The Tecno Pop 6 and Samsung Galaxy A03 Core represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting first-time smartphone buyers or those needing a very basic secondary device. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at the lowest possible price point, but significant differences in chipset and brand approach dictate which phone offers the better experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a slightly smoother experience and a more established brand reputation, the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core is the better choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A chipset, while not powerful, offers a more refined octa-core architecture than what is typically found in the Tecno Pop 6's segment, resulting in better multitasking and app responsiveness.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, June 05 | 2021, November 15 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, June 05 | Available. Released 2021, December 06 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 157.8 x 73.8 x 9.7 mm (6.21 x 2.91 x 0.38 in) | 164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 211 g (7.44 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.1 inches, 91.3 cm2 (~78.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition), HiOS | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 5 MP
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | Dual LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | 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 |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sea Blue, Lime Green, Sky Blue | Black, Blue |
| Models | BE7 | SM-A032F, SM-A032F/DS, SM-A032M |
| Price | About 120 EUR | £ 74.99 |
| SAR | - | 0.30 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.24 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
Tecno Pop 6
- Likely the most affordable option available.
- May offer longer battery life due to potentially lower power consumption (speculation).
- Simple and easy-to-use interface.
- Performance is likely significantly slower than the A03 Core.
- Camera quality is expected to be very basic.
- Limited software support and updates.
Samsung Galaxy A03 Core
- Octa-core Unisoc SC9863A provides a smoother user experience.
- Benefits from Samsung’s brand recognition and software support.
- Potentially better camera performance than the Pop 6.
- Still a very basic smartphone with limited features.
- May be slightly more expensive than the Tecno Pop 6.
- Performance is not suitable for demanding games or apps.
Display Comparison
Specific display details for the Tecno Pop 6 are unavailable, but given its price point, it likely features a lower resolution and brightness panel compared to the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core. The A03 Core’s display, while basic, benefits from Samsung’s color science, potentially offering more accurate and pleasing visuals. The absence of display specifications for the Pop 6 suggests a focus on cost reduction over display quality, meaning users should expect a less vibrant and detailed viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications for the Tecno Pop 6 are currently unknown. The Samsung Galaxy A03 Core features a primary camera, but details regarding its sensor size and aperture are limited. It's reasonable to assume both devices rely on basic image processing algorithms. The A03 Core’s camera is likely optimized for adequate performance in well-lit conditions, but struggles in low light. The lack of information on the Pop 6’s camera suggests a minimal investment in imaging capabilities, potentially resulting in lower-quality photos and videos.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy A03 Core’s Unisoc SC9863A is a 28nm octa-core processor featuring a cluster of four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.6GHz and another four at 1.2GHz. This architecture allows for efficient handling of everyday tasks. The Tecno Pop 6, lacking published chipset information, likely utilizes an even more basic processor, potentially a quad-core unit, resulting in slower app launch times and less fluid multitasking. The A03 Core’s octa-core design provides a tangible advantage for users who switch between apps frequently or engage in light web browsing.
Battery Life
Battery capacity for the Tecno Pop 6 is not specified. The Samsung Galaxy A03 Core’s battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but its relatively efficient Unisoc chipset and basic display should provide all-day battery life for light users. Charging speeds are also likely to be slow on both devices, given their budget nature. Without knowing the Pop 6’s battery capacity, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison, but the A03 Core’s chipset efficiency gives it a potential edge in longevity.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 6 if your absolute priority is the lowest possible price and you primarily need a device for basic calling, texting, and light app usage. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core if you value a slightly more responsive user experience, a more recognizable brand, and a chipset that, while still entry-level, offers a more modern octa-core configuration for improved multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Unisoc SC9863A in the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core capable of running popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc SC9863A is sufficient for running popular social media apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. While it won't offer a blazing-fast experience, it provides adequate performance for these everyday tasks. Expect some loading times, but overall usability should be acceptable.
❓ How much storage does the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core offer, and is it expandable?
The Samsung Galaxy A03 Core typically comes with 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card slot. This is crucial for storing photos, videos, and apps, as 32GB fills up quickly. The microSD card slot allows users to add up to 512GB of additional storage, providing ample space for most users.
❓ What kind of software updates can I expect on the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core?
The Samsung Galaxy A03 Core will receive a limited number of software updates. While it likely launched with Android Go Edition (a lightweight version of Android), it may receive one major Android version update and security patches for a limited period. Don't expect the same level of long-term support as Samsung's flagship devices.
