The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 8 and Spark 8C are two popular contenders in this space, but which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark 8C generally edges out the Spark 8 thanks to its more modern Unisoc chipset offering better performance and efficiency. While both are budget phones, the 8C provides a smoother experience for everyday tasks and light gaming, making it the slightly better choice.
| 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 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 02 | 2022, January 31 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 02 | Available. Released 2022, February |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.8 x 76.1 x 9.2 mm (6.49 x 3.00 x 0.36 in) | 164.6 x 76 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 200 g (7.05 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition), HIOS 7.6 | Android 11 (Go edition), HiOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 16 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), AF
Secondary unknown camera | 13 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | Quad-LED flash | Dual-LED lash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Turquoise Cyan, Atlantic Blue, Iris Purple | Turquoise, Magnet Black, Iris Purple, Diamond Gray |
| Models | KG6, KG6k, MZ-TECNO KG6k | KG5k, KG5j, KG5n, MZ-TECNO KG5k |
| Price | About 90 EUR | - |
Tecno Spark 8
- Larger screen (potentially)
- Potentially lower price
- Decent battery life
- Older chipset
- Slower performance
- Less responsive UI
Tecno Spark 8C
- Better performance (Unisoc T606)
- More responsive UI
- Slightly better image processing
- Slightly smaller screen
- Potentially higher price
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.56-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. While both offer decent viewing, the Spark 8C might have slightly better color accuracy due to its newer chipset's image processing capabilities. Expect similar brightness levels on both.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 48MP main camera, along with depth and macro lenses. Image quality will be comparable in good lighting conditions. However, the Spark 8C's newer chipset may offer slightly better image processing and low-light performance. Video recording capabilities are likely similar on both, offering 1080p at 30fps.
Performance
This is where the Spark 8C shines. The Unisoc T606 with its dual Cortex-A75 cores provides a noticeable performance boost over the Spark 8's Mediatek Helio P22. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better overall responsiveness on the 8C. The Spark 8 will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. The Spark 8C's more efficient Unisoc chipset *could* translate to slightly better battery life in real-world scenarios, but the difference is likely to be minimal.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 8 is a good option for users prioritizing a slightly larger screen and potentially a lower price point if found on sale. The Tecno Spark 8C is ideal for those seeking improved performance, a more responsive user experience, and a slightly more modern chipset, even if it means a slightly smaller screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 8C worth the extra money?
Yes, if performance is a priority. The Unisoc T606 offers a significant upgrade over the Helio P22, making the 8C a more enjoyable device to use.
❓ Which phone has better gaming performance?
The Tecno Spark 8C. Its more powerful chipset handles games better, even if it's still a budget phone.
