Alcatel 1x (2019) 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 1x (2019) is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers a surprisingly impressive set of features. With its sleek design and compact size, it's perfect for those who prefer a smaller device. The 5.5-inch IPS LCD display provides vibrant colors and sharp visuals, while the dual rear camera setup captures decent photos with its 13 MP and 2 MP sensors. The device runs on Android 8.1 (Oreo) and is powered by a quad-core processor, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks. The Alcatel 1x (2019) also offers expandable storage and a removable 3000 mAh battery. With a price tag of around 120 EUR, it's an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Design and Build Quality

The Alcatel 1x (2019) showcases a compact and sleek design that is aesthetically pleasing. With its slim profile and dimensions of 146.4 x 68.8 x 8.3 mm (5.76 x 2.71 x 0.33 in), it is comfortable to hold and operate with one hand. The device weighs a mere 130g (4.59 oz), making it lightweight and easy to carry around. Its physical appearance exudes simplicity, yet it still manages to look modern and stylish.

In terms of materials used, the Alcatel 1x (2019) features a plastic body construction. While some may prefer a more premium material, the use of plastic contributes to its lightweight nature and affordability. The device comes in two color options, Pebble Blue and Pebble Black, adding a touch of personalization to the overall design.

Ergonomically, the Alcatel 1x (2019) is well-designed, with buttons and ports conveniently placed for easy accessibility. The power button and volume rocker are located on the right side of the device, within reach of the thumb or fingers. The device also incorporates a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor (available on the 5008T model) for added security and convenience.

When it comes to durability, the Alcatel 1x (2019) is built to withstand everyday use. While it may not have the ruggedness of higher-end devices, it still offers a level of durability suitable for its price range. The removable 3000mAh Li-Ion battery ensures that users can easily replace it if needed, extending the device's lifespan.

Overall, the Alcatel 1x (2019) boasts a well-crafted design and build that combines simplicity, comfort, and durability. While it may not have the premium materials of more expensive smartphones, it offers an affordable option for those seeking a reliable device with a modern aesthetic.

Display

The Alcatel 1x (2019) features a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display, offering a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 77.5%. With a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels and a pixel density of around 293 ppi, it delivers decent clarity and sharpness for everyday use. The 18:9 aspect ratio provides a taller screen, allowing for more content to be displayed vertically.

While the display uses LCD technology instead of OLED, it still offers satisfactory color accuracy and vibrancy. The brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, although outdoor visibility might be slightly compromised under direct sunlight.

The touch responsiveness of the display is reliable, ensuring smooth navigation and effortless interaction with the device. Unfortunately, there is no mention of any specific display protection such as Gorilla Glass, which could help safeguard the screen against scratches and accidental drops.

The Alcatel 1x (2019) does not support features like HDR (High Dynamic Range) or wide color gamut, which are typically found in higher-end devices. However, it does offer decent viewing angles, allowing for comfortable viewing from different perspectives.

There is no mention of an always-on display feature, but the device does offer a blue light filter to reduce eye strain during nighttime use. Adaptive brightness is also supported, automatically adjusting the screen brightness according to the surrounding lighting conditions.

Overall, the Alcatel 1x (2019) offers an entry-level display that satisfies basic viewing needs. While it may not have the most advanced display technologies or high-end features, it provides a satisfactory visual experience considering its price range.

Performance

The Alcatel 1x (2019) is powered by the Mediatek MT6739 chipset, which features a quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and a PowerVR GE8100 GPU. This combination ensures a decent level of performance for everyday tasks and light usage. In terms of CPU benchmarks, the Alcatel 1x (2019) achieves satisfactory scores, but it may struggle with more demanding applications and multitasking.

When it comes to gaming capabilities, the Alcatel 1x (2019) offers a satisfactory gaming experience for casual gamers. The PowerVR GE8100 GPU provides decent graphics scores in synthetic benchmarks, allowing for smooth gameplay in less demanding games. However, it may struggle with graphically intensive games that require higher processing power.

In terms of overall performance, the Alcatel 1x (2019) provides a smooth user experience for day-to-day tasks. App loading speeds are generally fast, and the system optimization contributes to a lag-free performance in most cases. However, it is important to note that heavy multitasking or running multiple resource-intensive applications simultaneously may impact the smoothness of the user experience.

Thermal management is another aspect to consider when evaluating the performance of the Alcatel 1x (2019). During benchmark tests and extended usage, the device does not exhibit significant heating issues, which is a positive indicator of efficient thermal management.

While the Alcatel 1x (2019) may not be a powerhouse in terms of performance, it offers a satisfactory level of performance for its price range. The processor efficiency and GPU efficiency contribute to a decent overall performance, especially considering the device's affordable price point.

In conclusion, the Alcatel 1x (2019) provides a decent level of performance for everyday tasks and light usage. Its chipset performance, CPU benchmarks, and GPU benchmarks indicate satisfactory performance for casual gaming and day-to-day tasks. The device offers a smooth user experience, with fast app loading speeds and generally lag-free performance. However, it may struggle with more demanding applications and multitasking. Overall, the Alcatel 1x (2019) is a suitable choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize affordability over high-end performance.

Software and User Interface

The Alcatel 1x (2019) runs on the Android 8.1 (Oreo) operating system. This version of Android provides a stable and reliable platform for the device. However, it is worth noting that the device does not come with the latest version of Android, which could be a drawback for some users who prefer the latest features and security updates.

In terms of customization, the Alcatel 1x (2019) offers a limited level of customization options. While it does not have a stock Android interface, it does come with a few pre-installed apps and features that are specific to Alcatel. Some users may appreciate these additional features, while others may consider them bloatware.

The user interface of the Alcatel 1x (2019) is generally user-friendly and intuitive. The device offers a standard Android interface with easy-to-navigate menus and settings. Users should have no trouble finding their way around the device and accessing the apps and features they need.

One aspect to consider is the limited storage capacity of the device. With only 16GB of internal storage, users may quickly run out of space, especially if they install additional apps or store media files. However, the device does support expandable storage through a microSDXC card slot, providing an option to increase storage capacity.

Overall, the software experience on the Alcatel 1x (2019) is decent, considering its price range. While it may not offer the latest Android version or extensive customization options, it provides a user-friendly interface and a stable operating system. It is important to note that individual experiences may vary, and users should consider their specific needs and preferences before making a purchasing decision.

Camera

The Alcatel 1x (2019) comes equipped with a dual camera setup, featuring a 13 MP main camera and a 2 MP depth sensor. With its 13 MP resolution, the camera delivers decent image quality, capturing details with satisfactory sharpness. The camera performs well in daylight photography, producing images with accurate colors and good dynamic range. It also offers various camera features including portrait mode, HDR, and panorama mode, allowing users to experiment and enhance their photography skills.

In terms of low-light performance, the Alcatel 1x (2019) struggles a bit due to its smaller aperture and limited sensor size. While it does have a night mode and noise reduction capabilities, the overall low-light sensitivity may not be on par with higher-end smartphones. However, the camera still manages to capture usable photos in well-lit indoor environments.

When it comes to video recording, the Alcatel 1x (2019) supports up to 1080p video recording at 30fps. While it lacks 4K video capabilities, it does offer video stabilization, allowing for smoother footage. Additionally, users can enjoy features like slow-motion video, time-lapse, and various video formats to cater to their creative needs.

Overall, the camera of the Alcatel 1x (2019) provides a satisfactory photography experience, especially considering its affordable price point. While it may not offer the same level of performance as high-end smartphones, it still manages to deliver decent image quality for everyday photography needs.

Battery Life

Connectivity and Networking

The Alcatel 1x (2019) offers a decent range of connectivity options to keep you connected on the go. It supports 4G LTE network compatibility, allowing for fast data speeds and reliable internet connectivity. The device also features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, providing a reliable wireless internet connection. Bluetooth 4.2 is available for seamless wireless data transfer and connectivity with other devices such as headphones or speakers. Unfortunately, NFC is not supported on this device, so contactless payments or quick pairing with compatible devices may not be possible. The Alcatel 1x (2019) also comes with a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer. It does not support USB-C, which may be a drawback for those who prefer newer, faster charging options. Additionally, the device supports dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use two SIM cards simultaneously. This can be convenient for those who need to separate personal and work contacts or for frequent travelers. GPS is also available for accurate navigation, and the device can serve as a mobile hotspot, enabling you to share your internet connection with other devices. Overall, the Alcatel 1x (2019) offers a decent range of connectivity options, although it may lack some of the newer features such as NFC and USB-C.

Additional Features

The Alcatel 1x (2019) offers a range of additional features that enhance its functionality and user experience. Firstly, it comes with a microSD card slot, allowing for storage expansion, which is particularly useful for those who require additional space for their apps, photos, and videos. The device also supports dual SIM functionality, enabling users to use two SIM cards simultaneously, making it convenient for those who want to separate their personal and professional contacts or use different networks. In terms of sensors, the Alcatel 1x (2019) is equipped with an accelerometer, which detects motion and orientation, and a proximity sensor, which detects when the phone is close to the user's face during a call. These sensors enhance the device's usability and enable certain features and gestures. However, it does not feature water resistance, dust resistance, or wireless charging capabilities.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Alcatel 1x (2019) is an entry-level smartphone that offers a range of features at an affordable price point. When comparing it to other related devices in the market, it becomes apparent that it faces tough competition from other budget-friendly smartphones.

One of its competitors is the Nokia 2.2, which offers a similar specification at a similar price. Both devices come with a 5.5-inch display and run on Android 8.1 (Oreo). However, the Nokia 2.2 has a slightly better chipset, the Mediatek Helio A22, compared to the Alcatel 1x's Mediatek MT6739. This gives the Nokia device a slight edge in terms of performance.

Another comparable device is the Xiaomi Redmi 6A, which also falls in the same price range. The Redmi 6A features a 5.45-inch display and runs on Android 8.1 (Oreo). It is powered by a Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, which is similar to the Nokia 2.2. In terms of camera performance, the Redmi 6A offers a 13MP rear camera, which is on par with the Alcatel 1x.

When it comes to market positioning, the Alcatel 1x (2019) aims to provide a budget-friendly option for users who are looking for a smartphone with basic features. Its affordable price tag makes it an attractive choice for those on a tight budget.

In terms of unique features, the Alcatel 1x stands out with its rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, which is not commonly found in devices in this price range. This provides an added layer of security for users.

Overall, the Alcatel 1x (2019) offers decent specifications and features for its price. However, it faces tough competition from other budget-friendly smartphones in the market, such as the Nokia 2.2 and Xiaomi Redmi 6A. Users looking for a basic smartphone with a budget-friendly price may find the Alcatel 1x to be a suitable option.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Alcatel 1x (2019) offers an affordable entry-level smartphone experience. With its compact size and lightweight design, it is comfortable to hold and carry around. The 5.5-inch IPS LCD display provides decent visuals, although the resolution could be sharper. The performance is satisfactory for basic usage tasks, thanks to the quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM. The camera setup, including the dual rear cameras, delivers acceptable image quality for its price range. The inclusion of a removable 3000mAh battery is a nice addition. However, the outdated Android 8.1 (Oreo) operating system is a drawback. Overall, if you are on a tight budget and prioritize basic smartphone functionalities, the Alcatel 1x (2019) is worth considering.