Alcatel A31 Prime Review

A31 Prime Review

Budget smartphone with 5010mAh battery and Android 15

The Alcatel A31 Prime offers solid budget smartphone features with its 5010mAh battery, 6.52-inch HD+ display, and the latest Android 15 operating system. Powered by the UNISOC SC9863A1 chipset with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, this device provides reliable performance for everyday tasks at an affordable price point.

3.2/5

Alcatel A31 Prime

Key Specifications

Design & Build
164.44 x 75.78 x 8.45mm, 185.5g, Teal Blue, Space Gray, Deep Green, Mist Blue
Display
6.52″ HD+ (576×1280), 60Hz, 400 nits, 20:9 ratio, 89% screen-to-body ratio
Battery & Charging
5010mAh battery, 10W fast charging, 13.5 hours DOU, Type-C USB
Performance
UNISOC SC9863A1, Octa-core A55 up to 1.6GHz, 4GB RAM + 128GB ROM
Camera System
13MP main camera, 5MP front camera, 1080P video recording
Memory
4GB RAM (+8GB expansion), 128GB ROM, microSD support up to 1TB
Connectivity
Bluetooth 4.2, 3.5mm audio jack, GPS/Beidou/Galileo/Glonass
Security
Side fingerprint sensor, Face unlock, Accelerometer

Key Overview

FeaturesSpecification
ProcessorUNISOC SC9863A1 Octa-core ARM Cortex A55
RAM & Storage4GB RAM + 128GB ROM (+8GB RAM expansion)
Operating SystemAndroid 15
Display Size6.52 inches
Display ResolutionHD+ (576 x 1280 pixels), 215 PPI
Refresh Rate60Hz
Brightness400 nits (Typical)
Battery Capacity5010mAh (Typical)
Charging10W fast charging, Type-C USB
Main Camera13MP with AF, F2.2, 1080P@30FPS video
Front Camera5MP FF, F2.2, 1080P@30FPS video
Dimensions164.44 x 75.78 x 8.45 mm
Weight185.5g
Color OptionsTeal Blue, Space Gray, Deep Green, Mist Blue
ConnectivityBluetooth 4.2, 3.5mm audio jack, GPS
SecuritySide fingerprint sensor, Face unlock

Strengths

  • Latest Android 15 operating system out of the box
  • Large 5010mAh battery with 13.5 hours daily usage
  • Generous 128GB internal storage with microSD expansion
  • 6.52-inch HD+ display with 400 nits brightness
  • Clean design with multiple color options
  • Side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick access
  • Face unlock feature for additional security
  • Type-C USB charging port
  • 3.5mm audio jack retained
  • Reliable performance for basic tasks

Limitations

  • UNISOC SC9863A1 is an entry-level processor
  • Only 4GB RAM in an era of 6GB+ standards
  • HD+ resolution rather than Full HD
  • 60Hz refresh rate when 90Hz is becoming standard
  • 13MP main camera lacks ultra-wide or macro lenses
  • Bluetooth 4.2 instead of newer 5.0+ versions
  • 10W charging is relatively slow for 5010mAh battery
  • No NFC support for contactless payments
  • Basic camera features without advanced AI capabilities
  • Plastic build quality

Final Verdict

The Alcatel A31 Prime positions itself as a reliable budget smartphone that delivers essential features without unnecessary frills. Its most compelling feature is the combination of Android 15 – the latest operating system at launch – with a substantial 5010mAh battery, providing users with both modern software and extended battery life. The 6.52-inch HD+ display offers adequate screen real estate for media consumption and daily tasks, though the 576×1280 resolution and 60Hz refresh rate reflect its budget positioning.

Performance is handled by the UNISOC SC9863A1 chipset, an octa-core processor that delivers competent performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and light gaming. The 4GB of RAM, while modest by today’s standards, is supplemented by 8GB of virtual RAM expansion, helping with multitasking capabilities. Where the A31 Prime excels is in storage, offering 128GB of internal space – generous for its price segment – with the option to expand further via microSD card up to 1TB.

The camera system keeps expectations realistic with a 13MP main sensor and 5MP front camera. Both support 1080P video recording at 30fps, covering basic photography and video calling needs. Features like HDR, face beauty, and face unlock add practical value, though the absence of ultra-wide or macro lenses means creative photography options are limited. The inclusion of both a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and face unlock provides convenient security options.

Connectivity options include the essential features most users need, though the Bluetooth 4.2 specification feels dated compared to newer 5.0+ standards. The retention of the 3.5mm audio jack will please users who prefer wired headphones, while the Type-C USB port ensures modern charging convenience. The IP rating isn’t specified, suggesting basic splash resistance at best.

The Alcatel A31 Prime succeeds as a no-frills budget smartphone that prioritizes practical features over premium specifications. Its strongest selling points are the latest Android 15 software, substantial 5010mAh battery life, and generous 128GB storage – features that directly impact daily usability. While it makes expected compromises in processing power, camera versatility, and display technology to meet its price point, it delivers reliable performance for basic smartphone tasks. For budget-conscious users, students, or as a secondary device, the A31 Prime offers solid value with its focus on essential functionality and modern software experience.

Disclaimer: This review is based on specifications for the Alcatel A31 Prime. Actual performance may vary based on usage patterns and regional variations. Battery life claims are based on manufacturer testing and real-world performance may vary.