TCL’s 20 Series smartphones offer 5G on a budget

The very affordable 2021 lineup includes 5G support along with vivid displays

TCL 20 5G
TCL 20 5G

As an update to last year’s 10 Series of smartphones and aiming to make 5G connectivity more accessible, TCL is introducing the all-new TCL 20 Series lineup of smartphones. The new lineup offers a nature-inspired design and promises powerful performance while keeping its prices affordable.

One of the first devices to be announced is the TCL 20 5G. It has a large 6.67-inch Full HD+ display. The phone is equipped with NXTVISION technology so it supports HDR10 video playback that is great for streaming your favorite TV shows and movies. It’s also boasting an SDR-to-HDR real-time conversion tool so images still appear with a wide dynamic range as you enjoy online content. Additionally, a mode that the company calls piece-by-piece display calibration should further enhance the display’s color accuracy.

TCL 20 5G
TCL 20 5G

At the heart of the TCL 20 5G is an 8nm octa-core Snapdragon 690 5G processor. And to assist its 4,500 mAh battery, it’s got a power management system optimized by Smart 5G technology that switches between 4G and 5G automatically.

Taking care of the optics department is an AI system with a triple camera setup that received enhancements for auto-focus, video image stabilization, low-light capabilities, and resolution. This is then headlined by a 48-megapixel main shooter that uses Phase-Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) to ensure shots are crisp and detailed.

Available in Mist Gray and Placid Blue, the TCL 20 5G is now available in Italy for €299 with other countries to follow next month.

TCL 20 SE
TCL 20 SE

Adding to the lineup is the TCL 20 SE. It is a more affordable offering compared to its 5G-enabled sibling. It has been optimized for watching videos with its 6.82-inch V-notch display that boasts a 90% screen-to-body ratio for immersive viewing and a 20.5:9 aspect ratio. It also comes with Smart Floating Window that allows users to browse the web or reply to messages while watching videos on the side. This floating window can be tossed to the left or right corner and can be resized depending on your preference.

Just like the 20 5G, the TCL 20 SE is equipped with SDR-to-HDR conversion and NXTVISION technology for better overall picture quality. Audio performance is handled by dual speakers compatible with Hi-Res Audio that have been positioned in a way that don’t obstruct the hands when holding the phone while watching.

TCL 20 SE
TCL 20 SE

Running the show is a Qualcomm octa-core chipset and powering it is a 5,000mAh battery. TCL mentions that it comes with on-the-go reverse charging so you can top up a friend’s device if needed.

Imaging is handled by an array of quad cameras assisted by AI for color enhancement and background detection to adjust necessary details and achieve better shots. The cameras also have a new AI Object Eraser that clears out unwanted people or objects in the background.

Pricing for the TCL 20 SE is at €149 and it will be available this month in a choice of Black or Aurora Green.

Additionally, expect the TCL 20 Series to expand in the coming weeks with at least three additional models, including one more 5G smartphone. The same display specialties will be present and we’ll find out more about them before the first quarter of 2021 ends.

And as another teaser to keep a lookout for this company, TCL announced an upcoming multi-screen collaboration between select TCL 20 Series smartphones, tablets, televisions, and PCs. Using Bluetooth, WiFi, or NFC, TCL aims to seamlessly transfer files and multimedia from one device to another, fuse your phone window to a PC so it’s easier to multitask, and cast smartphone screens to larger displays like tablets and televisions.