ISLAMABAD:
The Pakistani smartphone market is highly competitive in the PKR 32,000 to 34,000 price bracket, with two models standing out: the Redmi 15C and the TECNO Spark 40. While both promise good performance at an affordable price, their strategic focus differs significantly. Redmi prioritizes raw endurance via battery size and screen real estate, whereas TECNO aims for a more balanced and feature-rich user experience.
The Battery and Charging Trade-off
The Redmi 15C features a massive 6000mAh battery supported by 33W charging. This ensures exceptional longevity but necessitates longer waiting times for a full recharge. In contrast, the TECNO Spark 40 has a slightly smaller 5200mAh battery but compensates with much faster 45W Super Charge. In practical, day-to-day use, a quick 15-minute top-up on the Spark 40 often proves more valuable than waiting for the larger Redmi cell to fill up.
Display, Design, and Durability
Redmi offers a large 6.9-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the visuals are compromised by an HD+ resolution, which leads to less sharp clarity. Furthermore, its dated notch design makes the device look visually behind current trends. The TECNO Spark 40 also features a 120Hz refresh rate but couples it with sharper visuals, a modern punch-hole display, and an added layer of utility: support for using the screen even with wet or sweaty hands, resulting in a more premium and practical feel.
In terms of resilience, both phones carry an IP64 dust and water resistance rating. However, the Spark 40 gains an advantage with official drop protection up to 1.5 meters, adding superior durability for everyday accidental bumps and drops.
Performance and Added Value
Under the hood, both devices utilize the MediaTek Helio G81 chipset, which is adequate for routine tasks and casual gaming. However, TECNO elevates its offering with several useful extras: dual DTS speakers for enhanced audio, an infrared remote for controlling home appliances, expandable memory, and its native AI assistant, Ask Ella. Aesthetically, the Spark 40 is noticeably slimmer, lighter, and easier to handle than the heavier Redmi 15C, making its modern design more appealing to younger demographics.
Pricing and Final Assessment
The pricing in Pakistan is close, but with a slight advantage to TECNO. The TECNO Spark 40 (with 128GB storage and extended RAM) is priced at PKR 32,999. The comparable Redmi 15C is marginally higher at PKR 33,999.
In summary, while the Redmi 15C is designed for maximum endurance with its large battery and screen, the TECNO Spark 40 provides a more compelling all-around package: faster charging, greater durability, superior design, and more integrated features—all at a slightly lower cost. For the budget-conscious buyer in Pakistan in 2025, the TECNO Spark 40 emerges as the smarter, more feature-complete, and future-ready choice.
