Amir ZulkarnainThe Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G, a new phone from China, hit the Malaysian market on December 22, 2023. It’s the top-tier model in the Pova 5 series, packing a mid-range MediaTek Dimensity chip, a 120Hz display, a 50MP main camera, and fancy RGB lighting on its back.
What’s more, it comes with a big battery that supports quick charging and reverse charging. The kicker? It’s priced at just RM799, making it one of the most budget-friendly 5G smartphones out there. In this review, we’ll dive into the Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G’s specs, performance, camera, battery, durability, and price.
Specs at a Glance
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 6080 (6nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MC4 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Internal Storage | 256GB (expandable via microSD card) |
| Battery | 5000mAh (supports 68W fast charging and 10W reverse charging) |
| Display | 6.87-inch LCD FHD+ (1080 x 2460 px) with 120Hz refresh rate |
| Camera | Rear: 50MP main + 0.08MP auxiliary; Front: 16MP |
| Connectivity | Dual SIM (nano), 5G, WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC |
| Security Features | Side-mounted fingerprint scanner |
| Operating System and Updates | Android 13 with HiOS skin |
| Additional Features | Stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C port, RGB light strips |
Performance: Smooth and Snappy
The Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 chipset, a mid-range powerhouse that supports 5G. With its four Cortex-A78 cores running at up to 2.8GHz and four Cortex-A55 cores at up to 2GHz, along with the Mali-G68 MC4 GPU, this phone is up to the task. Boasting 8GB of RAM and 256GB of expandable storage, it handles daily tasks, multitasking, and gaming with ease.
Expect smooth and responsive performance, thanks to the swift chipset and the high-refresh-rate display. Multitasking is a breeze, and gaming at high settings is a delight, thanks to the robust GPU. Plus, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear sound with the stereo speakers.
The phone comes with Android 13 and the HiOS skin, offering a straightforward interface with customization options. It does come with pre-installed Tecno and Google apps, along with some third-party apps that you can uninstall if they’re not your cup of tea.
Camera: Capable but Not Outstanding
The Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G features a dual-camera setup on the back, comprising a 50MP main camera and a 0.08MP auxiliary sensor. The main camera, with an f/1.8 aperture, excels in well-lit conditions, capturing detailed and sharp shots. It also boasts modes like HDR, AI scene detection, night mode, panorama, and pro mode. The auxiliary sensor aids in depth sensing and bokeh effects.
However, the camera’s performance in low-light scenarios isn’t stellar. Images tend to lose detail and exhibit noise in poor lighting. The night mode improves brightness but introduces some blurriness and artifacts. It’s worth noting that this phone lacks an ultra-wide-angle or telephoto lens for added versatility.
The 16MP front-facing camera is proficient at taking selfies and video calls, especially in good lighting. It also offers modes like portrait, beauty, and AR stickers. Video recording, on the other hand, tops out at 1080p at 30fps for both front and rear cameras. Unfortunately, it lacks stability and clarity, especially when moving or zooming in, and doesn’t support slow-motion or time-lapse modes.
Battery: Long-lasting and Rapid Charging
Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, the Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G easily lasts a day or more with moderate use. It handles gaming, streaming, browsing, and more without draining too quickly. Plus, it supports 68W fast charging, bringing a dead battery to full life in about an hour. Additionally, it boasts 10W reverse charging, allowing you to juice up other devices through the USB-C port.
Battery performance shines here, offering endurance and rapid charging. The phone also includes battery-saving modes and features to extend its lifespan.
Durability: Sturdy and Reliable
The Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G sports a sturdy build with a plastic back and a metal frame. It boasts a stylish design in Ark Illusion or Silver Fantasy colors. Notably, the back features RGB light strips that dance to your music or notifications. With dimensions of 169.8 x 77.3 x 9.6 mm and a weight of 215 grams, it’s a substantial device.
While it’s durable enough to withstand some drops and scratches, it lacks water-resistance and dust-proofing. The side-mounted fingerprint scanner works swiftly and accurately, complemented by a convenient but not ultra-secure face unlock feature.
Pricing: Affordable and Competitive
The Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G comes with a wallet-friendly price tag of RM799 in Malaysia. That’s a steal considering its 5G capabilities and feature-packed specs. You can snag one from Tecno Malaysia’s official website, as well as Shopee and Lazada stores starting December 22, 2023.
| Storage / Promo | Price |
|---|---|
| 8GB + 256GB | RM799 |
| Shopee Bundle | RM799 + free wireless earbuds + free screen protector + free case |
| Lazada Bundle | RM799 + free wireless speaker + free screen protector + free case |
Conclusion: A 5G Smartphone That Won’t Break the Bank
In summary, the Tecno Pova 5 Pro 5G is an affordable 5G smartphone that delivers smooth performance, a long-lasting battery with fast charging, a large high-refresh-rate display, and captivating RGB lighting. While its camera quality falls short in low light, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly 5G phone with unique features. However, if you prioritize camera performance or a premium design, you may want to explore other options.