The Tecno Camon series is known for offering impressive features at competitive prices. The Camon 18 and 18T are two recent additions, both vying for the budget-conscious smartphone user. But which one offers the better value? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Camon 18T 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 18T the preferred choice for those prioritizing speed.
| 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 30 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 23 | Available. Released 2021, November 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 168.9 x 76.7 x 8.8 mm (6.65 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) | 168.9 x 76.7 x 8.9 mm (6.65 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 550 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 500 nits (typ) |
| 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 8.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 48 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 48 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dusk Gray, Ceramic White, Iris purple | Iris purple, Dusk Gray, Ceramic White |
| Models | CH6, CH6n | - |
| Price | About 170 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Tecno Camon 18
- Balanced performance
- Good value for money
- Decent camera quality
- Large display
- Slightly less powerful chipset than 18T
- 18W charging is relatively slow
Tecno Camon 18T
- Slightly better performance (Helio G85)
- Smooth gaming experience
- Good value for money
- Large display
- 18W charging is relatively slow
- Camera performance similar to Camon 18
Display Comparison
Both the Camon 18 and 18T typically feature a 6.6-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2400) display with a 90Hz refresh rate. While the panels are likely similar in quality (often IPS LCD), the 18T might offer slightly better color accuracy or brightness depending on the specific variant. Expect vibrant colors and smooth scrolling on both devices.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a triple-camera setup, often headlined by a 48MP main sensor, accompanied by a depth sensor and a macro lens. Image quality is generally comparable, with decent performance in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance is acceptable but not exceptional. Video recording capabilities are similar, supporting up to 1080p resolution.
Performance
This is where the key difference lies. The Camon 18 uses a Mediatek Helio G88, while the 18T boasts a Helio G85. The G85 generally offers a slight performance advantage, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks like gaming. Expect smoother gameplay and faster app loading times on the 18T. Both phones have 6GB or 8GB of RAM, which is adequate for multitasking.
Battery Life
Both devices are powered by a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. The 18W wired charging is consistent across both models, offering a reasonable charging speed but not particularly fast compared to competitors.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Camon 18 is a good choice for users who prioritize a balanced experience and don't heavily rely on demanding applications. The Tecno Camon 18T is ideal for gamers, social media enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a smoother, more responsive smartphone experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Camon 18T worth the extra money?
If you prioritize performance and smoother gaming, then yes, the 18T is worth the slight price premium. Otherwise, the Camon 18 offers a very similar experience at a potentially lower cost.
❓ What is the difference between the Helio G85 and Helio G88?
The Helio G85 generally offers slightly better CPU and GPU performance compared to the Helio G88, resulting in a more responsive and smoother user experience, especially for gaming.
