The Tecno Spark series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The Spark 9T 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 10C emerges as the winner thanks to its faster charging, slightly improved CPU architecture, and potentially better software support. While the 9T is a decent option, the 10C's upgrades make it a more compelling choice for most users seeking a budget-friendly device.
| 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 20 | 2023, March 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, July | Available. Released 2023, March 29 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 75.6 x 8.7 mm (6.47 x 2.98 x 0.34 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 | 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 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% 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 (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth) |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 32 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
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 | No | 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 | 10W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Quantum Black, Burano Blue, Particle Silver, Vitality Green | Black, Blue, Green |
| Models | KH6 | KI5k, KI5m |
| Price | About 180 EUR | ₹ 9,990 |
Tecno Spark 9T
- Larger screen (potentially)
- Decent battery life
- Affordable price
- Slower charging
- Less powerful chipset
- Older software
Tecno Spark 10C
- Faster charging (18W)
- More modern chipset (Unisoc T606)
- Potentially better software support
- Improved performance
- Slightly smaller screen (potentially)
- Similar camera quality to 9T
Display Comparison
Both phones typically feature a large 6.6-inch display, likely with an LCD panel and a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. While both offer a similar viewing experience, the Spark 10C might have slightly improved color accuracy or brightness due to potential panel upgrades. Expect a standard 60Hz refresh rate on both.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are often similar across Tecno's budget offerings. Expect a primary 50MP camera on both, potentially accompanied by depth and macro lenses. Image quality will likely be comparable in good lighting conditions, but the Spark 10C's newer chipset might offer slightly better image processing and low-light performance. Video recording capabilities are likely to be similar, around 1080p at 30fps.
Performance
The Spark 10C's Unisoc T606 chipset, with its dual Cortex-A75 cores, offers a noticeable performance boost over the Spark 9T's Helio G37. The A75 cores are designed for better handling of demanding tasks, resulting in smoother multitasking and faster app loading times. The Spark 9T's quad-core Cortex-A53 setup is adequate for basic usage but will struggle more with heavier applications.
Battery Life
Both phones typically feature a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. However, the Spark 10C's 18W fast charging significantly reduces charging time compared to the Spark 9T's 10W charging. This is a major advantage for users who value convenience.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark 9T is a good choice for users prioritizing a slightly larger screen and are less concerned about fast charging. The Tecno Spark 10C is ideal for those who value faster charging speeds, a more modern chipset, and potentially longer software updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark 10C worth the upgrade from the Spark 9T?
Yes, the faster charging and improved chipset in the Spark 10C make it a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you frequently use demanding apps or want quicker charging times.
❓ Which phone has better gaming performance?
The Tecno Spark 10C's Unisoc T606 chipset offers better gaming performance due to its more modern architecture and higher-performing cores.