The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 9 and Spark 10 5G are the latest contenders, but which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their specs, performance, and overall user experience to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark 10 5G is the clear winner. Its Dimensity 6020 chipset offers significantly improved performance and 5G connectivity, while the Spark 9's Helio G37 feels dated. While the Spark 9 might be slightly cheaper, the 10 5G's upgrades are worth the investment.
| 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 |
| 5G bands | - | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, July 18 | 2023, March 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August 15 | Available. Released 2023, April 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.35 in) | 164.4 x 75.5 x 8.4 mm (6.47 x 2.97 x 0.33 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 (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6020 (7 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 13, HIOS 12.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
0.08 MP, (depth) | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth) |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 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 | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Infinity Black, Sky Mirror | Black, Blue, White |
| Models | KG5p | KI8 |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 200 EUR |
Tecno Spark 9
- Large Display
- Affordable Price
- Decent Battery Life
- Outdated Chipset
- Slow Performance
- Limited 5G Support
Tecno Spark 10 5G
- 5G Connectivity
- Improved Performance
- Slightly Better Camera
- Faster Charging (18W)
- Slightly Higher Price
- LCD Display (common in this price range)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large displays, typically around 6.6 inches, with an LCD panel and a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. While the Spark 10 5G might have slightly improved color accuracy, the difference is minimal. Viewing angles and brightness are comparable across both devices.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a multi-camera setup, often including a 50MP main sensor. The Spark 10 5G likely benefits from improved image processing thanks to its more powerful chipset, resulting in slightly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Video recording capabilities are similar, with both likely supporting 1080p at 30fps.
Performance
This is where the Spark 10 5G shines. The Dimensity 6020 (7nm) offers a substantial performance boost over the Spark 9's Helio G37 (12nm). Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the 10 5G. The Cortex-A76 cores in the Dimensity 6020 are a significant upgrade.
Battery Life
Both devices typically pack a large 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life under moderate usage. The Spark 10 5G's 18W wired charging is a slight improvement over the Spark 9's charging speed, though neither is exceptionally fast.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 9 is a good option for users on an extremely tight budget who prioritize a large display and don't need 5G. The Tecno Spark 10 5G is ideal for those seeking a smoother experience, faster speeds, and future-proof 5G connectivity, even within a budget-friendly price range.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 10 5G worth the extra money?
Yes, the improved performance and 5G connectivity of the Spark 10 5G make it a worthwhile upgrade over the Spark 9, especially if you plan to use 5G networks.
❓ What is the difference between the chipsets in these phones?
The Tecno Spark 10 5G uses the Mediatek Dimensity 6020, a more modern and powerful chipset built on a 7nm process. The Spark 9 uses the older Mediatek Helio G37, built on a 12nm process, resulting in slower performance and less efficiency.