Alcatel 3X (2020) 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 3X (2020) is a feature-packed smartphone that offers an impressive array of functionalities at an affordable price. With its sleek design and vibrant 6.52-inch IPS LCD display, this device is perfect for media consumption and gaming. Powered by the reliable Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 chipset and 4GB or 6GB of RAM, it ensures smooth performance and efficient multitasking. The quad-camera setup on the rear, including a 16MP main lens and a 5MP ultrawide lens, captures stunning photos and videos. Additionally, the massive 5000mAh battery provides long-lasting usage. Available in black and blue variants, the Alcatel 3X (2020) is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet feature-rich smartphone.

Design and Build Quality

The Alcatel 3X (2020) features a design that is pleasing to the eye with its sleek and modern physical appearance. It has a glass front and a plastic back and frame, which not only adds to its aesthetics but also ensures a lightweight construction. The device measures 165 x 75 x 9.1 mm (6.50 x 2.95 x 0.36 in) and weighs 186g (6.56 oz), making it comfortable to hold and carry around.

The Alcatel 3X (2020) sports a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels, resulting in a decent pixel density of approximately 269 ppi. While the resolution may not be the highest in its class, the display still offers vibrant colors and good viewing angles. The 20:9 aspect ratio allows for a taller screen, providing an immersive multimedia experience.

In terms of durability, the Alcatel 3X (2020) utilizes a combination of materials that strike a balance between aesthetics and construction. The glass front adds a premium touch, while the plastic back and frame contribute to the overall lightweight design. However, it's worth noting that glass is more prone to scratches and cracks compared to metal or ceramic. Therefore, users may want to consider using a protective case to ensure its longevity.

The ergonomic design of the Alcatel 3X (2020) ensures a comfortable grip during daily use. The placement of buttons and ports is well-thought-out, allowing for easy access and intuitive navigation. The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor is conveniently positioned for quick and secure unlocking.

Overall, the Alcatel 3X (2020) offers a visually appealing design with a combination of glass and plastic materials. While it may not be the most premium in terms of build quality, its ergonomic design and lightweight construction make it comfortable to use. The device strikes a balance between aesthetics and durability, making it a reliable companion for day-to-day activities.

Display

The Alcatel 3X (2020) features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 82.9%. The display offers a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of around 269 ppi. While the resolution may not be the highest in its class, it still provides decent clarity for everyday use.

In terms of color accuracy and vibrancy, the Alcatel 3X performs reasonably well for its price range. The colors on the display are vibrant and pleasing to the eye, although they may not be as punchy as those on OLED panels. The brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, but outdoor visibility may be compromised under direct sunlight.

The display of the Alcatel 3X is responsive to touch inputs, ensuring smooth navigation and interactions with the device. However, it does not offer features such as a high refresh rate or HDR support, which are commonly found on more premium smartphones.

The display does not come with any specific display protection technology like Gorilla Glass, but it is recommended to use a screen protector to prevent scratches. The viewing angles are decent, allowing for comfortable viewing from various angles without significant color shifting.

The Alcatel 3X does not feature an always-on display or an anti-reflective coating, which could have enhanced the user experience. However, it does offer a blue light filter and adaptive brightness feature, which can help reduce eye strain in different lighting conditions.

Overall, the display of the Alcatel 3X (2020) provides a satisfactory viewing experience considering its price point. While it may not boast the latest display technologies or the highest resolution, it still offers decent color reproduction, touch responsiveness, and viewing angles for everyday use.

Performance

The Alcatel 3X (2020) offers a decent performance thanks to its capable chipset and well-optimized software. Powered by the Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 processor, which utilizes an octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU, this device delivers smooth multitasking capabilities and handles everyday tasks with ease. Synthetic benchmark tests reveal that the Alcatel 3X (2020) performs well in terms of processor efficiency, providing a lag-free experience and ensuring swift app loading speeds.

When it comes to gaming, the Alcatel 3X (2020) delivers satisfactory results. The PowerVR GE8320 GPU embedded in the chipset ensures smooth graphics rendering and allows for a decent gaming experience. Although it may not be the best choice for demanding games with high-end graphics, it can handle mid-range games without significant issues. Gaming benchmarks indicate that the device performs adequately, and its graphics scores are respectable for its price range.

Furthermore, the Alcatel 3X (2020) excels in system optimization and thermal management. The combination of the Helio P22 chipset and the device's software ensures that it remains cool even during extended gaming sessions, preventing overheating and maintaining a stable performance. This is particularly important for a budget-friendly device, as it showcases the manufacturer's commitment to providing a smooth user experience.

In terms of overall performance metrics, the Alcatel 3X (2020) fares well in benchmark tests. Its CPU benchmarks demonstrate its ability to handle intensive tasks, while the GPU benchmarks highlight its gaming capabilities. The device's performance analysis showcases its processor efficiency and GPU efficiency, which contribute to its smooth operation and satisfactory gaming experience.

It is important to note that the Alcatel 3X (2020) is not designed to compete with high-end smartphones in terms of raw performance. However, considering its price point, it offers a commendable level of performance and delivers a smooth user experience. The device's optimization and thermal management further enhance its performance, ensuring that it remains reliable even during prolonged usage.

Overall, the Alcatel 3X (2020) provides a solid performance with its Helio P22 chipset, capable GPU, and efficient system optimization. While it may not excel in handling demanding games or intensive tasks, it offers a satisfactory gaming experience and smooth multitasking capabilities. With its lag-free performance and decent benchmark scores, the Alcatel 3X (2020)

Software and User Interface

The Alcatel 3X (2020) runs on the Android 10 operating system, which provides a smooth and user-friendly interface. The device is powered by the Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 chipset and an octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU, ensuring efficient performance for everyday tasks. With 4GB or 6GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, users have ample space to store their apps, files, and media. Additionally, the device supports microSDXC cards, allowing for expansion of storage if needed.

In terms of customization, the Alcatel 3X (2020) offers various options to personalize the user experience. Users can customize the home screen layout, choose from different themes, and adjust settings according to their preferences. The device also supports widgets, allowing users to add shortcuts to their favorite apps or display useful information directly on the home screen.

When it comes to pre-installed apps, the Alcatel 3X (2020) comes with a range of essential apps, including a file manager, calculator, calendar, and email client. While these apps provide basic functionality, some users may find them lacking in advanced features. However, the device does not come with excessive bloatware, ensuring a cleaner and more streamlined experience out of the box.

Overall, the software on the Alcatel 3X (2020) offers a user-friendly interface and a decent level of customization. The device comes with essential pre-installed apps, without overwhelming users with excessive bloatware. The Android 10 operating system provides a stable and reliable platform for everyday use, making the Alcatel 3X (2020) a suitable choice for those seeking a budget-friendly smartphone with solid software performance.

Camera

The Alcatel 3X (2020) is equipped with a versatile quad-camera setup that allows users to capture a wide range of photography scenarios. The main camera boasts a 16-megapixel sensor with an aperture of f/1.8, which enables it to capture detailed and sharp images. It is complemented by a 5-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes or group shots. For close-up shots, the device features a 2-megapixel macro camera that allows users to focus on intricate details. Additionally, a 2-megapixel depth sensor enhances portrait mode by creating a pleasing bokeh effect, separating the subject from the background.

In terms of image quality, the Alcatel 3X (2020) performs well in various lighting conditions. It excels in daylight photography, delivering natural colors and good sharpness. The camera's dynamic range is commendable, allowing it to capture a wide range of details in both highlight and shadow areas. Even in low-light situations, the device performs decently thanks to its low-light sensitivity and noise reduction capabilities. The inclusion of a night mode further enhances the low-light performance, allowing users to capture well-exposed and detailed photos in dimly lit environments.

The camera features of the Alcatel 3X (2020) go beyond standard photography. It offers HDR and panorama modes for capturing scenes with high contrast or expansive views, respectively. Additionally, a pro mode allows advanced users to manually adjust settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance. The device also incorporates AI scene recognition, which automatically detects and enhances the camera settings for different scenes, optimizing the image quality.

In terms of video recording, the Alcatel 3X (2020) supports Full HD video recording, with options for video stabilization and slow-motion video capture. Users can also experiment with time-lapse videos, capturing the passage of time in a creative way. Overall, the camera capabilities of the Alcatel 3X (2020) offer a well-rounded experience for capturing both photos and videos.

Battery Life

Connectivity and Networking

The Alcatel 3X (2020) offers a range of connectivity options to ensure seamless communication and internet access. It supports network compatibility for GSM, HSPA, and LTE, allowing users to connect to various mobile networks. In terms of data speeds, the device offers 4G LTE connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable internet browsing and downloads.

For wireless connectivity, the Alcatel 3X (2020) supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, which allows users to connect to Wi-Fi networks for internet access. It also supports Wi-Fi Direct, enabling direct file transfers between compatible devices without the need for an internet connection. Bluetooth 5.0 is available on the device, providing efficient and stable connections for wireless accessories, such as headphones and speakers.

GPS is included in the Alcatel 3X (2020) for accurate navigation and location services. This feature is particularly useful for users who rely on their smartphones for directions and travel. Additionally, the device supports FM radio, allowing users to tune in to their favorite radio stations on the go.

In terms of physical connectivity, the Alcatel 3X (2020) features a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfers. It also supports USB On-The-Go (OTG), enabling users to connect external storage devices or peripherals to their smartphone.

Overall, the Alcatel 3X (2020) offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and USB connectivity. These features ensure that users can stay connected, navigate with ease, and enjoy a seamless multimedia experience.

Additional Features

The Alcatel 3X (2020) comes with several additional features that enhance its functionality and user experience. One notable feature is its dual SIM capability, allowing users to conveniently use two different phone numbers on the same device. This is especially useful for those who want to separate personal and work contacts or for frequent travelers who need to use different SIM cards in different countries.

In terms of storage, the Alcatel 3X (2020) offers expandable storage options with a microSD card slot. This allows users to easily increase the device's storage capacity by adding a microSD card, providing ample space for storing files, photos, and videos.

The device also includes a range of sensors, such as an accelerometer and a gyroscope, which enable advanced motion sensing capabilities. These sensors enhance the device's ability to detect and respond to different movements and gestures, providing a more immersive and interactive user experience. Additionally, the Alcatel 3X (2020) is equipped with a sensor suite that includes environmental sensors, further enhancing its functionality by providing additional data and information about the surrounding environment.

It's important to note that the Alcatel 3X (2020) does not feature water resistance or wireless charging capabilities. However, considering its affordable price point and the array of features it offers, including dual SIM functionality and expandable storage, the Alcatel 3X (2020) presents a compelling option for users looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with decent specifications.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Alcatel 3X (2020) is a budget smartphone that offers decent specifications and features. When comparing it to related gadgets in the market, we can see how it stacks up against its competitors in terms of performance, features, and pricing.

In terms of specifications, the Alcatel 3X (2020) comes with a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. While the display is not the sharpest on the market, it still provides a decent viewing experience. The phone is powered by a MediaTek MT6762 Helio P22 chipset, coupled with 4GB or 6GB of RAM, allowing for smooth multitasking and app performance.

When comparing it to similar devices in the market, the Alcatel 3X (2020) competes with smartphones like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 and the Samsung Galaxy A21s. While these devices offer similar specifications, the Alcatel 3X (2020) stands out with its large 5000mAh battery, which provides long-lasting battery life.

In terms of camera performance, the Alcatel 3X (2020) features a quad-camera setup on the back, including a 16MP main camera, a 5MP ultrawide lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The camera performance is decent for its price range, but it may not match the image quality of higher-end smartphones.

When it comes to pricing, the Alcatel 3X (2020) is positioned as a budget-friendly option. With a price tag of around 170 EUR, it offers good value for money compared to its competitors. However, it is important to note that there are other budget smartphones in the market that offer similar specifications at a similar price point.

Overall, the Alcatel 3X (2020) provides a decent package for budget-conscious consumers. While it may not offer the same level of performance or features as higher-end smartphones, it still provides a good balance of specifications and price.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Alcatel 3X (2020) offers decent features at an affordable price point. Its 6.52-inch IPS LCD display provides an immersive viewing experience, although the 720p resolution may not be as sharp as some competitors. The quad-camera setup captures good quality photos and videos, especially in well-lit environments, while the 8 MP front camera is suitable for selfies. The device runs on the MediaTek Helio P22 chipset, which delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks. With a large 5000 mAh battery, the phone offers excellent battery life. Overall, the Alcatel 3X (2020) is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable smartphone.