The Tecno POVA 5 Pro is designed to cater to a specific audience—gaming enthusiasts and users who prefer a unique aesthetic appeal.

Its emphasis on performance, coupled with a distinctive visual appeal, reflects a clear intention to capture the hearts of gamers and tech enthusiasts alike.

From the large high-refresh-rate display to the powerful battery with rapid charging, it attempts to offer a complete package that not only satisfies the gaming cravings but also serves as a daily driver for entertainment and productivity.

Whether it manages to strike the perfect balance is something we’ll explore in this in-depth review.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Verdict

The Tecno POVA 5 Pro offers a distinctive design and features aimed at gaming enthusiasts. While excelling in design and battery life, the display, camera, and software areas have room for refinement.
Performance-wise, it provides good value for its price, making it a noteworthy contender in its segment.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Key Specs

• Display: 6.78-inch FHD+ Dot-in Display, 120Hz Refresh rate
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6080
• Front Camera: 16MP AI Selfie Camera 
• Rear Camera: 50MP+AI Dual Camera
• Memory: 256GB/128GB UMCP Internal Storage
• RAM: 8GB + 8GB (with memory fusion)
• Battery: Li-Polymer 5000mAh Battery
• Charging: 68W Type C Charger
• Features: Dual Stereo Speaker Optimized by DTS& Hi-Res, Z-axis linear Motor
• Colour Options: Dark Illusion, Silver Fantasy

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Pricing and availability

The Tecno Pova 5 Pro is set to retail at Rs 14,999, with sales commencing on August 22 through Amazon. Alongside this model, the regular Tecno Pova 5 will also be available.

Customers looking to trade in their old devices can benefit from a Rs 1,000 discount on their purchase. Additionally, the Tecno Pova 5 series offers a no-cost EMI plan for buyers, extending up to a 6-month period.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Design

The design of the Tecno POVA 5 Pro is unarguably unique and crafted with gamers in mind. Its slightly heavy and chunky dimensions are adorned with what Tecno calls a 3D Textured Design With Arc Interface. Inspired by the Infinix GT 10 Pro, the translucent-type back imparts a distinct gamer vibe.

The camera housing is unconventional, with dual camera rings that may seem bigger than needed but adds to the device’s personality.

Along with a fingerprint reader on the side, a USB-C port, dual speaker setup, and a 3.5mm jack on the bottom, it features four LED strips that provide multi-colour vibrant backlighting. These aesthetic elements futher amplify the device’s gamer look.

The Dark Illusion colour variant, which we have received for review, stands out, and overall, despite some quirks, the design language succeeds in offering a strong visual appeal that is different from what’s typically found in this price segment.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Display

The Tecno POVA 5 Pro’s 6.78-inch 120Hz FHD+ LCD display stands out for its size and refresh rate. While it’s not extremely bright, it ensures smooth scrolling and gaming experiences.

The colours felt a bit saturated in our opinion although consumers could as easily be impressed by it. In any case the panel’s high refresh rate compensates for any discrepancies in colour accuracy.

The lack of HDR certification for OTT content is noticeable, and some users might find the WideVine L1 support for HD insufficient.

The backlight bleeding around the punch-hole for the selfie shooter might be a concern, along with bezels that are a bit larger than desired.

However, for those seeking a large display with a high refresh rate in this price range, the compromises may be acceptable. We personally found the viewing experience pleasant enough for day-to-day consumption.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Camera

The camera system of the Tecno POVA 5 Pro has a mixed bag of features. Its 50MP main camera performs decently in well-lit scenarios, capturing relatively sharp details, although colours can be on the contrasty side, and the dynamic range is just average.
There’s a noticeable yellow tint that might require post-processing correction.

The secondary AI camera doesn’t offer significant utility, and the absence of a macro or ultra-wide camera limits the versatility of the camera system.

Night photography suffers from grainy and out-of-focus shots, and even the dedicated Night mode doesn’t enhance the quality substantially. The selfie camera is capable but lacks dynamic range, making backlit shots challenging.

Despite these shortcomings, the camera system is functional for casual photography, and the primary camera’s performance is acceptable in favourable lighting conditions.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Camera Shots

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Performance and features

Performance is an area where the Tecno POVA 5 Pro shines, especially considering its price segment.

The 6nm Mediatek Dimensity 6080 chipset offers robust performance, capable of handling moderate to slightly high-level tasks with ease.
The Geekbench 6 multi-core and single-core scores of 2,072 and 759, respectively, are indicative of its potential.

With 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, coupled with 8GB extra from virtual swap, the device ensures smooth multitasking and gaming.

Gaming at medium graphics settings and 45fps output for games like BGMI and Call of Duty Mobile is a satisfying experience. The large VC helps keep the device cool during prolonged gaming sessions, and lower-intensity games run effortlessly.

On 3DMark’s Wild Life Stress Test, the device offered a 98.9 percent system stability which is quite impressive. The story is similar for other benchmarking apps like PCMark and CPU Throttle benchmark.

Apart from this, the device also has a good stereo speaker output that has good depth and doesn’t crackle at high volumes. We also like the side-mounted fingerprint scanner’s ability to unlock the phone in a snappy fashion.

The 5G capabilities of the device are good enough for usage across the Delhi NCR, at least on Jio’s network.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Software

The software experience on the Tecno POVA 5 Pro could be better optimised. Running on HiOS 13 based on Android 13, the device is plagued with bloatware and a cluttered UI that might deter some users.
On the bright side, customisation options and features like Game Space, which allows games to run well, are welcome additions.

The quick settings drop-down could be better designed, and the overall software experience might feel hampered.
However, the commitment to providing software updates for up to two years is a positive sign. With some refinements, the POVA 5 Pro’s software experience could be significantly enhanced.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Battery

The Tecno POVA 5 Pro’s battery life is commendable, with a 5,000mAh cell paired with 68W fast charging. Achieving 50 percent charge in just 20 minutes and a full charge in 40 minutes is quite impressive in this price segment.

The by-pass charging feature, designed to keep heat down while ensuring fast charging, adds to the convenience.

A full day’s use on a single charge with up to 6 hours of screen-on time is decent for most users.
The overall battery performance is bound to satisfy those looking for a device that can keep up with their daily needs without frequent charging.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: Final verdict

The Tecno POVA 5 Pro stands out with its unique design and gaming capabilities, targeting a niche audience.
While there are areas that could be improved, particularly the camera and software experience, the device’s overall performance and value proposition make it a consideration for those looking for a budget-friendly gaming smartphone.

Its impressive battery life and distinctive aesthetics will attract gamers and tech enthusiasts seeking something different in the crowded smartphone market.

Tecno POVA 5 Pro: My Mobile rating

Design – 4/5

Display – 3/5

Performance – 3.5/5

Camera – 3/5

Battery – 3.5/5

Overall – 3.5/5

PRODUCT SPECS

FAQs

What makes the Tecno POVA 5 Pro suitable for gamers?

The Tecno POVA 5 Pro is designed with gaming in mind, featuring a 6.78-inch 120Hz FHD+ LCD display, a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor, large VC cooling, and a special Panther Game Engine 3.0. These features ensure a smooth and immersive gaming experience.

How does the camera system of Tecno POVA 5 Pro perform?

The Tecno POVA 5 Pro’s 50MP main camera captures sharp details in well-lit conditions but might struggle in low light. While lacking in versatility with no macro or ultra-wide options, it serves functional casual photography needs.

What makes the battery performance of Tecno POVA 5 Pro impressive?

The 5,000mAh battery of Tecno POVA 5 Pro is paired with a 68W fast charger, enabling 50% charge in just 20 minutes and a full charge in 40 minutes. By-pass charging technology adds convenience and helps in heat management.

Is the software experience on Tecno POVA 5 Pro smooth?

Running on HiOS 13 based on Android 13, the software experience on Tecno POVA 5 Pro could be better optimized. The UI may feel cluttered, but the device has customization options and a commitment to two years of software updates.