The Tecno Pova series is known for offering impressive features at budget-friendly prices. The Pova 5G and Pova Neo 5G continue this trend, bringing 5G connectivity to a wider audience. But which one is the better choice? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Pova 5G edges out the Neo 5G thanks to its slightly more powerful Dimensity 900 chipset, offering a noticeable performance boost. Both offer solid battery life and 5G connectivity, making them compelling budget options, but the Pova 5G's extra power makes it the preferred pick.
| 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 | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, December 27 | 2022, September 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 27 | Available. Released 2022, September 26 |
| 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) | 170.8 x 77.9 x 9.5 mm (6.72 x 3.07 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| | - | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~389 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.9 inches, 113.1 cm2 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 500 nits |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 900 (6 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MC4 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 8.0 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | UFS 3.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 8 MP |
| Triple | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
2 MP
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps | 1440p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps | 1440p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | Yes | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Aether Black | Sprint Blue, Sapphire Black |
| Models | LE8 | LE6j |
| Price | About 270 EUR | About 190 EUR |
Tecno Pova 5G
- More powerful Dimensity 900 chipset
- Potentially better camera image processing
- Smooth 90Hz/120Hz display
- Large 6000mAh battery
- 18W charging is slow
- Design may be bulky
- Software experience can be inconsistent
Tecno Pova Neo 5G
- More affordable
- Large 6000mAh battery
- 5G connectivity
- Decent display
- Less powerful Dimensity 810 chipset
- Potentially inferior camera performance
- 18W charging is slow
- Software experience can be inconsistent
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a large 6.9-inch display, probably an IPS LCD with a 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals. Expect similar resolution (likely FHD+). Differences might lie in brightness and color accuracy, but detailed reviews are needed for confirmation. The Pova 5G *might* have slightly better color calibration.
Camera Comparison
While both likely feature a 64MP main camera, image processing and overall camera quality can vary. The Pova 5G *may* have slightly better image processing due to its more powerful chipset, resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range. Expect similar ultrawide and macro lenses on both.
Performance
The Dimensity 900 in the Pova 5G holds a clear advantage over the Dimensity 810 in the Pova Neo 5G. The Cortex-A78 cores in the 900 offer better single-core performance, leading to snappier app launches and overall responsiveness. Gaming performance will also be noticeably better on the Pova 5G.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a large 6000mAh battery, providing excellent battery life. Expect all-day usage with moderate use. Charging speeds are identical at 18W, which is relatively slow by modern standards.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Pova 5G is ideal for users who prioritize performance and smoother multitasking. If you're a gamer or frequently use demanding apps, the Pova 5G is the better choice. The Tecno Pova Neo 5G is a great option for users who need 5G connectivity and a large battery without breaking the bank, and are less concerned with top-tier performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Pova 5G worth the extra money?
If performance is a priority, then yes. The Dimensity 900 offers a noticeable upgrade over the Dimensity 810. However, if you're on a tight budget and primarily need 5G connectivity and long battery life, the Neo 5G is a solid choice.
❓ How does the charging speed compare to other phones?
18W charging is relatively slow compared to many modern smartphones. Expect a full charge to take around 2-3 hours.
