In the ever-evolving world of smartphones dominated by giants like Samsung, Apple, and Infinix, a hidden gem has emerged. iTel, a brand synonymous with budget-friendly phones, has recently unveiled its masterpiece – the iTel P33 and P33 Plus. Although not claiming the spotlight alongside industry giants, these smartphones offer an enticing combination of classic design, modern features, and efficient functionality. Let’s delve into the details of these affordable devices that cater to a market seeking quality on a budget.
Affordability Redefined:
iTel has long been praised for its commitment to affordability, and the P33 series is no exception. With the iTel P33 priced at approximately N40,000 and the P33 Plus at around N45,000, these smartphones make high-quality technology accessible to a broader audience.
iTel P33 Specs at a Glance:
- Release date: 1st Quarter, 2019
- Operating system: Android 8.1 (Oreo, Go Edition)
- Display: 5.5 inches, 18:9 aspect ratio, IPS LCD curved glass screen
- RAM: 1 GB
- Internal memory: 16 GB
- Processor: Mediatek MT6580 64-bit 1.3 GHz Quad-core Cortex-A7
- Main Camera: 8 MP + 5 MP dual camera, f2.2 Aperture, LED flash, 1080p@30fps video recording
- Selfie Camera: 5 megapixels, f2.0 Aperture, AI Face Recognition, 1080p@30fps video capture
- Battery: Non-Removable Lithium-Ion 4000 mAh (5V/2A Fast Charge)
iTel P33 Plus Specs at a Glance:
- Release date: 1st Quarter, 2019
- Operating system: Android 8.1 (Oreo, Go Edition)
- Size: 6.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~73.2% screen-to-body ratio)
- Resolution: 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~272 ppi density)
- RAM: 1 GB
- Internal memory: 16 GB
- Processor: Mediatek MT6580 64-bit 1.3 GHz Quad-core Cortex-A7
- Main Camera: 5 + 5 -megapixel main camera, Double Lenses, 720p@30fps Video resolution
- Selfie Camera: 5 megapixels, single lens, AI Face Recognition
- Battery: Non-removable Li-Ion 5000 mAh battery (5V/2A Fast Charge)
- Other Specifications: Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro sensor, proximity sensor, compass.
iTel P33 vs. iTel P33 Plus:
While both devices share similar specifications, the P33 Plus distinguishes itself with a larger 6.0-inch display, a higher 5000mAh battery capacity, and a dual-lens main camera setup. The P33, on the other hand, features a 5.5-inch display and a 4000mAh battery. Both devices, however, offer an impressive blend of features for their price range.
Design & Display:
Sporting plastic bodies, both the iTel P33 and P33 Plus feature rear-mounted fingerprint sensors and a dual-camera setup. The P33 boasts a 5.5-inch IPS display, while the P33 Plus impresses with a larger 6.0-inch IPS display. Both phones maintain a modern 18:9 aspect ratio and include a 2.5D curved glass screen for protection. Available in Blue, Black, and Gold, these devices also incorporate a sensible face ID feature for convenient face unlock.
Performance:
Addressing the performance concerns of their predecessor, the P32, the iTel P33 and P33 Plus showcase significant improvements. Both devices are powered by the MediaTek MT6580 Chipset, featuring a Quad-Core processor clocked at 1.4GHz and a Mali 400 MP2 GPU. With 1GB of RAM and 16GB of internal memory (expandable up to 32GB), these phones run on the Android 8.1 Oreo Go Edition, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.
Camera:
Recognizing the importance of camera quality, iTel equips both the P33 and P33 Plus with capable shooters. The P33 boasts an 8MP main camera and a 2MP front camera, while the P33 Plus features an 8MP main camera and a 5MP front camera. Both cameras are enhanced with AI Face Recognition and LED flash, offering surprising capability given their budget-friendly nature.
Battery:
Staying true to iTel’s reputation for robust battery life, the P33 packs a 4000mAh battery, while the P33 Plus elevates the experience with an even more substantial 5000mAh battery. Though lacking fast-charging capabilities, the batteries exhibit impressive charging speeds and exceptional longevity.
Connectivity:
iTel has prioritized connectivity, equipping both the P33 and P33 Plus with 3G, 2G, WiFi, WiFi hotspot, GPS, Bluetooth, a 3.5mm jack, and a microUSB port with USB support. However, it’s worth noting that 4G LTE connectivity is absent in both devices.
Wrap Up:
In a market flooded with flashy alternatives, the iTel P33 and P33 Plus may not steal the spotlight, but they undeniably offer a commendable choice for budget-conscious consumers. From their sturdy design to reliable performance and impressive battery life, these smartphones showcase iTel’s dedication to providing quality within reach. While they may not boast the most cutting-edge features, the iTel P33 and P33 Plus are a testament to the brand’s continuous progression and a substantial step toward becoming a noteworthy player in the global mobile market. Affordable and functional, the iTel P33 series is a solid option for those seeking a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.