In 2017, Alldocube introduced the 8-inch Free Young X5 tablet, which, like smartphones, equipped with a cellular communication module, a proximity sensor, a built-in microphone and a conversational speaker. Using this device, the user can not only access the Internet, but also make calls. It is noteworthy that the Alldocube Free Young X5 is positioned by the manufacturer not as a tablet, but as a phablet.
Appearance and ergonomics
It is believed that the 8-inch model is the best option for most users, due to the combination of a fairly large screen, providing comfortable conditions for viewing content, and relatively compact body sizes, which is important when transportation. However, when it comes to the ability to make calls, the user should take into account some nuances.
Despite the fact that the device has a proximity sensor and a speaker for conversations located above the screen, you will still need to connect a headset for long conversations. The tablet is awkward to hold with one hand, given the size and weight of the case, which consists of glass covering the front and metal on the back. The only exceptions are a few plastic inserts.
On the back side of the case, in the area of the main camera module, you can find a removable plate. Below it are slots for two SIM cards, full-size and Micro format, as well as for an external MicroSD drive. Due to the design of the holders (connectors), the user will need to make some effort to install the cards, and be careful to avoid damage to the SIM or MicroSD.
If you hold the tablet in portrait orientation, the power/lock and volume buttons will be located on the side edge on the right side. There are no touch buttons, since virtual on-screen controls are provided for navigation in the operating system interface.
On the top edge, the manufacturer placed a Micro-USB connector (with support for OTG technology), designed for synchronization, connecting a power adapter and external USB devices. Nearby is a 3.5 mm jack, necessary for connecting headphones or a wired headset.
Under the perforations on the bottom edge there are grilles for the main speaker and a microphone.
Display
The tablet is equipped with an 8-inch diagonal IPS screen, the resolution of which exceeds FullHD and is 1920 x 1200 pixels. The display has good viewing angles, shows a clear image, with realistic color reproduction and high contrast. The contents of the screen are clearly visible not only indoors, but also outdoors, in daylight.
However, under direct sunlight there is still a lack of maximum brightness reserve. The touch panel supports MultiTouch technology, which provides recognition of up to 10 touch points simultaneously. The screen is covered with glass, on the surface of which an oleophobic layer is applied. For convenience, the device has the ability to wake up the screen by double tap.
Hardware platform
Cube Free Young X5 is powered by an 8-core Mediatek MT8783V-CT chipset, with a maximum clock speed of 1.5 GHz and support for 64-bit computing. Graphics processing is handled by the integrated Mali-T720 MP3 GPU, which supports H.264, H.265/HEVC video decoding in 1080p resolution. Smooth operation of the interface and the ability to switch between multiple applications without delay is ensured by 3 GB of RAM.
The performance rating does not break records in benchmarks, but the tablet’s hardware performs well in everyday tasks. It easily copes with FullHD video playback, ensures smooth scrolling of “heavy” web pages, and does not slow down when there are several instant messengers running in the background. The power reserve is also enough to run games such as Asphalt 8. To play a more resource-intensive game, you will need to disable a number of visual effects and reduce the quality of textures.
Of the provided 32 GB, approximately 25 GB of free space remains on the internal storage. As practice shows, for most ordinary users this is enough to download all the necessary software, and there is still free space for games and other data. It is also worth considering the possibility of installing a MicroSD drive with a capacity of up to 128 GB.
Cameras
As a rule, among ordinary inexpensive tablets it is very rare to find models that could boast of sane shooting quality. AND, Apparently, Alldocube Free Young X5 is one of these devices. The main 13-megapixel camera used in this device is complemented by autofocus, flash and the ability to shoot in HDR mode.
For an affordable tablet, the quality of the images taken in daylight is quite decent. Of course, this device will not replace a camera for capturing memorable events, but it can easily cope with shooting text and is suitable for creating photo notes and scanning QR codes. If necessary, you can use the video recording function: you get videos with FullHD resolution at 30 FPS.
The front camera with a resolution of 5 MP is significantly inferior to the main one in terms of shooting quality. Its capabilities are sufficient only for video chatting, but not for posting results on Instagram.
Multimedia
This device has one multimedia speaker. It produces good, but at the same time unremarkable sound, without deep bass and pronounced mids. However, the audio playback volume is quite enough to watch videos indoors. When you connect good headphones, you can count on decent sound quality of the music you listen to.
Battery
A lithium-ion polymer battery (3800 mAh / 3.7 V) is responsible for the autonomous operation of the Free Young X5. When browsing the web and reading books, at a comfortable level of backlight brightness, the charge lasts for about 5-6 hours. The operating time for continuous video playback is from 4 to 5 hours (the final result depends on factors such as display brightness, playback volume, video resolution, etc. d.).
In total, a fully charged battery should provide autonomous operation of the device for one day, under moderate loads in mixed operating mode. The most active users who play games and regularly watch videos will have to charge the battery twice a day.
Wireless interfaces
The tablet has a cellular communication module supporting 2G GSM, 3G WCDMA/TD-SCDMA networks, as well as 4G FDD LTE (B1/B3) and TDD (B38/B39/B40/B41). Accordingly, the device can be used to make calls, send SMS, and support for LTE Cat-4 networks provides the ability to gain access to high-speed Internet. The device is capable of connecting to 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi networks, demonstrating a stable and uninterrupted connection. Bluetooth 4.0 technology is supported for pairing with a wireless headset and other compatible devices.
Among other things, this model has everything necessary to take the place of a full-fledged car navigator. Firstly, the GPS module provides very good indicators of satellite search speed and geopositioning accuracy. And secondly, due to the large screen with a fairly high resolution, the device is perfect for working with navigation programs.
operating system
Free Young X5 runs Android 7 Nougat OS, with full support for Google Play services. At the same time, there are no problems with downloading, installing and updating applications. The firmware is multilingual and contains full Russian localization. The operating system is “clean”, without modifications or third-party software.
Advantages and disadvantages
Pros:
- metal case;
- high-quality display;
- “clean” firmware without third-party add-ons;
- speed at work;
- Mobile network support with the ability to make calls;
- good (for a tablet) main camera;
- separate slots for two SIM and memory cards.
Minuses:
- too tight fixation in the SIM and MicroSD slots;
- Power adapter is not included.
Review results
Thanks to its compatibility with 2G, 3G and 4G mobile networks, as well as the full implementation of telephone functions, Alldocube Free Young X5 is a completely self-sufficient means of communication. However, it is more practical to use a smartphone or mobile phone as the main communication device, due to its smaller dimensions and better battery life. As for the tablet itself, it is ideal for the role of an auxiliary tool that makes it more comfortable to browse websites, social media feeds. networks, correspond by SMS or via Internet messenger.
The advantage of a tablet with 4G support is the constant availability of free access to the mobile Internet from almost anywhere where there is cellular coverage. While away from home or office, the owner of the Free Young X5 will not have to waste time and effort searching for a free and, most importantly, stable Wi-Fi connection to access the network. Such a device will also come in handy when traveling. With its help, you can pass the time by watching photos, TV series, or spend it usefully by reading an e-book. In addition, this model can replace a car GPS navigator.
