TCL makes the 11-inch TAB A1 with two different screen finishes. The standard NXTVISION version suits someone happy with a conventional screen. The matte NXTPAPER option makes more sense for a reader who wants softer reflections and will use the included pen in TCL's US bundle. Both versions put the same 2112 × 1320 pixels across 11 inches.
In depth
TCL TAB A1 review
Published
Best forbuyers who want an 11-inch Android tablet and care more about the screen finish than a faster processor.
At a glance
- Screen size
- 11 inches
- Panel technology
- 11-inch · standard display · 128 GBStandard NXTVISION LCD11-inch · NXTPAPER display · 128 GBMatte NXTPAPER LCD
- Processor
- MediaTek Helio G100
- Storage
- 128GB
- Operating system
- Android 16 · TCL promises Android 17
Pros
- Choice of standard or matte screen
- Same 128 GB storage and expandable capacity on both
Cons
- USB 2.0 for wired copies
- The two screen finishes must be selected at purchase
Display
- 11 inches
- 2112 × 1320
- Up to 90 Hz
Think about where the tablet will spend an afternoon. A desk facing a window is a good argument for the matte version. Someone controlling their room lighting for an evening movie may find less benefit. Both displays support up to 90 Hz. Paying for the different surface doesn't buy a higher refresh rate or more screen area.
Tech With RR could read the standard 6 GB/128 GB TAB A1 in direct sunlight but found reflections distracting. The review unit had the NXTVISION display, so its glare assessment applies to the standard glass. 1
Performance & Storage
- MediaTek Helio G100
- 6 GB physical
- 128 GB
Both finishes have a Helio G100, 6 GB of physical RAM, and 128 GB of internal storage. A microSD card can add space for compatible files and downloads. That leaves you free to decide between these two on the basis of how they look and how you'll use the pen, without also trading away capacity.
Pen & Software
If the A1 is for a student, price the whole writing setup. TCL specifies T-Pen 2 support, and the matte US package includes it. The tablet ships with Android 16, with Android 17 promised. That gives a buyer a concrete software commitment when comparing current prices.
Alternatives
The 12.2-inch TAB A1 Plus has more room for two open documents. TCL's NXTPAPER 11 Gen 2 is another matte option with a pen, though its screen tops out at 60 Hz.
Verdict
Buy the matte A1 when light and handwriting shape your day. The verified purchase link is for the standard 11-inch version, which has the same storage, processor, and screen size.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this product.
Sources & Research
1 reference
Independent sources cited in this article.
- Tech With RRTCL Tab A1 review (opens in a new tab)https://techwithrr.com/reviews/tcl-tab-a1-review/
Outdoor reading and reflections on the standard 6 GB/128 GB NXTVISION version.