The Doogee X97 Pro and Tecno Spark 9 Pro represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone space. Both aim to deliver a functional Android experience without breaking the bank, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The X97 Pro focuses on a simple, streamlined experience, while the Spark 9 Pro attempts to offer a more feature-rich package, particularly in the realm of processing power. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and smoother multitasking, the Tecno Spark 9 Pro is the better choice. Its Helio G85 chipset, featuring Cortex-A75 cores, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the Doogee X97 Pro’s Helio G25, making it more suitable for gaming and demanding applications. While the X97 Pro is still functional, the Spark 9 Pro offers a more future-proof experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, June | 2022, June 02 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, July | Available. Released 2022, July |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 162 x 76.9 x 9.7 mm (6.38 x 3.03 x 0.38 in) | 164.2 x 75.6 x 8.4 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~74.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 12 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | Triple-LED flash | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 32 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.6, 27mm (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Video | 1080p | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 32 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 720p | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | Yes (KH7n only) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | 4200 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Green | Quantum Black, Burano Blue, Glacier White, Hacker Storm, Sport Edition, Kyanite Blue |
| Models | - | KH7, KH7n |
| Price | About 120 EUR | - |
Doogee X97 Pro
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Likely durable build quality (Doogee's reputation)
- Significantly weaker performance compared to the Spark 9 Pro
- No fast charging support
- Limited gaming capabilities
Tecno Spark 9 Pro
- Faster and more responsive performance with the Helio G85
- 18W fast charging for quicker top-ups
- Better suited for gaming and multitasking
- May be slightly more expensive than the Doogee X97 Pro
- Software experience may include bloatware (typical for Tecno)
- Potentially less durable build quality
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both utilize 12nm chipsets, suggesting similar power constraints impacting display capabilities. While specific display specs (resolution, brightness) are missing, the focus here is on performance. The absence of high refresh rates on either device indicates a prioritization of battery life over visual fluidity. Bezels are likely comparable given the price bracket, and color accuracy is expected to be standard for this segment.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is limited. However, it’s safe to assume both phones feature budget-oriented camera systems. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on both is likely a marketing tactic, offering limited real-world benefit due to the small sensor size and low resolution. Image processing will likely be the differentiating factor, with Tecno often employing more aggressive algorithms for vibrant, social media-ready photos. The main sensor size and aperture would be crucial for low-light performance, but this data is unavailable.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark 9 Pro’s MediaTek Helio G85 (MT6769Z) is a significant upgrade over the Doogee X97 Pro’s Helio G25 (MT6762G). The G85 utilizes two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz alongside six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz, offering a substantial improvement in single-core and multi-core performance compared to the G25’s four Cortex-A53 cores at 2.0 GHz and four at 1.5 GHz. This architectural difference translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience on the Spark 9 Pro. The G85’s GPU is also more capable, allowing for higher frame rates in mobile games. While both use 12nm fabrication, the G85’s core design is more efficient.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for the Doogee X97 Pro, but typical budget phones in this class range from 5000mAh to 6000mAh. The Tecno Spark 9 Pro benefits from 18W wired charging, a feature absent on the X97 Pro (based on available information). This faster charging capability significantly reduces the time required to replenish the battery, offering a more convenient user experience. Even with a similar battery capacity, the G85’s efficiency could contribute to slightly longer battery life on the Spark 9 Pro during moderate usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Doogee X97 Pro if you need a basic, reliable smartphone for essential tasks like calls, messaging, and light social media use, and prioritize simplicity over performance. Buy the Tecno Spark 9 Pro if you prefer a phone capable of handling moderate gaming, smoother app switching, and benefit from faster charging, even if it means a slightly higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark 9 Pro handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Helio G85 in the Tecno Spark 9 Pro is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you'll likely need to use medium or low graphics settings to maintain a stable frame rate. The Doogee X97 Pro’s Helio G25 will struggle with these titles, offering a significantly less enjoyable gaming experience.
❓ Is the 18W charging on the Tecno Spark 9 Pro a significant improvement over standard charging?
Yes, 18W charging is a noticeable improvement. While it won't be as fast as higher wattage charging found on more expensive phones, it will significantly reduce charging times compared to a standard 5W or 10W charger. Expect a full charge in around 2-3 hours, depending on battery capacity.
❓ Does either phone support microSD card expansion for additional storage?
While not explicitly stated in the provided specifications, both the Doogee X97 Pro and Tecno Spark 9 Pro are highly likely to support microSD card expansion. This is a common feature in budget smartphones, allowing users to increase storage capacity for photos, videos, and other files.
❓ What kind of software experience can I expect from the Tecno Spark 9 Pro?
Tecno's HiOS software is based on Android, but it often includes pre-installed apps (bloatware) and a customized user interface. While HiOS offers some useful features, it can also be resource-intensive and may not appeal to users who prefer a stock Android experience.
