The Tecno Spark 10 and Nokia G21 represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone space. Both aim to deliver essential features at a low price point, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The Spark 10 prioritizes processing power with its Helio G37 chipset, while the G21 focuses on longevity with its endurance-rated battery and PD3.0 charging. This comparison will dissect their strengths and weaknesses to determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Tecno Spark 10 emerges as the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio G37 chipset, while not a powerhouse, offers a noticeable performance edge over the Unisoc T606 in the Nokia G21, translating to a smoother user experience, especially with demanding apps. While both offer similar battery endurance ratings, the Spark 10’s slightly more modern processor provides a better overall value.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - International |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 28, 40, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, March 23 | 2022, February 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, April | Available. Released 2022, February 15 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 163.9 x 75.4 x 8.4 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.33 in) | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G37 (12 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 13, HIOS 12 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), 0.7µm, PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth) | - |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, (wide), 0.7µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio, RDS |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 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, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired, PD3.0 |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, White, Skin Orange | Nordic Blue, Dusk |
| Models | KI5q | TA-1418, TA-1477, TA-1415, TA-1405, TA-1404, TA-1412 |
| Price | € 151.38 / ₹ 9,899 | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.00 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.34 W/kg (head) 1.05 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life | - |
Endurance rating 126h
|
| Camera | - |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 1631:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
-30.7 LUFS (Below average)
|
| Performance | - |
AnTuTu: 171299 (v9)
GeekBench: 1193 (v5.1)
GFXBench: 8.9fps (ES 3.1 onscreen) |
Tecno Spark 10
- Potentially better gaming performance due to the Helio G37 GPU.
- Faster perceived responsiveness in everyday tasks.
- More modern chipset architecture.
- Lacks PD3.0 charging for broader charger compatibility.
- May have lower outdoor visibility compared to the Nokia G21.
Nokia G21
- Excellent battery endurance with a 126-hour rating.
- PD3.0 charging support for faster and versatile charging.
- Higher peak brightness for better outdoor visibility.
- Unisoc T606 chipset may struggle with demanding applications.
- Potentially slower overall performance compared to the Tecno Spark 10.
Display Comparison
Both the Tecno Spark 10 and Nokia G21 feature displays with a 1631:1 contrast ratio, suggesting similar visual pop. However, the Nokia G21’s measured 500 nits of maximum brightness gives it a clear advantage in outdoor visibility. While both lack high refresh rates, the G21’s brightness makes it more usable in direct sunlight. Details regarding the panel technology (IPS, TFT) are missing, but given the price point, both likely utilize IPS panels for decent viewing angles.
Camera Comparison
Both phones are listed as having 'Photo / Video' capabilities, offering little insight. Without specific sensor details, it’s difficult to make a meaningful comparison. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is unlikely to significantly impact image quality. The aperture and sensor size of the main cameras are crucial, but absent from the provided data. Image processing algorithms will also play a role, but brand reputation suggests Nokia may have a slight edge in software optimization.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark 10’s Mediatek Helio G37 utilizes a combination of Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and 1.7 GHz, while the Nokia G21’s Unisoc T606 features a more modern architecture with two Cortex-A75 cores at 1.6 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores also at 1.6 GHz. While the G37 has a higher peak clock speed, the A75 cores in the T606 offer better single-core performance. However, the G37’s GPU is likely more capable for gaming. The G21’s Unisoc chipset is known for efficiency, but the G37 will likely provide a snappier experience in most daily tasks. RAM configurations are not specified, but this will significantly impact multitasking performance on both devices.
Battery Life
Both devices boast an endurance rating of 126 hours, indicating comparable battery life under similar usage conditions. However, the Nokia G21’s inclusion of PD3.0 charging is a significant advantage. PD3.0 allows for faster and more versatile charging with compatible chargers, while the Tecno Spark 10 is limited to 18W wired charging. While both charge at 18W, the PD3.0 protocol on the G21 can negotiate higher voltages and currents for quicker top-ups. Actual 0-100% charging times will depend on the charger used, but the G21 has the potential to be faster.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 10 if you prioritize responsiveness and a smoother experience when multitasking or running apps. It’s ideal for users who occasionally game or need a phone that can handle everyday tasks without lag. Buy the Nokia G21 if battery life and reliable charging are your absolute top priorities, and you primarily use your phone for basic communication and light tasks. The G21’s PD3.0 support also offers broader charger compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Unisoc T606 in the Nokia G21 struggle with graphically intensive games like PUBG Mobile?
The Unisoc T606 is an entry-level chipset. While it can run PUBG Mobile, you'll likely need to lower the graphics settings significantly to achieve a playable frame rate. Expect occasional stuttering and lag, especially in busy scenes. The Tecno Spark 10’s Helio G37 will offer a smoother gaming experience, even if it’s not a high-end gaming phone.
❓ Is the 18W charging on both phones equally fast, or does the Nokia G21’s PD3.0 give it an edge?
While both support 18W charging, the Nokia G21’s PD3.0 implementation is a significant advantage. PD3.0 allows the phone to negotiate higher voltages and currents with compatible chargers, potentially resulting in faster charging speeds. A standard 18W charger may not deliver the full potential of the G21’s charging capabilities.
❓ How does the difference in CPU core architecture (A53 vs A75/A55) impact real-world performance?
The Nokia G21’s use of Cortex-A75 cores provides better single-core performance, which is beneficial for tasks like launching apps and navigating the user interface. However, the Tecno Spark 10’s higher clock speeds on its A53 cores and potentially more optimized GPU can lead to a smoother overall experience, especially in gaming and multitasking.
