The Tecno Spark Go series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with essential features. But with a new model released, it's natural to wonder: is the 2021 version a worthwhile upgrade over the 2020 edition? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Spark Go 2021 offers a slight edge thanks to its potentially improved software and minor design tweaks. However, the 2020 model's Helio A20 chipset provides a more efficient and slightly faster experience, making it a strong contender, especially if price is a primary concern.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| 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 | 2021, July 01 | 2020, September 01. Released 2020, September 07 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 07 | Discontinued |
| 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, 480 nits | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.8 GHz | Quad-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| 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 (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| 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, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| 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 | Maldives Blue, Horizon Orange, Galaxy Blue | Ice Jadeite, Aqua Blue, Sky Black |
| Models | - | KE5S |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Tecno Spark Go 2021
- Potentially improved software experience
- Slightly more modern design
- Possible minor camera improvements
- CPU may be less efficient than 2020
- Performance gains are minimal
- Price might be slightly higher
Tecno Spark Go 2020
- Reliable Helio A20 chipset
- Good battery life
- Generally more affordable
- Proven performance
- Older design
- Software updates may be less frequent
- Slightly less efficient CPU
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar 6.5-inch HD+ display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. Expect decent viewing angles and color reproduction for everyday use, but don't anticipate flagship-level quality. The 2021 model *might* have a slightly improved panel, but it's unlikely to be a significant difference.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely comparable, with both phones featuring a dual or triple rear camera setup (13MP main + depth sensor/AI lens). Image quality will be decent in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The 2021 model *could* have improved software processing for slightly better photos.
Performance
The 2020 model's Mediatek MT6761D Helio A20 chipset (12nm) offers a slight advantage in processing power and efficiency compared to the 2021's quad-core 1.8 GHz CPU. While both are adequate for basic tasks, the Helio A20 handles multitasking and slightly more demanding apps a bit better. RAM and storage configurations are likely similar (2GB/3GB RAM, 32GB/64GB storage).
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. Battery optimization might be slightly better on the 2021 model due to newer software.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Spark Go 2021 is ideal for users prioritizing a fresh software experience and a slightly more modern design. The Tecno Spark Go 2020 is a great choice for budget-conscious buyers who want reliable performance and a proven chipset without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Spark Go 2021 worth the upgrade from the 2020?
It depends on your priorities. If you value a newer design and potentially slightly improved software, the 2021 is a decent upgrade. However, the performance difference is minimal, and the 2020 offers excellent value.
❓ What is the battery life like on both phones?
Both phones offer excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day with moderate usage thanks to their 5000mAh batteries.
