Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely compromise on features? The Honor Play6T and Tecno Pop 5 LTE are both contenders in the budget segment, but they offer different strengths. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Honor Play6T clearly takes the lead thanks to its significantly more powerful chipset and faster charging. While the Tecno Pop 5 LTE offers a more accessible price point, the Play6T's superior performance makes it the better overall choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA2000 1x | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, April 07 | 2021, November 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 16 | Available. Released 2021, November 25 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 167.6 x 77.2 x 8.6 mm (6.60 x 3.04 x 0.34 in) | 164.9 x 76.1 x 8.8 mm (6.49 x 3.00 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 198 g (6.98 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.74 inches, 109.7 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11, Magic UI 5.0 | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 8 MP
Secondary unknown camera |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | - | 5 MP |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 22.5W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver, Blue | Ice Blue, Deepsea Luster, Turquoise Cyan |
| Models | CMA-AN40 | BD4, BD4i, BD4a |
| Price | About 180 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Honor Play6T
- Significantly faster performance
- Faster charging (22.5W)
- Likely better camera quality
- More modern chipset
- Potentially slightly higher price
- May lack some niche features found in other budget phones
Tecno Pop 5 LTE
- More affordable price
- Large display
- Decent battery life
- Slow performance
- Slow charging
- Lower camera quality
- Outdated chipset
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large displays, likely around 6.5 inches, but the Honor Play6T likely has a slightly better panel with potentially higher resolution and color accuracy. The Tecno Pop 5 LTE probably prioritizes affordability over display quality.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely similar in megapixel count, but the Honor Play6T's more powerful processor will likely translate to better image processing and overall photo quality. Expect better low-light performance and more detail from the Play6T's camera.
Performance
This is where the Honor Play6T shines. The Mediatek Dimensity 700 is a much more powerful chipset than the Unisoc SC9863A. Expect significantly faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the Play6T. The Pop 5 LTE will struggle with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have batteries in the 5000mAh range, offering all-day battery life. However, the Honor Play6T's 22.5W fast charging will allow for significantly quicker top-ups compared to the Pop 5 LTE's likely slower charging speed.
Buying Guide
The Honor Play6T is ideal for users who prioritize performance and a smoother user experience, even on a budget. The Tecno Pop 5 LTE is a good option for those seeking the absolute lowest price and basic smartphone functionality, primarily for calls, texts, and light social media use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Honor Play6T is significantly better for gaming due to its much more powerful chipset. The Tecno Pop 5 LTE will struggle with even basic games.
❓ How much does each phone typically cost?
The Tecno Pop 5 LTE is generally the more affordable option, often priced under $150. The Honor Play6T typically costs between $150 and $200, depending on storage configuration.