The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 9 and Spark 8 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 edges out the Spark 8 thanks to its slightly more powerful Helio G37 chipset, offering a noticeable performance boost. While both are budget-friendly, the Spark 9's improved processing makes it the better choice for smoother multitasking and gaming.
| 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 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, July 18 | 2021, September 02 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August 15 | Available. Released 2021, September 02 |
| 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) | 164.8 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 | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 (~84.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | 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 MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 11 (Go edition), HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
0.08 MP, (depth) | 16 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), AF
Secondary unknown camera |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Quad-LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (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 | 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 | Infinity Black, Sky Mirror | Turquoise Cyan, Atlantic Blue, Iris Purple |
| Models | KG5p | KG6, KG6k, MZ-TECNO KG6k |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Tecno Spark 9
- Improved Performance (Helio G37)
- Slightly more modern design
- Potentially better camera processing
- Large 5000mAh battery
- May be slightly more expensive than Spark 8
- Charging speed not always confirmed to be faster
Tecno Spark 8
- More affordable
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Decent display for media consumption
- Less powerful chipset (Helio P22)
- Slower performance
- Older design
Display Comparison
Both phones typically feature a large 6.6-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. While both offer a decent viewing experience for media consumption, the Spark 9 might have slightly improved color accuracy or brightness due to potential display panel upgrades. Expect similar refresh rates, likely 60Hz.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, typically including a primary sensor, wide-angle lens, and macro lens. While specific megapixel counts may vary, the Spark 9's newer chipset could potentially offer improved image processing and better low-light performance. Expect similar camera features like portrait mode and HDR.
Performance
This is where the Spark 9 takes a clear lead. The Helio G37 in the Spark 9 is a more recent and slightly more powerful chipset compared to the Helio P22 in the Spark 8. Expect smoother app loading times, better multitasking capabilities, and improved gaming performance on the Spark 9. The Spark 8 is adequate for basic tasks but may struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a large 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life under moderate usage. The Spark 8 has a 10W wired charger, while the Spark 9 may have a slightly faster charging speed (potentially 18W, though this is not always confirmed). Battery life will be comparable overall.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 9 is ideal for users who prioritize performance and a slightly more modern design. If you're on a tighter budget and primarily need a phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use, the Tecno Spark 8 remains a viable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 9 worth the extra money compared to the Spark 8?
Yes, if performance is a priority. The Spark 9's improved chipset offers a noticeable upgrade for multitasking and gaming.
❓ What is the camera quality like on both phones?
Both offer decent camera quality for their price range. The Spark 9 may have slightly better image processing due to its newer chipset.
