Tecno Spark 20 Pro Plus review: a break from the iPhone design?

In the bustling android smartphone market, the Tecno Spark 20 Pro Plus emerges as a noteworthy contender within the Spark 20 series, boasting a fusion of cutting-edge features and innovative design.

Unboxed, it comes with essentials like a TPU case, curved glass skin protector, earphones, USB type C cable, and a 33W fast charger that promises a full charge in just an hour and a half.

The Tecno Spark 20 Pro Plus hit the market on December 5, 2023, and it was released in Nigeria and Kenya in February and January respectively.

Design and Display

In terms of design, the Tecno Spark 20 Pro Plus sets a new standard for the series. With its dual-curve profile, this model ensures both visual appeal and ergonomic comfort than its predecessors. This approach signals Tecno's effort to harmonize style and functionality, making it a standout choice in the smartphone market. 

Unlike the not-so-older Spark versions, it steps away from the iPhone's distinctive multiple-camera lenses to a unique circular module. The Spark 20 Pro+ is available in four striking colors: The Temporal Orbit Black and Lunar Frost Blue are readily available across Nigeria and Kenya. The elusive Magic Skin Green and Radiant Starstream variant, however, is a rare find in these regions. 

The smartphone's display, protected by the durable Corning Gorilla Glass 5, offers resistance to drops and scratches to a degree, while its IP53 rating ensures it can withstand splashes and dust from one direction.

Performance and OS

Tecno, in its quest to deliver a phone that resonates with the energetic pace of its young consumers, has armed the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ with MediaTek’s overclocked G99 Ultimate processor. It has a 6nm octa-core processor with a powerful GPU, 256GB of storage, and 16GB of RAM.

The Spark 20 Pro Plus runs on Android 14 with HiOS 13.6.0. It also has a great audio system with DTS sound technology, a dual SIM tray, an optical fingerprint scanner, a face unlock system, and a front LED flash as a bonus for low-light conditions.

Camera and User Experience

The front-facing 32MP camera and a rear 108MP main camera alongside a micro and depth camera, allow for sharp and detailed captures. It notably improves image-to-background separation in portrait shots and maintains clarity even at 10x zoom, outperforming the Spark 20 Pro.

With the 108MP main camera, the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ can take amazing photos in any light. It combines nine pixels into one using pixel binning, which improves image quality and brightness in low-light. It also has a big sensor and a fast aperture, which help capture more light at night.

The Tecno Spark 20 Pro Plus goes beyond the basics to offer a tailored and interactive user experience. One of the standout features is the ability to use AI Wallpapers, allowing you to create personalized wallpapers effortlessly. This feature adds a touch of creativity and personalization, letting you customize your device to reflect your style perfectly.

Moreover, the smartphone caters to social media enthusiasts with its Social Turbo feature. This includes a suite of tools designed to enhance your online presence, such as in-call beauty and makeup filters, fill light for improved visuals even in low-light conditions, and AR avatars for that extra fun factor. 

Read Also: Tecno Spark 20 Pro review, full specification and price in Nigeria

Pros:

• Photography Excellence: 108MP Main Camera with Advanced Capabilities & 32MP Wide-Angle Front Camera
• Immersive Display: 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED Screen with Gorilla Glass 5
• Peak Performance: MediaTek G99 Ultimate Processor, 16GB RAM & 256GB Storage
• Enduring Power: 5,000mAh Battery with 33W Fast Charging
• Unique & Durable Design: IP53 Rating & Eco-Friendly Magic Skin 2.0 Material
• Advanced User Interface: Android 14 with HiOS 13.6.0, Featuring Dynamic Port & Social Turbo.

Cons:

• No Memory Card Expansion: The absence of a memory card slot might limit storage flexibility for users with extensive media collections.
• Missing HDR Support: Despite its vibrant display, the device does not support HDR, affecting visual quality in certain content.
• Potential Interface Clutter: While HiOS offers many features, it might come with pre-installed apps and ads that could affect the user experience.

Pricing and Availability

In Nigeria, the Tecno Spark 20 Pro Plus is priced at an additional ₦47,900 (₦291,500/$33) compared to its predecessor, making it a premium yet affordable backup phone under a limited budget. You can get one from any Tecno-authorised stores in Nigeria.

In Kenya, it is priced at KSh33,500 and is available in all Tecno retail outlets nationwide.