Alcatel 1 2021 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Alcatel 1 (2021)

The Alcatel 1 (2021) is a budget-friendly smartphone aimed at providing essential smartphone functionalities at an affordable price point. Released in October 2021, this device targets individuals who seek a functional, straightforward mobile experience without the bells and whistles of higher-end models. Its minimalist spec sheet is balanced with a sturdy design and basic performance capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

The Alcatel 1 (2021) boasts a compact build with dimensions of 137.6 x 65.7 x 9.8 mm and weighs in at 134 grams. Its lightweight nature makes it comfortable to hold and easy to use with one hand. Despite its plastic construction, the phone provides a robust feel. It is available in two colors: Volcano Black and AI Aqua, offering modest visual appeal. An emphasis on simplicity is evident from its design, making it suitable for users who appreciate straightforward devices.

Display Characteristics

This budget smartphone features a 5.0-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 960 pixels. The screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 71.4%, which is modest but adequate for its price range. The presence of Asahi Glass provides some level of protection against scratches. While the display may not offer the vivid colors or high resolution found in more expensive devices, it serves its purpose for basic tasks such as browsing, messaging, and viewing media.

Performance and Software

Powering the Alcatel 1 (2021) is the MediaTek MT6739 chipset with a quad-core 1.28 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and PowerVR GE8100 GPU. Its performance, coupled with 1GB of RAM, is suited for elementary smartphone activities. Running on Android 11 (Go edition), the device is optimized for efficiency, maximizing the limited hardware capabilities by providing a streamlined user experience with lighter versions of popular apps.

Storage Capabilities

The Alcatel 1 (2021) comes with either 8GB or 16GB of internal storage. While these options might seem limited, the phone compensates with a dedicated slot for microSDHC cards, allowing users to expand storage and keep more apps and media files without frequently encountering storage constraints.

Camera Features

Main Camera

On the camera front, the Alcatel 1 (2021) features a 5 MP rear camera with an f/2.4 aperture. The camera setup is basic but is equipped with an LED flash to assist in low-light conditions. It captures video at 720p@30fps, which should suffice for casual recording and social media sharing.

Selfie Camera

For selfies, there is a 2 MP front camera with an f/2.8 aperture. It can also record videos at 720p@30fps. While it may not produce high-resolution images, it adequately supports video calls and casual selfies.

Battery Life

Fueling the Alcatel 1 (2021) is a 2000 mAh Li-Ion battery, non-removable in nature. Although the capacity may seem limited, it supports the device’s low-power components effectively, promising a full day of moderate usage, including calls, messaging, and light browsing.

Communication and Connectivity

The Alcatel 1 (2021) supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, providing users with adequate connectivity options. It comes with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS for location services. However, the device lacks NFC capabilities, which is a minor drawback for users who prefer contactless payment options. Additionally, it features an FM radio and a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer.

Sound and Media

Sound-wise, the Alcatel 1 (2021) includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy audio through both external speakers and headphones. While it does not include advanced audio features, it delivers satisfactory sound quality for content consumption.

Additional Features and Sensors

Complementing its functionality, the device is equipped with basic sensors, including an accelerometer and a proximity sensor, to enhance the user experience with utilities like auto-rotation and screen dimming during calls.

Price and Value Proposition

Priced at approximately 60 EUR, the Alcatel 1 (2021) appeals primarily to cost-conscious consumers, offering substantial value by bundling essential smartphone functionality with affordability. It's an ideal option for first-time smartphone users, older adults, or those seeking a reliable secondary phone without the luxury price tag.

Conclusion

The Alcatel 1 (2021) is a representative of basic but reliable smartphones that focus on core functionalities, simplicity, and affordability. It serves its purpose by targeting specific user demographics who prioritize practicality over high-end specifications. While it may not stand out in terms of performance or features, its competitive pricing and straightforward design make it a viable contender in the entry-level smartphone market.