TCL introduced its NxtPaper 2.0 technology in early 2023, which is a panel with a special coating that gives the device a paper-like feel. One of the first phones to have it is the TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G and we finally have a unit with us.
The phone is an affordable device with two key features: the first is obviously the screen, the other is next-generation connectivity, achieved with a Dimensity 6020 chipset. The display itself has a 6.6-inch diagonal and HD+ resolution , but it’s the unique properties of the paper-like finish that set it apart.
Other specs include a 5,000mAh battery with 15W charging, a 50MP camera on the back, a fingerprint scanner on the side, and a 3.5mm audio jack on the bottom, next to the USB-C.
Okay, let’s move on to the actual unboxing. The retail packaging is made to look like a book, including the leathery texture because the 40 NxtPaper 5G is extremely comfortable for reading. We turn the hard cover and then the first transparent page to get to the device. Opening the “book” in the center takes us to the USB-A to USB-C cable and the SIM tray ejector pin – there’s no charger in the box.
We’re pretty unimpressed that TCL decided to skip the adapter, but since charging speeds aren’t anything spectacular, we imagine any old USB-A charger lying around the house would be fine. The phone itself is pleasantly light with a plastic body that also feels like paper.
Turning on and setting up the device is pretty simple, no different than any other Android smartphone. The screen is fast and has nothing to do with other e-ink gadgets: the touch screen responds to all types of touches. The colors seem a little dull at first glance, but we’ll be sure to do more detailed comparisons.
There’s still a setting for display colors, and the Vivid mode is pretty tame. There is no glare or reflections and fingerprints are not a problem, allowing you to enjoy the screen from virtually all angles.
There is Nxtpaper mode, which has two settings: colored paper and ink paper. This is where the change is visible: the colors are muted and not vibrant. The color image is still there; 4K videos run smoothly at 60 fps but the brightness is low to avoid eye strain.
Ink paper mode removes all colors and makes everything on the display black or white. Combined with the absence of blue light, a new visual sensation is achieved, which is truly pleasant for the eyes.
Switching between modes also affects how icons appear on the screen, but you can’t take a completely black-and-white screenshot – the effect is only applied to the panel, not the actual system.
Plain • Colored paper • Ink paper
TCL is currently selling the 40 NxtPaper 5G in Europe for €250/£220 for the single 6/256GB memory variant. It’s definitely a phone worth considering if you value eye comfort over performance.
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