Tecno's Camon series consistently delivers impressive features at affordable prices. The Camon 18i and Camon 17 are two popular contenders, both offering a compelling package for budget-conscious users. But which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Camon 18i and Camon 17 are remarkably similar, sharing the same chipset and charging speed. The 18i likely offers slight improvements in software and potentially minor design tweaks. Ultimately, the choice often comes down to price and availability, with the 18i being the newer model and potentially offering better value if the price difference isn't significant.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, November 01 | 2021, May 08 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 01 | Available. Released 2021, May 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 76.5 x 8.9 mm (6.48 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 164.5 x 76.5 x 9 mm (6.48 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~271 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~82.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 (~83.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 450 nits (HBM) |
| 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 MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0 | 16 MP |
| Triple | 48 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0 | 16 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | Yes |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Deep Sea, Frost Silver, Tranquil Green | Frost Sliver, Deep Sea, Tranquil Green |
| Models | CG6 | CG6, CG6j |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 160 EUR |
Tecno Camon 18i
- Newer Model
- Potentially Improved Software
- Slightly Refreshed Design
- Good Value (if priced competitively)
- May be slightly more expensive than Camon 17
- Performance gains over Camon 17 are minimal
Tecno Camon 17
- Affordable Price
- Solid Performance for the Price
- Decent Camera
- All-Day Battery Life
- Older Model
- May receive fewer software updates
- Design may feel slightly dated
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar 6.6-inch display, probably an IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate. Expect comparable resolution (likely FHD+) and color accuracy. Differences, if any, would be subtle and potentially related to display calibration or brightness levels. The 18i might have a slightly improved panel, but it's unlikely to be a game-changer.
Camera Comparison
While both phones boast a multi-camera setup (likely a 48MP main sensor, ultrawide, and macro), the 18i might feature slightly improved image processing algorithms or a different sensor configuration. Expect similar image quality in most scenarios, but the 18i could potentially offer better low-light performance or more accurate color reproduction. Video recording capabilities should be comparable.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. Both devices are powered by the Mediatek Helio G85 chipset, ensuring smooth everyday usage and decent gaming capabilities. Don't expect flagship-level performance, but both phones should handle most tasks without significant lag. Software optimization could be a differentiating factor, with the 18i potentially benefiting from newer Android versions and updates.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. The 18W wired charging is consistent across both models, meaning charging times will be similar (around 1.5-2 hours for a full charge).
Buying Guide
The Tecno Camon 18i is ideal for users seeking a slightly newer device with potentially improved software and a refreshed design, willing to pay a small premium. The Tecno Camon 17 remains a solid choice for those prioritizing affordability and don't require the absolute latest features, especially if it's available at a significantly lower price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Camon 18i worth the extra money compared to the Camon 17?
It depends. If the price difference is small and you value a newer device with potentially better software and a slightly improved design, the 18i is worth considering. However, if the Camon 17 is significantly cheaper, it remains a very capable option.
❓ What are the key differences between the two phones?
The key differences are subtle. The 18i is a newer model and may have slightly improved software and a refreshed design. Camera processing and low-light performance could also be marginally better on the 18i.
