The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers impressive features at budget-friendly prices. The Spark 8 Pro and Spark 9 Pro are two popular contenders, but which one offers the better value? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their specs, performance, and features to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark 8 Pro edges out the 9 Pro primarily due to its significantly faster 33W charging. While both share the same chipset and CPU, the 8 Pro's quicker charging speeds provide a noticeable advantage for users prioritizing battery top-ups. The 9 Pro might offer slight design refinements, but the charging difference is key.
| 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 | 2021, December 29 | 2022, June 02 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, January 04 | Available. Released 2022, July |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 169 x 76.8 x 8.8 mm (6.65 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) | 164.2 x 75.6 x 8.4 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | NEG | - |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 500 nits (HBM) | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 32 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses | 50 MP, f/1.6, 27mm (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 32 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes (KH7n only) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 33W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Komodo Island, Interstellar Black, Winsor Violet | Quantum Black, Burano Blue, Glacier White, Hacker Storm, Sport Edition, Kyanite Blue |
| Models | KG8, MZ-TECNO KG8, Mobile KG8 | KH7, KH7n |
| Price | About 130 EUR | - |
Tecno Spark 8 Pro
- Faster 33W Charging
- Generally more readily available
- Good value for money
- Slightly older design
- Camera performance may be slightly behind the 9 Pro
Tecno Spark 9 Pro
- Potentially more modern design
- Possible slight camera improvements
- May be cheaper depending on retailer
- Slower 18W Charging
- Performance virtually identical to 8 Pro
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar 6.6-inch displays, probably with an FHD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. Expect vibrant colors and decent viewing angles, though peak brightness might be average. The Spark 9 Pro *may* have a slightly improved panel, but it's unlikely to be a major difference.
Camera Comparison
The Tecno Spark 8 Pro typically features a 48MP main camera, alongside macro and depth sensors. The Spark 9 Pro might have a slightly upgraded main sensor (potentially 50MP) and improved image processing algorithms. Expect decent image quality in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light. Video recording capabilities are likely similar, around 1080p at 30fps.
Performance
Sharing the same Mediatek Helio G85 chipset and CPU configuration means performance will be very similar. Expect smooth everyday usage, capable gaming at medium settings, and occasional stutters with demanding apps. RAM and storage configurations will likely vary depending on the specific model.
Battery Life
Both phones likely pack a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. However, the Spark 8 Pro's 33W fast charging significantly reduces charging times compared to the Spark 9 Pro's 18W charging.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 8 Pro is ideal for users who value fast charging and don't mind a slightly older design. The Tecno Spark 9 Pro is a good choice for those prioritizing a potentially more modern aesthetic and are less concerned about charging speed, or if it's available at a significantly lower price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 9 Pro worth the upgrade from the Spark 8 Pro?
Unless you prioritize a slightly newer design or a potentially improved camera, the faster charging of the Spark 8 Pro makes it the better value. The performance difference is negligible.
❓ What is the battery life like on both phones?
Both phones offer all-day battery life with moderate usage thanks to their 5000mAh batteries. However, the Spark 8 Pro charges significantly faster.
