Spark 30 is a mid-range series based on how Tecno presents it. But, in contrast to other phones from the Chinese brands, the prices for either Spark 30 or Spark 30C fall under the sub-entry-level flag. Now, both these handsets are differently abled, one more powerful than the other, one more expensive than the other, so which one should you pick?
If you are looking into the budget segment for a solid daily driver, Spark 30 or Spark 30C are your go-to choices. The former will cost more but give you better cameras, a sharper screen, and even a faster chip. There’s also something to be said about Spark 30C, which cuts down on some features but gives you a nice and comfy price tag.
Tecno Spark 30
Tecno Spark 30 is a phone built around an FHD+ 1080p display with a 6.78” diagonal measurement. It can hit 800 nits of brightness on an IPS screen. This should help with under-the-sun visibility. Then we have a 90Hz refresh rate that makes every animation on this phone fluid and smooth.
IP64 rating means it is safe from water splashes, steam, and dirt. A Helio G91 chip is pulling the load here, so the experience should be snappy, helped by the lightweight Android 14 x HiOS 14 UI. They tested it for five years of continuous fluency. That should keep the phone lag-free for the duration.
This phone also has 8 GB starter RAM and 128 GB or 256 GB of storage. It can do 13 MP selfies from that punch-hole crop on the screen, and we see a 64 MP Sony IMX682 lens on the back for quick high-res shots. 5000mAh battery is tested for 1000+ cycles and 80% capacity retention even after four years.
Spark 30 also has 18W charging, so it shouldn’t take longer than two hours to fill it back up. NFC support, dual speakers, and a side fingerprint reader are some of its other highlight qualities. Spark 30’s price in Pakistan is only Rs 39,999.
Tecno Spark 30C
It’s a step down from the vanilla variant but still quite impressive for the value it provides. Spark 30C’s screen is 720p though its 120Hz refresh rate is up there high-end phones. The size is also smaller with only a 6.67” panel. But the design of both phones is identical.
They used a Helio G81 chip here, so it’s less powerful, but at least they still gave it a 4-year fluency rating. Spark 30C is IP54-rated and good against minor splashes and dust ingress. The dual speaker symmetry is impressive and the phone can also boost the volume by 300%.
Also, you get two lenses on the back and a ring LED flash: the main camera is a 50 MP sensor assisted by an auxiliary lens and the selfie camera is only 8 MP. A 5000mAh cell powers everything up with 18W charging backup, and we see a fingerprint reader on the side. Spark 30C’s 6/128GB memory trim only costs Rs 30,999/-.
Both Spark 30 and Spark 30C have different strengths and they compete distinctively. One targets a more budget-conscious user base and the other demands a slightly higher price tag for premium features. But you can’t go wrong with either of them.
Our verdict: You should choose based on your priorities. Spark 30 is a clear winner as an all-rounder with better photography, multitasking, and gaming, but it all comes at a higher cost. Spark 30C, on the other hand, gives you a smoother 120Hz experience and offers far better value for money.