The Tecno Pova series is known for delivering impressive features at budget-friendly prices. But with two iterations – the Pova 5G and the Pova 3 – choosing the right one can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Pova 5G offers a significant performance boost thanks to its 5G connectivity and more powerful Dimensity 900 chipset. However, the Pova 3 boasts faster charging and reverse charging capabilities. Overall, the Pova 5G is the better performer, but the Pova 3 provides more convenient charging.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, December 27 | 2022, May 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 27 | Available. Released 2022, May 25 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 172.8 x 78.2 x 9.1 mm (6.80 x 3.08 x 0.36 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 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.9 inches, 113.1 cm2 (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 900 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MC4 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 8.0 | Android 11, HIOS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | UFS 3.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Quad-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Triple | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
2 MP
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth)
0.08 MP |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | Yes | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 33W wired
10W reverse wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 7000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Aether Black | Electric Blue, Tech Silver, Eco Black |
| Models | LE8 | LF7n |
| Price | About 270 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Tecno Pova 5G
- Significantly faster performance
- 5G connectivity
- Potentially better display quality
- Large 6000mAh battery
- Slower 18W charging
- Reverse charging not available
Tecno Pova 3
- Faster 33W charging
- Reverse wired charging
- More affordable price
- Large 6000mAh battery
- Slower processor
- No 5G connectivity
- Potentially slightly lower display quality
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large displays, typically around 6.9 inches, with a resolution of 1080 x 2460 pixels. While both offer a decent viewing experience, the Pova 5G might have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potentially more advanced panel technology, though specific panel types are often not explicitly stated. Expect similar refresh rates, likely 90Hz or 120Hz.
Camera Comparison
The Pova 3 typically features a 48MP main camera, while the Pova 5G often has a similar or slightly improved main sensor. Image quality is generally comparable in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance is likely to be similar, though the Pova 5G's more powerful processor might allow for slightly better image processing. Both phones include multiple secondary lenses (macro, depth) for versatility.
Performance
This is where the Pova 5G shines. The Dimensity 900 chipset is considerably more powerful than the Helio G88 in the Pova 3. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the Pova 5G. The 6nm process of the Dimensity 900 also contributes to better power efficiency.
Battery Life
Both phones pack large 6000mAh batteries, ensuring all-day battery life. However, the Pova 3 has a significant advantage with its 33W fast charging, allowing for quicker top-ups. The Pova 3 also includes 10W reverse wired charging, which can be useful for charging other devices. The Pova 5G's 18W charging is comparatively slower.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Pova 5G is ideal for users who prioritize performance, 5G connectivity, and a smoother overall experience. The Tecno Pova 3 is a great choice for those who value faster charging, reverse charging, and a slightly more affordable price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Pova 5G worth the extra money?
If performance and 5G connectivity are important to you, then yes. The Pova 5G offers a noticeable upgrade in speed and future-proofing.
❓ Can the Tecno Pova 3 charge other devices?
Yes, the Pova 3 supports 10W reverse wired charging, allowing you to charge other devices using its battery.
