The Tecno Spark 4 and Realme C25Y represent two approaches to the ultra-budget smartphone market. The Spark 4, a slightly older model, focuses on affordability, while the C25Y aims to deliver a more modern experience with a newer chipset. This comparison dissects their key differences to help you choose the best option for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme C25Y is the superior choice. Its Unisoc T610 octa-core processor provides a significantly smoother and more responsive experience than the Tecno Spark 4’s quad-core CPU, justifying the likely price difference. While the Spark 4 remains a viable option for extremely basic tasks, the C25Y offers better future-proofing and usability.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 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 | 2019, September 25. Released 2019, September 25 | 2021, September 16 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, September 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 165.3 x 75.9 x 8.2 mm (6.51 x 2.99 x 0.32 in) | 164.5 x 76 x 9.1 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 420 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), HIOS 5.5 | Android 11, Realme UI R |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Triple | 13 MP, AF
Auxiliary lenses | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@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, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Royal Purple, Vacation Blue | Glacier Blue, Metal Gray |
| Models | KC8 | RMX3265, RMX3268, RMX3269 |
| Price | - | About 140 EUR |
Tecno Spark 4
- Likely the most affordable option
- Functional for basic tasks
- Simple and easy to use
- Significantly slower performance
- Outdated processor architecture
- Likely limited software support
Realme C25Y
- Faster and more responsive performance
- Octa-core processor for better multitasking
- 18W fast charging
- Potentially higher price
- Camera quality is still limited
- May still struggle with demanding games
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. The Tecno Spark 4’s display specifications are not provided, but given its market segment, it likely features a basic IPS LCD panel. The Realme C25Y also utilizes an IPS LCD, but the focus here is on the chipset's ability to drive the display smoothly. Without knowing the resolution or brightness of the Spark 4’s screen, a direct comparison is difficult, but the C25Y’s processor will likely handle UI animations and video playback with less stuttering.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely similar in real-world usage, given both phones target the budget segment. Details on the Tecno Spark 4’s camera are unavailable, but the Realme C25Y’s camera specifications are also limited. Both will likely struggle in low-light conditions. The focus should be on the processing capabilities of the respective chipsets; the Unisoc T610 in the C25Y will likely offer slightly better image processing, but don't expect flagship-level results from either device. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on the C25Y is largely a marketing feature and offers limited practical benefit.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Tecno Spark 4’s quad-core 2.0 GHz CPU is a generation behind the Realme C25Y’s Unisoc T610. The T610’s octa-core configuration (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) provides a substantial advantage in multi-threaded tasks and overall responsiveness. The Cortex-A75 cores offer a noticeable performance boost over the cores typically found in quad-core budget processors. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and a more enjoyable user experience on the C25Y. The 12nm process node of the Unisoc T610 also contributes to improved power efficiency compared to older, larger node processors.
Battery Life
Battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns. The Realme C25Y’s 18W wired charging is a significant advantage over the likely slower charging capabilities of the Tecno Spark 4. While the mAh capacity of both devices is unknown, the more efficient Unisoc T610 in the C25Y will likely result in comparable or even better battery life despite potentially having a smaller battery. The 18W charging will also allow for quicker top-ups when needed.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 4 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and only intend to use the phone for calls, texts, and very light app usage. It's a functional device for minimal smartphone needs. Buy the Realme C25Y if you value a smoother user experience, occasional gaming, and the ability to multitask without significant lag. The C25Y is the better investment for anyone planning to use their phone beyond the most basic functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C25Y handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
The Unisoc T610 in the Realme C25Y can run PUBG Mobile, but you'll likely need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low to achieve a playable frame rate. Don't expect a consistently smooth experience at high settings. The Tecno Spark 4 will struggle significantly with PUBG Mobile.
❓ How much faster is the Realme C25Y in everyday tasks compared to the Tecno Spark 4?
The Realme C25Y’s octa-core processor provides a noticeable improvement in everyday tasks like opening apps, browsing the web, and switching between applications. Expect app loading times to be significantly faster and the overall user interface to feel more responsive. The difference will be particularly noticeable when multitasking.
❓ Does the Realme C25Y support software updates?
Realme generally provides software updates for their budget devices, though the frequency and duration of support may be limited. The Tecno Spark 4 is likely to receive fewer updates, if any, due to its age. Checking Realme’s official website for the C25Y’s update schedule is recommended.
