The sub-$100 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The Tecno Pop 2 F and Lava Z61 Pro represent two approaches to this segment: the Pop 2 F prioritizes basic functionality and affordability, while the Z61 Pro attempts to offer a more modern experience with an octa-core processor. This comparison dissects the key differences to help you choose the right device for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Lava Z61 Pro is the better choice. Its octa-core processor provides a significantly smoother experience for multitasking and app usage compared to the Tecno Pop 2 F’s quad-core chipset. While charging is slower, the performance uplift justifies the extra wait.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, May. Released 2019, May | 2020, July 09. Released 2020, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 149.8 x 72.8 x 9.4 mm (5.90 x 2.87 x 0.37 in) | 147 x 71.8 x 9.2 mm (5.79 x 2.83 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 155 g (5.47 oz) | 160 g (5.64 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~197 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~70.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core 1.6 GHz processor |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6580M | - |
| GPU | Mali-400MP2 | - |
| OS | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go edition) | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSD | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1.12µ |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µ |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 5W, 100% in 3h 30 min |
| Type | Li-Ion 2400 mAh, removable | Li-Po 3100 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Black, Champagne Gold, City Blue | Midnight Blue, Amber Red |
| Models | B1c | - |
| Price | - | About 70 EUR |
Tecno Pop 2 F
- Lowest possible price point
- Simple and easy to use
- Functional for basic tasks
- Slow processor struggles with multitasking
- Outdated processor architecture
- Likely limited software support
Lava Z61 Pro
- Octa-core processor offers significantly better performance
- More responsive user experience
- Better suited for multitasking
- Slower charging speed (3h 30m)
- May be slightly more expensive
- Display quality likely similar to Tecno Pop 2 F
Display Comparison
Neither device provides display specifications, so a direct comparison is difficult. However, given the price point, both likely utilize LCD panels with 720p resolution. Expect relatively narrow viewing angles and limited brightness. The absence of details suggests neither phone prioritizes display quality, focusing instead on core functionality. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both devices.
Camera Comparison
Without sensor details, assessing camera quality is challenging. Both phones likely feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The absence of any mention of OIS or advanced features suggests image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing. Given the price bracket, expect limited low-light performance and a focus on capturing usable images in good lighting conditions. Any secondary cameras (likely 2MP) are unlikely to offer significant value.
Performance
The Lava Z61 Pro’s octa-core 1.6 GHz processor represents a substantial leap in processing power compared to the Tecno Pop 2 F’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. The octa-core configuration allows for more efficient multitasking and smoother operation of demanding apps. While the Cortex-A7 architecture in the Pop 2 F is power-efficient, it struggles with even moderate workloads. The Z61 Pro will offer a noticeably faster and more fluid user experience, particularly when switching between applications. The lack of RAM specifications for both devices is a concern, but the processor difference will be the dominant factor.
Battery Life
The Lava Z61 Pro’s 5W charging, taking 3 hours and 30 minutes for a full charge, is relatively slow by modern standards. However, the performance advantage of the processor may offset this inconvenience by allowing users to complete tasks more quickly, reducing the overall time spent tethered to a charger. Battery capacity is not specified for either device, but both likely feature batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range. The Z61 Pro’s more efficient processor may contribute to comparable or even better battery life despite the slower charging speed.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 2 F if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and your smartphone usage is limited to calls, texts, and very basic apps. It’s a functional device for first-time smartphone users or as a backup phone. Buy the Lava Z61 Pro if you value a more responsive user experience, even for everyday tasks, and are willing to spend a little more for improved performance and future-proofing.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Lava Z61 Pro’s processor powerful enough to run popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the octa-core processor in the Lava Z61 Pro is more than capable of running Facebook, WhatsApp, and similar social media applications without significant lag. The increased processing power will provide a much smoother experience compared to the Tecno Pop 2 F, especially when multitasking between apps.
❓ How will the slower charging speed of the Lava Z61 Pro affect daily use?
The 3.5-hour charging time for the Lava Z61 Pro is slower than many modern smartphones. However, the more efficient processor may mean you don't need to charge as frequently. Consider charging overnight to mitigate the slower charging speed.
❓ Will the Tecno Pop 2 F be able to handle basic games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers?
The Tecno Pop 2 F can likely run very simple games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers, but expect limited performance and potential lag, especially with more complex levels or graphics. The quad-core processor is not designed for gaming.
