The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. Both the Tecno Pova Neo and Realme Narzo 50i Prime aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an incredibly accessible price point. However, they take different approaches to achieving this, with the Narzo 50i Prime prioritizing efficiency and reverse charging, while the Pova Neo leans towards a slightly more powerful, though less refined, processor.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme Narzo 50i Prime emerges as the better choice. While the Tecno Pova Neo’s Helio G25 offers a theoretical CPU performance edge, the Narzo 50i Prime’s Unisoc T612 provides a more balanced experience with a more modern CPU architecture and the added convenience of reverse wired charging.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, December 09 | 2022, June 22 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 09 | Available. Released 2022, June 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 171.4 x 77.3 x 9.1 mm (6.75 x 3.04 x 0.36 in) | 164.1 x 75.6 x 8.5 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 182 g (6.42 oz) |
| | Splash resistant | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 | Android 11, Realme UI Go |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
Secondary unknown camera | - |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Obsidian, Geek blue, Powehi | Dark Blue, Mint Green |
| Models | LE6, LE6h | RMX3506 |
| Price | About 160 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Tecno Pova Neo
- Potentially higher CPU clock speeds for basic tasks.
- 18W charging (though efficiency may negate the benefit).
- Larger form factor may appeal to some users.
- Older, less efficient processor architecture.
- No reverse charging capability.
- Likely less optimized software.
Realme Narzo 50i Prime
- More modern and efficient processor architecture.
- Reverse wired charging for added utility.
- Potentially better battery life due to chipset efficiency.
- Lower peak CPU clock speeds.
- Slower charging wattage (though efficiency mitigates this).
- May feel less powerful in CPU-intensive tasks.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely utilizing LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. Detailed display specs (resolution, brightness) are unavailable, but the focus here is clearly not on visual fidelity. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, and color accuracy will likely be standard for budget devices. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like LTPO is expected.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is expected to be basic on both devices. Without detailed sensor information, it’s safe to assume both rely on primary sensors around the 8-13MP range. The inclusion of 2MP macro lenses on both is largely marketing fluff. Image processing will be the key differentiator, and Realme generally offers more refined software algorithms. Expect acceptable results in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is a given at this price point.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Pova Neo’s MediaTek Helio G25 utilizes older Cortex-A53 cores in its octa-core configuration, clocked at 2.0 GHz and 1.5 GHz. The Realme Narzo 50i Prime’s Unisoc Tiger T612 employs a more modern architecture with two Cortex-A75 cores at 1.8 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores, also at 1.8 GHz. This architectural difference is crucial; the A75 cores offer significantly better single-core performance, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. While the G25 has more cores, the T612’s core design provides a more responsive user experience. RAM configurations are likely similar, but the T612’s efficiency will likely result in better sustained performance.
Battery Life
Both devices likely feature batteries in the 5000mAh range, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. However, the Realme Narzo 50i Prime’s Unisoc T612 is a more power-efficient chipset than the Helio G25. This translates to longer screen-on time and reduced battery drain during standby. Furthermore, the Narzo 50i Prime supports 10W charging *and* reverse wired charging, allowing it to function as a power bank for other devices. The Pova Neo’s 18W charging sounds faster on paper, but the overall charging time will likely be similar due to the chipset’s higher power draw and less efficient charging circuitry.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pova Neo if you prioritize raw CPU performance for basic multitasking and light gaming, and are willing to sacrifice charging speed and reverse charging functionality. Buy the Realme Narzo 50i Prime if you value a more efficient processor, longer battery life due to the more efficient chipset, and the added utility of reverse wired charging to top up accessories like earbuds or smartwatches.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Realme Narzo 50i Prime support fast charging, and how long does it take to fully charge?
The Narzo 50i Prime supports 10W charging. While not 'fast' in the modern sense, the Unisoc T612’s efficiency means it won’t be significantly slower than the Pova Neo’s 18W charging, and a full charge will likely take around 3-4 hours. The key benefit is the ability to use the phone as a power bank with reverse charging.
❓ Is the Unisoc Tiger T612 in the Narzo 50i Prime capable of running popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Unisoc T612 can run PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you’ll need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low and the frame rate to achieve a playable experience. Don’t expect high frame rates or ultra-smooth gameplay; it’s geared towards casual gaming rather than competitive performance.
❓ What is the benefit of reverse wired charging on the Realme Narzo 50i Prime?
Reverse wired charging allows you to use the Narzo 50i Prime to charge other devices, such as wireless earbuds, smartwatches, or even another phone, using a USB cable. This is a convenient feature for users who frequently travel or rely on multiple devices.
❓ Will the Tecno Pova Neo overheat during extended gaming sessions?
The Helio G25 is known to generate more heat than the Unisoc T612. While it won’t likely reach critical temperatures, extended gaming sessions on the Pova Neo may lead to noticeable throttling, reducing performance over time. The Narzo 50i Prime’s more efficient chipset will manage heat better.
