The Tecno Spark 4 Lite and Alcatel 1V (2021) represent the absolute entry point into smartphone ownership. Both devices target users prioritizing affordability above all else, but subtle differences in processing power and charging capabilities can sway the decision. This comparison dissects these nuances to help you choose the best option for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a basic, functional smartphone, the Alcatel 1V (2021) offers a slight advantage. Its marginally faster 2.0 GHz CPU, while utilizing the same Helio A22 chipset, translates to a smoother experience with everyday tasks, and the inclusion of 10W charging is a practical benefit over the Spark 4 Lite's likely 5W charging.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - 6002A |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 26, 28, 66 - 6002A |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - 6002D |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, December. Released 2019, December | 2021, February |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, April |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 166.7 x 75.8 x 8.4 mm (6.56 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) | 165.2 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), HIOS 5.5 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.12µm, AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio (market/operator dependent) |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | 4000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Black, Vacation Blue, Hillier Purple | Space Gray, Atlantic Blue |
| Models | KC8S | 6002A, 6002D |
| Price | - | About 100 EUR |
Tecno Spark 4 Lite
- Potentially lower price point (depending on retailer)
- Compact and lightweight design (likely)
- Functional for basic communication
- Slower CPU clock speed (1.8 GHz)
- Likely slower charging (5W)
- Limited performance for multitasking
alcatel 1V (2021)
- Faster CPU clock speed (2.0 GHz)
- 10W wired charging for quicker top-ups
- Slightly more responsive user experience
- May be slightly more expensive
- Still limited performance overall
- Basic camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are expected to utilize LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. Specifics like resolution and brightness are not provided, but we can assume both offer basic viewing experiences suitable for essential tasks. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. Color accuracy will be limited, prioritizing power efficiency over fidelity.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be basic. Details regarding sensor size and aperture are unavailable, but it’s safe to assume both feature low-resolution primary sensors. Any secondary cameras (likely 2MP depth or macro sensors) will offer limited utility. Image quality will be acceptable in well-lit conditions, but will suffer significantly in low light. Expect limited dynamic range and detail. The Alcatel 1V doesn't appear to offer any camera features beyond the basics.
Performance
Both the Tecno Spark 4 Lite and Alcatel 1V (2021) are powered by the Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) chipset. However, the Alcatel 1V distinguishes itself with a 2.0 GHz quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU, compared to the Spark 4 Lite’s 1.8 GHz configuration. This 200 MHz clock speed difference, while seemingly small, can result in a noticeable improvement in app launch times and overall responsiveness, particularly when multitasking. Both devices will struggle with demanding games or resource-intensive applications. RAM configurations are not specified, but are likely to be 2GB or less, further limiting performance.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given their target market and hardware, both likely house batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range. The key difference lies in charging: the Alcatel 1V (2021) supports 10W wired charging, while the Tecno Spark 4 Lite likely defaults to a slower 5W charging rate. This means the Alcatel 1V will reach a full charge significantly faster, a practical advantage for users who need to quickly top up their battery.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 4 Lite if you need a phone primarily for calls, texts, and very light app usage, and are comfortable with potentially slower performance. Buy the Alcatel 1V (2021) if you prefer a slightly more responsive experience for basic multitasking, social media browsing, and appreciate the convenience of faster 10W wired charging, even if it's still relatively slow by modern standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Alcatel 1V (2021) be able to run WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly?
Yes, the Alcatel 1V (2021)'s 2.0 GHz CPU should handle WhatsApp and Facebook without significant lag, although running multiple apps simultaneously may cause slowdowns. The Helio A22 chipset is sufficient for these basic social media applications.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Alcatel 1V (2021) with the 10W charger?
While a precise time isn't available, expect a full charge to take approximately 3-4 hours. 10W charging is relatively slow compared to modern standards, but it's a noticeable improvement over the likely 5W charging on the Tecno Spark 4 Lite.
❓ Can either of these phones play PUBG Mobile?
No, neither the Tecno Spark 4 Lite nor the Alcatel 1V (2021) are capable of running PUBG Mobile at playable frame rates. The Helio A22 chipset lacks the processing power and GPU performance required for this demanding game.
❓ What type of SIM cards do these phones support?
Both devices are expected to support dual SIM cards (likely Micro-SIM and Nano-SIM), allowing users to utilize two different mobile networks simultaneously. This is a common feature in budget smartphones.