The Breakdown
The TECNO Spark 20 Pro 5G is the latest addition to the budget-friendly Spark lineup from the Chinese manufacturer TECNO. This new iteration brings several improvements over its predecessor, the Spark 20 Pro, focusing on enhanced 5G and wireless support, better AI for camera and filming, and a slightly smaller form factor. In this detailed review, we will delve into the specifications, performance, and overall experience of using the TECNO Spark 20 Pro 5G.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
Upon unboxing the Spark 20 Pro 5G, the first thing that stands out is the minimalist design. The package includes the handset, a USB Type-C charging cable, a 90W fast charging adapter, a set of USB Type-C earbuds, and a SIM ejection pin. The absence of a 3.5mm audio jack is notable, but the inclusion of USB Type-C earbuds compensates for this omission.
Design and Build Quality
The Spark 20 Pro 5G features a sleek design with dimensions of 6.63” x 3” x 0.33” and weighs 200g, making it slightly larger and heavier than the latest iPhone 15. The front of the phone is dominated by the display, with a centrally located front camera. The volume and power buttons are conveniently placed on the right edge, while the single USB Type-C port is at the bottom.
One of the standout design choices is the vegan leather backplate, which gives the phone a unique and premium feel. This material not only adds to the aesthetics but also provides a good grip, making the phone less slippery. The back also houses a well-integrated three-camera system in the top left corner.
Performance and Hardware
Processor and Memory
The TECNO Spark 20 Pro 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 CPU, coupled with 8GB of RAM and an additional 8GB of virtual RAM, providing ample memory for multitasking. The phone also offers 256GB of internal storage, ensuring plenty of space for apps, media, and files.
In terms of performance, the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 provides a slight improvement over its predecessor, the MTK G99 CPU, particularly in wireless and 5G capabilities. Benchmark tests show a single-core score of 770 and a multi-core score of 2065, placing it firmly in the entry-level category for processors. Despite these modest scores, the phone handles everyday tasks such as email, messaging, and social media smoothly.
Display
The Spark 20 Pro 5G boasts a 6.78-inch FHD display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This adaptable display provides a crisp and vibrant viewing experience, adjusting the refresh rate based on the task to optimize battery life. Streaming content and browsing are particularly enjoyable, with bright, clear visuals even in direct sunlight.
Camera Performance
Rear Cameras
The camera system on the Spark 20 Pro 5G includes a 108MP main camera, a 2MP macro camera, and an additional lens for depth sensing. This setup offers a range of shooting options, including Super Night Mode, Pro Mode, and Super Macro Mode. The 108MP camera excels in capturing detailed and vibrant images, while the Super Night Mode leverages AI to produce impressive low-light shots.
Front Camera
The front-facing camera is capable of capturing decent selfies and supports facial recognition for quick unlocking. The AI enhancements ensure that photos are clear and well-balanced, though it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models.
Video Recording
Video recording is where the Spark 20 Pro 5G shows some limitations. It supports video capture up to 2K at 30fps, which is lower than the 4K capabilities found in many modern smartphones. Additionally, the absence of stabilization means that videos can suffer from shakiness, especially during movement.
Battery Life and Charging
The Spark 20 Pro 5G comes equipped with a 5000mAh battery, which is impressive for a phone in this category. This large battery ensures that the phone can easily last a full day of heavy use, including streaming, gaming, and productivity tasks. The included 90W fast charger significantly reduces charging time, making it convenient for users on the go.
Software and User Experience
HiOS 14
Running on HiOS 14, based on Android 14, the Spark 20 Pro 5G offers a smooth and intuitive user experience. HiOS 14 includes several quality-of-life features such as the Dynamic Port system for notifications, a quick app drawer, and built-in cache cleaning. These additions enhance the overall usability of the phone without causing any noticeable slowdowns.
Security Features
The phone includes both face detection unlock and a fingerprint scanner built into the power button. Both methods are fast and reliable, providing secure and convenient access to the device.
Gaming and Multimedia
Performance
Gaming on the Spark 20 Pro 5G is a mixed experience. While it handles casual games and less demanding titles well, more intensive games like Diablo Immortal and Genshin Impact require lower settings to maintain playable frame rates. The built-in Game Profile mode helps optimize performance for gaming, but the phone’s entry-level processor shows its limitations with high-end gaming.
Audio Quality
The audio performance of the Spark 20 Pro 5G is impressive, particularly with its stereo speakers. The sound is clear and loud, making it suitable for media consumption and gaming. The support for Dolby Atmos enhances the audio experience when using compatible headphones.
Final Thoughts
The TECNO Spark 20 Pro 5G is a solid entry-level smartphone that offers excellent value for money. It excels in everyday tasks, provides a good multimedia experience, and has a robust camera system for its price range. While it has some limitations, particularly in video recording and high-end gaming, it remains a strong contender in the budget-friendly 5G smartphone market.
