Tecno Pop 8: Comprehensive Reviews, Specification and Price

In the world of budget smartphones, Tecno has carved out a niche for itself with devices that offer good value for money. Tecno Pop 8 is one such device, aiming to provide a balance between performance and affordability. This guide will delve into the various aspects of Tecno Pop 8, helping you understand whether it’s the right smartphone for you.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Tecno Pop 8 comes in a neatly packaged box with a minimalist design. Opening the box, you are greeted with the device itself, snugly placed on top. Beneath it, there is a standard array of accessories including a charger, a USB cable, earphones, a SIM ejector tool, and some documentation.

The first impression of Tecno Pop 8 is that it feels solid and well-built for a budget phone. The device has a plastic back with a glossy finish, which gives it a slightly premium look despite its price point.

Design and Build

 Dimensions and Weight

Tecno Pop 8 is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle with one hand. It measures approximately 160 x 77 x 9 mm and weighs around 180 grams. This makes it portable and comfortable to carry around without feeling too bulky.

 Material and Finish

The device sports a plastic body with a glossy finish that mimics glass. While it doesn’t have the same premium feel as glass, it still looks attractive and manages to keep fingerprints at bay to some extent. The plastic build also makes it more resistant to drops and everyday wear and tear.

Available Colors

Tecno Pop 8 is available in a variety of colors including Midnight Black, Gradient Blue, and Twilight Purple. This variety allows users to choose a color that best suits their personal style.

Display

Screen Size and Resolution

Tecno Pop 8 features a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. While it isn’t the sharpest display on the market, it’s sufficient for everyday tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and social media.

Display Type

The IPS LCD panel offers decent color reproduction and viewing angles. It’s not as vibrant as an AMOLED display, but considering the price point, it performs adequately.

Brightness and Color Accuracy

The display is bright enough for indoor use, but it can struggle under direct sunlight. Color accuracy is acceptable, but it tends to lean towards cooler tones. However, for a budget device, these minor drawbacks are forgivable.

Screen Protection

Tecno Pop 8 does not come with any specific mention of Corning Gorilla Glass or other high-end screen protection. It’s advisable to use a screen protector to avoid scratches and minor damages.

Performance

Processor (CPU) and Graphics (GPU)

 Tecno Pop 8 is powered by a MediaTek Helio A22 quad-core processor. While this isn’t the most powerful chipset, it is efficient enough for basic tasks and light gaming. The device also includes a PowerVR GE8320 GPU, which handles graphical tasks adequately for casual gaming and multimedia consumption.

RAM and Storage Options

The device comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. While 2GB of RAM might seem limited, it’s sufficient for basic multitasking and running everyday apps. The 32GB of storage can be expanded up to 128GB via a microSD card, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

Software

Operating System

Tecno Pop 8 runs on HiOS 6.2, based on Android 13 (Go edition). The Go edition is a lightweight version of Android designed for entry-level smartphones, ensuring smooth performance even with limited hardware.

Software Updates and Support

Tecno provides regular updates for its devices, but being a budget phone, the Tecno Pop 8 might not receive updates as frequently as higher-end models. Nonetheless, security patches and minor updates are rolled out periodically to ensure the device remains secure and up-to-date.

User Interface and Features

HiOS 6.2 offers a clean and user-friendly interface with a range of customization options. It includes features like gesture navigation, a dark theme, and various app management tools to enhance the user experience.

Pre-installed Apps

The device comes with a few pre-installed apps, including social media apps and utility tools. While some of these apps can be useful, others might be considered bloatware. Fortunately, most of them can be uninstalled if not needed.

 Camera

Rear Camera Specifications and Features

Tecno Pop 8 features a dual-camera setup on the rear, consisting of an 8MP primary sensor and a QVGA sensor for depth sensing. The camera app offers various modes, including AI beauty, bokeh, and panorama, providing users with several options to enhance their photography.

 Front Camera Specifications and Features

On the front, the device sports a 5MP selfie camera housed within a teardrop notch. It includes features like AI beauty mode and HDR to improve selfie quality.

Camera Interface and Modes

The camera interface is straightforward and easy to use. Switching between modes is seamless, and the various shooting options are clearly laid out. The AI mode helps in adjusting settings automatically to capture better photos.

Sample Photos and Video Quality

In good lighting conditions, Tecno Pop 8’s cameras can capture decent photos with acceptable detail and color reproduction. However, in low light, the performance drops significantly, with noticeable noise and loss of detail. Video recording is limited to 1080p at 30fps, which is standard for budget devices.

Battery Life

 Battery Capacity

The Tecno Pop 8 is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, which is quite generous for a budget smartphone. This large battery capacity ensures that the device can last through a full day of moderate use with ease.

 Charging Speed

The device supports 10W charging, which isn’t the fastest but is adequate for its battery size. It takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to charge the device fully from 0% to 100%.

Battery Life in Different Usage Scenarios

In everyday use, including activities like browsing, social media, and occasional gaming, Tecno Pop 8 can easily last a day and a half. More intensive use, such as extended gaming sessions or video streaming, will reduce the battery life but it should still comfortably last a full day.

Tips for Extending Battery Life

To maximize battery life, users can take advantage of the power-saving modes included in HiOS. Reducing screen brightness, limiting background processes, and using Wi-Fi over mobile data when possible can also help extend battery longevity.

Connectivity

Network Compatibility

Tecno Pop 8 supports 4G LTE connectivity, ensuring fast internet speeds for browsing and streaming. It also supports dual SIM functionality, allowing users to manage personal and work numbers on the same device.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Performance

The device includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.2. Wi-Fi connectivity is stable and offers decent speeds, while Bluetooth performs well for wireless audio and data transfer.

GPS and Other Connectivity Features

GPS performance is reliable, providing accurate location tracking for navigation apps. The device also includes FM radio, allowing users to enjoy music and news without needing an internet connection.

Ports

The Tecno Pop 8 features a micro USB port for charging and data transfer. While a USB-C port would have been preferable, the micro USB port is still functional. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome feature for users who prefer wired audio accessories.

Audio

Speaker Quality and Loudness

Tecno Pop 8’s single speaker is located at the bottom of the device. It delivers adequate sound quality for a budget phone, though it lacks depth and bass. The volume is sufficient for personal use, but it can distort at higher levels.

Headphone Experience

Using headphones significantly improves the audio experience. The 3.5mm headphone jack provides clear and balanced sound output, making it suitable for music and media consumption.

Audio Enhancements and Features

The device includes basic audio enhancement features like an equalizer, allowing users to adjust sound settings to their preference. While it doesn’t offer advanced audio features, it performs well for a budget smartphone.

Security Features

Fingerprint Sensor

The Tecno Pop 8 is equipped with a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. It’s conveniently placed and unlocks the device quickly and accurately. The setup process is straightforward, and the sensor works reliably.

 Facial Recognition

In addition to the fingerprint sensor, the device offers facial recognition. This feature uses the front camera to scan the user’s face and unlock the device. While it’s not as secure as a fingerprint sensor, it provides a convenient alternative.

 Other Security Options

Tecno Pop 8 also includes traditional security options like pattern, PIN, and password. These methods offer additional layers of security for users who prefer not to use biometric authentication.

Additional Features

Sensors

The device includes standard sensors like an accelerometer, gyroscope, and proximity sensor. These sensors enhance the overall user experience by enabling features like auto-rotation, motion-based gaming, and screen-off gestures.

Special Features

HiOS includes several special features to improve usability. These include AI enhancements, a gaming mode to optimize performance during gameplay, and various customization options to personalize the device.

Accessories

Tecno offers a range of accessories for the Pop 8, including protective cases, screen protectors, and earphones. These accessories can help enhance the device’s durability and user experience.

Comparison with Competitors

Similar Devices in the Same Price Range

In the budget smartphone market, Tecno Pop 8 competes with devices like the Xiaomi Redmi 9A, Realme C11, and Samsung Galaxy A01. Each of these devices offers similar specifications, with minor differences in design, camera quality, and software experience.

Advantages and Disadvantages Compared to Competitors

The Tecno Pop 8 stands out with its large battery and dual-camera setup. However, it lags behind in terms of display resolution and processing power compared to some competitors. Ultimately, the choice between these devices will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Pros and Cons

Summary of Strengths

– Affordable price

– Large 5000mAh battery

– Dual-camera setup with AI features

– Dual SIM support

– Expandable storage

Summary of Weaknesses

– Limited RAM and storage

– Average display quality

– Basic performance

– Micro USB port instead of USB-C

– Mediocre low-light camera performance

Technical Specifications

– Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD, 720 x 1600 pixels

– Processor: MediaTek Helio A22

– RAM: 2GB

– Storage: 32GB (expandable up to 128GB)

– Rear Camera: 8MP + QVGA

– Front Camera: 5MP

– Battery: 5000mAh

– Operating System: Android 13 (Go edition) with HiOS 6.2

– Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, micro USB, 3.5mm headphone jack

Warranty Information

Tecno Pop 8 comes with a standard 12-month warranty, covering manufacturing defects. It’s advisable to check the warranty terms and conditions provided by Tecno or the retailer.

 Customer Support Contacts

For any issues or inquiries, users can contact Tecno customer support through their official website, email, or customer service hotline. Tecno also has authorized service centers in various regions for repairs and support.

Conclusion

Tecno Pop 8 is a solid budget smartphone that offers good value for money. Its strengths lie in its battery life, camera features, and overall design. While it has some limitations in terms of performance and display quality, it is still a capable device for everyday use. If you’re looking for an affordable smartphone with decent features, Tecno Pop 8 is worth considering.

FAQs

Common Questions and Answers

Does the Tecno Pop 8 support fast charging?

   – No, the Tecno Pop 8 supports 10W standard charging.

 Can I expand the storage on the Tecno Pop 8?

   – Yes, the device supports microSD cards up to 128GB.

Is the Tecno Pop 8 good for gaming?

   – The device can handle light gaming, but it may struggle with more demanding games.

Does the Tecno Pop 8 have a fingerprint sensor?

   – Yes, it has a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor.

What version of Android does the Tecno Pop 8 run?

   – It runs on Android 10 (Go edition) with HiOS 6.2.

Specifications