Overview

Released in early 2025, the TCL 60 XE established itself as an accessible entry point into the budget 5G market. Positioned for users who prioritize essential connectivity and media consumption without paying premium prices, the phone brings a surprisingly fast 120Hz refresh rate to an entry-level tier. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ processor and equipped with Android 15, the device aims to deliver modern software features alongside decent modern hardware. After extended time on the market, evaluating the TCL 60 XE reveals how well this budget formula holds up to daily real-world use.

Design and build

At 199.5 grams, the TCL 60 XE manages to feel manageable in hand despite housing a generous 6.78-inch display. TCL opted for an all-plastic rear housing and perimeter frame, which helps keep the overall weight down and reduces production costs. However, plastic construction is a double-edged sword: while it tolerates minor impacts without shattering like glass back panels, the surface is prone to scuffs, pocket micro-scratches, and oils over prolonged use.

The front face is dominated by the display glass, which spans roughly 86.3% of the front panel. Because budget phones rarely utilize premium hardened glass formulations, keeping the screen protected with a quality guard is critical to prevent corner cracks during small tumbles. The side-mounted buttons offer acceptable tactile feedback, though the overall chassis flexes slightly under pressure, reminding you of its entry-level roots.

Everyday performance

The driving force behind the TCL 60 XE is the 6nm MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ silicon. Paired with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, this chipset delivers smooth scrolling through social feeds, web browser tabs, and messaging apps. The headline feature—the 120Hz IPS LCD screen—makes interface navigation feel fluid, though color saturation and viewing angles remain typical of standard LCD technology rather than vibrant AMOLED panels.

Camera output centers on the 50 MP main sensor. In bright outdoor lighting, photographs yield sharp detail and acceptable color balance for a device in this segment. The secondary 5 MP ultrawide and auxiliary lenses are much more restricted, struggling significantly once light levels drop. For everyday casual photography and document scans, the main camera gets the job done, but mobile photography enthusiasts will quickly hit its operational limits.

Battery, durability, and longevity

Battery performance is one of the TCL 60 XE's strongest assets. The integrated 5010 mAh battery easily carries light to moderate users through a full day and well into a second day without requiring a top-up. The energy-efficient 6nm Dimensity processor keeps standby drain minimal, extending operational longevity between charge cycles.

Over a longer ownership horizon, battery capacity will naturally degrade, but the sheer size of the 5010 mAh cell gives owners a helpful buffer before capacity loss becomes restrictive. Physical durability hinges largely on user care: while the plastic rear shell won't shatter, the lower charging sub-board and internal ribbon connectors absorb stress every time a cable is plugged in, making gentle handling advisable.

Common issues owners hit

Like many high-value budget devices, the TCL 60 XE exhibits a few recurring hardware failure patterns over extended ownership:

• Charging Port Wear: Frequent cable insertion can loosen the surface-mounted USB-C port on the bottom sub-board, leading to intermittent charging or loose cable fits.
• Display Glass Fragility: Drops onto hard surfaces frequently result in spiderweb cracking on the large front LCD panel due to minimal frame bezel buffer.
• Plastic Scuffing: The painted rear finish tends to show rub wear and minor scratching around the camera bump if used without a protective case.

To review technical breakdowns, hardware specs, and repair considerations, you can check our dedicated TCL 60 XE device page or browse general hardware troubleshooting in our troubleshooting guides.

Who it's for

The TCL 60 XE is tailored for students, daily commuters, and price-conscious consumers who want functional 5G speeds, long battery life, and a high-refresh-rate screen for video playback without a high price tag. It suits users who prioritize practical utility over high-end mobile gaming or advanced low-light photography.

Bottom line

The TCL 60 XE punches above its weight class by providing a smooth 120Hz display and reliable battery life on a budget. As long as you protect the plastic body and front glass panel with basic protective gear, it remains a solid, functional daily companion.

content-hub-review-v1