Build & Design
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo strikes a balance between functionality and style, combining modern aesthetics with user comfort. Its boxy design, softened by rounded corners, ensures a comfortable grip, while the lightweight build makes it easy to handle for extended periods.
The Aurora Cloud variant stands out with its matte plastic back panel that is both attractive and practical, resisting fingerprints effectively. The subtle glittery finish on the back adds a touch of elegance, giving it a premium look despite its budget-friendly materials.
The camera module is neatly integrated, enhancing the phone’s minimalist design. Although slightly raised, it doesn’t disrupt the overall aesthetic, maintaining a refined and polished appearance. While the materials may not scream luxury, the Tecno Pova 6 Neo offers an impressive design for its price segment.
Display
The phone features a 6.67-inch IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, promising smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions. However, its peak brightness of just 231 nits, as measured using a Lux Meter, leaves much to be desired. This low brightness level hampers outdoor visibility in direct sunlight.
While the HD+ resolution (720×1600 pixels) suffices for basic tasks and casual media consumption, it feels underwhelming in comparison to competitors. The color accuracy is decent, aligning with its budget category. The high refresh rate, however, ensures a seamless experience in day-to-day use.
Performance
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo, driven by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, is designed to deliver a smooth and reliable experience for casual users. With up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of expandable storage, it handles multitasking and everyday applications efficiently.
In benchmark tests, it scored 4,35,504 on AnTuTu and 719/1,822 in Geekbench single- and multi-core tests, respectively. The scores hold up reasonably well compared to competitors. While heavy gaming sessions may cause the device to heat up, the temperature remains manageable, allowing for a relatively comfortable gaming experience.
Camera
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo features a 108MP main camera, which is a standout feature in its price range. The sensor, enhanced by AI, delivers sharp, vibrant photos in well-lit environments, making it ideal for casual photography.
In low-light settings, the camera manages to capture usable shots, with the Night Mode adding a subtle boost to overall clarity. The 8MP front-facing camera excels in well-lit environments, producing clear and detailed selfies. The 108MP sensor stands out as a significant highlight, showcasing its potential in capturing vibrant and detailed images, particularly in good lighting. While there is room for growth in challenging lighting conditions, the camera setup offers promising results for casual photography.
Battery & Charging
Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, the Pova 6 Neo delivers reliable endurance for a full day of use. It performed well during testing, with a mere 4% drop after 15 minutes of gaming and a 6% drain after an hour of GPS navigation.
However, the 18W fast charging support feels slow by modern standards, taking approximately 110 minutes to fully charge the device. While the battery life is commendable, the slower charging speed may inconvenience users with hectic schedules.
AI Features
Tecno has incorporated a range of AI features to enhance the user experience. Notable additions include AIGC Portraits, AI Cutout, AI Eraser, AI Wallpaper 2.0, and AI Artboard. While innovative, these features occasionally fall short in execution, with AIGC Portraits sometimes appearing more like animated stickers and the AI Eraser leaving traces behind.
The AI Wallpaper feature adds a playful element, though its accuracy could be improved. Despite these shortcomings, the inclusion of such features at this price point reflects Tecno’s ambition to offer premium experiences to budget-conscious users.
Gizmo Verdict
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G is a compelling option for those seeking an affordable smartphone with a stylish design and standout features. Priced at ₹12,999, it excels in areas like design, casual photography, and AI functionality. The large 6.67-inch display and the 108MP camera are notable highlights, catering to casual users and photography enthusiasts alike.
However, the device does have its limitations. The dim display and slow charging speed may deter users who prioritize outdoor usability and fast charging. Overall, the Tecno Pova 6 Neo is a solid choice for those prioritizing design, AI features, and casual usage over raw performance, offering good value for money in the budget segment.
