Alcatel 3 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Uncovered

Design and Build Quality

The Alcatel 3 boasts a compact design with dimensions of 147.1 x 68.8 x 8.5 mm and a weight of 145 grams, making it comfortable to hold and easy to manage with one hand. Its slim profile with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 77.1% gives the device a modern feel, despite its budget-minded market position. The phone is available in multiple color variants, namely Spectrum Black, Spectrum Gold, and Spectrum Blue, catering to different aesthetic preferences.

Display

Equipped with a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display, the Alcatel 3 offers a clear visual experience with a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels, resulting in around 293 ppi density. The 18:9 aspect ratio enhances the device's ability to deliver content, whether browsing the web, watching videos, or playing games. Although not Full HD, the display provides decent color reproduction and viewing angles for most users' needs.

Performance and Platform

Under the hood, the Alcatel 3 is powered by the Mediatek MT6739 chipset built on a 28 nm process. This is coupled with a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and a PowerVR GE8100 GPU. The device handles basic daily tasks such as social media browsing, light gaming, and video playback fairly well. It comes with 2GB of RAM which, while it may not support extensive multitasking, is adequate for a smooth user experience in its category. The device operates on Android 8.0 Oreo, offering access to a wide range of applications and features available in the Android ecosystem.

Camera Capabilities

The Alcatel 3 features a single 13 MP rear camera with an aperture of f/2.0, complemented by 1/3.1" sensor size and 1.12µm pixel size. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate features such as PDAF for faster focusing, as well as LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes. The camera is capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps. The front camera houses a 5 MP sensor, also supported by an LED flash, which enhances low-light selfies and video calls.

Storage and Memory

With 16GB of internal storage, the Alcatel 3 delivers just enough space for essential apps and content while also supporting microSDXC cards for expandable storage, catering to users who require additional space for multimedia files and applications.

Network and Connectivity

This device supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, ensuring wide compatibility and reliable connection speeds in various regions. It features dual SIM capabilities (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by), allowing users to manage multiple phone lines for personal and work use. For wireless connectivity, the Alcatel 3 includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 4.2, A2DP, and LE. The device also supports GPS for location services, FM radio for music and news on the go, and optionally NFC (5052Y model only), enhancing contactless payment options and interactions.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a non-removable Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery. This ample battery capacity, paired with efficient hardware, allows the Alcatel 3 to provide a full day of usage on a single charge under normal conditions. For charging and data transfer, it utilizes a microUSB 2.0 port with OTG support for connecting external peripherals.

Additional Features

The Alcatel 3 comes with a range of sensors including a fingerprint sensor mounted at the rear for convenient security access, an accelerometer, a proximity sensor, and a compass. These features contribute to an enhanced user experience by offering functionalities such as easy device unlocking and navigation assistance.

Pricing and Availability

Announced in February 2018 and released in May of the same year, the Alcatel 3 was positioned as an affordable smartphone option, with a launch price of approximately 170 EUR, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking essential smartphone functionalities without a substantial price tag.

Conclusion

Overall, the Alcatel 3 presents a balanced mix of features suitable for everyday tasks at an economical price point. Its compact design, decent performance capabilities, and practical camera options make it a viable choice for users seeking a reliable smartphone experience without breaking the bank. Despite its entry-level specifications, the Alcatel 3 manages to deliver value and functionality that can satisfy a wide array of users in the budget smartphone market.