The Tecno Camon series consistently delivers affordable smartphones with impressive features. The Camon 18 and 18i are two popular options, but which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their specs, performance, and more to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Camon 18i edges out the Camon 18 thanks to its slightly more powerful Helio G85 chipset, offering a noticeable performance boost for gaming and multitasking. Both offer similar camera capabilities and battery life, making the G85 the deciding factor 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 | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, October 04 | 2021, November 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 23 | Available. Released 2021, November 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 168.9 x 76.7 x 8.8 mm (6.65 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) | 164.5 x 76.5 x 8.9 mm (6.48 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 720 x 1640 pixels (~271 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~82.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 550 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 8.0 | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Quad-LED flash |
| Single | - | 16 MP, f/2.0 |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dusk Gray, Ceramic White, Iris purple | Deep Sea, Frost Silver, Tranquil Green |
| Models | CH6, CH6n | CG6 |
| Price | About 170 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Tecno Camon 18
- Potentially slightly better software optimization
- Good all-around performance
- Decent camera system
- Large display
- Slightly less powerful chipset than the 18i
- 18W charging is relatively slow
Tecno Camon 18i
- More powerful Helio G85 chipset
- Better gaming performance
- Large display
- Decent camera system
- Software optimization might be slightly less refined than the 18
- 18W charging is relatively slow
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.6-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of color accuracy and brightness, though specific panel types (AMOLED vs LCD) may vary and impact contrast. The Camon 18i might have a slightly brighter display based on typical Tecno implementations.
Camera Comparison
Both phones are expected to feature a 48MP main camera, along with ultrawide and macro lenses. Image quality should be comparable in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance might vary slightly depending on software processing, but overall, expect similar results. Both likely include a 16MP front-facing camera for selfies.
Performance
The key difference lies in the chipset. The Camon 18i's Helio G85 offers a modest performance advantage over the Camon 18's Helio G88. This translates to smoother gameplay, faster app loading times, and better multitasking capabilities. While both are capable for everyday tasks, the G85 provides a more responsive feel.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, suggesting similar battery life. Expect a full day of moderate usage from either phone. The 18W wired charging is consistent across both models, meaning charging times will be roughly the same.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Camon 18 is a good choice for users prioritizing a balanced experience and slightly better overall software optimization. The Tecno Camon 18i is ideal for those who want a bit more processing power for gaming or demanding apps, even if it means potentially slightly less refined software.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Camon 18i worth the extra money?
If you're a gamer or frequently use demanding apps, the slightly better performance of the Helio G85 in the 18i makes it worth the small price difference. Otherwise, the Camon 18 is a solid choice.
❓ What is the camera quality like on both phones?
Both phones offer a capable 48MP main camera, delivering good image quality in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance is decent but not exceptional.
