Smartphone Comparison: Oppo Find X3 Neo vs. TCL 40 SE
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Oppo Find X3 Neo | TCL 40 SE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-03-19 | 2023-04-04 | TCL 40 SE is significantly newer, potentially offering longer software support |
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 72.5 × 8 mm | 167.9 × 76.5 × 8.5 mm | TCL 40 SE is larger and slightly thicker, potentially less comfortable for one-handed use |
| Weight | 184g | 190g | Oppo Find X3 Neo is slightly lighter, more comfortable for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.75" | TCL 40 SE has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Oppo Find X3 Neo has much sharper display, better text clarity and image detail |
| Pixel Density | 402 PPI | 260 PPI | Oppo Find X3 Neo has noticeably sharper images, less pixelation |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Oppo Find X3 Neo has deeper blacks, higher contrast, more vibrant colors, and better power efficiency |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 900 nits | Oppo Find X3 Neo is more readable in bright sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+) | Mediatek Helio G37 (12 nm) | Oppo Find X3 Neo has a much more powerful processor, faster app loading and smoother gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 743,500 | 160,000 | Oppo Find X3 Neo offers a significantly snappier user experience, suitable for demanding tasks |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | PowerVR GE8320 | Oppo Find X3 Neo has significantly superior graphics, better for gaming |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5010 mAh | TCL 40 SE likely provides longer battery life due to larger capacity |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Oppo Find X3 Neo charges much faster |
| Features | Reverse charging | None | Oppo Find X3 Neo can charge other devices wirelessly |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56", 1.0µm | 50MP, f/1.85, 0.7µm | Oppo Find X3 Neo has a larger sensor and larger pixel size, better low light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/2.74", 0.8µm | 8MP, f/2.0 | Oppo Find X3 Neo takes much more detailed selfies |
| Telephoto Lens | 13MP, f/2.4 | None | Oppo Find X3 Neo offers optical zoom capability |
| Wide Angle Lens | 16MP, f/2.2 | None | Oppo Find X3 Neo can capture wider scenes |
| Portrait Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | TCL 40 SE has a dedicated depth sensor |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | Both have similar macro capabilities |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | Oppo Find X3 Neo offers much higher quality video recording, has image stabilization |
| DxOMark Score | 106 (Mobile) | Not tested | Oppo Find X3 Neo has a significantly better-rated camera system |
| Camera Features | OIS, 4K video, Optical Zoom | PDAF | Oppo Find X3 Neo has more advanced camera features |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 12) | Android 13 | TCL 40 SE has a newer Android version out of the box |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | Oppo Find X3 Neo supports faster Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, aptX, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.1, EDR | Oppo Find X3 Neo supports higher quality Bluetooth audio codecs |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Oppo Find X3 Neo has better GPS accuracy |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both offer the same storage options |
| RAM | 12GB | 4GB/6GB | Oppo Find X3 Neo has significantly more RAM for smoother multitasking |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device supports microSD cards |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | Oppo Find X3 Neo offers higher quality audio |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic sensor | Side-mounted sensor | TCL 40 SE features a more modern side-mounted sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | Oppo Find X3 Neo has better screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Oppo Find X3 Neo has more sensors for advanced functionality |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Oppo Find X3 Neo Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 865 offers significantly higher processing power and graphics capabilities. Practical Impact: This translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance, making the device more responsive and future-proof.
- Significantly Better Display: The AMOLED display with higher resolution, brightness and pixel density results in a sharper, more vibrant, and more readable screen, especially outdoors. Practical Impact: This is crucial for media consumption, gaming, and overall visual experience.
- Advanced Camera System: The addition of telephoto and wide-angle lenses, combined with OIS, 4K video, and higher DxOMark scores, results in a more versatile and higher-quality camera experience. Practical Impact: Better photo and video capture in various conditions and more creative options for users.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging provides significantly quicker battery replenishment. Practical Impact: Users can spend less time tethered to a charger and enjoy more use time.
- Higher Quality Audio: Hi-Res audio and advanced Bluetooth codecs provides a superior listening experience. Practical Impact: This enhances media consumption and music listening quality.
- Better Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass 5 offers more durable screen protection. Practical Impact: Reduces the risk of damage from everyday scratches and minor drops.
TCL 40 SE Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5010mAh battery offers a larger capacity, potentially resulting in longer battery life. Practical Impact: Users can go longer between charges, reducing anxiety about battery depletion.
- Newer Software: Comes with Android 13 out of the box. Practical Impact: Access to newer features and potentially longer support from the manufacturer.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More modern and convenient fingerprint placement. Practical Impact: Easy and convenient unlocking of device.
- Lower Price: Likely positioned as a more budget-friendly option. Practical Impact: More accessible to price-conscious buyers.
Trade-offs:
- Oppo Find X3 Neo: While superior in performance and camera, it is an older device, might not receive further major OS updates and will be more expensive.
- TCL 40 SE: While newer, it compromises on performance, display quality, and camera capabilities, offering a more basic smartphone experience.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Oppo Find X3 Neo Ideal User:
- Power users who prioritize performance, gaming, and multitasking.
- Users who want a high-quality display for media consumption and creative tasks.
- Photography enthusiasts who require a versatile camera system.
- Users who value fast charging and superior audio quality.
Specific Use Cases for Oppo Find X3 Neo:
- Mobile gaming at high settings.
- Video editing and content creation.
- Professional photography and videography.
- Streaming high-resolution media.
- Using multiple apps simultaneously without slowdown.
TCL 40 SE Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users who need a reliable smartphone for basic tasks.
- Users who prioritize longer battery life.
- Users who are less demanding in terms of performance and gaming.
- Users who prefer newer software out of the box.
Specific Use Cases for TCL 40 SE:
- Everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging.
- Casual gaming with less demanding titles.
- Longer battery life for travel and extended use.
- Users who prefer a side-mounted fingerprint reader.
- Users who prioritize the newest Android OS version over all other features.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Oppo Find X3 Neo is more expensive but offers significantly better performance, display, and camera capabilities.
- The TCL 40 SE is more affordable and suitable for users with less demanding needs and a tight budget.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The price difference is likely significant.
- How important is performance, gaming, and a high-quality display for me? The Oppo Find X3 Neo excels in these areas.
- How important is battery life and having the latest software version? The TCL 40 SE is superior in battery and comes with a newer software.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy User/Gamer: If you prioritize performance, gaming, and a high-quality display, the Oppo Find X3 Neo is the clear choice despite its older age.
- Scenario 2: Casual User on a Budget: If you need a functional smartphone for basic tasks and prioritize battery life and a more budget-friendly price, the TCL 40 SE is the better option.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: If you value versatile camera capabilities and 4k video recording, the Oppo Find X3 Neo is the best choice.
- Scenario 4: Latest Android Version Priority: If having the latest Android OS version is a must for you, then TCL 40 SE is the right option.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Oppo Find X3 Neo. While it is an older device, the sheer difference in performance and display quality is too significant to ignore. The Snapdragon 865 provides a much smoother and more enjoyable experience for both everyday use and demanding tasks like gaming. The camera system is also much more capable for photo and video capture, while the fast charging is also a huge plus. While the TCL 40 SE has the advantage of a newer OS version, side-mounted fingerprint sensor and a bigger battery, the performance hit and lower display quality are too much of a downgrade for me. For me, the superior performance and display of the Oppo Find X3 Neo far outweighs the benefits of the TCL 40 SE's newer OS and bigger battery and that justifies the higher price.
