Both the Tecno Spark 5 and Samsung Galaxy A01 Core target the ultra-budget smartphone market, but they approach it with different hardware. This comparison dissects the core differences – specifically the chipsets – to determine which device delivers the better user experience for the price. The key differentiator lies in the manufacturing process and core count of their respective processors.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and multitasking, the Tecno Spark 5 is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Helio A22, built on a 12nm process and featuring an octa-core CPU, provides a significant performance advantage over the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core’s older, less efficient Mediatek MT6739 quad-core processor.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, May 04. Released 2020, May 26 | 2020, July 21. Released 2020, August 06 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 76.3 x 8.8 mm (6.48 x 3.00 x 0.35 in) | 141.7 x 67.5 x 8.6 mm (5.58 x 2.66 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 150 g (5.29 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) | 720 x 1480 pixels, 18.5:9 ratio (~311 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.3 inches, 71.3 cm2 (~74.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8100 |
| OS | Android 10, HIOS 6.1 | Android 10 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash |
| Quad | 13 MP, f/1.8, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lenses | - |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.2, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.4 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 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 | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ice Jadeite, Spark Orange, Vacation Blue, Misty Grey | Black, Blue, Red |
| Models | KE5, KD7S | SM-A013F, SM-A013F/DS, SM-A013G, SM-A013G/DS, SM-A013M |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 150 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.64 W/kg (head) 1.18 W/kg (body) |
Tecno Spark 5
- Significantly faster processor (Helio A22)
- More efficient 12nm manufacturing process
- Better multitasking capabilities due to octa-core CPU
- Display quality likely similar to A01 Core (basic LCD)
- Camera performance dependent on sensor quality (details unknown)
Samsung Galaxy A01 Core
- Brand recognition (Samsung)
- Potentially lower price point (depending on region)
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Slow processor (MT6739)
- Inefficient 28nm manufacturing process
- Limited multitasking capabilities
Display Comparison
Neither device is expected to deliver a stellar display experience. Specifics like brightness nits and color accuracy are unavailable, but given the price point, both likely utilize LCD panels with standard color reproduction. The focus here isn't display quality, but rather the impact of the chipset on UI smoothness when navigating the display. The Spark 5's faster processor will contribute to a more fluid experience, even on a similar panel.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic camera setups. Without specific sensor details, it’s difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, the chipset’s image signal processor (ISP) plays a crucial role in image quality. The Helio A22’s ISP, while not high-end, is more modern and capable than the MT6739’s, potentially resulting in slightly better image processing, particularly in low-light conditions. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing gimmick and shouldn't be a deciding factor.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark 5’s Mediatek Helio A22 (12nm) boasts an octa-core CPU clocked at 2.0 GHz, while the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core relies on the older Mediatek MT6739 (28nm) with a quad-core CPU at 1.5 GHz. The 12nm manufacturing process of the Helio A22 is significantly more efficient, leading to better power management and potentially less thermal throttling. The higher core count also translates to improved multitasking capabilities. The MT6739’s larger 28nm node consumes more power for the same tasks, and its limited core count will struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing, but the efficiency of the Helio A22 (12nm) in the Tecno Spark 5 will likely translate to longer battery life compared to the Galaxy A01 Core, despite potentially having a similar mAh rating. The MT6739’s less efficient 28nm process will drain the battery faster under similar usage scenarios. Charging wattage is also unknown, but faster charging would be a benefit, offsetting any potential capacity differences.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 5 if you need a phone capable of handling more than basic tasks like calls and messaging. It’s better suited for light gaming, social media browsing, and running multiple apps simultaneously. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core if your primary needs are extremely basic – primarily voice calls and minimal app usage – and you prioritize brand recognition over performance. It's a viable option for first-time smartphone users with very limited demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
The MT6739 processor in the A01 Core is quite limited. While it can run basic apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, you may experience noticeable lag and slowdowns, especially when multitasking or using the apps for extended periods. The Tecno Spark 5 will handle these apps much more smoothly.
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 5 a good option for playing mobile games?
The Tecno Spark 5 is *okay* for very light gaming. Don't expect to play demanding titles like PUBG Mobile at high settings. However, it can handle simpler games and older titles without significant issues. The Galaxy A01 Core is even less suited for gaming due to its weaker processor.
❓ Does the older chipset in the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core affect software updates?
Generally, devices with older chipsets receive software updates for a shorter period. The MT6739 is an older processor, so the Galaxy A01 Core may not receive as many Android updates as the Tecno Spark 5, potentially leaving it vulnerable to security risks over time.
