The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 8T and Spark 8 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 8T emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly more powerful Helio G35 chipset, offering a smoother experience for gaming and multitasking. While the Spark 8 is a decent budget option, the 8T's performance boost makes it the better choice for most users.
| 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 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, December 15 | 2021, September 02 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 15 | Available. Released 2021, September 02 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 75.9 x 8.9 mm (6.47 x 2.99 x 0.35 in) | 164.8 x 76.1 x 9.2 mm (6.49 x 3.00 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~84.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 | Android 11 (Go edition), HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 16 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), AF
Secondary unknown camera |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Quad-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (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 | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | Yes | 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 | Atlantic Blue, Turquoise Cyan, Iris Purple, Cocoa Gold | Turquoise Cyan, Atlantic Blue, Iris Purple |
| Models | KG6p | KG6, KG6k, MZ-TECNO KG6k |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Tecno Spark 8T
- More powerful chipset (Helio G35)
- Likely faster charging
- Potentially better low-light camera performance
- Slightly more modern design
- Potentially slightly higher price
Tecno Spark 8
- More affordable
- Large battery capacity
- Weaker chipset (Helio P22)
- Slow 10W charging
- Potentially lower performance in demanding tasks
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.6-inch display, likely with a similar resolution (likely 720+ HD+). The Spark 8T *may* have slightly improved color accuracy or brightness due to potentially better panel technology, but this is not definitively confirmed without detailed testing. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup (likely a 48MP main sensor, plus depth and macro lenses). Image quality will be comparable in good lighting conditions. The Spark 8T *might* offer slightly better low-light performance due to potential software optimizations or a marginally better sensor, but this is not guaranteed. Video recording capabilities will likely be similar.
Performance
This is where the Spark 8T shines. The Helio G35 chipset is a noticeable upgrade over the Helio P22 in the Spark 8. Expect faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience on the 8T. The Spark 8 will handle basic tasks adequately, but will struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a large battery capacity (likely 5000mAh). The Spark 8's 10W charging is a significant disadvantage compared to the Spark 8T, which likely supports faster charging (potentially 18W or 25W, though this needs confirmation). Expect similar battery life under moderate usage, but the Spark 8T will recharge much faster.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Tecno Spark 8T? Users prioritizing performance, smoother gaming, and a slightly more modern design. Who should buy the Tecno Spark 8? Those on a very tight budget who primarily need a phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 8T worth the extra money?
Yes, if performance is a priority. The Helio G35 offers a significant upgrade over the P22, making the 8T a better choice for gaming and multitasking.
❓ What is the battery life like on both phones?
Both phones are expected to offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. However, the Spark 8T will recharge much faster thanks to its likely faster charging capabilities.