The TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G can make reading on a phone feel more like reading on paper, but it does not have a true E Ink display. Its matte LCD uses three software modes—including a restricted, monochrome Max Ink mode—to create an e-reader-like experience. It is worth considering if you want reading features in an everyday Android phone; it is not a substitute for a dedicated E Ink reader, especially in direct sunlight.
How the NXTPAPER reading modes work
A physical NXTPAPER Key makes it quick to switch display modes. The screen remains an LCD in each one; the modes change how it presents content and, in Max Ink, how the phone behaves.
Ink Paper Mode
Ink Paper removes color and gives the display a warmer, black-and-white appearance. Unlike a dedicated reader, it remains usable with normal phone apps.
Color Paper Mode
Color Paper desaturates and softens colors for a muted, paper-like look. Colors are less vivid than on a typical phone screen.
#1 Best Overall
- Built for Eye Comfort: The TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G cell phone features NXTPAPER 3.0 technology with a glare-free, paper-like screen that reduces blue light exposure by up to 61%, easing eye fatigue. Its Eye Care Assistant adjusts brightness and color temperature to your environment and gently reminds you to take breaks
- 4 Display Modes for Any Moment: With the NXTPAPER Key, the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G phone lets you switch display modes with ease. Standard Mode is crisp for daily use, Color Paper Mode is softer for comics and digital art, Ink Paper Mode supports comfortable reading, and Max Ink Mode creates an e-reader-like experience with longer battery life
- Built-In AI Assistant for Daily Tasks: The TCL phone unlocked comes with an intelligent AI assistant ready to help translate text, summarize information, transcribe audio, and organize ideas. Whether for meetings, studying, writing, or planning, it boosts productivity and keeps you focused with less effort
- Capture Every Detail with Stunning Clarity: The TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G smartphone features a 50MP main camera, 5MP ultra-wide lens, 2MP depth sensor, and 32MP front-facing camera, delivering sharp photos, expansive wide shots, detailed portraits, and clear selfies. With 360° horizon lock and AI scene optimization, every frame stays steady and vibrant
- Massive Battery with Reverse Charging: The TCL NXTPAPER phone packs a 5010mAh battery that powers you all day. With 18W fast charging, it reaches full capacity in just 2.5 hours, and 5W reverse charging lets you charge other phones or devices—ideal for travel or long workdays
Max Ink Mode
Max Ink switches to a monochrome, reading-focused home screen, limits background activity and notifications, and restricts the apps available while the mode is active. TCL said in 2025 that it can deliver up to seven days of reading or 26 days on standby under its stated test assumptions. Those are manufacturer claims, not guaranteed battery life for every user.
Is it a real E Ink display?
No. The 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G uses a 6.78-inch LCD, not the electrophoretic display technology used by dedicated E Ink readers. NXTPAPER modes simulate a paper-like presentation through software and the phone’s matte screen surface. The phone can still run Android apps and perform ordinary smartphone tasks; Max Ink is the mode that narrows the experience toward reading.
That distinction matters if your priority is a device built specifically for reading. The TCL combines a phone and an e-reader-style mode, while a dedicated E Ink reader belongs to a different display category. The TCL’s advantage is carrying one device for reading and everyday phone use, not matching every quality of a dedicated reader.
Does it help with eye comfort, and can you read outdoors?
The matte finish reflects substantially less light than a conventional glossy phone screen and has a paper-like feel. That can make the TCL more comfortable to read on for some people, but it is not proof that the phone reduces eye strain. TCL has made blue-light, glare and eye-comfort claims; the available reviews do not establish a clinical measure of reduced eye strain for this specific handset.
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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteIndependent reviews found the display useful indoors and in shade, but difficult to read in direct sunlight. Matte does not mean sunlight-proof. Text can also look slightly fuzzy next to an OLED screen, and the subdued color modes trade vividness for a more paper-like appearance.
TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.78-inch FHD+ LCD; 120Hz refresh rate; up to 240Hz touch sampling |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus 5G |
| Memory and storage | 8GB RAM; 128GB or 256GB storage; microSD expansion up to 2TB |
| Rear cameras | 50MP main, 5MP ultra-wide and 2MP depth cameras |
| Front camera | 32MP |
| Battery and charging | 5,010mAh battery; 18W wired charging |
| Software | Android 15 with TCL UI |
| Connectivity and security | 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC and side-mounted fingerprint sensor |
These are the listed specifications; actual experience depends on use. Reviewers describe the processor as adequate for everyday tasks, but not demanding gaming. They also found the cameras and performance trail some competing budget phones, and 18W charging is slow for a 5,010mAh battery.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Price and availability vary by region
| Market | Price or availability |
|---|---|
| United States | As of October 3, 2026, TCL’s US product page displays $179.99 for the selected 128GB configuration and also lists a 256GB option. The page notes that price, stock and promotions can change; a price for the 256GB option is not stated here. |
| Canada | TCL announced availability through Bell, Fido, Freedom Mobile, Rogers, SaskTel, Videotron and Virgin Plus beginning May 1, 2025, from CAD $325 at launch. This is the announced launch price, not a confirmed current price. |
Who should choose it over another phone or an e-reader?
The 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G makes the most sense if you want a single Android phone with a less reflective screen, quick reading-mode access and a battery-saving option for reading. Its 120Hz refresh rate also keeps ordinary scrolling responsive.
Look elsewhere if direct-sunlight readability, vivid display quality, demanding games, stronger cameras or faster charging matter more. Wired reviewers preferred the CMF Phone 2 Pro for performance and cameras, while still valuing the TCL’s reading experience. If your main purpose is extended reading rather than carrying one device for everything, compare it with a dedicated E Ink reader instead.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
