The Tecno Spark 5 Air and itel Vision 2S represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a price point that’s accessible to everyone. However, they take different approaches: the Spark 5 Air prioritizes simplicity, while the Vision 2S attempts to pack in more processing power with its octa-core chipset. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the itel Vision 2S emerges as the better choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A octa-core processor provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Tecno Spark 5 Air’s quad-core Mediatek chipset, making it more capable for multitasking and running modern apps. The inclusion of 18W charging is also a significant benefit, offsetting the likely similar battery capacities.
| 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 | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, May 05. Released 2020, July | 2021 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 174.6 x 79.3 x 9.1 mm (6.87 x 3.12 x 0.36 in) | 166 x 76.3 x 8.9 mm (6.54 x 3.00 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Dual SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~256 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 7.0 inches, 116.4 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition), HIOS 6.0 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.8, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP
0.3 MP |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ice Jadeite, Spark Orange, Vacation Blue, Misty Green | Gradation Purple, Gradation Blue, Deep Blue |
| Models | KD6a | - |
Tecno Spark 5 Air
- Simpler user interface, potentially easier for first-time users.
- Likely lower price point (depending on retailer).
- Potentially more durable build quality (brand reputation).
- Quad-core processor will struggle with multitasking.
- Slow charging speeds.
- Limited performance for modern apps.
itel Vision 2S
- Octa-core processor offers significantly better performance.
- 18W fast charging reduces downtime.
- More capable of handling demanding apps and multitasking.
- Unisoc chipset may have less software support than Mediatek.
- 28nm process is less power-efficient.
Display Comparison
Neither device is expected to boast a high-end display. Given the price bracket, both likely utilize LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. The absence of detailed display specifications necessitates a focus on the chipset’s ability to drive the UI smoothly. While neither manufacturer specifies peak brightness or color accuracy, the itel Vision 2S’s more powerful processor *could* translate to slightly faster UI rendering and potentially better image processing for photos displayed on the screen.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature a primary camera alongside auxiliary lenses (potentially a depth sensor or macro). However, given the price point, image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing. The itel Vision 2S’s more powerful processor *could* allow for slightly more sophisticated image processing algorithms, potentially resulting in better dynamic range and noise reduction. It's reasonable to assume both phones will struggle in low-light conditions.
Performance
The core difference lies in the processors. The Tecno Spark 5 Air features a Mediatek quad-core chipset, suitable for basic operations. Conversely, the itel Vision 2S is powered by the Unisoc SC9863A, an octa-core processor built on a 28nm process. This means four cores operate at 1.6 GHz (Cortex-A55) and four at 1.2 GHz (Cortex-A55). The octa-core configuration provides a significant advantage in multitasking and handling more complex applications. While the 28nm process isn’t the most efficient, the increased core count will likely outweigh this in real-world usage, offering a smoother experience for users who frequently switch between apps or browse the web with multiple tabs open.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, given their target market, both are likely to feature batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range. The key differentiator here is the itel Vision 2S’s 18W wired charging support. This will significantly reduce charging times compared to the Tecno Spark 5 Air, which likely supports standard 5W or 10W charging. For users who rely heavily on their phones throughout the day, the faster charging of the Vision 2S is a considerable advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 5 Air if you prioritize a streamlined, uncomplicated user experience and are primarily focused on basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. It’s a good option for first-time smartphone users or those needing a simple backup device. Buy the itel Vision 2S if you want a phone that can handle a bit more – smoother multitasking, slightly more demanding apps, and faster charging. It’s ideal for users who want the most performance possible within a very tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the itel Vision 2S be able to run popular games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Unisoc SC9863A isn't a gaming powerhouse, the Vision 2S should be able to run PUBG Mobile at lower settings. Expect frame rate dips during intense action, and don't anticipate a high-graphics experience. The Tecno Spark 5 Air will likely struggle even at the lowest settings.
❓ How much storage does each phone offer, and can it be expanded?
Storage details are not provided. However, both phones likely offer 32GB of internal storage as a base configuration, with microSD card support for expansion. This is crucial given the limited storage space for apps and media.
❓ What version of Android do these phones run?
Both devices likely run a relatively older version of Android (potentially Android 11 or 12) with a custom UI overlay. Software updates are unlikely to be frequent or extensive on either device.
❓ Is the 18W charging compatible with any standard charger, or do I need a specific itel charger?
The 18W charging is compatible with any USB Power Delivery (PD) charger that supports that wattage. However, using the included charger is recommended for optimal performance and safety.
