The Tecno Pova series is known for offering impressive features at budget-friendly prices. The Pova 2 and Pova 3 continue this trend, but with key differences. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone best suits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Pova 3 emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly faster 33W charging, slightly improved chipset (Helio G88 vs G85), and reverse charging capability. While the Pova 2 remains a decent option, the Pova 3 offers a noticeable upgrade for a relatively small price difference.
| 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 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June 03 | 2022, May 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, June 11 | Available. Released 2022, May 25 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 173.3 x 78.8 x 9.6 mm (6.82 x 3.10 x 0.38 in) | 173.1 x 78.5 x 9.4 mm (6.81 x 3.09 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 230 g (8.11 oz) |
| | - | RGB notification light stripe on the back (Electric Blue model only) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~389 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~389 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.9 inches, 113.1 cm2 (~82.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.9 inches, 113.1 cm2 (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 | Android 11, HIOS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash | Quad-LED flash, HDR |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/1.9, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lenses | - |
| Single | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth)
0.08 MP |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 33W wired
10W reverse wired |
| Type | 7000 mAh | 7000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Polar Silver, Power Blue, Dazzle Black | Electric Blue, Tech Silver, Eco Black |
| Models | LE7, LE7n | LF7n |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Tecno Pova 2
- Large 6.9-inch display
- Massive 6000mAh battery
- Affordable price
- Slow 18W charging
- Slightly older chipset
- Basic camera performance
Tecno Pova 3
- Faster 33W charging
- Slightly improved Helio G88 chipset
- Reverse charging capability
- Potentially better camera processing
- Slightly higher price
- Still a budget-focused device
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a large 6.9-inch display, likely with a similar resolution (likely FHD+). While both offer immersive viewing, the Pova 3 might have slightly improved color accuracy or brightness due to potential panel upgrades, though this is not definitively confirmed. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are generally similar, with both likely featuring a 48MP main sensor and additional depth/macro lenses. However, the Pova 3's image processing algorithms might be slightly improved, resulting in marginally better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Video recording capabilities are likely comparable.
Performance
The Pova 3's Helio G88 chipset offers a modest performance boost over the Pova 2's Helio G85. While both are capable of handling everyday tasks and some gaming, the G88 provides smoother multitasking and slightly better gaming performance. Expect a more responsive experience on the Pova 3.
Battery Life
Both phones boast a large 6000mAh battery, promising excellent battery life. However, the Pova 3's 33W fast charging significantly reduces charging times compared to the Pova 2's 18W charging. This is a major advantage for the Pova 3.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Pova 2 is a good choice for users on a very tight budget who prioritize a large screen and long battery life and don't need fast charging. The Tecno Pova 3 is ideal for those who want faster charging, a slightly more powerful processor, and the added convenience of reverse charging, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Pova 3 worth the upgrade from the Pova 2?
Yes, the faster charging and slightly improved performance of the Pova 3 make it a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you value quick charging and smoother multitasking.
❓ What is reverse charging on the Tecno Pova 3?
Reverse charging allows you to use your phone to charge other devices, like earbuds or smartwatches, using a USB cable.
