The Tecno Pop 5 and Infinix Smart 5 Pro represent the extreme end of the budget smartphone spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at the lowest possible price point, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The Pop 5 prioritizes absolute affordability, while the Smart 5 Pro attempts to offer a more refined experience with a more capable chipset. This comparison will dissect their key differences to help you choose the right device.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user needing a functional smartphone for basic tasks, the Infinix Smart 5 Pro is the clear winner. Its octa-core Unisoc SC9863A chipset provides a significantly smoother experience than the Tecno Pop 5’s quad-core Cortex-A7, making everyday apps and multitasking noticeably more responsive. While both are entry-level, the Smart 5 Pro offers a better return on investment.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | eMMC 5.1 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41, 40, 66 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, July 26 | 2021, November 17 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 26 | Available. Released 2021, November 17 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 157.7 x 75.7 x 9.6 mm (6.21 x 2.98 x 0.38 in) | 164.4 x 75.6 x 9.5 mm (6.47 x 2.98 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.1 inches, 91.3 cm2 (~76.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 500 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition), HIOS | Android 11 (Go edition), XOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 5 MP
VGA | 13 MP, f/1.8, AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | Quad-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | Unspecified | 1440p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | Unspecified | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | 4000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ice Lake Green, Obsidian Black, Ice Blue | Morandi Green, Heart of Ocean |
| Models | BD2, BD2p, BD3, BD1, BD2d | - |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 70 EUR |
Tecno Pop 5
- Lowest possible price point
- Simple and easy to use
- Acceptable for basic communication
- Extremely slow performance
- Limited multitasking capabilities
- Poor camera quality
Infinix Smart 5 Pro
- Significantly faster performance
- Better multitasking capabilities
- More responsive user experience
- Still limited by budget components
- Slow charging speed
- Camera quality is still basic
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the context data, we can assume both utilize LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. The absence of display specifications for the Tecno Pop 5 suggests a basic, low-resolution panel. The Infinix Smart 5 Pro, while not specified, likely benefits from a slightly higher resolution due to its more powerful chipset being able to handle it. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, and color accuracy will likely be limited. Neither device is suited for media consumption beyond basic viewing.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be limited. Without detailed sensor information, it’s safe to assume both feature basic cameras primarily for casual snapshots. The absence of OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) on either device means image quality will suffer in low-light conditions. While both may include multiple rear cameras, the image quality from secondary sensors (like a 2MP macro) will be minimal. The Smart 5 Pro’s more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Unisoc chipset may offer slightly better image processing, but don’t expect flagship-level results.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Tecno Pop 5’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU is an older architecture, designed for extreme power efficiency rather than speed. In contrast, the Infinix Smart 5 Pro’s Unisoc SC9863A features an octa-core configuration (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) built on a 28nm process. The Cortex-A55 cores are significantly more efficient and capable than the A7, resulting in a much smoother user experience. The Smart 5 Pro will handle multitasking and app loading times far better, and is more likely to receive software updates due to its more modern chipset. The 28nm process of the Unisoc chip, while not cutting-edge, is still more efficient than what the Pop 5 likely uses.
Battery Life
Battery life will be heavily dependent on usage patterns. While mAh capacity isn’t specified for either device, both are likely to feature batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range, typical for this segment. The Infinix Smart 5 Pro’s 10W wired charging is a slight advantage, allowing for a faster (though still slow by modern standards) recharge. The more efficient Unisoc chipset will also contribute to slightly better battery endurance, as it consumes less power during operation.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 5 if you absolutely need the cheapest possible smartphone for calls, texts, and very light app usage, and are willing to tolerate significant performance limitations. Buy the Infinix Smart 5 Pro if you prefer a more responsive user experience, even for basic tasks, and value the ability to run multiple apps without excessive lag. The Smart 5 Pro is ideal for users who occasionally browse the web or use social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Infinix Smart 5 Pro struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the Infinix Smart 5 Pro won't offer a blazing-fast experience, its octa-core processor and more efficient architecture will handle WhatsApp and Facebook much more smoothly than the Tecno Pop 5. Expect some loading times, but it should be usable for everyday social media browsing.
❓ Is the Tecno Pop 5 suitable for a first-time smartphone user?
The Tecno Pop 5 could work for a first-time smartphone user with extremely basic needs – primarily calls and texts. However, the slow performance may lead to frustration when attempting to use even simple apps. It's best suited for those with minimal expectations.
❓ Can the Infinix Smart 5 Pro handle light gaming?
The Infinix Smart 5 Pro can handle very light gaming, such as simple puzzle games or older titles. However, demanding games will likely experience significant lag and may be unplayable. Don't expect a smooth gaming experience.
❓ What type of storage does the Infinix Smart 5 Pro use, and is it expandable?
While not explicitly stated, budget smartphones like the Infinix Smart 5 Pro typically use eMMC storage. It almost certainly includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage, allowing you to add more space for photos, videos, and apps.
