The sub-$200 smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Xiaomi Poco C65 and Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G represent compelling options for users seeking 5G connectivity without breaking the bank. While both aim for affordability, they take different approaches: the Poco C65 prioritizes extended battery life, while the Spark 20 Pro 5G focuses on delivering a more modern chipset and faster charging speeds. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance and faster charging, the Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G emerges as the better choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6080 chipset, built on a more efficient 6nm process, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the Poco C65’s Helio G85, and the 33W charging significantly reduces downtime. However, the Poco C65’s excellent battery life remains a strong advantage for those who heavily rely on their phone throughout the day.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - International | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 - International | LTE |
| 5G bands | - | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, November 05 | 2024, June 17 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, November 06 | Available. Released 2024, June 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass), plastic frame, plastic back | - |
| Dimensions | 168 x 78 x 8.1 mm (6.61 x 3.07 x 0.32 in) | 168.5 x 76.2 x 8.3 mm or 8.5 mm |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 200 g or 201.5 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~396 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.74 inches, 109.7 cm2 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.78 inches, 109.2 cm2 (~85.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 450 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) | IPS LCD, 120Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6080 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 13, upgradable to Android 15, HyperOS 2 | Android 14 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 108 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/1.67", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | Quad-LED flash |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | Dual-LED dual-tone flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio, recording | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C |
| 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, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired, PD | 33W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Purple | Startrail Black, Glossy White, Neon Green |
| Models | 2310FPCA4G, 2310FPCA4I | KJ8 |
| Price | € 99.95 / $ 139.99 / £ 115.99 / ₹ 8,999 | About 180 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.99 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) | - |
Xiaomi Poco C65
- Exceptional battery life (11:31h active use)
- PD charging support for wider charger compatibility
- More affordable price point (likely)
- Older, less efficient Helio G85 chipset
- Slower 18W charging speed
- Limited performance for demanding tasks
Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G
- More powerful and efficient Dimensity 6080 chipset
- Faster 33W wired charging
- Improved performance for gaming and multitasking
- Battery life likely shorter than Poco C65
- May be slightly more expensive
- Battery capacity not specified
Display Comparison
The Poco C65 features a display capable of reaching 607 nits of peak brightness, providing adequate visibility outdoors. Its 1555:1 contrast ratio suggests decent, though not exceptional, image quality. The Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G’s display specifications are not provided, but given the market segment, it likely offers similar brightness levels. However, the absence of information regarding panel technology (like IPS LCD vs. AMOLED) and refresh rate on both devices means neither stands out as a display champion. Users prioritizing vibrant colors and smooth scrolling will likely find both displays adequate but not exceptional.
Camera Comparison
Both devices’ camera specifications are limited. Without details on sensor size or image processing capabilities, a direct comparison is difficult. The presence of a 'Photo / Video' designation for the Poco C65 suggests basic camera functionality, but doesn't indicate quality. The lack of information on the Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G’s camera system makes it impossible to assess its photographic capabilities. It’s safe to assume both phones will perform adequately in well-lit conditions, but struggle in low-light scenarios. We advise users not to prioritize camera performance when choosing between these two.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G’s Mediatek Dimensity 6080 (6nm) is a significant upgrade over the Poco C65’s Mediatek Helio G85 (12nm). The 6nm process inherently offers better power efficiency, translating to less heat generation and potentially sustained performance during prolonged tasks. The Dimensity 6080’s CPU, with 2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 cores, also boasts higher clock speeds than the Poco’s 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 cores, resulting in faster application launches and smoother multitasking. This benefits users who frequently switch between apps or engage in light gaming.
Battery Life
The Poco C65 shines in battery life, achieving an impressive 11:31h of active use. While the Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G’s battery capacity is unknown, its 33W wired charging is a clear advantage over the Poco C65’s 18W charging. This faster charging speed will significantly reduce the time spent tethered to a power outlet. The Dimensity 6080’s 6nm efficiency also contributes to better power management, potentially offsetting the Poco C65’s larger battery capacity to some extent. Users who frequently travel or have limited access to charging will appreciate the Poco C65’s endurance, while those who prefer quick top-ups will favor the Tecno.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Poco C65 if you need a phone that can reliably last through a full day and beyond on a single charge, and aren't heavily reliant on demanding applications. Buy the Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G if you prefer a snappier user experience, faster app loading times, and quicker charging, even if it means slightly less battery endurance. Gamers on a budget will also lean towards the Spark 20 Pro 5G.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G’s Dimensity 6080 overheat during extended gaming sessions?
The Dimensity 6080’s 6nm manufacturing process is more efficient than the Poco C65’s Helio G85’s 12nm process, meaning it generates less heat under load. While some throttling is inevitable, the Spark 20 Pro 5G is likely to maintain higher sustained performance during gaming compared to the Poco C65.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Tecno Spark 20 Pro 5G with the 33W charger?
While a precise 0-100% charging time isn't available, 33W charging is significantly faster than the Poco C65’s 18W. Expect a full charge in approximately 60-75 minutes, a substantial improvement over the Poco C65’s estimated 2+ hours.
❓ Is the difference in chipset performance between the Helio G85 and Dimensity 6080 noticeable in everyday tasks?
Yes, the difference is noticeable. The Dimensity 6080’s faster CPU cores and more efficient architecture result in snappier app launches, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user experience. While the Poco C65 is adequate for basic tasks, the Spark 20 Pro 5G offers a more fluid and enjoyable experience.
