The Tecno Spark 40 and Infinix Smart 5 Pro represent two compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a low price point, they diverge significantly in their internal hardware, particularly in chipset and charging capabilities. This comparison will dissect these differences to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Tecno Spark 40 emerges as the superior choice. Its Mediatek Helio G81 chipset provides a substantial performance advantage over the Infinix Smart 5 Pro’s Unisoc SC9863A, and the 45W fast charging dramatically reduces downtime. While the Smart 5 Pro is cheaper, the Spark 40’s improved experience justifies 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, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41, 40, 66 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, July 02 | 2021, November 17 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, July | Available. Released 2021, November 17 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 165.6 x 77 x 7.7 mm (6.52 x 3.03 x 0.30 in) | 164.4 x 75.6 x 9.5 mm (6.47 x 2.98 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~263 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 500 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G81 (12 nm)Mediatek Helio G91 (12 nm) - NFC model | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 15, HIOS 15 | Android 11 (Go edition), XOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/1.8, AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Quad-LED flash |
| Single | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1440p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.2, A2DP |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 45W wired, 55 min to 100% | 10W wired |
| Type | 5200 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ink Black, Titanium Grey, Veil White, Mirage Blue | Morandi Green, Heart of Ocean |
| Models | KM5 | - |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 70 EUR |
Tecno Spark 40
- Significantly faster charging (45W)
- More powerful processor (Helio G81)
- Better overall performance for multitasking and gaming
- Likely a slightly higher price point
- May not have a significantly better camera
Infinix Smart 5 Pro
- Lower price point
- Acceptable for basic tasks
- Potentially longer battery life due to less power-hungry processor (though offset by slower charging)
- Slow charging (10W)
- Noticeably slower performance
- Less responsive user experience
Display Comparison
Neither device’s display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the price bracket, both likely utilize LCD panels. The focus here shifts to performance, as display quality is often a secondary consideration at this price point. Expect both to offer adequate, but not exceptional, viewing experiences.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a comprehensive comparison is impossible. However, it’s safe to assume both phones feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The focus will likely be on the main sensor, and any differences in megapixel count are less important than image processing capabilities. Given the price point, expect limited low-light performance and dynamic range on both devices. The absence of OIS on either device suggests reliance on software stabilization.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark 40’s Mediatek Helio G81 (12nm) boasts an octa-core configuration with 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This architecture is significantly more powerful than the Infinix Smart 5 Pro’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm) which features 4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 and 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. The Helio G81’s Cortex-A75 cores provide a substantial boost in single-core performance, crucial for app launch speeds and general responsiveness. The 28nm process of the Unisoc chip is less efficient, meaning it will likely generate more heat and consume more power for the same tasks. The G81, being a 12nm chip, offers better efficiency. This translates to a smoother user experience on the Tecno Spark 40, especially when multitasking or running demanding applications.
Battery Life
The Tecno Spark 40’s 45W wired charging is a game-changer in this segment. The claim of 55 minutes to 100% is a significant advantage over the Infinix Smart 5 Pro’s slow 10W charging. While battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, the faster charging of the Spark 40 mitigates the impact of a potentially smaller battery. Users will spend considerably less time tethered to a charger, making the Spark 40 more convenient for on-the-go lifestyles.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 40 if you prioritize responsiveness for everyday tasks, enjoy occasional gaming, and value significantly faster charging. This phone is ideal for users who need a reliable device that won’t leave them waiting for hours to top up the battery. Buy the Infinix Smart 5 Pro if your primary needs are basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media – and you are on an extremely tight budget where every dollar counts. Be prepared for slower performance and longer charging times.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark 40 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
The Mediatek Helio G81 in the Tecno Spark 40 is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty, but you’ll likely need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low to achieve a smooth frame rate. The Unisoc SC9863A in the Infinix Smart 5 Pro will struggle with these titles, even on the lowest settings.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Infinix Smart 5 Pro from 0%?
With its 10W charging, the Infinix Smart 5 Pro will take a considerable amount of time to fully charge – likely exceeding 3 hours, potentially even 4 or 5 hours depending on usage during charging. This is a significant drawback compared to the Tecno Spark 40’s 45W fast charging.
❓ Is the difference in processor speed noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the difference between the Helio G81 and the Unisoc SC9863A is quite noticeable. The Tecno Spark 40 will feel snappier when opening apps, switching between tasks, and browsing the web. The Infinix Smart 5 Pro may exhibit lag and slowdowns, especially with multiple apps open.
