The Umidigi G9x and Tecno Spark 20C represent the fiercely competitive sub-$150 smartphone market. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at an accessible price, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The G9x relies on a Unisoc chipset, while the Spark 20C opts for a Mediatek solution. This comparison will dissect the key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and faster charging, the Tecno Spark 20C is the better choice. Its Mediatek chipset, clocked at 2.2 GHz, provides a noticeable performance edge over the Umidigi G9x’s Unisoc SC9863A1, and the 18W charging significantly reduces downtime compared to the G9x’s 10W.
| 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 | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, June | 2023, November 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, June | Available. Released 2023, December |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 168.3 x 78 x 8.1 mm (6.63 x 3.07 x 0.32 in) | 163.7 x 75.6 x 8.6 mm (6.44 x 2.98 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~83.8% 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 (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) | Mediatek |
| GPU | IMG8322 | - |
| OS | Android 14 (Go edition) | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, (wide)
0.3 MP | - |
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | - | 50 MP, (wide), 1/2.8", PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Unspecified | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sand Black, Sand Silver, Sand Green | Mystery White, Alpenglow Gold, Magic Skin, Gravity Black |
| Models | - | BG7n, BG7 |
| Price | $ 79.99 / £ 79.99 | About 140 EUR |
Umidigi G9x
- Potentially lower price point (depending on retailer)
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Slower processor performance
- Significantly slower charging speed
- Likely lower power efficiency
Tecno Spark 20C
- Faster processor for smoother multitasking
- 18W fast charging for reduced downtime
- More responsive user experience
- May be slightly more expensive
- Potentially less optimized software
- Camera performance likely similar to G9x
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the price point, details like panel type and resolution are not provided. However, the focus should be on usability. The absence of information regarding display technology suggests both likely utilize IPS LCDs, prioritizing cost-effectiveness over color accuracy or high refresh rates. Bezels are likely substantial on both, impacting the overall screen-to-body ratio.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, a direct camera comparison is difficult. It’s safe to assume both devices feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely a marketing tactic, offering limited practical benefit due to the low resolution. Image processing will likely be heavily reliant on software algorithms to enhance image quality, and differences in this area will be more noticeable than sensor size alone. Expect similar results in good lighting conditions, with both struggling in low-light scenarios.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark 20C’s Mediatek chipset, with its 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 cores, offers a significant clock speed advantage over the Umidigi G9x’s Unisoc SC9863A1, which peaks at 1.6 GHz. While both utilize Cortex-A55 cores, the higher clock speed of the A53 in the Spark 20C translates to faster processing for tasks like app launching and web browsing. The Unisoc SC9863A1, built on a 22nm process, is likely to be less power-efficient, potentially impacting battery life under sustained load. The Spark 20C’s chipset architecture, while older, benefits from the higher clock speed, making it the more capable performer.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified, but the charging wattage is a key differentiator. The Tecno Spark 20C’s 18W wired charging is a substantial improvement over the Umidigi G9x’s 10W. This means significantly faster charging times, reducing the time spent tethered to a power outlet. Even with a similar battery capacity, the faster charging speed of the Spark 20C provides a more convenient user experience. The lower wattage on the G9x suggests a longer charge cycle, potentially becoming a frustration for users who rely heavily on their phones throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the Umidigi G9x if you need a basic, functional smartphone for light tasks like calls, messaging, and occasional social media browsing, and are comfortable with slower charging speeds. Buy the Tecno Spark 20C if you prefer a more responsive experience for everyday use, including smoother multitasking and quicker app loading times, and value faster charging to minimize interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Mediatek chipset in the Tecno Spark 20C get noticeably warmer during extended use like gaming?
While the Mediatek chipset offers better performance, the Cortex-A53 architecture isn't known for extreme heat generation. However, given the budget nature of the device, thermal management is likely basic. Expect some warmth during prolonged gaming sessions, but significant throttling is unlikely. The Unisoc chip in the G9x may also warm up, but the lower performance means it's less likely to push the thermal limits.
❓ Is the 10W charging on the Umidigi G9x really that much of a drawback in daily use?
Yes, 10W charging is considerably slower than 18W. A full charge from 0% will take significantly longer, potentially requiring overnight charging. If you frequently find yourself needing to quickly top up your battery, the G9x’s slow charging will be a noticeable inconvenience. The Spark 20C’s 18W charging offers a much more convenient experience.
❓ Can either of these phones handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
Both phones will be able to *run* PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but not at high settings. Expect to play at the lowest graphics settings and potentially with reduced frame rates to maintain a playable experience. The Tecno Spark 20C’s faster processor will provide a slightly smoother experience, but neither phone is designed for demanding gaming.
