Looking for an affordable 5G smartphone? Tecno's Pova series offers compelling options, but choosing between the Pova Neo 5G and the Pova 5G can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone best suits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Pova 5G edges out the Neo 5G thanks to its slightly more powerful Dimensity 900 chipset, resulting in smoother performance. However, the Neo 5G might offer better value depending on pricing and availability. Both offer decent battery life and 5G connectivity.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 23 | 2021, December 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 26 | Available. Released 2021, December 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | 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) | 172.8 x 78.2 x 9.1 mm (6.80 x 3.08 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| | Splash resistant | - |
| 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 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 500 nits | IPS LCD, 120Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 900 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G68 MC4 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 11, HIOS 8.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | Unspecified |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 3.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 16 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
2 MP
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 16 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | Yes |
| 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 |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sprint Blue, Sapphire Black | Aether Black |
| Models | LE6j | LE8 |
| Price | About 190 EUR | About 270 EUR |
Tecno Pova Neo 5G
- More affordable
- Large 6000mAh battery
- 5G connectivity
- Decent display
- Less powerful chipset
- Slower charging (18W)
- Potentially less refined camera
Tecno Pova 5G
- More powerful Dimensity 900 chipset
- Slightly better performance
- Large 6000mAh battery
- 5G connectivity
- More expensive
- Slower charging (18W)
- Similar camera to Neo 5G
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a large 6.8-inch display, probably an IPS LCD with a 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate. Expect similar resolution (likely FHD+). The Pova 5G *might* have slightly better color accuracy or brightness, but this is difficult to confirm without detailed reviews. Overall, display performance will be comparable.
Camera Comparison
While both phones likely feature a 64MP main camera, the Pova 5G *may* have slightly improved image processing due to its more powerful chipset. Expect similar camera features like night mode and portrait mode. Video recording capabilities are likely similar, potentially up to 1080p at 30fps. Detailed camera comparisons require hands-on testing.
Performance
The Dimensity 900 in the Pova 5G is a noticeable step up from the Dimensity 810 in the Neo 5G. The Cortex-A78 cores in the 900 offer better single-core performance, which translates to snappier app loading and smoother multitasking. The Neo 5G is still capable for everyday tasks, but the Pova 5G will handle more demanding games and applications better.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a large 6000mAh battery, providing excellent battery life. Expect all-day usage with moderate use. The 18W charging is a shared limitation, meaning charging times will be relatively slow compared to faster charging standards.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Pova Neo 5G is ideal for budget-conscious users who prioritize 5G connectivity and a large battery without needing top-tier performance. The Tecno Pova 5G is a better choice for those who want a slightly faster processor for gaming and demanding apps, and are willing to spend a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Pova 5G worth the extra money?
If you prioritize performance and smoother multitasking, the Pova 5G's Dimensity 900 chipset makes it worth the extra cost. However, if you're on a tight budget, the Neo 5G offers excellent value for its price.
❓ How long does the battery last on these phones?
Both phones boast a 6000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. Expect around 10-12 hours of screen-on time.
