The Tecno Spark Go series is known for offering impressive features at incredibly affordable prices. But with a new model released, it's natural to wonder: is the Tecno Spark Go 2021 a worthwhile upgrade over the 2020 version? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark Go 2021 offers a slight improvement, primarily due to potential software updates and minor design tweaks. However, the core performance remains similar. If you already own the 2020, the upgrade isn't essential. For new buyers, the 2021 is a marginally better choice.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 01. Released 2020, September 07 | 2021, July 01 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, July 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.6 x 76.3 x 9.1 mm (6.52 x 3.00 x 0.36 in) | 165.6 x 76.3 x 9.1 mm (6.52 x 3.00 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 193 g (6.81 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 480 nits |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.8 GHz |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761D Helio A20 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | - |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition), HIOS 6.2 | Android 10 (Go edition), HiOS 6.2 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.8, AF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/1.8, AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ice Jadeite, Aqua Blue, Sky Black | Maldives Blue, Horizon Orange, Galaxy Blue |
| Models | KE5S | - |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Tecno Spark Go 2020
- Extremely affordable
- Large battery life
- Decent display for the price
- Basic performance
- Limited camera capabilities
- Slow charging
Tecno Spark Go 2021
- Slightly more modern design
- Potentially longer software support
- Good battery life
- Similar performance to 2020
- Limited camera capabilities
- Slow charging
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar 6.5-inch HD+ display. Expect decent viewing angles and adequate brightness for indoor use, but outdoor visibility might be challenging. The 2021 might have a slightly improved panel, but the difference will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a dual-camera setup on the rear, with a primary sensor around 13MP and a depth sensor. Image quality will be adequate in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The 2021 might have slightly improved image processing algorithms.
Performance
The 2020 uses a Mediatek MT6761D Helio A20 chipset. The 2021 retains a Quad-core 1.8 GHz CPU, likely the same A53 cores. Performance will be comparable for everyday tasks. Don't expect to play demanding games smoothly on either device. RAM and storage configurations are likely similar (2GB/3GB RAM, 32GB/64GB storage).
Battery Life
Both devices are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. Charging speeds are likely to be slow (standard 5W or 10W). The 2021 might have slightly optimized power management.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark Go 2020 is ideal for users on a very tight budget who prioritize basic functionality like calling, texting, and light social media use. The Tecno Spark Go 2021 is a better option for those seeking a slightly more modern design and potentially longer software support, while still maintaining an ultra-budget price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark Go 2021 worth upgrading from the 2020?
Not really. The improvements are minimal. Unless you specifically want the newer design or potential software updates, sticking with the 2020 is fine.
❓ What kind of games can I play on these phones?
You can play light, less demanding games. Don't expect to run high-graphic games smoothly. Performance will be laggy.
