Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The Tecno Spark 9 and Tecno Pop 7 Pro are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a range of features at attractive price points. But which one is right for you?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark 9 takes the win overall thanks to its more powerful Helio G37 chipset, offering noticeably better performance for gaming and multitasking. The Pop 7 Pro is a solid choice for basic users prioritizing affordability and a longer-lasting battery, but the Spark 9's extra power makes it the better value.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, July 18 | 2023, January 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August 15 | Available. Released 2023, January 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.35 in) | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 (~84.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 12, HIOS 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
0.08 MP, (depth) | 13 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Infinity Black, Sky Mirror | Turquoise Cyan, Atlantic Blue |
| Models | KG5p | BF7, BF7h |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Tecno Spark 9
- More powerful chipset (Helio G37)
- Likely better camera system
- Potentially smoother display
- More storage options (likely)
- May have slightly shorter battery life than Pop 7 Pro
- Design might be less refined
Tecno Pop 7 Pro
- Excellent value for money
- Longer battery life (potentially)
- Compact and easy to handle
- 10W charging
- Less powerful chipset (Helio A22)
- Lower camera quality
- Limited storage options (likely)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large displays, likely around 6.5-6.6 inches, with HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles but don't anticipate vibrant colors or high brightness levels. The Spark 9 might have a slightly higher resolution or refresh rate, potentially offering a marginally smoother visual experience.
Camera Comparison
The Tecno Spark 9 likely boasts a more versatile camera system, potentially including a higher resolution main sensor and additional lenses (macro, depth). While both phones will produce acceptable photos in good lighting, the Spark 9 should offer better detail and dynamic range. Low-light performance will likely be similar on both.
Performance
This is where the Spark 9 shines. The Helio G37 is significantly more powerful than the Helio A22 in the Pop 7 Pro. Expect smoother app loading, better multitasking, and the ability to handle more demanding games on the Spark 9. The Pop 7 Pro will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with heavier applications.
Battery Life
The Pop 7 Pro is expected to have a slight edge in battery life due to its less power-hungry chipset and potentially a slightly larger battery capacity. Both phones should comfortably last a full day with moderate usage, but the Pop 7 Pro might stretch that to a day and a half.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 9 is ideal for users who want a smoother experience for everyday tasks, light gaming, and occasional photography. The Tecno Pop 7 Pro is best suited for users who primarily need a phone for calls, texts, basic apps, and long battery life on a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Tecno Spark 9 is significantly better for gaming due to its more powerful chipset.
❓ Which phone has better battery life?
The Tecno Pop 7 Pro is expected to offer slightly better battery life, although both should last a full day.
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 9 worth the extra cost?
If you value performance and a better camera, the Tecno Spark 9 is worth the extra investment. If you're on a very tight budget and prioritize battery life, the Pop 7 Pro is a solid choice.