The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 8T and 9T are two popular contenders in this space, offering compelling value for budget-conscious buyers. But which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark 9T offers a slight edge thanks to its marginally improved chipset (Helio G37 vs G35), slightly faster charging (10W), and potentially minor software optimizations. However, the differences are subtle, making the 8T a still-excellent choice, especially if found at a lower price.
| 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 15 | 2022, June 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 15 | Available. Released 2022, July |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | 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) | 164.3 x 75.6 x 8.7 mm (6.47 x 2.98 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~84.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Quad-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 32 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
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 | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | Yes | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Atlantic Blue, Turquoise Cyan, Iris Purple, Cocoa Gold | Quantum Black, Burano Blue, Particle Silver, Vitality Green |
| Models | KG6p | KH6 |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 180 EUR |
Tecno Spark 8T
- Large 6.6-inch display
- Affordable price
- Solid battery life
- Decent performance for everyday tasks
- Slightly slower charging
- Older chipset
- Limited gaming performance
Tecno Spark 9T
- Slightly improved chipset (Helio G37)
- Faster 10W charging
- Potentially better image processing
- Good battery life
- Slightly higher price
- Still limited gaming performance
- Similar display to 8T
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.6-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. While both offer a large viewing area, the Spark 9T might have slightly improved color accuracy or brightness due to potential panel upgrades, though this is not definitively confirmed. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar camera setup, typically including a 48MP main sensor, a depth sensor, and a macro lens. Image quality will largely depend on software processing. The Spark 9T might have slightly improved image processing algorithms, resulting in marginally better photos in certain lighting conditions. Video recording capabilities are likely similar.
Performance
The Helio G37 in the Spark 9T is a minor upgrade over the G35 in the 8T. While both are based on the Cortex-A53 architecture, the G37 generally offers slightly better efficiency and potentially a small boost in gaming performance. However, don't expect a dramatic difference; both phones are best suited for casual gaming and everyday apps.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. The Spark 9T's 10W charging is a small improvement over the 8T's likely slower charging speed, allowing for quicker top-ups.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 8T is ideal for users prioritizing a large display and solid performance for everyday tasks at the lowest possible price. The Tecno Spark 9T is a better pick for those who want a slightly more efficient processor, faster charging, and potentially a bit more future-proofing, even if the price is a bit higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 9T worth the extra money over the 8T?
The difference is marginal. If you can find the 8T at a significantly lower price, it's likely the better value. Otherwise, the 9T's slight improvements in performance and charging are a worthwhile upgrade.
❓ What kind of games can I play on these phones?
Both phones are suitable for casual games and less demanding titles. Don't expect to run high-end games at maximum settings. Lowering graphics settings will be necessary for smoother gameplay.
