The budget smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Tecno Spark 40 and Realme C11 (2021) represent compelling options for users prioritizing affordability. However, they take distinctly different approaches to achieving that low price point. The Spark 40 aims for a performance edge with a more powerful chipset and faster charging, while the C11 (2021) focuses on basic functionality and extended battery life. This comparison dissects these trade-offs to determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a responsive experience and quicker charging, the Tecno Spark 40 is the clear winner. Its Helio G81 chipset offers significantly better performance than the Realme C11’s Unisoc SC9863A, and the 45W charging dramatically reduces downtime. While the C11 (2021) is cheaper, the performance gap is substantial.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, July 02 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, July | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 165.6 x 77 x 7.7 mm (6.52 x 3.03 x 0.30 in) | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| 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 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| 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, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| 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, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 45W wired, 55 min to 100% | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 5200 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ink Black, Titanium Grey, Veil White, Mirage Blue | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | KM5 | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Tecno Spark 40
- Significantly faster processor for smoother performance
- 45W fast charging drastically reduces charging time
- Potentially better image processing due to the Helio G81's ISP
- Likely a higher price point than the Realme C11 (2021)
- May generate more heat under sustained load compared to the more efficient Unisoc chip
Realme C11 (2021)
- More affordable price point
- Potentially longer battery life due to the more efficient chipset
- Reverse wired charging for accessories
- Significantly slower processor leading to lag and stutter
- Extremely slow 10W charging
- Limited performance for gaming or multitasking
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, common in this price bracket. However, detailed display specs (resolution, brightness, color gamut) are missing. The Realme C11 (2021) likely has a lower resolution given its cost. The absence of information on PWM dimming rates makes it difficult to assess potential eye strain, but both are likely to be lower-end panels.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar in real-world usage, as both phones target the budget segment. Detailed sensor information is lacking, but both will likely feature a primary camera paired with auxiliary lenses of limited utility. The focus should be on the primary sensor; larger sensors and wider apertures (f/2.0 or lower) generally capture more light and produce better images. Without specific details, it's difficult to declare a clear winner, but the Spark 40’s more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Helio G81 may offer slightly better image processing capabilities.
Performance
The performance disparity is the most significant difference. The Tecno Spark 40’s Mediatek Helio G81 (12nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Realme C11 (2021)’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The G81’s octa-core configuration, featuring two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz, provides a noticeable boost in CPU performance for tasks like app loading and web browsing. The Unisoc SC9863A’s Cortex-A55 cores, clocked lower at 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz, are geared towards efficiency rather than speed. This translates to a smoother, more responsive experience on the Spark 40, particularly when multitasking or running demanding applications. The 28nm process of the Unisoc chip also means it will generate more heat and consume more power than the 12nm Helio G81.
Battery Life
While battery capacity isn't specified, the Realme C11 (2021) likely has a slightly larger battery to compensate for its less efficient chipset. However, the Tecno Spark 40’s 45W wired charging is a game-changer. It promises a full charge in approximately 55 minutes, a significant advantage over the Realme C11 (2021)’s slow 10W charging. The faster charging allows for quick top-ups throughout the day, minimizing downtime. The Realme C11 (2021) does offer reverse wired charging, a niche feature for charging accessories, but it’s unlikely to be a primary use case for most users.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 40 if you need a phone capable of handling moderate gaming, multitasking, and benefit from significantly faster charging speeds. This is ideal for users who actively use their phones throughout the day and don't want to be tethered to a charger. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you prioritize absolute affordability and primarily need a phone for basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media – and are willing to accept slower performance and charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Tecno Spark 40's Helio G81 chipset handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Helio G81 is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you'll likely need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low to achieve a smooth frame rate. It's not a dedicated gaming chip, but it offers a significantly better gaming experience than the Unisoc SC9863A in the Realme C11 (2021).
❓ How long does it *actually* take to fully charge the Tecno Spark 40 with the 45W charger?
Tecno claims a 0-100% charge in 55 minutes. Real-world charging times may vary slightly depending on usage during charging and ambient temperature, but it should consistently be faster than the several hours required for the Realme C11 (2021).
❓ Is the reverse wired charging on the Realme C11 (2021) useful for charging other devices like earbuds or a smartwatch?
While the reverse wired charging is a convenient feature, its 10W output is quite slow. It's suitable for emergency charging of small accessories, but it won't rapidly charge larger devices like another smartphone.
❓ Will the Unisoc SC9863A in the Realme C11 (2021) struggle with everyday tasks like browsing the web or using social media apps?
Yes, the Unisoc SC9863A is a basic processor. You may experience noticeable lag and stutter when opening multiple apps or browsing websites with heavy content. It's best suited for light usage scenarios.
