The LG W10, while a capable entry-level device from a well-established brand, is showing its age. The Tecno Spark 40C enters the arena with a newer chipset and faster charging, aiming to disrupt the budget segment. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which phone delivers the best experience for the price.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Tecno Spark 40C is the clear winner. Its Helio G81 chipset offers a substantial performance uplift over the LG W10’s Helio P22, particularly in gaming and multitasking. The 18W charging is a welcome addition, addressing a common pain point in this price bracket. While the LG W10 may appeal to brand loyalists, the Spark 40C provides better value.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, June. Released 2019, July | 2025, July 19 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2025, August |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 156 x 76.2 x 8.5 mm (6.14 x 3.00 x 0.33 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 + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 164 g (5.78 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1512 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~271 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~263 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.19 inches, 96.0 cm2 (~80.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 120Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G81 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 15, HIOS 15.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | Unspecified |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), PDAF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Tulip Purple, Smokey Grey | Veil White, Ripple Blue, Titanium Grey, Ink Black |
| Models | LMX130IM | KM4k |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 90 EUR |
LG W10
- Established Brand Reputation (LG)
- Potentially Simpler Software Experience
- May be more readily available in some regions
- Outdated Helio P22 Chipset
- Slow Charging Speed (likely 5W-10W)
- Limited Gaming Performance
Tecno Spark 40C
- Faster Helio G81 Chipset
- 18W Fast Charging
- Improved Gaming Performance
- More Responsive User Experience
- Less Established Brand (Tecno)
- Software Updates May Be Less Frequent
- Build Quality May Not Match LG
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both utilize 12nm chipsets, suggesting similar power constraints impacting display capabilities. Without specific display specs for the LG W10, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, given the Spark 40C's focus on media consumption, it likely features a reasonably bright panel. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like LTPO on either device indicates a cost-focused approach.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications for the LG W10, a precise comparison is challenging. However, budget phones often prioritize megapixel count over sensor size and image processing quality. The Tecno Spark 40C likely benefits from Mediatek’s image signal processor (ISP) integrated within the Helio G81, potentially offering improved dynamic range and noise reduction compared to the older ISP in the Helio P22. It's reasonable to assume the Spark 40C will deliver more consistent and detailed photos, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The prevalence of 2MP macro lenses on both devices suggests limited utility; focusing on the main sensor performance is more crucial.
Performance
The Tecno Spark 40C’s Mediatek Helio G81 represents a significant architectural leap over the LG W10’s Helio P22. The P22 utilizes eight Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz, suitable for basic tasks. The G81, however, features a more sophisticated configuration: two Cortex-A75 cores at 2.0 GHz for performance-intensive tasks and six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz for efficiency. This 'big.LITTLE' architecture allows the G81 to deliver noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience. The G81’s GPU is also considerably more powerful, making it the better choice for mobile gamers. The LG W10 will struggle with graphically demanding titles.
Battery Life
While the battery capacities of both devices are unknown, the Tecno Spark 40C’s 18W wired charging is a major advantage. The LG W10 likely supports standard 5W or 10W charging, resulting in significantly longer charge times. This means the Spark 40C can top up its battery much faster, reducing downtime and improving usability. Even if the LG W10 has a slightly larger battery capacity, the faster charging of the Spark 40C will likely translate to a more convenient user experience.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG W10 if you prioritize a familiar brand name and a simple, straightforward user experience, and your usage is limited to basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. Buy the Tecno Spark 40C if you want a phone capable of handling more demanding apps, occasional gaming, and appreciate faster charging speeds, even if it means opting for a less-known brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark 40C handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Helio G81 in the Tecno Spark 40C is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you'll likely need to use medium or low graphics settings for a smooth experience. The Helio P22 in the LG W10 will struggle with these titles, even on the lowest settings.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Tecno Spark 40C with the 18W charger?
While a precise 0-100% charge time requires testing, the Tecno Spark 40C should fully charge in approximately 2-2.5 hours with the included 18W charger. The LG W10, with its slower charging, could take 4+ hours.
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 40C's software bloated with unnecessary apps?
Tecno's HiOS software is known to include pre-installed apps. However, many of these can be uninstalled, freeing up storage space and reducing clutter. The LG W10's software is generally cleaner, but the performance difference from the chipset outweighs this advantage.
❓ Does the LG W10 receive regular software updates and security patches?
LG has scaled back its smartphone operations, meaning the LG W10 is unlikely to receive significant software updates or security patches going forward. The Tecno Spark 40C may receive updates, but the frequency and duration of support are less certain.
