Tecno Spark 8

In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, Tecno Mobile has consistently aimed to provide budget-friendly devices with impressive features. The Tecno Spark 8, released in September 2021, is one such offering that strives to balance performance, affordability, and functionality. In this in-depth review, we will explore the various aspects of the Tecno Spark 8, from its design and display to performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience.

Design and Build Quality

The Tecno Spark 8 boasts a modern and sleek design with a glass front and a plastic frame and back. The dimensions of 164.8 x 76.1 x 9.2 mm make it a sizable device, weighing 200g. While the plastic build might not exude the premium feel of metal or glass, it contributes to a lightweight design that is comfortable to hold.

The device is equipped with a dual SIM card slot, supporting Nano-SIM cards on dual standby. The color options, including Turquoise Cyan, Atlantic Blue, and Iris Purple, add a touch of vibrancy to the design, catering to various consumer preferences.

Display

The Tecno Spark 8 features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio. The screen offers a brightness of 480 nits (typ), providing decent visibility even under direct sunlight. With an approximately 81.8% screen-to-body ratio, the display offers an immersive viewing experience for multimedia consumption and day-to-day tasks.

While the 720p resolution might not match the sharpness of higher-end smartphones, it is a reasonable compromise given the device’s budget-friendly nature. The display produces vibrant colors and satisfactory viewing angles, making it suitable for users who prioritize content consumption on their smartphones.

Performance and Software

Running on Android 11 (Go edition) with HIOS 7.6, the Tecno Spark 8 is powered by the Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 chipset, featuring an Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and PowerVR GE8320 GPU. The combination of these components provides a smooth and efficient user experience for everyday tasks, such as web browsing, social media usage, and light gaming.

The 3GB or 4GB RAM options, coupled with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage (expandable via microSDXC card slot), offer flexibility to users based on their storage and multitasking needs. The use of eMMC 5.1 technology contributes to faster data transfer speeds and overall system responsiveness.

Camera System

The Tecno Spark 8 features a dual-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 16 MP wide-angle lens with an f/1.8 aperture. The secondary camera specifications are not explicitly mentioned, leaving some uncertainty about its capabilities. However, the inclusion of features like Quad-LED flash enhances low-light photography, ensuring users can capture moments in various lighting conditions.

The 8 MP front-facing camera with an f/2.0 aperture is equipped with a Dual-LED flash, making it suitable for capturing clear and detailed selfies. Both the front and rear cameras support 1080p video recording at 30fps, providing users with decent video quality for casual recording.

Audio and Connectivity

Audio capabilities on the Tecno Spark 8 include a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, offering users flexibility in audio output options. The inclusion of FM radio adds to the device’s entertainment features, allowing users to enjoy radio broadcasts without relying on internet connectivity.

Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS for positioning, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG support for data transfer and charging. While the absence of NFC might be a downside for users who rely on contactless payments, the inclusion of essential connectivity features caters to the device’s target audience.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Tecno Spark 8 is its robust battery life. The non-removable 5000 mAh battery ensures extended usage between charges, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a long-lasting battery. The 10W wired charging support might not offer the fastest charging speeds, but it is sufficient for a device in this price range.

Software and User Interface

The Tecno Spark 8 runs on Android 11 (Go edition) with HIOS 7.6, providing users with a customized user interface from Tecno. The Go edition of Android is optimized for entry-level smartphones, ensuring smooth performance even with limited hardware resources.

The HIOS 7.6 overlay introduces additional features and customization options, enhancing the overall user experience. However, users who prefer a stock Android experience may find the additional features and pre-installed apps on HIOS to be a bit overwhelming.

Security Features

The Tecno Spark 8 incorporates a fingerprint sensor on the rear for biometric authentication, providing users with a convenient and secure method to unlock their devices. In addition to the fingerprint sensor, the device includes accelerometer and proximity sensors, contributing to a more responsive and user-friendly experience.

Pricing and Availability

As of the latest available information, the Tecno Spark 8 is priced at approximately 144,870.60 Nigerian Naira. The budget-friendly pricing makes it an attractive option for users looking for a smartphone with essential features without breaking the bank. The device is readily available, ensuring accessibility for consumers in various regions.

Conclusion and Buyer’s Advice

In conclusion, the Tecno Spark 8 offers a compelling package for budget-conscious consumers seeking a smartphone that covers the basics without compromising on essential features. The device’s sleek design, vibrant display, efficient performance, and long-lasting battery make it a suitable choice for users with everyday communication and multimedia needs.

However, potential buyers should consider their specific requirements and priorities before making a purchase decision. If you prioritize camera performance, it’s essential to note the limited information provided about the secondary rear camera. Additionally, users who prefer a stock Android experience might find the HIOS overlay to be a departure from their preferences.

For those seeking a reliable device with extended battery life and a reasonable price point, the Tecno Spark 8 presents a compelling option in the budget smartphone market. As with any purchase, it’s advisable to explore user reviews, consider individual preferences, and assess personal usage patterns to ensure that the Tecno Spark 8 aligns with the buyer’s specific needs and expectations.