The Tecno Spark Go and Oppo A17k represent the fiercely competitive sub-$150 smartphone market. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an accessible price, they take drastically different approaches to core components, particularly the chipset. This comparison dissects those differences to determine which device offers the best value for budget-conscious consumers.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Tecno Spark Go emerges as the superior choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6400 chipset, built on a more efficient 6nm process, provides a significant performance advantage over the Oppo A17k’s 12nm Helio G35, translating to smoother multitasking and a more responsive user experience. While both phones are entry-level, the Spark Go offers a more future-proof platform.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, August 14 | 2022, October 13 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, August 21 | Available. Released 2022, October 18 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 167.7 x 77.9 x 8 mm (6.60 x 3.07 x 0.31 in) | 164.2 x 75.6 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 189 g (6.67 oz) |
| | - | IPX4 water resistance |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Panda Glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.5 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6400 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 15, HIOS 15 | Android 12, ColorOS 12.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | LED flash, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.4, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Po 6000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sky Blue, Ink Black, Turquoise Green | Navy Blue, Gold |
| Models | KM8 | CPH2471 |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Tecno Spark Go
- Significantly faster processor (Dimensity 6400)
- More efficient 6nm chipset for better battery life
- Smoother multitasking and app performance
- May be slightly more expensive than the Oppo A17k
- Camera performance likely similar to Oppo A17k without further specs
Oppo A17k
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Decent battery life for basic usage
- Underpowered Helio G35 processor
- Struggles with multitasking and demanding apps
- Less future-proof
Display Comparison
Neither Tecno nor Oppo provide display specifications beyond the basic resolution. However, the chipset differences hint at potential display capabilities. The Dimensity 6400 in the Spark Go is capable of driving higher refresh rate panels, suggesting a potentially smoother visual experience, even if the base refresh rate is 60Hz on both. The Oppo A17k, constrained by the Helio G35, is likely to have a more basic display experience. Bezels are expected to be similar on both, given their price point.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, a direct comparison is difficult. However, given the target market, both phones likely feature basic camera setups. The Oppo A17k often includes a 5MP main camera, while the Tecno Spark Go is likely to have a similar or slightly improved sensor. Image processing will be a key factor, and Tecno’s software often prioritizes vibrant colors, while Oppo tends towards more natural tones. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely marketing fluff and offers minimal practical benefit.
Performance
The core differentiator lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark Go’s Mediatek Dimensity 6400 (6nm) boasts a modern CPU configuration – 2x2.5 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores – offering significantly more processing power than the Oppo A17k’s Mediatek Helio G35 (12nm) with its 4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. The 6nm fabrication process of the Dimensity 6400 also translates to improved power efficiency and reduced thermal throttling. This means the Spark Go will handle multitasking, app loading, and even light gaming with greater ease. The Helio G35 is adequate for basic tasks but will struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both devices likely feature similar battery capacities (around 5000mAh is typical for this segment). However, the Dimensity 6400’s superior power efficiency in the Tecno Spark Go could translate to slightly longer real-world battery life despite the 18W charging being the same on both. The Helio G35’s less demanding nature might also contribute to good battery endurance, but the performance trade-off isn’t worth it for most users. Expect both phones to comfortably last a full day with moderate usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Spark Go if you prioritize performance for everyday tasks, occasional gaming, and want a device that feels more responsive. It’s ideal for students, first-time smartphone users, or anyone needing a reliable secondary device. Buy the Oppo A17k if your primary concern is absolute simplicity and a potentially slightly longer battery life due to the less powerful processor, and you primarily use your phone for calls, texts, and very light app usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark Go handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Dimensity 6400 is a capable chip, don't expect high frame rates or ultra settings in demanding games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty. You'll likely need to play on low to medium settings to achieve a playable experience. The Oppo A17k's Helio G35 will struggle even more with these titles.
❓ Is the 18W charging on both phones considered fast charging?
18W charging is considered relatively slow by today's standards. Expect a full charge to take around 2-3 hours. While not 'fast charging' in the flagship sense, it's adequate for overnight charging or topping up throughout the day.
❓ How much storage do these phones typically offer, and is it expandable?
Both the Tecno Spark Go and Oppo A17k typically come with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage. Crucially, both devices support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add up to 512GB or 1TB of additional storage for photos, videos, and apps.
❓ Which phone is better for someone who primarily uses WhatsApp and Facebook?
Both phones will handle WhatsApp and Facebook without issue. However, the Tecno Spark Go's faster processor will ensure a smoother and more responsive experience when switching between apps or browsing social media feeds. The Oppo A17k will function adequately, but may exhibit occasional lag.
