1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02s | Tecno Spark Go 2024 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.2 × 75.9 × 9.1 mm | 163.7 × 75.6 × 8.6 mm | Tecno Spark Go 2024 is slightly smaller and thinner, which might feel more comfortable in hand. |
| Weight | 196g | 0g | The provided weight for Tecno Spark Go 2024 seems incorrect. Assuming the Tecno is lighter, it would be more comfortable for extended use compared to the A02s, which weighs 196g. However, a realistic weight for the Tecno should be obtained for a precise comparison. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard plastic-bodied phones. No significant difference in material or build type. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02s | Tecno Spark Go 2024 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Minimal size difference, negligible in everyday use. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1612 | Both offer HD+ quality. Slightly different aspect ratio, but not noticeable in daily use |
| Pixel Density | 270 PPI | 267 PPI | Very similar sharpness, both will look reasonably clear for general use. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | IPS LCD offers generally better viewing angles and color accuracy than PLS LCD. Tecno may have better image quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Tecno will feel smoother with scrolling and animations due to the 90Hz refresh rate compared to the standard 60Hz of the A02s. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is not available for either phone, making it difficult to assess their visibility under sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02s | Tecno Spark Go 2024 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM450 (14 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Tecno's chipset is newer and more efficient (smaller process node), offering faster processing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 74,800 | 249,000 | Tecno Spark Go 2024 has a much higher performance score. Expect smoother multitasking and app usage compared to A02s. |
| GPU | Adreno 506 | Mali-G57 MP1 | The Tecno's GPU is significantly more capable, leading to better graphics performance for gaming. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02s | Tecno Spark Go 2024 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Main Camera | 13MP, f/1.8 | 13MP, f/1.9 | Samsung’s wider aperture (f/1.8) may perform slightly better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Tecno's 8MP front camera should capture more detailed selfies compared to the A02s's 5MP. |
| Additional Cameras | 2MP (depth), 2MP (macro) | None | Samsung provides depth and macro capabilities, offering more versatility in photography. Tecno only has the main camera. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, No Slow-motion | 1080p@30fps, 120fps Slow-motion | Tecno Spark Go 2024 offers slow-motion capture at 120fps, which the A02s lacks. Both record up to 1080p@30fps. |
| Camera Features | Triple camera, PDAF, HDR | Dual camera, PDAF, HDR, Front Flash | Samsung has a triple camera system. Tecno is limited to a dual-camera system but offers a front flash. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02s | Tecno Spark Go 2024 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones should provide comparable battery life on a single charge. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | Samsung charges faster, reducing time spent plugged in. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Both are non-removable. Li-Polymer batteries often offer better longevity but no practical impact for day-to-day use. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A02s Advantages:
- Wider Main Camera Aperture: The f/1.8 aperture may allow slightly better low-light performance than Tecno's f/1.9.
- Dedicated Depth and Macro Cameras: Offers versatility in taking photos with more creative options.
- Faster Charging: 15W charging is quicker than the Tecno's 10W, reducing charging time.
- More GPS Satellite Systems: Supports GLONASS, Beidou and Galileo satellite systems in addition to the standard GPS. Provides better location accuracy.
Tecno Spark Go 2024 Advantages:
- Significantly Faster Performance: The Unisoc T606 chipset and higher AnTuTu score indicate superior performance for daily tasks and gaming.
- Smoother Display: 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel more fluid.
- Better Front Camera: 8MP front-facing camera offers more detailed selfies than the A02s's 5MP.
- Slow-Motion Video: The 120fps slow-motion video feature isn't offered by the A02s, allowing for more creative video content.
- Enhanced Audio: DTS and stereo speakers offers more immersive sound compared to the Samsung.
- Fingerprint Sensor: The side-mounted fingerprint sensor gives an additional layer of security.
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 13, whereas the A02s is stuck with Android 12 as its max upgrade.
- Dual Band WiFi: Supports newer WiFi standards and dual band connectivity offering faster and more stable connections.
- Front Flash: Provides additional lighting for selfies in dark environments.
Trade-offs:
- Camera Versatility vs. Performance: The Samsung has depth and macro sensors for diverse photography, while the Tecno prioritizes speed and general performance with a superior processor and display.
- Charging Speed vs. Features: Samsung charges slightly faster (15W vs. 10W), however, the Tecno is the overall more feature packed option.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A02s:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who want a basic smartphone with a focus on camera versatility and longer battery.
- Use Cases:
- Casual photography with occasional depth and macro shots.
- Users who prioritize battery and slower charging speeds don't bother them.
- Basic everyday usage for communication, web browsing, and social media.
- Price-to-Value: Offers basic functionality at a lower price but lags in performance and display smoothness compared to the Tecno.
Tecno Spark Go 2024:
- Ideal User: Users seeking a budget-friendly smartphone with good overall performance, a smooth display and better audio and security.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming and multitasking, as the performance is superior.
- Users who value smooth screen scrolling and transitions (90Hz).
- Individuals who want a better selfie camera and occasional slow-motion video capture.
- Enjoying music and videos with enhanced stereo sound
- Price-to-Value: Provides significantly more performance and features for a similar price point as the A02s, making it a higher value option.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance vs. Camera Versatility: Do you prioritize smooth overall performance and gaming, or do you want the flexibility of additional cameras for taking unique photos?
- Display Smoothness: Is a smoother 90Hz display experience important to you?
- Software Updates: Do you value having a more up-to-date operating system (Android 13), or are you okay with an older system?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget Photography): If budget photography is key, the A02s would provide basic functionalities, and give some creative liberty with a macro and depth sensor. If photography is secondary, the Tecno is more well-rounded.
- Scenario 2 (Everyday Performance): If you want smoother performance for everyday tasks and gaming, the Tecno Spark Go 2024 will offer much faster performance, a smoother display, better front camera, slow motion, enhanced audio and a more up-to-date operating system.
- Scenario 3 (Basic Use with Long Battery): If all you want is a basic phone with long lasting battery life, the Samsung is an option; however, the Tecno has the same battery life, but is a more well-rounded option and would be the better choice.
Personal Choice and Rationale:
If I had to choose, I would opt for the Tecno Spark Go 2024. Here’s why:
- Superior Performance: The significant performance boost from the Unisoc T606 chipset is a game-changer. A smoother experience in everyday tasks and gaming is essential for a modern smartphone.
- Smoother Display: The 90Hz refresh rate provides a noticeably better user experience with smoother animations and scrolling compared to the standard 60Hz.
- Better Selfie Camera: The 8MP front camera is a welcome upgrade for clearer and more detailed selfies, which is important for social media.
- Newer Software: The latest version of Android offers more features and security enhancements
- Enhanced Audio: The inclusion of DTS and stereo speakers provides a better user experience for consuming media
- Better Value: The Tecno offers a better price-to-value ratio given its significant performance advantages and modern features, making it more future-proof.
- Added Security: Side mounted fingerprint sensor for easy access with additional security.
While I appreciate the extra camera sensors on the A02s, the overall performance and experience offered by the Tecno Spark Go 2024, makes it the more compelling choice in my opinion, especially in 2024. The A02s, being an older phone, lags behind in performance, software, and features. For my use, which involves a mix of casual gaming, social media, and productivity, the Tecno offers a significantly superior experience.
