The Tecno Spark 6 and Realme 7i represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both devices aim to deliver a balance of features and performance without breaking the bank. However, subtle differences in their chipsets and features cater to slightly different user needs, making a direct comparison crucial for informed decision-making.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme 7i emerges as the slightly better choice. Its Helio G85 chipset, with a marginally faster Cortex-A55 cluster speed, provides a small but noticeable performance edge in gaming and multitasking. The addition of 5W reverse charging is a useful bonus, enhancing its versatility.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 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 | 2020, September 25. Released 2020, September 25 | 2020, December 22. Released 2020, December 23 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 170.8 x 77.3 x 9.2 mm (6.72 x 3.04 x 0.36 in) | 164.5 x 75.9 x 9.8 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 208 g (7.34 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ), 560 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.7 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769V/CB Helio G70 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 2EEMC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 10, HIOS 7.0 | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 16 MP, AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lenses | - |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.3, 16mm, 119˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ocean Blue, Comet Black, Dynamic Orabge, Misty Violet | Glory Silver, Victory Blue |
| Models | KE7 | - |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 190 EUR |
Tecno Spark 6
- Potentially lower price point
- Reliable performance for basic tasks
- Large battery (likely 5000mAh)
- Slightly slower CPU performance
- No reverse charging capability
- Likely less refined software experience
Realme 7i (Global)
- Slightly faster CPU and GPU performance
- 5W reverse wired charging
- Potentially better camera software processing
- May be slightly more expensive
- Similar battery life to Tecno Spark 6
- Still a budget device with inherent limitations
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. While specific brightness nits aren't provided, the focus should be on usability in everyday conditions rather than HDR content. Bezels are expected to be relatively substantial on both, and color accuracy will likely be standard for budget phones – adequate but not color-critical. The absence of high refresh rates is also expected.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar, relying heavily on software processing. Both phones likely feature a primary camera, depth sensor, and macro lens. Without sensor size information, it’s difficult to definitively assess image quality. However, the Realme 7i’s image processing algorithms may be slightly more refined, given Realme’s focus on camera features. The inclusion of a 2MP macro lens on both is largely a marketing feature, offering limited practical benefit due to the low resolution and lack of autofocus. Focusing on the primary sensor’s performance is more crucial.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets: the Tecno Spark 6 features the Mediatek Helio G70, while the Realme 7i utilizes the Helio G85. Both are 12nm chips with an identical CPU core configuration – two Cortex-A75 cores at 2.0 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores. However, the Realme 7i’s Cortex-A55 cores clock slightly higher at 1.8 GHz versus 1.7 GHz on the Spark 6. This small increase in clock speed translates to a marginal performance boost in sustained workloads and multitasking. While the GPU isn’t specified, the G85 generally offers a slight edge in graphics performance, making it better suited for casual gaming. Both devices will likely be paired with 3-4GB of RAM, impacting multitasking capabilities.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with 18W wired charging, offering comparable charging speeds. While battery capacity isn’t specified, both are likely in the 5000mAh range, typical for this segment. The Realme 7i gains a significant advantage with its 5W reverse wired charging capability, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices like wireless earbuds or smartwatches. This feature adds a layer of convenience not found on the Tecno Spark 6.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark 6 if you prioritize a simple, reliable smartphone experience and are primarily focused on essential tasks like calling, messaging, and light social media use. Buy the Realme 7i (Global) if you enjoy mobile gaming, frequently transfer power to other devices, or appreciate a slightly more refined user experience with a bit more processing power.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme 7i handle PUBG Mobile smoothly?
The Helio G85 in the Realme 7i is capable of running PUBG Mobile at medium settings with reasonable frame rates. However, don't expect a consistently smooth experience at the highest settings, and some frame drops may occur during intense battles. The Tecno Spark 6 will likely offer a slightly less fluid experience.
❓ How long does it take to fully charge the Realme 7i and Tecno Spark 6?
With 18W charging, both phones should fully charge from 0% to 100% in approximately 2-2.5 hours, assuming a standard charger is used. The actual charging time may vary depending on usage during charging and the charger's output.
❓ Is the reverse charging on the Realme 7i useful for everyday use?
Yes, the 5W reverse charging is surprisingly useful for topping up accessories like wireless earbuds, smartwatches, or even a friend's phone in an emergency. While it's not a fast charging solution, it provides a convenient way to share power on the go.
