The sub-$200 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The Tecno Spark 20P aims to deliver essential features at an incredibly low price point, while the Oppo A79 steps up with a more modern chipset and faster charging. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Oppo A79 is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6020 chipset provides a noticeable performance boost over the Tecno Spark 20P’s older Mediatek processor, and the 33W charging significantly reduces downtime. While the Spark 20P is cheaper, the A79’s improvements justify the price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 28, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, June 13 | 2023, October 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, June | Available. Released 2023, October 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 163.7 x 75.6 x 8.6 mm (6.44 x 2.98 x 0.34 in) | 165.6 x 76 x 8 mm (6.52 x 2.99 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 193 g (6.81 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Panda glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~392 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.72 inches, 109.0 cm2 (~86.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 680 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek | Mediatek Dimensity 6020 (7 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13, upgradable to Android 15, ColorOS 15 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 256GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, (wide), 1/2.8", PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 33W wired, 51% in 30 min |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Alpenglow Gold, Magic Skin | Mystery Black, Glowing Green, Dazzling Purple |
| Models | - | CPH2553, CPH2557 |
| Price | About 240 EUR | ₹ 17,999 |
| SAR | - | 1.19 W/kg (head) 1.06 W/kg (body) |
Tecno Spark 20P
- Lower price point makes it highly accessible.
- Likely larger battery capacity (assumption based on market segment).
- Simple and straightforward user experience.
- Significantly slower processor performance.
- Slower 18W charging.
- Potentially less refined camera image processing.
Oppo A79
- Faster and more efficient Mediatek Dimensity 6020 chipset.
- 33W fast charging with 51% in 30 minutes.
- Improved image processing capabilities.
- Slightly higher price compared to the Tecno Spark 20P.
- Potentially smaller battery capacity (assumption based on market segment).
- May lack some of the extra features found on higher-end Oppo models.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, common in this price bracket. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but functionality. Without specific display specs, it's difficult to differentiate, but Oppo generally employs slightly better color calibration in its A-series. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, prioritizing cost reduction over an immersive viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is challenging. However, it’s safe to assume both phones feature a primary camera and potentially depth/macro sensors. The Oppo A79 likely benefits from Mediatek’s image signal processor (ISP) integrated within the Dimensity 6020, potentially offering better image processing and noise reduction. The Tecno Spark 20P will likely rely on software algorithms to compensate for a less capable ISP. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing tactic, offering limited real-world benefit.
Performance
The Oppo A79’s Mediatek Dimensity 6020 (7nm) represents a significant architectural leap over the Tecno Spark 20P’s Mediatek chipset with its Cortex-A53 cores. The A79’s CPU configuration – 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 – offers substantially improved single-core and multi-core performance. The A76 cores are significantly more powerful than the A53, resulting in snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The 7nm process node also contributes to better power efficiency. While both are octa-core, the *type* of core makes all the difference.
Battery Life
The Tecno Spark 20P features 18W wired charging, while the Oppo A79 boasts 33W wired charging, capable of reaching 51% charge in just 30 minutes. This faster charging is a major advantage for the A79, reducing downtime significantly. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging speed of the A79 effectively mitigates any potential disadvantage from a slightly smaller battery. Users who frequently find themselves needing a quick top-up will greatly appreciate the A79’s charging capabilities.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 20P if you prioritize absolute affordability and only need a phone for basic tasks like calls, messaging, and light social media. Buy the Oppo A79 if you value smoother multitasking, occasional gaming, and faster charging, even if it means spending a bit more. The A79 is the better option for users who want a phone that feels responsive and doesn't leave them tethered to a charger for hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Mediatek Dimensity 6020 in the Oppo A79 powerful enough for gaming?
The Dimensity 6020 is capable of handling many popular mobile games at medium settings. While it won't deliver flagship-level performance, it provides a significantly smoother gaming experience than the Tecno Spark 20P’s processor, especially in more demanding titles. Expect playable frame rates in games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile.
❓ How much faster is the 33W charging on the Oppo A79 compared to the 18W charging on the Tecno Spark 20P?
The Oppo A79’s 33W charging can reach 51% in 30 minutes, a substantial improvement over the Tecno Spark 20P’s 18W charging. While a precise 0-100% time for the Spark 20P isn’t available, it will likely take considerably longer – potentially over two hours – to fully charge, making the A79 a much more convenient option for users who need a quick power boost.
❓ Will I notice a difference in app loading times between the two phones?
Yes, you will definitely notice a difference. The Oppo A79’s Dimensity 6020 chipset, with its more powerful Cortex-A76 cores, will load apps significantly faster than the Tecno Spark 20P. This is particularly noticeable with larger apps and games.
