Oppo Reno6 5G vs. TCL 50 SE: A Practical Comparison
The Oppo Reno6 5G (2021) and TCL 50 SE (2024) are two mid-range smartphones with distinct strengths. While the TCL 50 SE is newer, the Reno6 5G still holds up surprisingly well—especially in performance and camera quality. Let’s break down which phone excels where and who should consider each.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build Quality
| Feature | Oppo Reno6 5G | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 156.8 × 72.1 × 7.6 mm | 168.2 × 75.5 × 8.1 mm | TCL is larger, which may impact one-handed use. |
| Weight | 182g | 195g | Oppo is lighter and more pocket-friendly. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | Oppo has better drop resistance. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic in-display | Side-mounted | TCL’s sensor is faster but less premium-feeling. |
Takeaway: The Reno6 5G is slimmer, lighter, and better protected, making it the more premium-feeling device.
Display
| Feature | Oppo Reno6 5G | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" | 6.78" | TCL has a bigger screen for media. |
| Panel Type | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Oppo has deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 900 nits | Oppo is much easier to see in sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both smooth for scrolling and gaming. |
Takeaway: AMOLED vs. LCD is a big deal—Oppo’s display is superior for media and outdoor use.
Performance
| Feature | Oppo Reno6 5G | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Dimensity 900 (6nm) | Helio G88 (12nm) | Oppo’s chip is faster and more efficient. |
| Antutu | 815,200 | 250,000 | Oppo is 3x faster—better for gaming and multitasking. |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 4GB / 6GB | Oppo handles heavy apps and future updates better. |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MC4 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Oppo delivers smoother gaming. |
Takeaway: The Reno6 5G is a powerhouse compared to the TCL 50 SE, which struggles with demanding tasks.
Camera
| Feature | Oppo Reno6 5G | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 50MP (Sony IMX766, 1/1.56") | 50MP (smaller pixels) | Oppo has better low-light performance. |
| Ultrawide | 16MP (Sony IMX481) | ❌ None | Oppo offers more versatility. |
| Telephoto | 13MP (2x optical zoom) | ❌ None | Oppo has better zoom shots. |
| Selfie | 32MP (Sony IMX615) | 8MP | Oppo is far better for selfies. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | 1080p@30fps | Oppo is better for vlogging. |
Takeaway: Oppo wins decisively—better sensors, more lenses, and superior video.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Oppo Reno6 5G | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5010mAh | TCL lasts longer on a charge. |
| Charging | 65W | 33W | Oppo charges twice as fast. |
| Efficiency | More efficient (6nm chip) | Less efficient (12nm) | Oppo may last longer despite smaller battery. |
Takeaway: TCL has more battery, but Oppo charges faster and likely lasts similarly due to efficiency.
2. Key Insights
Oppo Reno6 5G Strengths:
✅ Far better performance (3x faster in benchmarks).
✅ Superior AMOLED display (deeper blacks, higher brightness).
✅ Much better camera system (more lenses, better sensors, 4K video).
✅ Faster charging (65W vs. 33W).
✅ More RAM (8GB/12GB vs. 4GB/6GB).
TCL 50 SE Strengths:
✅ Bigger screen (6.78" vs. 6.43").
✅ Larger battery (5010mAh vs. 4500mAh).
✅ Newer OS (Android 14 vs. Android 11/12).
✅ Stereo speakers.
Trade-Offs:
❌ TCL’s performance is weak—struggles with heavy apps.
❌ Oppo’s software is outdated (Android 11, upgradable to 12).
❌ TCL’s display is inferior (IPS LCD vs. AMOLED).
3. Who Should Buy Which Phone?
Buy the Oppo Reno6 5G if you:
✔️ Want a smoother, faster phone (gaming, multitasking).
✔️ Care about camera quality (better sensors, more lenses).
✔️ Prefer an AMOLED display (darker blacks, vibrant colors).
✔️ Need fast charging (65W fills up in ~30 mins).
Buy the TCL 50 SE if you:
✔️ Prefer a bigger screen (6.78" for media).
✔️ Need longer battery life (5010mAh).
✔️ Want the latest Android version (Android 14).
✔️ Are on a tighter budget (likely cheaper).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
Do I care more about performance or battery size?
- Performance → Oppo.
- Battery → TCL.
Do I take lots of photos/videos?
- Yes → Oppo.
- No → TCL.
Do I prefer AMOLED or a bigger LCD screen?
- AMOLED → Oppo.
- Bigger screen → TCL.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
Winner: Oppo Reno6 5G
Despite being older, the Oppo Reno6 5G is the better phone overall. Its faster performance, superior AMOLED display, and much better camera system make it the more premium choice. The only downside is its older software, but if you can live with Android 12, it’s still a strong performer.
The TCL 50 SE is for those who prioritize a bigger battery, larger screen, and newer Android version, but it sacrifices performance and camera quality.
My Pick?
If I had to choose today, I’d go with the Oppo Reno6 5G—better display, faster performance, and a great camera are worth more than a slightly newer OS.
