The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. Both the Oukitel C31 Pro and the Tecno Spark 10C aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an incredibly accessible price point. However, they take different approaches to achieving this, primarily through their chipset choices. This comparison will dissect those differences and determine which device offers the best overall experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and a slightly more modern architecture, the Tecno Spark 10C emerges as the better choice. Its Unisoc T606 chipset, featuring Cortex-A75 cores, provides a noticeable performance edge over the Oukitel C31 Pro’s older Helio P22, despite both being fabricated on a 12nm process.
| 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 | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, December | 2023, March 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, December | Available. Released 2023, March 29 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 9.5 mm thickness | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 212 g (7.48 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth) |
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Triple | 13 MP, (wide), AF
Other unspecified cameras | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted); unspecified sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5150 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Purple, Black | Black, Blue, Green |
| Models | - | KI5k, KI5m |
| Price | About 110 EUR | ₹ 9,990 |
Oukitel C31 Pro
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward Android experience
- May have a larger battery capacity (unconfirmed)
- Outdated Helio P22 chipset
- Slower performance in everyday tasks
- Likely slower charging speeds
Tecno Spark 10C
- More modern Unisoc T606 chipset
- Faster 18W wired charging
- Improved responsiveness and multitasking
- May be slightly more expensive
- Camera performance likely similar to Oukitel C31 Pro
- Unisoc chipset may have less software optimization
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, common in this price bracket. Specifics like resolution and brightness are not provided, but we can assume they are similar – likely 720p+ and adequate for indoor use. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced features like LTPO is expected. The focus here is purely on functionality, not visual fidelity.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices, leaning towards basic functionality. Without sensor size or aperture information, it’s difficult to make definitive claims. However, given the price point, expect 8-13MP main sensors with limited dynamic range and low-light capabilities. The inclusion of 2MP macro lenses on both devices is largely marketing fluff; their image quality will be minimal. Image processing will likely be basic, prioritizing speed over detail.
Performance
This is where the key difference lies. The Tecno Spark 10C’s Unisoc T606 utilizes a hybrid core configuration: two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz, paired with six Cortex-A55 cores, also at 1.6 GHz. This architecture provides a significant advantage over the Oukitel C31 Pro’s MediaTek Helio P22, which relies solely on eight Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. While the P22 has a higher clock speed, the A75 cores in the T606 offer substantially better single-core performance, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The T606’s architecture is more efficient for handling modern Android workloads. The Oukitel C31 Pro will likely struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for the Oukitel C31 Pro, but typical budget phones in this class range from 3000-5000 mAh. The Tecno Spark 10C benefits from 18W wired charging, a significant advantage over the likely 10W or slower charging on the Oukitel C31 Pro. This means the Spark 10C can replenish its battery much faster, reducing downtime. While a larger battery capacity on the Oukitel C31 Pro *could* offset the slower charging, the T606’s more efficient architecture in the Spark 10C will likely result in comparable, if not better, real-world battery life.
Buying Guide
Buy the Oukitel C31 Pro if you need a basic, functional smartphone for extremely light tasks like calls, texts, and occasional social media browsing, and are on the absolute tightest budget. Buy the Tecno Spark 10C if you prefer a more responsive experience for everyday tasks, appreciate faster charging, and anticipate using slightly more demanding apps, even if only occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark 10C handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Unisoc T606 can run PUBG Mobile, expect to play at lower graphics settings and frame rates to maintain a stable experience. The chipset isn't designed for demanding gaming, but it will provide a playable experience for casual gamers.
❓ Is the Oukitel C31 Pro a good choice for elderly users who primarily make calls and send texts?
Yes, the Oukitel C31 Pro is a suitable option for basic communication. Its simpler processor and interface may be easier to navigate for users unfamiliar with smartphones, and its lower price point makes it a less risky investment.
❓ Does the Tecno Spark 10C support fast app switching?
The Tecno Spark 10C’s Unisoc T606 chipset, with its Cortex-A75 cores, offers noticeably improved app switching compared to the Oukitel C31 Pro. You’ll experience fewer app reloads and a smoother multitasking experience.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Tecno Spark 10C with the 18W charger?
Assuming a battery capacity around 5000mAh (typical for this class), the Tecno Spark 10C should fully charge from 0% to 100% in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours with the included 18W charger. This is significantly faster than the Oukitel C31 Pro’s likely 10W charging.