The Umidigi G5A and Tecno Spark Go 2023 represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting users prioritizing affordability above all else. Both devices aim to deliver basic smartphone functionality at the lowest possible price point, but subtle differences in brand positioning and potential software experience could make one a better choice than the other.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a functional, ultra-budget smartphone, the Tecno Spark Go 2023 likely offers a slightly better experience due to Tecno's wider brand recognition and generally more consistent software updates within this price bracket. However, the Umidigi G5A remains a viable option if found at a significantly lower price.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023 | 2023, January 19 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023 | Available. Released 2023, January 24 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.9 x 75.7 x 8.8 mm (6.45 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.4 cm2 (~84.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 12, HIOS 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Unspecified |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Graphite Black, Jade Green, Lavender Purple, Pearl White, Space Gray | Endless Black, Nebula Purple, Uyuni Blue, Skin Orange |
| Models | - | BF7n |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Umidigi G5A
- Potentially lower price point
- Functional for basic tasks
- Compact and lightweight
- Less established brand reputation
- Potentially infrequent software updates
- Basic camera performance
Tecno Spark Go 2023
- More recognizable brand (Tecno)
- Potentially better software support
- Functional for basic tasks
- Similar performance limitations to Umidigi G5A
- Basic camera performance
- May be slightly more expensive
Display Comparison
Both the Umidigi G5A and Tecno Spark Go 2023 are expected to feature similar LCD panels, given their price point. Without specific display specs like resolution or brightness, it's safe to assume both offer a basic viewing experience suitable for everyday tasks. The lack of features like higher refresh rates or even full HD+ resolution means media consumption won't be a highlight on either device. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be a weak point on both devices. While both will feature rear camera systems, the quality will be limited by the sensor size and image processing capabilities of the Helio A22. Expect acceptable results in well-lit conditions, but significant noise and lack of detail in low light. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely a marketing gimmick, offering minimal practical benefit due to the low resolution and fixed focus. Focusing on the main sensor's megapixel count (if available) is a better indicator of potential image quality.
Performance
The core of both devices is the Mediatek Helio A22 (12 nm) chipset, paired with a Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. This means performance will be virtually identical in day-to-day tasks like browsing, social media, and light app usage. The 12nm process node offers reasonable efficiency for this class of chip, but don't expect to run demanding games or multitasking scenarios smoothly. RAM configurations are not specified, but likely hover around 2-3GB, further limiting multitasking capabilities. Thermal management will be passive on both, relying on the chassis to dissipate heat.
Battery Life
Both devices feature 10W wired charging, indicating similar charging speeds. Battery capacity is not specified, but likely falls in the 4000-5000 mAh range, providing a full day of light usage. The 10W charging will require several hours to fully charge the battery from 0-100%, making overnight charging the most practical option. The efficiency of the Helio A22 chipset will play a role in overall battery life, but both devices should be able to comfortably handle basic tasks throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the Umidigi G5A if you need a phone primarily for basic communication – calls, texts, and light app usage – and are comfortable with potentially less frequent software updates. It's ideal for those who prioritize finding the absolute cheapest functional smartphone. Buy the Tecno Spark Go 2023 if you prefer a brand with a more established presence in emerging markets, potentially offering better long-term software support and a slightly more refined user experience, even within the budget constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio A22 struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the Helio A22 can run apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, expect some lag and slowdowns when multitasking or using the apps extensively. These apps are optimized for a wide range of hardware, but the A22's limited processing power will be noticeable.
❓ How often can I expect software updates on the Tecno Spark Go 2023?
Tecno typically provides limited software updates for its entry-level devices. While you may receive security patches, major Android version updates are unlikely. Expect at least basic security updates for the first year, but long-term support is not guaranteed.
❓ Is the camera on either phone suitable for taking photos of documents?
The cameras on both phones can capture documents, but the image quality will likely be low, with potential distortion and blurriness. Adequate lighting is crucial for acceptable results. Consider using a dedicated document scanning app for better clarity.
❓ Can I play games like PUBG Mobile on either of these phones?
PUBG Mobile is unlikely to run smoothly on either the Umidigi G5A or the Tecno Spark Go 2023. The Helio A22 lacks the processing power and GPU performance required for a playable experience, even at the lowest settings. Expect significant lag and frame rate drops.
