Tecno continues to deliver budget-friendly smartphones with impressive features. The Camon 18 and the newer Camon 20 Pro 5G both offer compelling options, but cater to slightly different needs. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is the best fit.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G is the clear winner, boasting a significantly faster chipset, 5G connectivity, and faster charging. While the Camon 18 remains a decent budget option, the 20 Pro 5G offers a substantial upgrade in performance and future-proofing.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | - | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, October 04 | 2023, May 09 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 23 | Available. Released 2023, May 09 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 168.9 x 76.7 x 8.8 mm (6.65 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) | 162.7 x 75.9 x 7.8 mm (6.41 x 2.99 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~87.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 550 nits (typ) | AMOLED, 120Hz |
| | - | Always-on display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-A78 & 3x2.6 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 8050 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G77 MC9 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 8.0 | Android 13, HIOS 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Ring-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 64 MP, f/1.7, (wide), 1/1.7", 0.8µm, PDAF, OIS
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, HDR |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 32 MP, f/2.5, 24mm (wide), 1/2.8", 0.8µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 33W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dusk Gray, Ceramic White, Iris purple | Dark Welkin, Serenity Blue |
| Models | CH6, CH6n | CK8n |
| Price | About 170 EUR | About 270 EUR |
Tecno Camon 18
- Affordable
- Large Display
- Decent Camera
- Good Battery Life
- Older Chipset
- Slower Charging
- Less Premium Design
- No 5G
Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G
- Fast Performance (Dimensity 8050)
- 5G Connectivity
- Faster Charging (33W)
- Premium Design
- Improved Camera Processing
- Higher Price
- Potentially Larger Size/Weight
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large displays, typically around 6.8 inches, with Full HD+ resolution. The Camon 20 Pro 5G likely has slightly improved color accuracy and brightness due to a potentially more advanced panel, though specific panel types aren't always disclosed. Expect similar viewing experiences overall, but the 20 Pro 5G might offer a marginally better visual experience.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature multi-lens camera setups, typically including a primary sensor, ultrawide lens, and macro lens. The Camon 20 Pro 5G likely benefits from improved image processing thanks to its more powerful chipset, resulting in better dynamic range, detail, and low-light performance. Expect slightly better video recording capabilities as well.
Performance
This is where the Camon 20 Pro 5G shines. The Dimensity 8050 chipset is a significant leap over the Helio G88. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the 20 Pro 5G. The 20 Pro 5G's CPU architecture is also more efficient, potentially leading to better sustained performance.
Battery Life
Both phones typically feature a 5000mAh battery. However, the Camon 20 Pro 5G's faster 33W charging offers a quicker top-up compared to the Camon 18's 18W charging. Battery life itself should be comparable under similar usage conditions.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Camon 18 is ideal for users on a tight budget who prioritize a large display and decent camera capabilities for everyday use. The Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G is perfect for those seeking a smoother, faster experience, 5G connectivity, and a more premium design, even if it comes at a slightly higher price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G worth the extra money?
Yes, if you value performance, 5G connectivity, and faster charging. The Dimensity 8050 chipset provides a significant upgrade over the Camon 18's processor.
❓ What is the camera resolution on each phone?
While specific resolutions vary slightly depending on the exact variant, both phones typically feature a 64MP primary camera. The 20 Pro 5G's image processing will likely yield better results.
