The ZTE Blade A34 and Tecno Spark 10C represent the fiercely competitive sub-$150 smartphone market. Both devices rely on Unisoc chipsets, but significant architectural differences exist. This comparison dives deep into those differences, focusing on real-world performance implications for everyday users.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and faster charging, the Tecno Spark 10C is the better choice. Its Unisoc T606, built on a 12nm process, offers a noticeable performance advantage over the ZTE Blade A34’s older 28nm Unisoc SC9863A, and the 18W charging is a significant benefit.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, February | 2023, March 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, March | Available. Released 2023, March 29 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.8 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 13 (Go edition) | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP, (depth) |
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 16 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Green, Gray | Black, Blue, Green |
| Models | - | KI5k, KI5m |
| Price | - | ₹ 9,990 |
ZTE Blade A34
- Extremely affordable price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Likely longer standby time due to less powerful processor
- Older, less efficient 28nm chipset
- Slower app loading and multitasking
- Likely slower charging speeds
Tecno Spark 10C
- More modern and efficient 12nm Unisoc T606 chipset
- Faster app loading and smoother multitasking
- 18W fast charging support
- Slightly higher price than the ZTE Blade A34
- Potentially shorter battery life under heavy load
- May not be significantly better in low-light camera performance
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the price point, details like panel type (IPS is assumed for both) and resolution are likely similar. The focus here is on the processors, as display performance is less impacted by the chipset. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, and color accuracy will likely be standard for this segment.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, a direct comparison is difficult. However, it’s safe to assume both phones feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The image signal processor (ISP) within the Unisoc T606 likely offers slightly better image processing capabilities than the SC9863A, but the difference will be marginal. Expect similar performance in good lighting conditions, with both struggling in low-light scenarios. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing gimmick and shouldn't heavily influence purchasing decisions.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Tecno Spark 10C’s Unisoc T606 (12nm) is a more modern design than the ZTE Blade A34’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The 12nm process allows for greater transistor density and improved power efficiency. Crucially, the T606 features 2x Cortex-A75 cores alongside 6x A55 cores, while the A34 uses 4x A55 cores at 1.6GHz and 4x A55 cores at 1.2GHz. The A75 cores in the T606 provide a significant boost in single-core performance, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The older 28nm process of the SC9863A will likely result in more heat generation under load, potentially leading to thermal throttling. While both are octa-core, the architectural difference is substantial.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified, but both phones likely house batteries in the 4000-5000mAh range, typical for this price bracket. The Tecno Spark 10C’s 18W wired charging is a clear advantage. While not exceptionally fast, it will significantly reduce charging times compared to the likely 10W or slower charging on the ZTE Blade A34. This means less downtime and more usability throughout the day. The more efficient 12nm process of the T606 will also contribute to slightly better battery life during typical usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the ZTE Blade A34 if your primary need is a functional, extremely affordable smartphone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media, and you aren't concerned with demanding applications. Buy the Tecno Spark 10C if you prefer a slightly smoother user experience, faster app loading times, and the convenience of quicker charging, even if it means spending a little more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark 10C handle popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc T606 chipset in the Tecno Spark 10C, with its Cortex-A75 cores, provides enough processing power for smooth scrolling and video playback within popular social media applications. The ZTE Blade A34 will likely handle these apps, but with occasional stutters or delays.
❓ Is the difference in chipset performance noticeable for everyday tasks like calling and texting?
For basic tasks like calling and texting, the difference will be minimal. However, when switching between apps, opening new apps, or browsing the web, the Tecno Spark 10C’s faster processor will provide a noticeably more responsive experience.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Tecno Spark 10C with the 18W charger?
While a precise time depends on the battery capacity (not specified), the 18W charger should fully charge the Tecno Spark 10C in approximately 2-3 hours, a significant improvement over the likely 4+ hours required for the ZTE Blade A34.
❓ Does the ZTE Blade A34 support popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram?
Yes, the ZTE Blade A34 supports all popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. However, expect slightly slower loading times and potentially some lag when sending large media files compared to the Tecno Spark 10C.
