It’s big, it’s bold and, we reckon, it’s also a bloomin’ bargain at under £100
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Announced in Barcelona at Mobile World Congress in February – along with a handful of other devices – Alcatel announced the 3V, in addition to devices in three different series’. The V3 boasts an aspect ratio of 18:9 and a standout 2K (2160 x 1080) display measuring six inches. It is powered by a 1.45GHz quad-core processor (Mediatek MT8735A) with 2GB of RAM and 16GB or 32GB internal memory. On the rear of the device, there is a dual camera set up with a 12MP main shooter and 2MP depth sensor as well as a fingerprint reader. Aesthetically, the device stands out with its metallic colouring. We tested a blue version and, whilst it is a bit of a magnet for fingerprints, on the whole, it looks great. It is a very big device – bigger, in fact than the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Despite that, it is incredibly light and relatively easy to use. All in all the device is a big one, but not cumbersome on the pocket. For less than £100, though, there is a lot worse you can buy. But let’s find out if the low price led to a poor device¦
The Specs:
OS: Android Oreo 8.0
Processor: Mediatek MT8735A
Screen: 6 inches
Resolution: 2160 x 1080 pixels
Memory: 2GB RAM
Internal storage: 16GB or 32GB
External storage: up to 128GB via micro SD Card slot
Waterproofing: No
Rear camera: 12MP and 2MP dual camera
Front camera: 5 MP
Video: 1080p @30fps
Connectivity: Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, micro USB
Cellular speed: Cat4
Dimensions: 162 x 76 x 81mm
Weight: 155g
Battery: 3,000 mAh
Manufacture View
Explore a new dimension on a 2K full view 18:9 display With a 6 inch 2K Alcatel full view 18:9 display, Alcatel 3V offers a stunning viewing experience and fits comfortably in one hand. Its sleek shine casing and 3D curved back make for a captivating design that’s ahead of the curve. Shoot like a professional with its dual rear camera, equipped with refocus and bokeh capabilities. Offering a large screen, glossy aesthetics and pro-level camera, Alcatel 3V is the best choice for those seeking superior functionality
Our Review
The Alcatel 3V is one of those phones that you won’t go wrong with if you get it. It works very well – or as well as you’d expect for less than £100. Its phablet sizing and lightweight work in its favour, but the look and feel of the device are altogether obviously cheap. Comparing it to an iPhone or far eastern flagship would be unfair. The blue finish does make it look great and the dual camera and fingerprint reader all point to a device aimed at a more cash-strapped market. It would be nice to be able to customise the lock screen toolbar. Even if for other utility apps, not everyone needs to use voice notes and a shortcut to Twitter, emails, etc. would be arguably more useful. This phone is clearly not the best. The lightweight, although convenient, felt to me like I was walking around with a toy. The device is slow, too – nothing too frustrating, but it is a second or so off the beat. Unlocking the phone doesn’t happen for a bit and the facial recognition is functional but, again, far from immediate. That being said, you get a lot of bang for your buck. It is unfair to compare it to flagships but for £90 you could do a lot worse.
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