Tecno has become a significant player in the budget smartphone market, offering compelling features at attractive prices. The Camon 18T and Pova 2 are two popular options, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will break down their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones share the same chipset and charging speed. The Camon 18T generally offers a slightly better camera experience and potentially a more refined design, while the Pova 2 prioritizes a larger battery and often a more aggressive price point. It's a trade-off between camera quality and battery life.
| 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, November 30 | 2021, June 03 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 30 | Available. Released 2021, June 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 168.9 x 76.7 x 8.9 mm (6.65 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) | 173.3 x 78.8 x 9.6 mm (6.82 x 3.10 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~389 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.9 inches, 113.1 cm2 (~82.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 500 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 480 nits |
| 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 8.0 | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Quad-LED flash |
| Quad | - | 48 MP, f/1.9, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lenses |
| Single | 48 MP, (wide) | - |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 48 MP, (wide) | 8 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 | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GALILEO, BDS |
| 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 7000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Iris purple, Dusk Gray, Ceramic White | Polar Silver, Power Blue, Dazzle Black |
| Models | - | LE7, LE7n |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 140 EUR |
Tecno Camon 18T
- Better camera quality
- Potentially more refined design
- Slightly better display
- OIS (often present)
- Smaller battery compared to Pova 2
- May be slightly more expensive
Tecno Pova 2
- Exceptional battery life
- Larger screen size
- Often more affordable
- Good performance for the price
- Less impressive camera
- Potentially lower display quality
- Design may be less premium
Display Comparison
The Camon 18T typically features a slightly higher resolution display and potentially a more accurate color reproduction compared to the Pova 2. While both use LCD panels, the Camon 18T often has a more vibrant and detailed visual experience. The Pova 2 often boasts a larger screen size, which can be beneficial for media consumption.
Camera Comparison
The Camon 18T generally has a more advanced camera system, often including features like OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) and a higher resolution primary sensor. This translates to better low-light performance and sharper images. The Pova 2's camera is adequate but doesn't match the Camon 18T's capabilities.
Performance
Performance is largely identical due to the shared Helio G85 chipset. Both phones handle everyday tasks and moderate gaming well. However, software optimization can vary, potentially impacting real-world performance. Expect similar speeds for app loading and multitasking.
Battery Life
The Pova 2 typically packs a significantly larger battery (often 6000mAh) compared to the Camon 18T. This results in noticeably longer battery life, easily lasting a full day or more with moderate usage. The Camon 18T offers good battery life, but not to the same extent as the Pova 2.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Camon 18T is ideal for users who prioritize camera quality, a slightly more premium feel, and a balanced overall experience. The Tecno Pova 2 is a better choice for those who need exceptional battery life for extended use and are on a tighter budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Camon 18T worth the extra money?
If camera quality and a slightly more premium feel are important to you, then yes. The Camon 18T offers a noticeable upgrade in these areas.
❓ Which phone is best for gaming?
Both phones offer decent gaming performance thanks to the Helio G85. However, the Pova 2's larger battery might be preferable for longer gaming sessions.