In a significant advancement in smartphone display technology, TCL has introduced the P80 series, featuring the pioneering NxtPaper display based on OLED technology. Unlike traditional LCD screens, this new technology enhances visual experiences by offering superior brightness, contrast, and color vibrancy without compromising on the signature paper-like reading comfort that NxtPaper is known for. This article explores the hands-on experience with the TCL P80 Pro's OLED-based NxtPaper display, as well as an overview of the TCL P80.
TCL's latest offering in the P80 series is a remarkable leap forward. The TCL P80 Pro boasts a stunning 6.83” OLED display capable of reaching a peak brightness of 3,200 nits. In contrast, the TCL NxtPaper 70 Pro, which features an LCD, only achieves 900 nits in High Brightness Mode. This substantial difference becomes notably apparent, especially when reading outdoors. The NxtPaper technology is complemented by Nano Crystal Shield Glass, which effectively reduces glare, ensuring an optimal viewing experience in various lighting conditions.
TCL P80 Pro
The P80 Pro features a matte display surface, distinguishing it from many glossy smartphone screens. In everyday indoor use, the difference is subtle, but once exposed to sunlight, the matte finish becomes a clear advantage. It minimizes reflections and keeps the display legible, echoing the feel of reading on paper when viewed directly head-on.
For added functionality, the P80 Pro includes the NxtPaper Key, offering toggles for Max Ink and Paper Modes, both customizable to enhance the reading experience. Paper Mode allows for a monochrome display that minimizes distractions, displaying black text on a white-to-yellow background that can be adjusted for warmth. Max Ink builds on this by muting notifications and putting background apps to sleep, significantly extending battery life. With its sizable 5,800mAh battery and 45W charging, the P80 Pro can provide an impressive up to 7 days of reading time with Max Ink enabled.
Customizable NxtPaper settings and key functionalities
The phone is designed with a robust build, featuring a metal frame and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. At a thickness of 8.3mm and weighing 192g, it offers a solid feel in hand alongside a visually striking 6.83” display and slim bezels. The P80 Pro utilizes an integrated fingerprint sensor located in the power button, providing a seamless unlocking experience.
The stylish design of the TCL P80 Pro
While we are examining the TCL P80 Pro, it's important to note the existence of the TCL P80, which shares the same OLED display parameters but forgoes the NxtPaper technology and carries a more conventional glossy finish. This reduction in technology leads to a price cut but results in the loss of the unique reading-focused features.
The TCL P80 with conventional display technology
The base model of the TCL P80 is priced at €350 for 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, whereas the P80 Pro starts at €430 with the same RAM and storage configuration. The P80 Pro’s additional features and enhancements, particularly the NxtPaper display, justify the higher price and promise a unique reading and viewing experience that users won't want to miss out on.
The TCL P80: A smart option for budget-conscious consumers
In conclusion, while the TCL P80 offers a budget-friendly option, the P80 Pro stands out as a leader in innovation with its NxtPaper technology. The difference in price is a worthy investment for those who prioritize a superior reading experience and enhanced display capabilities in a smartphone.
