The Tecno Pop 5c and itel A48 represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting first-time smartphone users and those seeking a secondary device for basic tasks. Both phones prioritize affordability above all else, but subtle differences in their underlying hardware can significantly impact the user experience. This comparison dissects those differences to determine which device delivers the most value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing slightly smoother performance and a potentially more responsive interface, the itel A48 emerges as the better choice. Its Unisoc SC9832E chipset, clocked at 1.4 GHz, offers a modest but noticeable advantage over the Tecno Pop 5c’s SC7731e. However, both phones are limited by their low-end specifications.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, November 12 | 2021 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 12 | Available. Released 2021 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic frame, plastic back | - |
| Dimensions | 145.2 x 74.1 x 9.9 mm (5.72 x 2.92 x 0.39 in) | - |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Dual SIM |
| Weight | 150 g (5.29 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~196 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~288 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~64.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.1 inches, 89.8 cm2 |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.4 GHz |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC7731e | Unisoc SC9832E (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400 | Mali-T820 MP1 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition), HIOS | Android 10 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | Unspecified | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Unspecified | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2400 mAh | 3000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Lake Blue, Dark Blue | Black, Purple, Green |
| Price | About 60 EUR | - |
Tecno Pop 5c
- Potentially the lowest price point available.
- Functional for basic communication tasks.
- Simple and easy-to-use interface.
- Slower processor compared to the itel A48.
- Less responsive user experience.
- Limited multitasking capabilities.
itel A48
- Slightly faster processor for smoother performance.
- More efficient chipset potentially leading to better battery life.
- Potentially more responsive user interface.
- Slightly higher price point.
- Still limited by low-end specifications.
- Camera performance likely similar to the Tecno Pop 5c.
Display Comparison
Neither Tecno nor itel provide detailed display specifications. Given the price point, both likely utilize low-resolution LCD panels. However, the itel A48’s chipset, being manufactured on a 28nm process, suggests a slightly more mature manufacturing process which *could* translate to marginally better power efficiency for the display. Expect both displays to struggle in direct sunlight and offer limited viewing angles. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a priority on either device.
Camera Comparison
Both devices are expected to feature basic camera setups, likely dominated by a single main sensor. Detailed camera specs are unavailable, but given the target market, image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing. Expect limited dynamic range and poor low-light performance from both. Any secondary cameras (often 2MP macro lenses) are unlikely to offer significant value and should be considered marketing features rather than genuine photographic tools. The itel A48’s slightly more powerful chipset *might* allow for marginally faster image processing, but the difference will be minimal.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The itel A48’s Unisoc SC9832E, built on a 28nm process, boasts a 1.4 GHz clock speed compared to the Tecno Pop 5c’s Unisoc SC7731e at 1.3 GHz. While both are quad-core Cortex-A7 processors, the higher clock speed and more refined manufacturing process of the SC9832E should result in faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. The 28nm process also implies better thermal efficiency, potentially reducing throttling during sustained use, though both phones will struggle with demanding applications. RAM configurations are likely similar, further emphasizing the chipset as the primary performance differentiator.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given their ultra-budget nature, both likely house batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range. The itel A48’s more efficient chipset (28nm process) could translate to slightly longer battery life under similar usage conditions. Charging wattage is also unspecified, but expect slow charging speeds – likely 5W or less – for both devices. Real-world battery life will heavily depend on usage patterns, but both phones should comfortably last a full day with light use.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 5c if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and are primarily focused on basic communication – calls, texts, and light WhatsApp usage. It’s a functional device for those with minimal smartphone requirements. Buy the itel A48 if you prefer a slightly more responsive experience for everyday tasks like browsing and social media, and are willing to spend a small premium for the marginally improved chipset.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the itel A48 struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the itel A48’s Unisoc SC9832E is a low-end chipset, it should be capable of running WhatsApp and Facebook without significant issues. However, expect slower loading times and occasional lag when switching between apps. Avoid running multiple apps simultaneously for the best experience.
❓ Is the camera on either phone suitable for taking photos of important documents?
Neither the Tecno Pop 5c nor the itel A48 are ideal for document scanning. The low resolution and limited image quality will likely result in blurry and difficult-to-read images. A dedicated document scanner app on a more capable phone is recommended for important documents.
❓ Can either phone handle basic mobile gaming?
Both phones can handle very basic 2D games, but do not expect a smooth experience with more demanding titles. Frame rates will be low, and you may encounter significant lag. These phones are not designed for gaming.
