The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Realme Narzo 50i and Tecno Spark Go 2023 represent two contenders vying for the attention of first-time smartphone buyers or those seeking a reliable secondary device. While both aim for affordability, they take different approaches to achieving it, particularly in processor choice and power delivery. This comparison dissects those differences to reveal which phone offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance for everyday tasks, the Realme Narzo 50i emerges as the slightly better choice. Its octa-core processor, while clocked lower, offers a broader architectural advantage over the Tecno Spark Go 2023’s quad-core Helio A22, resulting in smoother multitasking and app loading.
| 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, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 24 | 2023, January 19 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2023, January 24 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | - |
| | Splash-resistant design | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.4 cm2 (~84.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 12, HIOS 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Unspecified |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Mint Green | Endless Black, Nebula Purple, Uyuni Blue, Skin Orange |
| Models | RMX3235 | BF7n |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Realme Narzo 50i
- Octa-core processor offers better multitasking.
- Reverse wired charging provides added utility.
- Potentially better thermal management due to core count.
- Lower clock speed compared to the Tecno.
- Lack of detailed specifications makes a full assessment difficult.
Tecno Spark Go 2023
- More modern chipset architecture (Helio A22).
- 10W charging is standard for the price point.
- Potentially lower cost depending on regional pricing.
- Quad-core processor may struggle with demanding tasks.
- Slower charging speed compared to potential alternatives.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the lack of display specifications, we can assume both utilize basic LCD panels common in this price bracket. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but durability and power efficiency. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, and color accuracy will be standard for the segment. The absence of features like high refresh rates or even HD+ resolution suggests a focus on minimizing cost.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. Without specific sensor details, it’s safe to assume both rely on affordable sensors. The absence of information regarding OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) suggests neither phone will excel in low-light conditions. Any macro camera included on either device is likely a 2MP sensor, offering limited practical utility due to its low resolution and fixed focus. Image processing will be basic, prioritizing speed over detail.
Performance
The core difference lies in the processors. The Tecno Spark Go 2023 utilizes the Mediatek Helio A22, a quad-core processor built on a 12nm process. While the 2.0 GHz clock speed appears higher, the Realme Narzo 50i’s octa-core processor, clocked at 1.6 GHz, benefits from having twice the number of cores. This architectural advantage translates to better handling of multiple applications simultaneously. The 12nm process of the Helio A22, while efficient, is older technology compared to potentially more refined fabrication processes used in the Narzo 50i’s processor, though the exact process node for the Narzo 50i is not specified. This impacts thermal management; the Narzo 50i is likely to distribute heat more evenly under sustained load.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device, but both will likely feature batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range, typical for this segment. However, the Tecno Spark Go 2023 includes 10W wired charging, while the Narzo 50i offers reverse wired charging. The 10W charging on the Tecno will result in a longer 0-100% charge time. The Narzo 50i’s reverse wired charging, while slow, allows it to act as a power bank for other devices, a potentially useful feature for users with multiple gadgets.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme Narzo 50i if you need a phone capable of handling a moderate amount of multitasking, such as switching between messaging apps, social media, and light web browsing, without significant slowdowns. Buy the Tecno Spark Go 2023 if your primary use case is extremely basic – calls, texts, and occasional light app usage – and you prioritize a slightly newer device with a more modern chipset architecture, even if it means sacrificing raw processing power.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio A22 in the Tecno Spark Go 2023 struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the Helio A22 can handle basic apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, running multiple instances or having many background apps open simultaneously may lead to noticeable slowdowns. The quad-core architecture is less efficient at multitasking compared to the octa-core processor in the Narzo 50i.
❓ How useful is the reverse wired charging feature on the Realme Narzo 50i in a real-world scenario?
The reverse wired charging is a niche feature, but can be helpful in emergencies. It allows you to top up a friend’s phone or a Bluetooth earbud if you have a compatible cable. However, the charging speed is slow, so it’s not a replacement for a dedicated power bank.
❓ Is either phone suitable for playing mobile games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
Neither phone is ideally suited for demanding games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile. While they may be able to run the games at the lowest settings, expect significant frame rate drops and potential overheating. These phones are better suited for casual gaming.
