POP 9 5G Review: Powerful D6300 Processor, 48MP Sony Camera & Lag-Free Performance Under Budget
Tecno Pop 9 5G Review
Affordable 5G meets premium features – A budget smartphone that punches above its weight
Introduction
The Tecno Pop 9 5G represents a significant leap forward in the budget smartphone segment, bringing 5G connectivity and a 90Hz display to an impressively affordable price point. Building on the success of its 4G predecessor, this device aims to democratize next-generation mobile technology without compromising on essential features.
90Hz Display
Smooth scrolling and animations for better user experience
5G Ready
Future-proof connectivity with next-gen network speeds
5000mAh Battery
All-day power with optimized energy efficiency
Key Specifications
| Display | 6.56-inch HD+ (1612×720) IPS LCD, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 180Hz Touch Sampling |
|---|---|
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G (6nm, Octa-core) |
| RAM | 4GB/8GB (with Memory Fusion up to 16GB) |
| Storage | 64GB/128GB, Expandable via microSDXC (up to 1TB) |
| Rear Camera | 50MP AI Dual Camera with Dual Flash |
| Front Camera | 8MP with Dual Flash |
| Battery | 5000mAh with 18W Fast Charging |
| OS | Android 14 with HiOS 14 |
| Connectivity | 5G SA/NSA, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, USB Type-C |
| Audio | Dual Speakers with DTS Audio |
| Security | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor, Face Unlock |
| Durability | IP53 Splash Resistant |
| Dimensions | 163.74 × 75.6 × 8.95mm, 199g |
| Colors | Mystic Purple, Gravity Black, Fantasy White |
Design & Build Quality
The Tecno Pop 9 5G sports a modern aesthetic that belies its budget positioning. The phone features a glass front with a plastic frame and back, maintaining durability while keeping weight in check at 199g.
Notable design elements include:
- IP53 rating for splash resistance
- Ergonomic side-mounted fingerprint sensor
- Minimalist camera module design
- Available in Mystic Purple, Gravity Black, and Fantasy White
While the materials are expected at this price point, Tecno has done an excellent job with the fit and finish, making the device feel more premium than its specifications might suggest.
Display Performance
The 6.56-inch HD+ IPS LCD display features a 90Hz refresh rate – a premium feature in this price segment that makes everyday navigation noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz displays.
Display Strengths
- Smooth 90Hz refresh rate (up from standard 60Hz)
- 180Hz touch sampling rate for better responsiveness
- 480 nits peak brightness for decent outdoor visibility
- 89.6% screen-to-body ratio with minimal bezels
Display Limitations
- HD+ resolution (1612×720) instead of Full HD+
- IPS LCD instead of AMOLED (affects contrast)
- No HDR support
- Color accuracy could be better
For media consumption, the display delivers a smooth viewing experience, though the resolution may disappoint those accustomed to Full HD+ panels. The high refresh rate makes scrolling and animations noticeably more fluid.
Performance & 5G
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, the Pop 9 5G offers competent performance for daily tasks and light gaming. The 6nm fabrication ensures solid power efficiency, complementing the large 5000mAh battery.
Key performance observations:
- Smooth multitasking with Memory Fusion (up to 16GB total RAM)
- Capable of running popular games at medium settings
- 5G connectivity (both SA and NSA) provides future-proofing
- Thermal management is effective for everyday use
Benchmark scores place the device comfortably ahead of other budget options, though it can’t compete with mid-range or flagship devices in raw performance. The 5G connectivity is particularly impressive at this price point.
Camera Capabilities
The 50MP main camera with AI capabilities performs well in good lighting conditions, capturing detailed images with accurate colors.
Camera Pros
- Improved 50MP main sensor captures good detail
- AI Scene Detection for 18 different scenarios
- Improved night mode with multi-frame processing
- Dual LED flash on both front and rear
Camera Cons
- No ultra-wide or macro camera (only depth sensor)
- Video limited to 1080p@30fps
- Low-light performance still limited by sensor size
- AI processing can sometimes oversaturate colors
The 8MP front camera handles selfies adequately, with the dual-LED flash proving useful in low-light situations. While not class-leading, the camera system is more capable than expected at this price point, especially in daylight conditions.
Battery Life & Charging
The 5000mAh battery is one of the Pop 9 5G’s strongest features, delivering exceptional endurance that can easily last 1.5-2 days with moderate use.
Key battery observations:
- 7-8 hours of screen-on time with mixed usage
- 18W fast charging (0-50% in about 45 minutes)
- Excellent standby time thanks to efficient chipset
- No wireless charging (expected at this price)
While the charging speed isn’t class-leading, it’s a noticeable improvement over the 10W charging found in many budget devices. The combination of large battery and power-efficient chipset makes this one of the longest-lasting phones in its class.
Special Features
The Pop 9 5G includes several premium features for its price segment:
Memory Fusion
Up to 16GB total RAM (8GB physical + 8GB virtual)
5G Ready
Supports both SA and NSA 5G networks
DTS Audio
Dual speakers with DTS audio processing
Available Variants & Pricing
Choose the configuration that fits your needs and budget
Final Verdict
The Tecno Pop 9 5G represents an impressive value proposition in the budget smartphone market. By combining 5G connectivity with a 90Hz display and capable hardware, Tecno has created a device that punches above its weight class.
While compromises like the HD+ resolution and plastic build are expected at this price, the overall package is compelling. The MediaTek Dimensity 6300 provides smooth performance for everyday tasks, the cameras exceed expectations, and battery life is exceptional.
Who should buy it: Budget-conscious users who want to experience 5G and high refresh rate displays without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal as a secondary device or for those who prioritize battery life over premium features.
Who should look elsewhere: Users who demand high-resolution displays, flagship performance, or premium build materials will need to spend more.