For $160, the TCL 50 XL 5G offers a compelling blend of style, functionality, and performance.
It’s not without its compromises due to a limited software support policy and inconsistent cameras, but it certainly does enough to justify its low price tag for Metro by T-Mobile users hunting for 5G on a budget.
TCL 50 XL 5G review: At a glance
What is it? The TCL 50 XL 5G features a large 6.78-inch 120Hz display, 6GB of RAM, and a 5,010mAh battery, making it a strong contender in the budget segment. It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus chipset and Android 14 out of the box.
What is the price? The TCL 50 XL 5G costs $159.99 in the US.
Where can you buy it? The TCL 50 XL 5G is a T-Mobile exclusive and can be purchased via the Metro by T-Mobile website or in-store.
How did we test it? I tested the TCL 50 XL 5G for over a month. TCL supplied us with the review unit.
Is it worth it? If you’re a T-Mobile customer (or planning to switch) who prioritizes a large display and doesn’t mind missing out on the latest Android features in the long run, the TCL 50 XL 5G offers a solid enough value proposition as the cheapest 5G-capable phone available through Metro by T-Mobile. For those prioritizing longevity and display quality, however, the Galaxy A15 5G offers a more enticing alternative with its OLED screen and extended software support.
Should you buy the TCL 50 XL 5G?
Rushil Agrawal / Android AuthorityWhile Motorola and Samsung make some of the most well-known budget phones in the US, TCL has steadily built quite a reputation for itself, offering decent specs at a great price. The TCL 50 XL 5G is the company’s 2024 offering, which costs just $160 and is only available in the US through Metro by T-Mobile. If you’re in the market for a great value-for-money phone, is this one worth picking up? Let’s find out.
The $160 TCL 50 XL 5G is a budget phone with modern features like a big screen, the latest version of Android, and multiple cameras. The phone lives up to its XL name with its large size, but it doesn’t feel excessively heavy. It might be a bit too wide for those with smaller hands, but it’s generally manageable. Its overall dimensions and 195g of weight make it almost identical in size and heft to direct competitors like the Moto G 5G (2024) and Galaxy A15 5G. The phone is only available in the single Slate Gray color variant pictured (which looks blue from most angles) and features quite an attractive design at the back. The rear panel is plastic but has a faux leather texture that makes it appear more premium than its price tag. The leathery finish not only looks good but I found it also helps keep fingerprints and smudges away.