The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 9 and Spark 9T (India) are two compelling options in this range, but which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark 9T (India) edges out the Spark 9 thanks to its faster charging and slightly improved chipset. Both offer solid performance for the price, but the 9T's charging convenience makes it a more appealing choice for many users. Ultimately, it's a close call!
| 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, July 18 | 2022, July 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August 15 | Available. Released 2022, August 06 |
| 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) | 164.5 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm (6.48 x 3.00 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 (~84.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~83.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 500 nits |
| 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 MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 11, HIOS 7.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
0.08 MP, (depth) | - |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Quad-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.6, 27mm (wide), AF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| 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 | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Infinity Black, Sky Mirror | Turquoise Cyan, Atlantic Blue, Iris Purple, Tahiti Gold |
| Models | KG5p | - |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 120 EUR |
Tecno Spark 9
- Affordable
- Decent battery life
- Large display
- 90Hz refresh rate
- Slower charging
- Entry-level performance
- Basic camera system
Tecno Spark 9T (India)
- Faster charging (18W)
- Slightly better chipset (G37 vs G35)
- Large display
- 90Hz refresh rate
- Slightly more expensive
- Entry-level performance
- Basic camera system
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar 6.6-inch display, probably an IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate. Expect comparable resolution (likely FHD+) and color accuracy. Differences might be in brightness levels, which would need to be tested in a full review.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar camera setup, potentially a 48MP main sensor, a depth sensor, and a macro lens. Image quality will depend heavily on software processing. Expect decent photos in good lighting conditions but struggles in low light. The 9T might have slightly better image processing due to potential software optimizations.
Performance
The Spark 9 uses a Mediatek Helio G37, while the 9T (India) has a Helio G35. While both are entry-level chipsets, the G37 generally offers slightly better performance due to its slightly more advanced architecture. Expect both to handle everyday tasks smoothly but struggle with demanding games at high settings.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life under moderate usage. However, the Spark 9T (India) has an 18W wired charger, significantly faster than the likely standard charger included with the Spark 9. This makes a big difference in charging time.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Tecno Spark 9? Users prioritizing a slightly more affordable device and aren't overly concerned with fast charging. Who should buy the Tecno Spark 9T (India)? Those who value faster charging speeds and a marginally better overall experience, even at a slightly higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 9T worth the extra money?
If fast charging is important to you, then yes. The 18W charging on the 9T is a significant upgrade over the likely standard charger on the Spark 9.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Tecno Spark 9 has a slightly better chipset (Helio G37 vs G35), so it might offer marginally better gaming performance, but both are entry-level and won't handle demanding games well.