The Tecno Pop 8 and itel A70 represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum, targeting first-time buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. Both rely on Unisoc chipsets to deliver functionality, but subtle differences in processing power and architecture can significantly impact the user experience. This comparison dissects those differences to help you choose the best option for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Tecno Pop 8 offers a slight edge due to its Unisoc T606 chipset, featuring more powerful Cortex-A75 cores. This translates to a snappier experience in multitasking and moderately demanding apps. However, the itel A70 remains a viable option for basic usage, especially if priced significantly lower.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, October 30 | 2023, October 30 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, November | Available. Released 2023, November |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 163.7 x 75.6 x 8.6 mm (6.44 x 2.98 x 0.34 in) | 8.6 mm thickness |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Dual SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 500 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core |
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Unisoc T603 |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | - |
| OS | Android 13 (Go edition) | Android 13 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1.12µm, AF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Mystery White, Alpenglow Gold, Magic Skin, Gravity Black | Brilliant Gold, Stylish Black, Field Green, Azure Blue |
| Models | BG6h, BG6i | A665L |
Tecno Pop 8
- More powerful Unisoc T606 chipset for smoother multitasking.
- Cortex-A75 cores offer a performance advantage over the itel A70.
- Potentially better long-term performance due to more efficient processor.
- May be slightly more expensive than the itel A70.
- Limited information available on display quality.
itel A70
- Likely the most affordable option in its class.
- Simple and easy-to-use interface.
- Adequate battery life for basic usage.
- Unisoc T603 chipset offers less processing power.
- May struggle with multitasking or demanding apps.
Display Comparison
Neither Tecno nor itel provide detailed display specifications beyond resolution. Given the price point, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. The absence of information regarding peak brightness or color gamut suggests both displays are geared towards basic visibility rather than media consumption. Expect similar viewing experiences, with neither phone excelling in outdoor visibility or color accuracy. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specifications are unavailable for either device. However, given the target market, it's safe to assume both phones feature basic camera setups focused on capturing acceptable images in good lighting conditions. Expect a primary sensor, likely 8-13MP, and potentially a secondary depth or macro sensor. Image processing will be minimal, prioritizing speed over advanced features. Users shouldn't expect exceptional low-light performance or detailed images from either device. The absence of OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is a given at this price point.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets: the Tecno Pop 8 utilizes the Unisoc T606, while the itel A70 employs the Unisoc T603. The T606’s CPU configuration – 2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 – is a key advantage. The Cortex-A75 cores are significantly more powerful than the A55 cores found in the T603’s octa-core setup. This means the Pop 8 will handle tasks like app switching and web browsing with greater fluidity. While both chipsets are 12nm, the architectural advantage of the A75 cores in the T606 provides a noticeable performance boost. Both phones will likely be paired with a limited amount of RAM, further emphasizing the importance of the more efficient chipset in the Pop 8.
Battery Life
Both the Tecno Pop 8 and itel A70 support 10W wired charging. This is a standard, albeit slow, charging speed. Battery capacity is not specified, but both are likely to house batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range, sufficient for a full day of light usage. The lower processing demands of these phones, coupled with the likely battery capacity, mean both devices should provide adequate battery life for basic tasks like calls, texts, and occasional social media browsing. The 10W charging will require several hours to fully charge from 0-100%.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 8 if you prioritize slightly better performance for running multiple apps or light gaming, and anticipate needing a phone that feels more responsive over time. Buy the itel A70 if your primary needs are calls, texts, and very basic app usage, and you're looking for the absolute lowest possible price point. The A70 is ideal for those who prioritize simplicity and affordability above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Pop 8 handle popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc T606 chipset in the Tecno Pop 8 should provide a reasonably smooth experience with social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp. The Cortex-A75 cores will help with app loading times and scrolling, offering a more responsive feel compared to the itel A70.
❓ Is the itel A70 a good choice for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
Absolutely. The itel A70 is an excellent choice for users who primarily need a phone for calls and texts. Its Unisoc T603 chipset is sufficient for these basic tasks, and its focus on affordability makes it a compelling option for those on a tight budget.
❓ Can either of these phones run multiple apps simultaneously without slowing down?
Multitasking will be limited on both devices due to the limited RAM and processing power. However, the Tecno Pop 8 with its T606 chipset will handle a few apps open simultaneously better than the itel A70. Expect some slowdowns if you try to run too many apps at once.
❓ What kind of gaming performance can I expect from the Tecno Pop 8 and itel A70?
Gaming performance will be basic. Both phones can handle simple 2D games, but they will struggle with more demanding 3D titles. The Tecno Pop 8 will offer a slightly better gaming experience due to its more powerful chipset, but don't expect to play graphically intensive games at high settings.
