Tecno Spark 20C Review: Shaking Up Budget Smartphone Market in India?

Highlights

• Tecno Spark 20C impresses with its robust design, durable build, and IP53 splash resistance.
• Features a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP front camera, catering to photography enthusiasts on a budget.
• Powered by the Helio G36 processor, offers smooth day-to-day performance with up to 16GB of RAM.
• Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, ensuring prolonged usage with a single charge.

In the bustling sub-Rs 10,000 smartphone market, the Tecno Spark 20C has emerged, to try and redefine affordability with cutting-edge technology.

With brands like Infinix and POCO making significant strides, at an effective price of Rs 7,999,  the Tecno Spark 20C targets budget-conscious consumers seeking high-quality specs without breaking the bank.

I think that the Tecno Spark 20C, with its compelling specifications and competitive price point, has the capability of carving out a niche for itself.

Let’s dive into what makes this device a noteworthy addition to the budget smartphone arena.

Tecno Spark 20C: Pros and Cons

Tecno Spark 20C: Key Specs

• Helio G36 Processor: 2.2 GHz quad-core + 1.8 GHz quad-core setup
• RAM: Up to 16GB via virtual swap (8GB installed)
• Storage: 128GB internal, expandable up to 1TB with SD card
• Display: 6.56” HD+ Dot-in, 90Hz refresh rate
• Camera: 50MP+AI Lens Dual Rear, 8MP AI Selfie
• Battery: 5000mAh with 18W Type-C fast charging
• Software: HiOS 13 based on Android 13

Tecno Spark 20C: Unboxing

Upon unboxing the Tecno Spark 20C, I was greeted, along with the phone itself, with a USB Type-C cable, a charging brick to power the device, and a clear silicone case to protect it from the daily wear and tear.

Tecno also includes a piece of tempered glass for added screen protection, a thoughtful touch not always present in budget devices.

Accompanied by the usual paperwork and a sim ejector toolkit, the unboxing experience is both comprehensive and satisfying, ensuring you have everything you need to start using the device right away.

Tecno Spark 20C: Unboxing Video

Tecno Spark 20C: Design and Display

• Good Design and Build Quality: The Tecno Spark 20C impressed me with its design and build quality. It has a sturdy build and features a robust plastic unibody chassis, which feels durable in my hand. The phone’s aesthetics are enhanced by a visually appealing which, I feel, stands out.
• Comfortable to Hold: Despite its robust construction, the phone is not overly heavy, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
• Standard Ports and Buttons: All standard ports and buttons are present, ensuring ease of use and compatibility with various accessories.
• Display Quality: While the display is not the brightest I’ve encountered, it is quite decent for its price range. The 6.6HD+ Punch-Hole with a 90Hz refresh rate offers smooth visuals, although it lacks HDR certification, which is understandable given its price point.
• Magic Ring Display Feature: The Magic Ring display feature attempts to mimic the iPhone’s dynamic island but falls short in terms of intuitiveness. However, it’s an innovative attempt at adding premium features to a budget device.
• Durability: With IP53 splash resistance, the Tecno Spark 20C adds an extra layer of durability, making it more resilient against accidental splashes or spills.

Tecno Spark 20C Review: Camera Review

• Primary Camera: The device is equipped with a 50MP primary shooter that performs well in daylight conditions. While the details captured are moderately sharp, the shutter times could see improvement. The autofocus feature requires enhancement for quicker and more accurate focusing. 
• Other Features: Despite these areas needing improvement, considering the device’s budget-friendly price point, the performance is deemed decent. The camera offers various modes, enhancing the shooting experience, although the budget constraints limit the camera setup’s versatility. The Pro Camera mode introduces some functionality, but its impact is somewhat limited.
• Image Quality and Features: The AI sensor enhances colors, resulting in images with high saturation levels. While the HDR capability does not offer the widest range, it is considered adequate for the device’s price category.
• Low Light Photography: This aspect I found has always been a challenge for budget smartphones, and the Spark 20C was no exception. The Quad-LED ring flash aids in improving low-light photography, but the Super Night Mode does not significantly enhance detail retrieval in such conditions.
• Selfie Camera: The 8MP front-facing camera does not lead its segment but adds a satisfactory level of detail to facial features. The exposure management, especially for backgrounds, is commendably handled. A screen flash feature is available for improved selfies in low-light scenarios.

Tecno Spark 20C Review: Camera Samples

Tecno Spark 20C Review: Camera Video

Tecno Spark 20C Review: Performance and Features

As far as the performance of the Tecno Spark 20c goes, the device is powered by the Helio G36 processor.

It pairs a 2.2 GHz quad-core with a 1.8 GHz quad-core setup, matched with up to 8GB of RAM, placing it on par with the Unisoc T616 SoC that I’ve seen in several recent budget phones.

Notably, the Spark 20c takes RAM configuration a step further, offering an expansion to 16GB via virtual swap—a feature that certainly sets it apart in the budget segment.

Coupled with 128GB of onboard storage, the device is well-equipped to handle a myriad of tasks and store ample data.

In my day-to-day use, the Tecno Spark 20c has proven itself decently capable.

Bar the occasional stutters when switching apps,  whether it’s browsing through various websites, checking emails, or scrolling through social media platforms, the phone handles these activities smoothly.

However, it’s not without its limitations.

As expected, when pushing the device with heavy GPU-intensive games or juggling multiple Chrome tabs, I noticed the system begins to feel the strain.

This isn’t entirely unexpected in the budget smartphone category, but it’s something potential users should know.

I encountered some hiccups when running benchmarking apps on the Spark 20c, although the results from Geekbench and 3DMark did give me a fair indication of its capabilities.

Despite these minor issues, the phone’s stereo speaker audio output has been respectable for its price range, delivering clear and sufficiently loud sound for both media consumption and calls.

Connectivity, a crucial aspect of any smartphone experience, has been seamless on the Tecno Spark 20c, especially on Airtel’s Delhi network.

The 4G support ensures that I stay connected without any interruptions.

Moreover, the fingerprint sensor has been a reliable feature for authentication, offering quick and accurate recognition every time I unlock the device.

Tecno Spark 20C Review: Software and Battery Life

The software experience on the Tecno Spark 20C, underpinned by the HiOS skin atop Android 13, has been quite refreshing.

It’s evident that Tecno is putting considerable effort into minimizing bloatware, and it shows.

The device arrived with just the essential and Google apps pre-installed, making for a UI that’s clean and also user-friendly.

This streamlined approach has significantly enhanced my interaction with the phone, allowing for a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Now, let’s talk about battery life – a critical aspect for any smartphone user.

The Tecno Spark 20C is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, which has proven to be quite robust in my regular use.

During my tests, the phone consistently delivered around six hours of screen-on-time, encompassing activities such as web browsing, checking work emails, and streaming videos on YouTube.

This level of endurance ensures that I can get through a full day on a single charge, which is incredibly reassuring.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

The charging speed of the Tecno Spark 20C does leave a bit to be desired.

Supporting an 18W charging solution, the device takes a little over two hours to charge fully from 0 to 100 percent.

While this may be considered slow in comparison to other price points, it’s quite fast for the sub-Rs 10,000 segment.

Tecno Spark 20C: Final Verdict

The Tecno Spark 20C offers compelling value in the sub-Rs 10,000 segment, emerging as a strong contender with its mix of features and performance.

It strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, catering to budget-conscious consumers without compromising on essential aspects like design, display quality, and battery life.

Even so, it’s not without its limitations, particularly in areas like camera performance under low light and processing power during heavy multitasking or gaming.

My Mobile India Rating

• Design – 4/5
• Display – 4 /5 
• Camera – 3/5
• Performance – 3.5/5
• Features – 3.5/5
• Software – 3.5/5
• Battery – 3.5/5
• Overall – 3.5/5

5 Reasons to Buy

• Affordable Price: At Rs 7,999 (with bank offers), it’s hard to ignore the value the Tecno Spark 20C offers, making it accessible to a wider audience.
• Good Design and Build: Despite its budget status, the phone doesn’t cut corners on build quality, offering a sturdy and attractive design.
• Decent Display with 90Hz Refresh Rate: The display provides a smooth experience for everyday use, which is a pleasant surprise in this price bracket.
• Expandable RAM and Sufficient Storage: With the option to expand RAM up to 16GB and 128GB of onboard storage, it stands out among its peers.
• Robust Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery ensures that the phone can easily last a full day on a single charge, even with moderate to heavy use.

3 Reasons Not to Buy

• Moderate Camera Performance in Low Light: The camera struggles in low-light conditions, which is a common issue in this price segment.
• Limited Processing Power for Intensive Tasks: Not ideal for heavy gaming or multitasking, showing limitations under load.
• Slow Charging Speed: While understandable at this price point, the charging speed might be a drawback for some users.

Top 5 Alternatives to Tecno Spark 20C

Realme Narzo 50i Prime

Price: Starts at Rs 7,999

The Realme Narzo 50i Prime offers a compelling package for budget smartphone buyers.

It features a large 6.5-inch display for an immersive viewing experience, powered by an Unisoc T612 processor, ensuring smooth daily operations and light gaming.

With up to 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, it caters to basic multitasking and storage needs.

The 5000mAh battery promises long-lasting usage, making it a reliable choice for users seeking performance and endurance on a budget.

Poco C3

Price: Starts at Rs 7,499

The Poco C3 stands out in the budget segment with its stylish design and robust build quality.

It sports a 6.53-inch HD+ display, offering clear and vibrant visuals.

Powered by a MediaTek Helio G35 processor, coupled with up to 4GB RAM, it delivers decent performance for everyday tasks.

The triple rear camera setup and a large 5000mAh battery make it a versatile option for photography enthusiasts and users who prioritize battery life.

Infinix Smart 5A

Price: Starts at Rs 6,999

Infinix Smart 5A is designed for users seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

It features a 6.52-inch HD+ display and is powered by a MediaTek Helio A20 processor.

With 2GB RAM and 32GB storage, it meets basic performance and storage requirements.

The dual rear camera setup and a massive 5000mAh battery are its highlights, offering a satisfactory multimedia experience and extended battery life.

Moto E7 Power

Price: Starts at Rs 7,499

Moto E7 Power is tailored for users who value stock Android experience and Motorola’s reliability.

It boasts a 6.5-inch HD+ display and is driven by a MediaTek Helio G25 processor.

With up to 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, it ensures smooth usability and ample storage.

The 5000mAh battery and water-repellent design make it a durable and long-lasting companion for daily use.

Samsung Galaxy M02

Price: Starts at Rs 6,999

Samsung Galaxy M02 is an excellent choice for brand-conscious buyers looking for an affordable Samsung device.

It offers a 6.5-inch HD+ Infinity-V display, ensuring a good viewing experience.

Powered by a MediaTek MT6739 processor, with up to 3GB RAM and 32GB storage, it caters to basic smartphone needs.

The dual rear camera setup and a 5000mAh battery highlight its commitment to providing a balanced feature set at a low price point.

COMPETITION BENCHMARKING

FAQs

What makes the Tecno Spark 20C stand out in the budget smartphone market?

The Tecno Spark 20C distinguishes itself with a robust design, a 50MP primary camera, and a large 5000mAh battery, all at an affordable price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

How does the camera performance of the Tecno Spark 20C measure up?

The Tecno Spark 20C’s 50MP primary camera delivers decent daylight photography, and the 8MP selfie camera provides satisfactory details. However, low-light photography can be challenging, although the device includes features to aid in such conditions.

Can the Tecno Spark 20C handle heavy gaming and multitasking?

While the Tecno Spark 20C performs smoothly for daily tasks and moderate gaming, it may experience limitations with heavy GPU-intensive games or multitasking with multiple apps due to its budget-oriented hardware.

What are the battery life and charging capabilities of the Tecno Spark 20C?

The device boasts a 5000mAh battery, offering around six hours of screen-on-time, and supports an 18W charging solution, fully charging from 0 to 100% in just over two hours.

Does the Tecno Spark 20C offer good value for its price?

Yes, the Tecno Spark 20C provides excellent value in the sub-Rs 10,000 segment, balancing affordability with essential features like a good camera setup, reliable performance, and robust battery life.

How is the storage & performance of Tecno spark 20c ?

Bigger Storage with Powerful Engine

The TECNO Spark 20C boasts a segment-leading 16GB* RAM and 128GB internal storage, ensuring seamless storage of memories, music, and more without the worry of running out of space. Supporting up to 1TB external card, there is no need to delete old photos.

It further ensures a robust performance that supports up to 16 background apps and 65% faster app launches, providing a hassle-free multitasking experience.

Additionally, the Spark 20C is equipped with Darwin Engine that provides faster and smoother performance by increasing the frame rate stability by 15X and reducing the temperature by up to 5 degrees during heavy usage.

How is the Camera performance of Tecno spark 20C?

Camera for Enhanced Photography

The 50MP dual AI rear camera of the Spark 20C seamlessly combines to deliver distinctive and crystal-clear results. With an F1.6 aperture, it becomes the ideal choice for low-light photography conditions.

The 15x-5400x time-lapse range feature brings out the creative side in users, encouraging them to capture moments like a romantic sunrise, blooming flowers, or flowing rivers.

How is the display of Tecno spark 20C?

Immersive & Vibrant Display

TECNO Spark 20C features the segment-best display for a smoother, more vibrant, and responsive experience, enhancing entertainment consumption to an outstanding level. With a 90Hz Dot-in-Display, the Spark 20C ensures epic entertainment with vivid and lifelike visuals, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in their favorite content.

Furthermore, the Dynamic Port style of interactive notifications for calls, charging, and more makes the whole user experience a lot more fun!

What is the Price and Availability of Tecno spark 20C?

Priced at ₹8,999, the TECNO Spark 20C will be available on Amazon starting March 5, 2024. Additionally, customers can enjoy an extra ₹1,000 off, bringing the effective price down to ₹7,999 as an introductory limited-time special offer.

TECNO’s All-Rounder Spark 20C with 16GB* RAM and 128GB ROM hits the Indian market at ₹7,999 on Amazon. Details?

In line with the commitment towards delivering best-in-class features at an accessible price point, TECNO, the global smartphone brand, introduces another all-rounder smartphone, the TECNO Spark 20C to the Indian market, competitively priced at ₹8,999.

However, with an exciting launch offer, users can grab the smartphone at a super aggressive price of ₹7,999, starting 5 March 2024, exclusively on Amazon.

The TECNO Spark 20C lives up to its promise of being ‘A Smarter Choice’ by offering all innovative key features that users seek in a smartphone, for a more premium everyday smartphone experience.

Unlike other smartphones, where users have to compare and compromise on many important features to get select specifications, SPARK 20C eliminates this conflict for users!

From a remarkable display and powerful camera to ample storage, the TECNO Spark 20C seamlessly integrates cutting-edge features with an elegant design, making it a versatile companion.

Adding to the value, the Spark 20C comes with a complementary OTT Play premium subscription valued at ₹5,803. This entitles users to enjoy 24 popular OTT platforms effortlessly, directly on their phones.

Therefore, TECNO invites users to #MakeASmarterChoice and immerse themselves in a world of exciting content at their convenience.

What are 3 MAJOR REASONS WHY SPARK 20C IS THE SMARTER CHOICE ?

1. Segment-Leading RAM + ROM:

• 16GB RAM* + 128GB ROM with Darwin Engine
• Darwin Engine ensures faster performance, supporting 16 background apps and 65% faster app launch
• Ample storage with 1TB SD Card support, eliminating the need to delete old photos

2. 50MP Dual AI Rear Camera:

• Superior clarity and details with a larger F1.6 aperture
• Unleash amazing night photos for memorable moments
• Capture the world in speed with up to 5400x Time-Lapse

3. Segment-Best Display

• 90Hz Dot-in Display for a smoother and more responsive experience
• Dynamic Port brings notifications to life – instant, interactive, and always in style.

Also Read: TECNO All-Set to Launch SPARK 20C on 27th February on Amazon; Asks Users to Make a Smarter Choice

Also Read: Tecno Spark 20C Launched 5,000mAh Battery, 50MP Camera: Features and Specs