Next-level vibes: Checking out the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ experience

In the bustling world of smartphones, TECNO has carved out a niche for itself, combining modern aesthetic design with cutting-edge technology. A brand that’s now a global presence in over 70 countries, TECNO has been guided by its powerful mantra of “Stop At Nothing,” reflecting its dedication to catering to the needs of forward-looking individuals worldwide.

The latest addition to TECNO’s stylish portfolio is the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+, a device that’s been crafted with Gen Z and young tech enthusiasts in mind.

The TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ promises next-level excellence for its price range, with a unique blend of trendy design and exemplary performance, especially in the realm of photography — a feature that’s hugely important for its young, socially-savvy user base.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deep into what makes the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ tick, and why it might just be the new go-to device for those who want their tech to be as trendy and dynamic as their lifestyles.

Mastering low-light photography with the SPARK 20 Pro+

In an age where the camera is often the make-or-break feature of a smartphone, the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ rises to the occasion.

The crown jewel of the SPARK 20 Pro+’s camera setup is its 108MP Ultra Sensing main camera. This high-resolution sensor excels in capturing detailed imagery, making every photo crisp and clear. The camera employs pixel binning technology, merging information from nine adjacent pixels into one. This feature is particularly beneficial for low-light photography, as it enhances image clarity and brightness. Furthermore, the large 1/1.76-inch sensor size and f/1.75 aperture are a boon for night photographers, allowing more light and thus improving low-light performance.

Accompanying this high-resolution sensor is a 3X in-sensor zoom and 10X digital zoom. While these zoom levels may not match those of flagship models, our testing found them to be more than adequate for most photography scenarios. There’s also an array of software improvements. An advanced HDR algorithm ensures that photos have balanced lighting and color, while the Night Mode significantly enhances the camera’s capabilities in dimly lit conditions.

Selfie enthusiasts will find much to admire in the 32MP front camera of the SPARK 20 Pro+. It features a 88.9-degree super wide-angle lens and Super Flash Light, both of which contribute to capturing detailed, vibrant selfies in various lighting conditions.

Video enthusiasts haven’t been forgotten. The TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ offers 2K HD video recording, alongside a Dual Video feature, which allows simultaneous recording with both the 32MP front and 108MP rear cameras. This feature is perfect for vloggers and content creators who want to capture both their reactions and surroundings in one frame. Additionally, video stabilization and slow-motion shooting options add to the phone’s versatility.

The design of the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ catches the eye both from the front and the back. It brings a perfect blend of minimalism and futurism, making it a device that’s not just a tool but a fashion statement.

The most striking design feature is the large circular camera module on the back. Named the “Quadrant Star Array” by TECNO, this design takes inspiration from astronomical elements like nebulae, creating a look that’s as intriguing as the stars themselves.

The back’s look is further enhanced by a choice of captivating colorways: Temporal Orbit, Lunar Frost, Radiant Starstream, and the star of the show, Magic Skin 2.0 Green.

Made from a silicone-based, eco-friendly material, Magic Skin 2.0 appeals to the eco-conscious sensibilities of the younger generations. It boasts a leather-like texture that’s comfortable, soft, and offers a grippy feel, eliminating fingerprints and elevating the phone’s classy appeal. This material is a significant upgrade from its predecessor. TECNO’s tests reveal it to be 500% more durable, offering 25% more UV protection. Moreover, it’s 100% recyclable and possesses antibacterial properties—a thoughtful touch for the health-conscious user.

The TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ is remarkably light and thin, measuring just 7.55mm in thickness and weighing 190 grams. Its 56.5° double-curved edges are highly ergonomic, providing a comfortable and secure feel in hand.

Turning to the front, the SPARK 20 Pro+ boasts a generous 6.78-inch 120Hz AMOLED screen, safeguarded by strong hardened glass. This robust protection is key for the active, on-the-go lifestyle of its young users, guarding against the inevitable drops and scratches.

Power and performance

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 outstanding Helio G99 Ultimate processor.

Built on the 6nm process, the chip boasts an octa-core CPU configuration and the robust Arm Mali G57-class GPU, giving you a responsive user experience, whether you’re editing photos or diving into the latest games.

TECNO has equipped the SPARK 20 Pro+ with up to 256GB of storage and a generous 16GB of memory — 8GB of physical RAM and an additional 8GB of extended, virtual RAM. Our testing confirms that the performance of the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ is both fast and responsive. The 16GB RAM setup plays a crucial role here, enabling the phone to handle a multitude of tasks simultaneously.

The TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ doesn’t disappoint when it comes to audio. It features dual speakers — one on the top and another on the bottom — delivering loud volume levels without any noticeable distortion. The inclusion of DTS sound technology is a boon for audiophiles, as it adapts the audio output based on what you’re listening to, whether it’s music, videos, or games.

Powering all this is a massive 5,000mAh battery and the 33W Super Charger, which promises to minimize downtime and keep you connected and entertained.

Software that ties everything together

During our testing, we delved deep into the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+’s software capabilities, exploring what sets it apart in a crowded market.

The phone comes with Android 14 pre-installed, providing users with the latest from Google’s OS right out of the box. This means you get all the new features, security updates, and optimizations that come with Android 14, ensuring a modern and efficient user experience.

TECNO has layered its HiOS skin over Android, which, in our experience, feels smooth and vibrant, without being intrusive or overbearing. It’s on par with some of the more user-friendly skins out there, balancing customization with an intuitive interface.

A standout feature we encountered is the “Dynamic Port.” Reminiscent of the Dynamic Island on the iPhone, this feature makes the punch-hole cutout interactive and functional.

You can also use AI Wallpapers to create personalized wallpapers with just a few prompts. It’s a fun and creative way to customize your device’s look to match your style.

And for social media enthusiasts, the Social Turbo feature includes in-call beauty and makeup filters, a fill light for better visuals, AR avatars for a bit of fun, voice change capabilities, and more.

The TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ is the flagship of the Spark series, but how does it stack up against its sibling, the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro? 

Both the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ and the SPARK 20 Pro share a contemporary aesthetic, appealing to the style-conscious user. They maintain consistency in several specifications:

• The display sizes are identical, offering users a broad and engaging visual experience.
• The sensors and some other camera specifications are common between the two, providing comparable photography experiences in specific aspects.
• The battery life and charging capabilities are similar, ensuring users enjoy extended usage without frequent charging needs.

Despite these commonalities, the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ sets itself apart with several exclusive features.

• Thanks to its dual-curve profile, the SPARK 20 Pro+ looks sleeker and more premium. It’s also more comfortable to hold and use.
• The camera design differentiates the two, with the Pro+ featuring a unique circular camera module, contrasting with the Pro’s squarish module. The Pro+ model also comes with features like video stabilization with slow-motion shooting and dual focusing.

Another significant distinction is in the software department. The TECNO SPARK 20 Pro+ exclusively runs on the latest Android 14 version out of the box, offering users the newest features, optimizations, and security updates from Google’s operating system.

In summary, while the TECNO SPARK 20 Pro and the Pro+ share a lineage, the Pro+ clearly edges out as the more advanced model, especially with its dual-curved design and the latest Android 14 OS, making it a more compelling choice for users seeking the pinnacle of the Spark 20 series.