The Tecno Spark Go 1S is the latest addition to Tecno's affordable smartphone lineup, aimed squarely at budget-conscious users seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank. Falling into the entry-level segment, this phone is perfect for first-time smartphone users, students, or those looking for a dependable secondary device.
For its budget-friendly price, the Spark Go 1S prioritizes essential features like a large 6.67-inch display, long-lasting 5000 mAh battery, and Android 14 (Go edition). However, power users or mobile gamers may find the device lacking in terms of processing power and multitasking capabilities.
Let's dive into the detailed specs and see how the phone performs in its segment.
Build and Design: Practical and Stylish
At 165.6×77×8.4 mm, the Tecno Spark Go 1S is compact and easy to handle. The phone sports a glass front paired with a plastic back and frame, ensuring durability without adding unnecessary weight. While Tecno hasn't disclosed the exact weight, its slim profile makes it pocket-friendly. It is available in two attractive colors - Glittery White and Startrail Black - catering to those who value aesthetics even on a tight budget. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
General |
|
Dimensions | H: 165.6 mm (6.52″), W: 77 mm (3.03″), D: 8.4 mm (0.33″) |
Mass | N/A |
Material | Glass front; plastic back and frame |
Colors | Glittery White, Startrail Black |
The pre-installed Android 14 (Go edition) ensures optimized performance for lightweight apps and minimal bloatware.
The body of the Tecno Spark Go 1S strikes a good balance between comfort and practicality, making it a suitable companion for day-to-day use. With those dimensions, the phone is slightly on the larger side, thanks to its spacious 6.67-inch display. While its width of 77 mm might require some finger gymnastics for smaller hands during one-handed use, it's not unwieldy.
The 8.4 mm thickness keeps it slim, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods without feeling bulky or awkward. The phone's slim profile ensures it slips easily into most pockets, and its lightweight plastic construction (though the weight is unspecified) reduces strain when carrying it in a bag or pocket.
For users accustomed to phablets, it will feel right at home, while those moving from smaller devices might need some adjustment.
The plastic back and frame offer durability and cost-efficiency, making the phone lightweight and more resistant to accidental drops compared to glass or metal. Plastic doesn't shatter like glass, making it more forgiving for accidental slips. It also resists fingerprints and smudges better.
On the other hand, plastic is more prone to scratches, so investing in a protective case is advisable. Over time, it may also show signs of wear and tear more visibly than premium materials like aluminum.
The Tecno Spark Go 1S comes in two stylish colors:
- Glittery White: This color exudes a clean, minimalist vibe and suits users who prefer an understated yet sophisticated look. It's ideal for individuals who want their phone to look fresh and polished, standing out subtly without being too flashy. White maintains a pristine look over time.
- Startrail Black: Black is classic and versatile, appealing to users who prefer timeless elegance and a professional appearance. It's a great choice for those who want a phone that fits seamlessly into both casual and formal settings.
Both colors are thoughtfully named, hinting at the subtle sparkly accents and gradient effects, adding a touch of personality to the phone's design.
Overall, the dimensions of the Tecno Spark Go 1S make it comfortable for long usage sessions, whether browsing, watching videos, or gaming lightly. The plastic build ensures durability at an affordable price, while the thoughtfully curated color options cater to a range of user personalities. For casual users or those looking for a stylish yet practical device, the Spark Go 1S delivers in both form and function.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
With an IP54 rating, the Tecno Spark Go 1S is resistant to dust and occasional splashes, an uncommon feature in this price range.
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating of a device provides valuable insights into its resistance against environmental elements. In this case, the rating is IP54, and breaking it down helps us understand its significance.
The first digit (5 here) indicates a moderate level of protection against dust. While not completely dust-tight, the Tecno Spark Go 1S is designed to resist the entry of dust to an extent that it would not interfere with its normal operation.
The second digit (4 here) signifies protection against water splashes from any direction. It can handle light splashes and rain but is not fully waterproof. Submersion is not recommended.
Here are some practical tips for protecting your Spark Go 1S from the elements:
- Avoid Submersion: While the device can handle light splashes, it's crucial to avoid submerging it in water. Keep it away from pools, sinks, and other bodies of water to prevent potential damage.
- Use in Moderate Conditions: Exercise caution when using the phone in extreme environmental conditions. Avoid exposing it to heavy rain or dusty environments for extended periods.
- Cleaning: Gently clean the Spark Go 1S with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any dirt or grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the device's finish.
- Protective Case: Consider investing in a protective case to add an extra layer of defense against accidental drops and impacts. A case designed for the Tecno Spark Go 1S's form factor ensures a snug fit without hindering access to ports, cameras, and buttons.
- Screen Protector: Applying a tempered glass or plastic screen protector can safeguard the display from scratches and minor impacts. It's a small investment that can go a long way in preserving the integrity of the screen.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically check the condition of your Tecno Spark Go 1S, especially the ports and seams, to ensure that they are free from dust and debris. Clean as needed to maintain optimal performance.
While the IP54 rating offers a level of protection, it's always wise to take additional precautions to safeguard your investment. A combination of responsible usage, a protective case, and a screen protector can significantly enhance the durability of your device, ensuring a longer lifespan and a smoother user experience. After all, a little care goes a long way in keeping your tech companion in top-notch condition!
Display: Large and Smooth for Everyday Use
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
The Tecno Spark Go 1S features a 6.67-inch IPS LCD display with a 90 Hz refresh rate, delivering smoother scrolling and animations compared to standard 60 Hz panels. With a 720×1600 pixels resolution and around 263 PPI density, the display provides decent clarity for browsing, watching videos, and scrolling through social media. However, it lacks Full HD resolution, which may be noticeable when streaming high-definition content. Still, for everyday use, the display is vibrant and large enough for a comfortable viewing experience.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
Size | 6.67″ (169 mm) diagonal |
Type | IPS LCD, 90 Hz |
Resolution (px) | 720×1600, about 263 PPI |
The display of the Tecno Spark Go 1S is a key feature for its price point, offering a blend of size, smoothness, and practicality that caters well to budget-conscious users. IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) is a common choice in entry-level smartphones due to its balance of performance and affordability.
IPS LCDs maintain color accuracy and brightness even when viewed from sharp angles, making it ideal for sharing videos or photos with friends without significant color distortion. While not as vibrant as AMOLED displays, IPS panels deliver natural and well-balanced colors that are pleasing for everyday use. This makes it great for casual media consumption.
IPS displays offer uniform backlighting, resulting in consistent brightness levels across the screen. However, peak brightness may struggle in direct sunlight, so outdoor visibility could be limited. Compared to OLED, IPS LCDs are slightly less power-efficient because the entire backlight stays on even for darker scenes. But the large 5000 mAh battery of the Spark Go 1S compensates for this.
The inclusion of a 90 Hz refresh rate is a standout feature in this budget segment. A higher refresh rate makes scrolling through apps, web pages, and social media feeds much smoother compared to the standard 60 Hz displays typically found in entry-level devices.
This higher refresh rate improves the overall responsiveness of the phone, offering a more premium feel. It also enhances the gaming experience for lightweight games that support higher refresh rates.
The phone's 6.67-inch display provides ample screen real estate for watching videos, gaming, and multitasking.
With close to 85% screen-to-body ratio, Tecno has minimized bezels to deliver an immersive experience, which is impressive for a device at this price point.
The display's HD+ resolution (720×1600 pixels) with a 20:9 aspect ratio results in a pixel density of approximately 263 PPI (pixels per inch). This is adequate for streaming videos on platforms like YouTube and Netflix at 720p. It is ideal for reading text, browsing the web, and casual gaming without noticeable pixelation.
However, the 720p resolution may feel limiting for users accustomed to Full HD (1080p) screens, especially for tasks like viewing high-resolution photos and playing graphics-intensive games. For larger screens like this, a higher resolution would provide sharper details, especially when zooming in on photos or reading fine text.
Overall, the Spark Go 1S's display excels at the following tasks:
- Video Streaming: Watching HD videos on YouTube, Netflix, or similar platforms looks sharp and clear, as 720p matches the screen's native resolution.
- Social Media and Browsing: Scrolling through feeds or reading articles is a smooth and pleasant experience due to the screen size and 90 Hz refresh rate.
- Casual Gaming: Lightweight games like Subway Surfers and Candy Crush run fine, with no noticeable compromises in visuals.
However, certain types of content may demand a higher resolution, such as:
- Graphic-Intensive Games: Titles like Call of Duty: Mobile and PUBG Mobile that require sharp textures and detailed graphics may appear less crisp.
- Photography Enthusiasts: If you frequently edit high-resolution photos or view 4K content, the display's resolution won't do justice to the finer details.
- Professional Media Editing: Tasks like video editing or working with design apps require higher resolutions for better clarity and precision.
In conclusion, for an entry-level device, the Tecno Spark Go 1S punches above its weight with a large 6.67-inch screen, smooth 90 Hz refresh rate, and balanced IPS LCD technology. While its 720×1600 px resolution may not deliver the crispness demanded by premium users, it is more than sufficient for casual video streaming, social media, and light gaming.
The inclusion of a 90 Hz refresh rate adds a touch of sophistication, making everyday interactions feel smoother and more enjoyable. While it won't compete with Full HD+ AMOLED panels, it offers exceptional value at its price point and is perfectly suited for users looking for a large, reliable screen at a budget price.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Navigating through the tech landscape, the Tecno Spark Go 1S supports the GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies.
GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality.
SIM
The Tecno Spark Go 1S supports dual Nano-SIM.
Chipset - Performance: Efficient for Light Users
Under the hood, the Spark Go 1S runs on a MediaTek Helio G50 chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU clocked at 2.2 GHz. Combined with the PowerVR GE8320 GPU, the phone handles basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming with ease. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
Chipset | Mediatek Helio G50 |
CPU | Octa-core (2.2 GHz Cortex-A53) |
GPU | PowerVR GE8320 |
The MediaTek Helio G50 is an entry-level processor designed for budget-friendly devices. While it doesn't break performance records, it strikes a balance between affordability and functionality.
The Helio G50 is a modest performer, offering enough power for basic everyday tasks. It is built on a 12-nm process, which, while not the most power-efficient by today's standards (compared to 7-nm or 6-nm chips), keeps costs down and is sufficient for less power-hungry applications.
The CPU in the Mediatak_Helio_G50 is octa-core, with eight Cortex-A53 cores clocked at up to 2.2 GHz. This is a notable difference from many modern processors, which use a combination of high-performance cores (like Cortex-A7X) and energy-efficient cores (like Cortex-A5X or Cortex-A3X).
On the plus side, a single core type reduces manufacturing complexity, making the chip more affordable. Since all eight cores operate at the same level of performance, this simplifies task distribution for the CPU.
However, this approach also has certain drawbacks compared to multi-cluster CPUs:
- Limited Performance Scaling: Multi-core setups with big.LITTLE architecture (like Cortex-A76 for high performance and Cortex-A55 for efficiency) deliver a better balance of speed and energy efficiency. Without high-performance cores, the Mediatak_Helio_G50 struggles with demanding tasks like heavy gaming and multitasking.
- Lower Peak Performance: The Cortex-A53 cores are optimized for energy efficiency, but they lack the raw computational power needed for intensive workloads.
The PowerVR GE8320 GPU, paired with the Helio G50, is an entry-level graphics processor. It is designed for light graphical tasks and is adequate for casual gaming and video playback.
Titles like Subway Surfers and Clash of Clans run smoothly at lower settings. The GPU supports 720p and 1080p video playback without issues, aligning with the phone's display resolution.
However, it struggles with graphically demanding games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile. While playable at the lowest settings, you may experience frame drops and slower performance. Also, it does not support advanced graphical features like high dynamic range (HDR) gaming or high frame rates in resource-heavy titles.
Given this combination of under-the-hood components, here's what the Spark Go 1S handles well:
- Day-to-Day Use: The Helio G50 is sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing, using social media apps, and light multitasking. Apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube run without noticeable hiccups.
- Media Consumption: The chipset handles video streaming up to 720p or 1080p with ease, making it suitable for Netflix, YouTube, and other video platforms.
- Casual Gaming: Lightweight games like Candy Crush and Temple Run run smoothly, though high-end gaming isn't its strong suit.
- Power Efficiency for Everyday Use: Thanks to the energy-efficient Cortex-A53 cores, the phone conserves battery life during light use, complementing its large 5000 mAh battery.
And here are the tasks that might demand a more powerful configuration:
- Heavy Gaming: Games with advanced graphics, like Genshin Impact and Fortnite, require CPUs with high-performance cores and more capable GPUs (like ARM Mali-G76 or Adreno 618). The Helio G50 and PowerVR GE8320 are not designed for such demands.
- Multitasking with Resource-Intensive Apps: Switching between demanding apps like video editors or large spreadsheets can overwhelm the Spark Go 1S, as it lacks the performance headroom of higher-tier processors.
- Advanced Productivity Tasks: Tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or using pro-level apps demand chipsets with more raw power, like MediaTek's Dimensity series or Qualcomm Snapdragon 700-series.
- Future-Proofing: The single-core type setup may struggle to keep up with increasingly demanding apps, as many modern apps are optimized for heterogeneous multi-cluster processors.
In summary, the Helio G50 chipset and its Cortex-A53-only CPU are adequate for entry-level tasks such as social media, web browsing, casual gaming, and video streaming. However, it lacks the versatility and power of multi-core type CPUs commonly found in midrange and flagship devices, making it unsuitable for users who demand high-performance capabilities.
For the price, the Spark Go 1S offers acceptable performance for its target audience - those looking for a basic smartphone experience. But power users or gamers should look for devices with more powerful chipsets, such as those in the MediaTek Dimensity or Snapdragon 6xx/7xx series.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
RAM | 3 GB |
Internal Storage | 64 GB eMMC 5.1 |
Memory Card Slot | microSDXC |
The Tecno Spark Go 1S comes with 3 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDXC card. While the eMMC 5.1 storage isn't the fastest, it's adequate for budget devices.
Cameras: Basic Yet Functional
The camera setup on the Tecno Spark Go 1S is modest but functional. It features a 13 MP rear camera with PDAF for sharper images. It supports 1080p video recording at 30 fps, making it suitable for casual video capture.
The 8 MP selfie camera is decent for video calls and social media snaps, but don't expect flagship-level results in low light.
Rear Camera
The Tecno Spark Go 1S features a single 13 MP main camera with f/1.8 aperture, PDAF, and support for dual-LED flash and HDR. While this setup is modest, it is thoughtfully designed to cater to entry-level photography needs. Let's dive into the features and assess what it delivers and where it falls short: Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
Number of Cameras | 1 (Single) |
Resolution (Megapixels) | 13 MP (wide) |
Focal Length | 27 mm |
Aperture | f/1.8 |
Autofocus | PDAF |
Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps |
Other Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
The 13 MP sensor captures decent detail in good lighting conditions, making it suitable for casual photography.
The f/1.8 aperture allows more light into the lens, which helps improve low-light performance to some extent. While it's not on par with high-end devices, it works well enough for basic nighttime shots or dim environments.
PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) ensures the camera can quickly and accurately lock onto subjects, especially in well-lit conditions.
This is helpful for taking photos of moving subjects like pets or children, although it may struggle in dim lighting where focus tends to slow down.
The dual-LED flash provides better illumination than a single-LED flash, resulting in more evenly lit photos in dark environments.
It also reduces harsh shadows and ensures more natural skin tones in close-up portraits under artificial light.
And HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode helps balance exposure in scenes with challenging lighting, such as high contrast between bright skies and darker foregrounds.
When activated, HDR combines multiple shots at varying exposures to create a well-lit photo with greater detail in both highlights and shadows. This feature is especially useful for landscapes or scenarios where backlighting could otherwise wash out the subject.
The camera supports 1080p video recording at 30 fps, which is standard for an entry-level smartphone.
While adequate for casual video capturing, it doesn't offer advanced features like 4K resolution or high frame rates.
Given this combination of hardware and features, the Spark Go 1S's camera setup is adequate for basic imaging needs, including:
- Daylight Photography: The 13 MP sensor excels in bright, natural light. It captures clear and colorful shots of outdoor scenes, group photos, and casual snaps. Features like PDAF and HDR enhance image quality, ensuring sharp focus and better dynamic range.
- Casual Social Media Content: Photos taken in well-lit conditions are good enough for posting on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, especially when paired with light editing.
- Basic Low-Light Photography: While not exceptional, the wide aperture and dual-LED flash allow for usable images in dim settings, such as indoor events or evening gatherings.
- Everyday Videography: The 1080p resolution is sufficient for recording quick, casual videos, such as documenting family moments or creating simple content for social media.
However, there are certain photography and videography tasks where this setup may fall short, such as:
- Low-Light Photography: Despite the f/1.8 aperture, the single-camera setup struggles in very dark environments. Noise levels increase, and details are lost, as there's no dedicated night mode or advanced sensor technology to compensate. For better low-light performance, cameras with larger sensors, optical image stabilization (OIS), or pixel-binning technology are needed.
- Portrait Photography: With no dedicated depth sensor or telephoto lens, the phone relies on software to create background blur (bokeh) in portrait shots. The results are often less accurate, with inconsistent edge detection around subjects.
- Advanced Photography Needs: Features like macro, ultrawide, and telephoto photography are absent. Users who enjoy capturing detailed close-ups, sweeping landscapes, or distant subjects may find this camera limiting. Similarly, there's no support for RAW photography, limiting advanced editing options.
- Pro-Grade Videography: Without 4K recording, electronic image stabilization (EIS), and features like slow motion, the camera isn't equipped for professional or creative videography needs.
In conclusion, the Tecno Spark Go 1S offers a practical camera setup for everyday photography needs, particularly for users who want to capture moments in good lighting or share casual content on social media. The inclusion of PDAF, dual-LED flash, and HDR gives it a slight edge over some other entry-level options, ensuring well-lit and decently focused shots in most scenarios.
However, users who prioritize advanced camera features like multiple lenses, night photography, or high-resolution videography should look at midrange devices or flagships with more versatile camera arrays and advanced image processing. For its price, the Spark Go 1S provides reasonable value, but it's firmly targeted at those with basic camera expectations.
Front Camera
The selfie camera sits inside a centered punch-hole cut-out on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
Resolution | 8 MP |
Video Recording | Yes |
Battery Life: A Powerhouse Performer
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
Capacity | 5000 mAh |
Wired Charging | 15 W |
The 5000 mAh battery is a standout feature, offering excellent endurance for day-to-day use. With a 15 W wired charging option, the phone takes a while to charge fully but compensates with all-day battery life. This is perfect for users who need a reliable device for extended usage without worrying about frequent recharges.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Tecno Spark Go 1S |
---|---|
Loudspeaker | Yes (dual speakers) |
Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | Yes |
The Spark Go 1S includes dual speakers for stereo audio and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, which is a plus for those who prefer wired audio.
Connectivity
The Tecno Spark Go 1S covers the connectivity essentials, with the various options contributing to a well-rounded connectivity suite. With support for Wi-Fi, it ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The Spark Go 1S features Bluetooth, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices.
The Tecno Spark Go 1S features the GPS positioning system for accurate navigation and location services.
The omission of NFC might be a downside for some users who rely on mobile payments, but its absence is somewhat expected in this price bracket.
The Tecno Spark Go 1S also sports infrared port.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.
Sensors
The Tecno Spark Go 1S comes equipped with the following sensor, in addition to other, unspecified ones:
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the Spark Go 1S.
Final Verdict
At its price point, the Tecno Spark Go 1S offers incredible value for budget-conscious buyers. The IP54 rating, 90 Hz display, and 5000 mAh battery are highlights that make it stand out in the entry-level market.
However, the low-resolution display, basic camera setup, and modest chipset may feel limiting for those who need more power or advanced features. If you're a casual user who prioritizes reliability and affordability, the Spark Go 1S is a no-brainer. But if gaming or photography is a priority, you might need to explore slightly higher-priced options.
Overall, the Tecno Spark Go 1S nails the essentials, making it a solid choice for users looking for an affordable yet dependable smartphone.
Feature (top) image credit: Tecno.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Tecno Spark Go 1S release date?
The Tecno Spark Go 1S has been released in January 2025. It was announced on the 6th January, 2025.