The TCL 501 is an ultra-basic 4G phone running Android 14 Go edition, the lightweight version of Android built for minimal hardware. It exists to cover calls, texts and the simplest apps at the lowest possible price, with a headphone jack and a dedicated… Read more >
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Contract deals — price snapshot
Zero-upfront plans are widely available for this model.
Last updated: 24 Jul 2026 from 3 live offers
The TCL 501 is an ultra-basic 4G phone running Android 14 Go edition, the lightweight version of Android built for minimal hardware. It exists to cover calls, texts and the simplest apps at the lowest possible price, with a headphone jack and a dedicated microSD slot.
The 6-inch IPS LCD is a compact panel by modern standards, which some buyers will prefer for one-handed use.
Resolution is just 540 x 1092 at around 203 pixels per inch, among the lowest in current production, so everything looks visibly coarse, and no refresh rate above standard is listed.
The single 5MP main camera and 2MP selfie camera are strictly functional, covering the occasional snap or video call.
These are very low-resolution sensors, front video is limited to 720p, and there is no secondary lens, so photography is not a reason to buy this phone.
The 3,000mAh battery is small, but the low-resolution screen and modest chip keep demands light, so a day of basic use is achievable.
Charging is slow at 10W, and the small capacity means heavier use will not see out a full day.
At 156.5 x 74.9 x 9.7mm, the 501 is a chunky plastic handset in Black and Glacial Blue, with no weight listed by GSMArena.
There is no IP rating and no NFC, so it has no water protection and no contactless payments.
The Helio G36 with just 2GB of RAM is why the phone runs Android 14 Go rather than full Android, and the dedicated microSD slot expands the small 32GB storage.
This is entry-level hardware with eMMC storage and no 5G, so even light multitasking will feel slow, as owner feedback on app crashes and lag reflects.
Buy the TCL 501 only as a first phone for a child, a basic backup, or for someone whose needs stop at calls and texts. Anyone who will run everyday apps like email or messaging with any regularity should spend a little more on a phone with more RAM and a sharper screen, such as the Moto G15. Buyers comparing upfront prices will find current deals in the table above.
Specifications are provided by the manufacturer and may vary by region.
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