The Tecno Pova Neo series offers affordable smartphones packed with features. But with two iterations – the standard Pova Neo and the 5G variant – choosing the right one can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key differences to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Pova Neo 5G is the clear winner thanks to its significantly faster Dimensity 810 chipset and 5G connectivity. While both offer large batteries and decent displays, the Pova Neo 5G's performance boost makes it the better choice for most users, justifying the likely 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 |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, 5G | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 23 | 2021, December 09 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 26 | Available. Released 2021, December 09 |
| 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) | 171.4 x 77.3 x 9.1 mm (6.75 x 3.04 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| | Splash resistant | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 500 nits | IPS LCD, 480 nits |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
Secondary unknown camera |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| 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 |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sprint Blue, Sapphire Black | Obsidian, Geek blue, Powehi |
| Models | LE6j | LE6, LE6h |
| Price | About 190 EUR | About 160 EUR |
Tecno Pova Neo 5G
- Faster Performance (Dimensity 810)
- 5G Connectivity
- Improved Gaming Experience
- Likely better image processing
- Potentially higher price
- 18W charging (relatively slow)
Tecno Pova Neo
- More Affordable
- Excellent Battery Life (6000mAh)
- Large Display
- Slower Performance (Helio G25)
- No 5G
- Less responsive UI
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a large 6.8-inch display, likely with an LCD panel and a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels (FHD+). Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of brightness and color accuracy, though the Pova Neo 5G might have slightly better color reproduction due to its more powerful chipset allowing for better display processing. Refresh rate is likely 90Hz on both.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a triple-camera setup on the rear, with a primary sensor around 16MP. The Pova Neo 5G's more powerful processor could allow for better image processing and potentially improved low-light performance. Expect similar camera features like portrait mode and HDR. Front-facing cameras are likely around 8MP on both.
Performance
This is where the biggest difference lies. The Pova Neo 5G's Dimensity 810 chipset is a substantial upgrade over the Pova Neo's Helio G25. The Dimensity 810 offers significantly faster CPU and GPU performance, resulting in smoother app loading, better multitasking, and improved gaming performance. The Pova Neo will feel noticeably slower, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both devices boast a large 6000mAh battery, promising excellent battery life. Expect all-day usage with moderate use on either phone. Charging speeds are identical at 18W wired, so charging times will be comparable.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Pova Neo 5G is ideal for users who want a budget-friendly phone with 5G capabilities and a smoother overall experience for gaming and multitasking. The Tecno Pova Neo remains a good option for those on a tighter budget who prioritize battery life and don't need 5G.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Pova Neo 5G worth the extra money?
If you value performance and want 5G connectivity, then yes. The Dimensity 810 chipset provides a significant upgrade over the Helio G25.
❓ How long does the battery last on each phone?
Both phones offer excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day with moderate usage. Expect similar performance from both.
❓ Can I play demanding games on the Tecno Pova Neo 5G?
Yes, the Pova Neo 5G's Dimensity 810 chipset is capable of handling most popular mobile games at decent settings.