Tecno Spark 30C 5G has arrived, making a statement as an affordable yet feature-packed 5G smartphone. Launched in October 2024, this device aims to cater to users looking for modern connectivity and balanced performance without breaking the bank. In this review, we delve into every detail of the Tecno Spark 30C 5G, from its design and display to performance and camera capabilities, to see how it fares in a competitive market.
Design and Build
Tecno has crafted the Spark 30C 5G with a sleek and functional design. Measuring 165 x 77 x 8 mm, it fits comfortably in the hand, while its lightweight build ensures it is easy to carry around. The materials include a glass front, a plastic back, and a plastic frame, keeping costs low but still providing a decent feel. The phone comes in three eye-catching colors: Aurora Cloud, Azure Sky, and Midnight Shadow, catering to a range of style preferences.
An important feature is its IP54 dust and splash resistance, which offers protection against minor splashes and dust ingress—a welcome addition in this price range. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor adds convenience for unlocking the device quickly and securely.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design.
- IP54 dust and splash resistance.
- Stylish color options.
Cons:
- Plastic back and frame may feel less premium.
- No official weight information provided.
Display
The Tecno Spark 30C 5G features a 6.67-inch IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This screen ensures smooth scrolling and fluid animations, making it a treat for casual gamers and social media enthusiasts. The 720 x 1600 pixel resolution and 263 ppi density provide adequate clarity for everyday use, though it’s not the sharpest display in its segment.
With an 84.5% screen-to-body ratio, the device offers a large viewing area, making it suitable for streaming videos and browsing content. However, a 1080p resolution would have been more competitive given the rising standards in this category.
Pros:
- 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals.
- Large display with an immersive screen-to-body ratio.
Cons:
- Low resolution for a display of this size.
- No mention of additional display protection (e.g., Gorilla Glass).
Performance
Under the hood, the Spark 30C 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, a 6nm processor that balances efficiency and performance. Its octa-core CPU consists of two high-performance Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.4 GHz and six power-efficient Cortex-A55 cores running at 2.0 GHz. Paired with a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, the device is capable of handling day-to-day tasks and light gaming with ease.
The phone comes in multiple memory configurations:
- 64GB storage with 4GB RAM
- 128GB storage with 4GB RAM
- 128GB storage with 8GB RAM
This range allows users to choose the variant that best suits their needs and budget. Additionally, the microSDXC card slot provides expandable storage for users with larger data needs.
The device runs on Android 14, offering the latest features and improvements in user experience. Combined with the hardware, it ensures a smooth and responsive interface.
Pros:
- Efficient MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset.
- Multiple storage and RAM configurations.
- Latest Android 14 OS.
Cons:
- Performance may not be ideal for heavy gaming or demanding apps.
Camera System
The Tecno Spark 30C 5G sports a 48MP primary rear camera with an aperture of f/1.8, promising detailed and vibrant shots in good lighting conditions. The large sensor size and autofocus feature help capture sharp images, making it a solid choice for casual photography. The triple-LED flash enhances low-light performance, ensuring decent photos even in dim environments.
On the front, the device features an 8MP selfie camera equipped with a dual-LED flash. While the resolution might seem modest, the front camera delivers satisfactory selfies for social media and video calls.
Video recording is capped at 1080p@30fps for both front and rear cameras. While this is standard for its class, 4K video support would have been a standout feature.
Pros:
- High-resolution 48MP rear camera.
- Triple-LED flash for improved low-light photography.
- Dual-LED flash for selfies.
Cons:
- Lacks an ultra-wide or macro lens for versatility.
- Limited to 1080p video recording.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance is one of the key highlights of the Tecno Spark 30C 5G. It comes equipped with a 5000mAh battery, ensuring a full day of usage on a single charge. Whether you’re streaming, browsing, or making calls, the battery delivers reliable endurance.
The device supports 18W wired charging via its USB Type-C port. While the charging speed isn’t groundbreaking, it’s sufficient to get the device from 0 to 100% within a reasonable time frame.
Pros:
- Large 5000mAh battery for extended usage.
- USB Type-C port for modern connectivity.
Cons:
- 18W charging feels slow compared to competitors offering faster charging speeds.
Audio and Connectivity
The audio experience on the Tecno Spark 30C 5G is enhanced by stereo speakers and support for 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res audio, ensuring clear and immersive sound. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a boon for users who prefer wired audio accessories.
In terms of connectivity, the phone ticks all the right boxes:
- 5G support for faster network speeds.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS for seamless wireless connectivity.
- NFC and an infrared port, which are rare features in this price range, adding extra utility.
Pros:
- Stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio support.
- Comprehensive connectivity options, including NFC and infrared.
- 5G support ensures future-proofing.
Cons:
- FM Radio functionality is unspecified.
Price and Value
The Tecno Spark 30C 5G positions itself as an affordable 5G smartphone, making it accessible to a wider audience. Here are the estimated prices for the device in various countries based on the configurations:
Region/Country | Estimated Price |
---|---|
Nigeria | ₦155,000 – ₦240,000 |
India | ₹12,000 – ₹14,500 |
United States | $150 – $180 |
United Kingdom | £120 – £145 |
South Africa | R2,700 – R3,200 |
Philippines | ₱8,500 – ₱10,000 |
With features like a high-refresh-rate display, capable chipset, and a robust camera setup, the Spark 30C 5G offers great value for its price point.
Final Verdict
The Tecno Spark 30C 5G is a well-rounded smartphone that brings modern features to the budget segment. It excels in areas like battery life, 5G connectivity, and camera performance, while also offering a stylish design and the latest Android experience. However, it’s not without its compromises, such as a low-resolution display and average charging speeds.
Who Should Buy It?
- Budget-conscious users seeking 5G connectivity.
- Casual photographers who need a reliable camera for everyday use.
- Multimedia enthusiasts who value good audio and a large display.
Who Should Skip It?
- Heavy gamers or power users looking for top-tier performance.
- Those who prioritize premium build quality over affordability.
Overall, the Tecno Spark 30C 5G is a commendable option for anyone looking to step into the world of 5G without spending a fortune. Tecno continues to solidify its position as a brand that understands the needs of budget smartphone users, and the Spark 30C 5G is a testament to that commitment.
Tecno Spark 30C 5G Full Specification
Feature | Specification |
Network | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
Launch | Announced: October 2, 2024; Released: October 2024 |
Dimensions | 165 x 77 x 8 mm |
Weight | Not specified |
Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM; IP54 dust and splash resistant |
Display | 6.67-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz, 720 x 1600 pixels |
OS | Android 14 |
Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 6300 (6nm) |
CPU | Octa-core (2×2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 |
Memory | 64GB 4GB RAM; 128GB 4GB RAM; 128GB 8GB RAM (Expandable) |
Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, autofocus, triple-LED flash |
Selfie Camera | 8MP, dual-LED flash |
Battery | 5000mAh, 18W wired charging |
Audio | Stereo speakers, 3.5mm jack, Hi-Res audio |