operating system, providing users with the latest software experience. This ensures that users have access to the most up-to-date features and security patches. The device comes with a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it suitable for both tech-savvy users and those new to smartphones.

In terms of customization, the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a range of options to personalize the device to suit individual preferences. Users can choose from different wallpapers, themes, and icon packs to give their device a unique look. Additionally, the device allows for customization of the home screen layout and app organization, allowing users to arrange their apps in a way that is convenient for them.

When it comes to pre-installed apps, the Alcatel 1S (2021) comes with a selection of useful apps out of the box. These include essential apps such as a calculator, calendar, and file manager, as well as popular social media and messaging apps. While some users may find these apps useful, others may consider them as bloatware if they prefer to use alternative apps.

The Android 11 operating system on the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a smooth and responsive performance, allowing users to multitask and switch between apps effortlessly. The device is powered by a MediaTek MT6762D Helio P22 chipset and an octa-core processor, providing adequate power for everyday tasks.

Overall, the software on the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a user-friendly experience with a range of customization options. The device comes with essential pre-installed apps, although some users may consider them as bloatware. With the latest Android 11 operating system, users can expect a smooth and responsive performance on this entry-level smartphone.

Camera

The Alcatel 1S (2021) comes equipped with a triple camera setup, including a 13 megapixel main camera with an aperture of f/2.0 and a focal length of 27mm. The camera also features a 2 megapixel macro lens and a 2 megapixel depth sensor. The main camera captures images with decent sharpness and detail, especially in well-lit conditions such as daylight photography. It produces natural colors and has a good dynamic range, ensuring that highlights and shadows are well-balanced. However, in low-light situations, the camera's performance is average, with some noise and reduced sharpness. The phone does have a night mode that helps enhance low-light sensitivity and reduce noise, but it falls short of delivering exceptional results. The camera offers various modes and features, including portrait mode, HDR, and panorama mode, allowing users to experiment with different shooting styles. Additionally, the device supports video recording, but only up to 1080p resolution, lacking 4K video capabilities. Video stabilization is present, ensuring smoother footage, and slow-motion and time-lapse modes are also available. Overall, the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a decent camera system for everyday photography needs, particularly in well-lit environments.

Battery Life

Connectivity and Networking

The Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a decent range of connectivity options to keep you connected on the go. It supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE network compatibility, allowing you to access fast data speeds and stay connected in areas with good network coverage. With its 4G LTE capability, you can enjoy smooth browsing, streaming, and downloading experiences. Additionally, the device supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n standards, enabling you to connect to Wi-Fi networks and enjoy fast internet speeds when available. The Bluetooth 5.0 version provides a reliable and efficient wireless connection for connecting to other devices, such as headphones or speakers. Although the Alcatel 1S (2021) lacks NFC capabilities, it compensates for it with a microUSB 2.0 port, which allows for charging and data transfer. The device also features a dual SIM card slot, allowing you to use two different SIM cards simultaneously for added convenience. Furthermore, the inclusion of GPS and GLONASS ensures accurate navigation and location tracking. Overall, the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a good range of connectivity options to keep you connected and entertained throughout your day.

Additional Features

The Alcatel 1S (2021) comes with a range of additional features that enhance its functionality and user experience. One notable feature is its expandable storage capability, thanks to the microSD card slot. This allows users to easily increase the device's storage capacity, providing more room for apps, photos, videos, and other files.

In terms of connectivity, the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers dual SIM functionality, enabling users to use two SIM cards simultaneously. This is especially convenient for individuals who want to separate personal and work contacts or for those who frequently travel and need to use local SIM cards.

The device also includes a variety of sensors, including an accelerometer, which detects the device's movement and orientation. This sensor is particularly useful for gaming and auto-rotation features. Additionally, the Alcatel 1S (2021) features other advanced sensors, such as a proximity sensor and a compass, which further enhance its functionality and user experience.

While the Alcatel 1S (2021) does not offer water resistance or wireless charging capabilities, it provides users with practical features like expandable storage, dual SIM functionality, and a range of sensors that cater to their everyday needs.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Alcatel 1S (2021) is an entry-level smartphone that competes with other budget-friendly devices in the market. When comparing it to related gadgets, it becomes evident that the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers competitive features and specifications at its price point.

In terms of market positioning, the Alcatel 1S (2021) stands out as an affordable option for consumers looking for a budget-friendly smartphone. It competes with devices such as the Samsung Galaxy A02s, Xiaomi Redmi 9A, and Motorola Moto E7, which are also known for their affordability and entry-level specifications.

Feature-wise, the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display, which is on par with its competitors. Its triple rear camera setup, consisting of a 13 MP main camera, 2 MP macro lens, and 2 MP depth sensor, provides decent photography capabilities in good lighting conditions. However, it may struggle in low-light situations compared to devices with more advanced camera systems.

In terms of performance, the Alcatel 1S (2021) is powered by the MediaTek Helio P22 chipset, which is commonly found in entry-level smartphones. While it may not offer the same level of performance as higher-end devices, it is sufficient for everyday tasks such as web browsing, social media, and light gaming.

When it comes to price, the Alcatel 1S (2021) offers good value for money. Priced at around 130 EUR, it competes favorably with similar devices in terms of affordability. Its competitive pricing strategy allows it to attract budget-conscious consumers who prioritize affordability over high-end features.

In terms of competitive advantage, the Alcatel 1S (2021) differentiates itself through its affordable price point and decent specifications. While it may not have standout features compared to higher-end devices, it offers a cost-effective option for consumers who are looking for a basic smartphone experience without breaking the bank.

Overall, the Alcatel 1S (2021) competes well in the budget smartphone segment, offering a balance between affordability and decent specifications. While it may not have the same level of performance or advanced features as higher-end devices, it provides a viable option for consumers who are on a tight budget and prioritize value for money.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Alcatel 1S (2021) is an entry-level smartphone that offers a decent set of features at an affordable price. With its large display and sleek design, it provides a good viewing experience. The device runs on Android 11 and is powered by a MediaTek Helio P22 processor, which ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks. The triple camera setup captures decent photos, and the 5MP front camera is suitable for selfies. Additionally, the phone has a fingerprint sensor for added security. While it may not compete with higher-end smartphones, the Alcatel 1S (2021) is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable device.