The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 9 Pro and Spark 10C are two popular contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark 9 Pro edges out the 10C thanks to its more powerful Helio G85 chipset, resulting in noticeably smoother performance for gaming and multitasking. While both offer decent battery life and cameras, the 9 Pro's processing advantage makes it the slightly better choice overall.
| 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, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, June 02 | 2023, March 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, July | Available. Released 2023, March 29 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 75.6 x 8.4 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth) |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 32 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Triple | 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 | 32 MP, (wide) | 8 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 | Yes (KH7n only) | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Quantum Black, Burano Blue, Glacier White, Hacker Storm, Sport Edition, Kyanite Blue | Black, Blue, Green |
| Models | KH7, KH7n | KI5k, KI5m |
| Price | - | ₹ 9,990 |
Tecno Spark 9 Pro
- More powerful chipset (Helio G85)
- Better gaming performance
- Slightly better image processing
- Potentially slightly higher price
- Design might be less modern than 10C
Tecno Spark 10C
- More affordable
- Potentially more modern design
- Good battery life
- Less powerful chipset (Unisoc T606)
- Slower performance
- May struggle with demanding tasks
Display Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 6.6-inch display with an HD+ resolution. While the panel technology might vary (likely IPS LCD for both), expect similar viewing experiences. Color accuracy and brightness are standard for this price range. The Spark 10C might have a slightly more modern design, but the difference is minimal.
Camera Comparison
Both phones usually feature a multi-camera setup, often including a 50MP main sensor. Image quality is generally acceptable in good lighting conditions, but low-light performance is likely to be average. The 9 Pro's more powerful processor *could* allow for slightly better image processing, but the difference is unlikely to be dramatic. Video recording capabilities are similar on both.
Performance
This is where the Spark 9 Pro shines. The Mediatek Helio G85 is significantly more powerful than the Unisoc T606 in the Spark 10C. Expect smoother app loading, better multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience on the 9 Pro. The 10C will handle everyday tasks adequately, but may struggle with demanding games or heavy applications.
Battery Life
Both devices typically pack a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. Charging speeds are identical at 18W wired, so expect similar charging times. Battery optimization might differ slightly between the two devices, but overall, battery performance should be comparable.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 9 Pro is ideal for users who prioritize performance and enjoy mobile gaming. If you're primarily focused on basic tasks like browsing, social media, and photography, and want a slightly more budget-friendly option, the Tecno Spark 10C is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 9 Pro worth the extra money?
If you value performance and plan to play games or multitask frequently, the 9 Pro's more powerful chipset makes it worth the investment. Otherwise, the 10C offers excellent value for basic users.
❓ Which phone has better software support?
Tecno's software support can be inconsistent. However, both phones will likely receive similar updates, though the 9 Pro's more powerful processor might allow it to handle newer Android versions for a slightly longer period.
