The Tecno Pova series is known for delivering impressive features at budget-friendly prices. But with two compelling options – the Pova Neo 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 Neo 5G edges out the Pova 3 thanks to its significantly faster 5G connectivity and more powerful Dimensity 810 chipset. However, the Pova 3 offers faster charging and reverse charging capabilities, making it a strong contender for users prioritizing those features.
| 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 |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 23 | 2022, May 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 26 | Available. Released 2022, May 25 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 170.8 x 77.9 x 9.5 mm (6.72 x 3.07 x 0.37 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) |
| | Splash resistant | RGB notification light stripe on the back (Electric Blue model only) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~389 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.9 inches, 113.1 cm2 (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 500 nits | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 11, HIOS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Quad-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth)
0.08 MP |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | 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, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 33W wired
10W reverse wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 7000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sprint Blue, Sapphire Black | Electric Blue, Tech Silver, Eco Black |
| Models | LE6j | LF7n |
| Price | About 190 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Tecno Pova Neo 5G
- 5G Connectivity
- Faster Processor (Dimensity 810)
- Potentially Higher Refresh Rate Display
- More Efficient Chipset
- Slightly Smaller Battery
- Potentially Lower Main Camera Resolution
- Slower Charging Speed
Tecno Pova 3
- Larger Battery Capacity
- Faster 33W Charging
- Reverse Wired Charging
- Potentially Better Main Camera (due to larger sensor)
- Slower Processor (Helio G88)
- No 5G Connectivity
- Likely 60Hz Display
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large 6.8-inch displays, likely with a resolution around 1080 x 2400 pixels. While specific panel types aren't always detailed, expect IPS LCD panels with decent color accuracy and viewing angles. The Neo 5G might have a slightly higher refresh rate (90Hz vs. 60Hz on the Pova 3) for smoother scrolling and animations, but this needs confirmation.
Camera Comparison
The Tecno Pova 3 typically features a 50MP main camera, while the Pova Neo 5G often has a 16MP main camera. While megapixels aren't everything, the Pova 3's larger sensor *could* potentially capture more light. Image processing and software optimization will play a significant role in the final image quality. Both phones likely offer similar ultrawide and macro lenses.
Performance
The Mediatek Dimensity 810 in the Pova Neo 5G is a clear winner here. Its 6nm process and more modern architecture provide a noticeable performance boost over the Pova 3's Helio G88. Expect faster app loading times, smoother gaming, and better multitasking capabilities on the Neo 5G. The Neo 5G's CPU also boasts faster clock speeds on its prime cores.
Battery Life
The Tecno Pova 3 generally has a larger battery capacity (6000mAh vs. 5000mAh on the Neo 5G). However, the Pova Neo 5G's more efficient chipset might partially offset this difference. The Pova 3's 33W fast charging is a significant advantage, allowing for quicker top-ups. The reverse charging feature is also a useful addition.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Pova Neo 5G is ideal for users who want 5G connectivity and a smoother overall experience for gaming and multitasking. The Tecno Pova 3 is a great choice for those who prioritize fast charging, reverse charging, and a slightly larger battery, even if it means sacrificing some processing power.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Pova Neo 5G worth the extra money?
If 5G connectivity and a faster processor are important to you, then yes. The Neo 5G offers a noticeable performance upgrade.
❓ Can the Tecno Pova 3 charge other devices?
Yes, the Pova 3 supports 10W reverse wired charging, allowing you to charge other devices like earbuds or smartwatches.
❓ Which phone has better gaming performance?
The Tecno Pova Neo 5G's Dimensity 810 chipset provides significantly better gaming performance compared to the Pova 3's Helio G88.
