The Infinix Hot 8, a mainstay in the ultra-budget segment, is now facing competition from newer devices like the Tecno Spark 40C. While the Hot 8 offered a compelling entry point, the Spark 40C introduces a more modern chipset, raising the question: is the upgrade worth it for everyday users and light gamers?
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Tecno Spark 40C is the clear winner. Its MediaTek Helio G81 chipset delivers a substantially improved CPU and GPU performance compared to the Infinix Hot 8’s Helio A22 or P22, making it better suited for multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications. The 18W charging is also a significant advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, September 04. Released 2019, September | 2025, July 19 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2025, August |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, glass back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 165 x 76.3 x 8.7 mm (6.50 x 3.00 x 0.34 in) | 165.6 x 77 x 8.4 mm (6.52 x 3.03 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 179 g (6.31 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~263 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 120Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53Octa-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) - 32/2 GBMediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) - 64/4 GB | Mediatek Helio G81 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 15, HIOS 15.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | Unspecified |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), PDAF |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lenses | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 25mm (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| | Dirac Surround Sound | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh, non-removable | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Quetzal Cyan, Cosmic Purple, Shark Grey, Midnight Black | Veil White, Ripple Blue, Titanium Grey, Ink Black |
| Models | X650C, X650B, X650D | KM4k |
| Price | About 7000 INR | About 90 EUR |
Infinix Hot 8
- Lowest possible price point
- Functional for basic tasks
- Widely available
- Outdated processor
- Slow performance
- Slow charging
Tecno Spark 40C
- Significantly faster processor
- Improved gaming performance
- 18W fast charging
- Slightly higher price
- May still struggle with demanding games at high settings
- Build quality likely similar to Hot 8
Display Comparison
Neither device is known for display prowess. Both likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. Specifics like resolution and brightness are not provided, but the Hot 8’s age suggests a less refined display experience. The Spark 40C, being newer, may benefit from slight improvements in color accuracy and viewing angles, though significant differences are unlikely. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar in real-world usage, given the focus on cost reduction in both devices. Details on sensor sizes and apertures are unavailable, but both will likely feature a primary sensor paired with auxiliary lenses of limited utility. The Spark 40C’s newer image signal processor (ISP) within the Helio G81 may offer slightly improved image processing, resulting in better dynamic range and noise reduction, but don't expect flagship-level results. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing gimmick.
Performance
This is where the Tecno Spark 40C truly shines. The Infinix Hot 8 utilizes either the MediaTek Helio A22 (quad-core, 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53) or the Helio P22 (octa-core, 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53). The Tecno Spark 40C, however, boasts the MediaTek Helio G81 (octa-core, 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55). The G81’s Cortex-A75 cores represent a significant architectural leap over the A53 cores in the Hot 8, offering substantially better single-core performance. The G81 also features a more capable Mali-G52 MC2 GPU, providing a much smoother gaming experience. The Hot 8 will struggle with modern titles, while the Spark 40C can handle them at lower settings. RAM configurations (2GB/32GB or 4GB/64GB for the Hot 8) further exacerbate the performance gap.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, the Tecno Spark 40C’s 18W wired charging is a major advantage. The Infinix Hot 8 likely supports standard 5W or 10W charging, resulting in significantly longer charge times. Even with a similar battery capacity, the Spark 40C’s faster charging will provide a more convenient user experience, allowing for quicker top-ups throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the Infinix Hot 8 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and your usage is limited to basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. It's a functional device for minimal smartphone needs. Buy the Tecno Spark 40C if you value smoother performance, faster charging, and a more responsive user experience, even if it means spending a bit more. It’s ideal for users who enjoy occasional gaming or multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark 40C run PUBG Mobile smoothly?
The Tecno Spark 40C’s Helio G81 chipset is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but you’ll likely need to use low to medium graphics settings for a consistently smooth experience. The Infinix Hot 8 will struggle to run the game at playable framerates.
❓ Is the difference in performance between the Helio A22 and Helio G81 noticeable for everyday tasks?
Yes, the difference is very noticeable. The Helio G81’s more powerful cores and improved architecture result in significantly faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface. The Helio A22 will feel sluggish in comparison.
❓ Does the Tecno Spark 40C support reverse charging?
Based on available information, the Tecno Spark 40C does not appear to support reverse charging. This feature is uncommon in this price segment.
❓ What type of storage does the Tecno Spark 40C use – eMMC or UFS?
While not explicitly stated, it's highly probable that the Tecno Spark 40C utilizes eMMC storage to keep costs down. UFS storage is typically reserved for higher-end devices.
