In the ever-evolving world of budget smartphones, the Tecno Pop 4 has entered the scene with a tempting price tag of just Rs. 11,999. Marketed as an affordable 3G dual-SIM device, it promises decent features for cost-conscious buyers. But does it deliver enough bang for your buck, or should you hold off for something better? Let’s break it down and help you decide.
The Good: Budget-Friendly Features That Shine
The Tecno Pop 4 runs on Android 10 (Go Edition), a lightweight version of Android optimized for devices with 2GB of RAM or less. This means you can expect smooth performance despite the modest hardware—a definite win for a phone in this price range. Its 6.0-inch IPS LCD display offers a sizable screen for watching videos or browsing, while the 32GB of internal storage (expandable via SD card) provides reasonable space for apps, photos, and files.
One standout feature is the massive 5000 mAh battery, a rarity in phones this affordable. This powerhouse ensures you can go all day—and then some—without scrambling for a charger. Tecno also sweetens the deal with thoughtful extras: a protective plastic cover, charger, and earphones are included in the box, sparing you additional costs. Add in a dual flash for low-light photography and a fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking, and the Pop 4 starts to look like a steal.
The phone’s design is another highlight. Available in Ice Lake Green and Dawn Blue, it sports a gradient back with a dual-tone effect—think bright purple fading into blue on the Dawn Blue model. It’s bold, eye-catching, and gives the phone a playful “pop” that lives up to its name.
The Not-So-Good: Where It Falls Short
However, the Tecno Pop 4 isn’t without its flaws. The design, while colorful, feels dated, sticking to a look Tecno has recycled for years. A fresh aesthetic could have made it stand out more in a crowded market. The camera, meanwhile, disappoints with lackluster quality—dull colors and poor low-light performance are par for the course, though perhaps forgivable given the price.
The fingerprint sensor, while a nice inclusion, is frustratingly slow, and the lack of a proper loudspeaker might irk anyone hoping for decent audio output. Most glaringly, the Pop 4 sticks to 3G connectivity at a time when 4G is the standard, even among budget phones. Compared to rivals like the Redmi 9A, which offers better resolution and features for a similar price, the Pop 4 feels like it’s playing catch-up.
The Backlash and the Redemption Arc
Tecno faced significant criticism for not delivering a 4G option with the Pop 4, especially since its predecessors in the Pop series were also 3G-only. Fans of the brand had hoped for an upgrade to match modern expectations. In response, Tecno quickly rolled out the Pop 4 LTE, a variant that addressed the connectivity gripe and saw stronger sales. It’s a clear sign the company listens to feedback—but it also leaves Pop 4 buyers wondering if they’re stuck with the lesser sibling.
The Verdict: Who’s It For?
So, should you buy the Tecno Pop 4? If you’re on a tight budget, need a reliable battery, and don’t mind 3G speeds, it’s a solid pick. The included accessories and screen recording feature (uncommon at this price) add extra value. But if you crave faster internet, a sharper camera, or a more modern design, you might want to stretch your budget for the Pop 4 LTE or a competitor like the Redmi 9A.
In the end, the Tecno Pop 4 is a mixed bag—a budget warrior with impressive stamina but a few too many compromises. For Rs. 11,999, it’s a decent deal, but your priorities will determine if it’s the right one for you. What do you think—deal or no deal?
