Tecno Pop 9 — Price, Specs & Features
The Tecno Pop 9 is an affordable smartphone built for everyday essentials, featuring a 6.67-inch IPS LCD display with a 120 Hz refresh rate that offers a smooth display experience. The Tecno Pop 9 price in Kenya is Kes 10,500 for the 64 GB storage 3 GB RAM variant at Silkroom Electronics.
It’s powered by the Unisoc T615 (12 nm) chipset, paired with 3 GB RAM (some variants offer 4 GB) and either 64 GB or 128 GB of internal storage, expandable via micro-SD—ensuring reliable performance for browsing, social media, and basic multitasking. The rear camera is a 13 MP main sensor with dual-LED flash, while an 8 MP front camera (also with dual flash) handles selfies and video calls in Full HD.
A 5,000 mAh battery supports up to all-day battery life and charges via 15 W fast charging. The device runs Android 14 (Go edition) with HiOS, and includes handy features like side-mounted fingerprint sensor, IP54 dust and splash resistance, dual stereo speakers (DTS-enhanced), USB-C port, 3.5 mm headphone jack, infrared remote control, and micro-SD expansion up to 1 TB.
With its smooth display, dependable battery, and practical feature set, the Tecno Pop 9 delivers balanced usability and value, making it a sensible and reliable choice for students, first-time smartphone users, and budget-conscious buyers.
Tecno Pop 9 Full Specifications
Also known as: Tecno Pop 9 (Global/4G version) — available in Startrail Black, Glittery White, and Lime Green.
A budget-centric Android 14 Go Edition smartphone offering a smooth 90 Hz display, reliable 5,000 mAh battery, IP54 splash resistance, and expanded RAM technology—delivering surprising value at an entry-level price.
| Category | Feature | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Type | IPS LCD |
| Size | 6.67 inches | |
| Resolution | 720 × 1600 px (~263 ppi) | |
| Refresh rate | 120 Hz (International) / 90 Hz (India) | |
| Brightness | Not specified | |
| Protection | Not specified | |
| Aspect ratio | 20:9 | |
| Screen-to-body | Not specified | |
| Always-on Display | Not specified | |
| Performance | Chipset | Unisoc T615 (International); MediaTek Helio G50 (India) |
| CPU | Octa-core up to ~2.2 GHz | |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 or PowerVR GE8320 | |
| RAM | 3 GB or 4 GB + equal virtual RAM (e.g., 3 + 3 GB or 4 + 4 GB) | |
| Storage | Internal options | 64 GB / 128 GB (eMMC 5.1) |
| Expandable | Yes; microSDXC (dedicated slot) | |
| Camera | Rear Camera | 13 MP wide; Dual-LED flash; HDR; PDAF |
| Video (Rear) | 1080p@30 fps | |
| Front Camera | 8 MP with Dual-LED flash | |
| Video (Front) | 1080p@30 fps | |
| Battery & Charging | Capacity | 5000 mAh Li-Po (non-removable) |
| Wired charging | 15 W (USB-C) | |
| Wireless charging | No | |
| Reverse charging | No | |
| Software & Updates | OS | Android 14 Go Edition with HiOS 14 |
| Software support | Not specified | |
| AI features | Not specified | |
| Connectivity | Network | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 4.5G (LTE-A) |
| SIM | Dual Nano-SIM | |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (dual-band) | |
| Bluetooth | Yes (v5+) | |
| GNSS | Yes (GPS, etc.) | |
| NFC | No | |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | |
| Infrared | Yes (IR blaster) | |
| FM Radio | Yes | |
| Security & Sensors | Fingerprint | Side-mounted |
| Face unlock | Not specified | |
| Other sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, ambient light, compass | |
| Build & Design | Dimensions | ~165.6 × 77 × 8.3 mm; 188–189 g |
| Weight | ~189 g | |
| Materials | Glass front, plastic frame and back | |
| Water/Dust resistance | IP54 splash/dust resistant | |
| Colors | Startrail Black, Glittery White, Lime Green | |
| Audio & Extras | Speakers | Stereo speakers with DTS and Dolby Atmos |
| Headphone jack | Yes (3.5 mm) | |
| Extras | Infrared blaster, FM Radio | |
| Pricing in Kenya | 3 GB + 64 GB | KSh 10,500 |
| 3 GB + 128 GB | KSh 12,200 | |
| Pricing in India | 3 GB + 64 GB | ₹6,499 – ₹6,699 |
| Box Contents | Contents | Phone, 15 W charger, USB-C cable, SIM ejector tool |
Pros & Cons of Tecno Pop 9
Pros
- 6.67″ IPS LCD display with 120 Hz refresh rate and wet/oily touch control
- Android 14 Go (HiOS 14) with Memory Fusion virtual RAM support
- IP54-rated for dust and splash resistance
- 5,000 mAh battery with 15 W fast charging via USB-C
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, dual stereo speakers (DTS sound), and IR port
Cons
- 720p resolution, limiting display sharpness
- Unisoc T615 entry-level chipset not suited for heavy multitasking or gaming
- Basic 13 MP rear and 8 MP front cameras; no stabilization
- No 5G, NFC, or Gorilla Glass protection
Tecno Pop 9 Compare & Alternatives
Why Choose Tecno Pop 9?
If you're shopping for a budget-friendly device that punches above its weight, the Tecno Pop 9 deserves your attention:
-
Display & Design
It features a 6.67″ IPS LCD with a 120 Hz refresh rate—smooth enough for daily browsing and videos. A modern punch-hole design and IP54-rating mean it handles splashes and dust better than typical basics. -
Performance & Storage
Powered by the Unisoc T615 (12 nm) chipset with a choice of 6 GB or 8 GB RAM (including extended RAM) and up to 128 GB storage, the Pop 9 handles app switching and light gaming without lag—thanks in part to Android 14 Go optimized for low-end hardware. -
Cameras
You get a 13 MP rear camera and 8 MP front camera, both backed by dual-LED flash—delivering usable results in daylight and well-lit conditions. -
Battery & Charging
A 5,000 mAh battery offers strong endurance for moderate use, and the 15 W (Type-C) fast charging gets you back up quickly. -
Extras & Daily Use
In practical use, Pop 9 shines with dual speakers (DTS enhancement) for clearer audio, side fingerprint sensor, wet-touch support, IR blaster, and 4.5G LTE performance for faster 4G speeds.
Users appreciate its fluid UI and reliability:
“The 6.67-inch HD+ display with a 90 Hz refresh rate… ensures crisp visuals and smooth scrolling.”
“[The] Tecno Pop 9 4G… features the MediaTek Helio G50… smooth multitasking.”
Alternatives to Tecno Pop 9
| Competitor | Practical Advantage | Descriptor |
|---|---|---|
| Tecno Spark 10C | Compared to Pop 9, it offers superior battery endurance with an even more optimized Go UI — excellent for long battery life. | “long-lasting battery” |
| Infinix Hot 40i | Compared to Pop 9, it delivers a sharper high-refresh AMOLED display and more RAM — ideal for smoother media and multitasking. | “smooth visuals & more RAM” |
| itel A30 Pro | Compared to Pop 9, it provides simple UI with lighter software + the same battery capacity — better for users preferring minimal bloat. | “clean & light UI” |
🧭 Which One’s Right for You?
- Tecno Pop 9: Ideal for buyers wanting a reliable, feature-packed daily driver with a smooth display, solid audio, and excellent battery life—all under budget.
- Tecno Spark 10C: Choose this if your priority is the best possible battery endurance and optimized software efficiency.
- Infinix Hot 40i: Great fit for multitaskers and streamers who want a vivid AMOLED screen and quicker performance.
- itel A30 Pro: Best for users who favor ultra-clean software and don’t mind basic hardware if it means minimal bloat and long usability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the battery life of the Tecno Pop 9, and how fast does it charge?
The Pop 9 includes a 5,000 mAh battery with 15 W wired charging. It offers dependable all-day battery life under everyday use and achieves a full charge in just over an hour.
Does the phone come with a charger in the box?
Yes—Tecno includes the 15 W charger in the retail packaging, so there's no need to buy one separately.
How does the camera perform for photos and selfies?
The rear sports a 13 MP camera (wide, PDAF), and the front uses an 8 MP selfie camera. While adequate in good lighting, both cameras deliver modest image quality with noticeable softness, especially in low light.
What are the display specs—refresh rate, resolution, and visibility?
You get a 6.67-inch IPS LCD with 720p+ resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate. This results in smooth scrolling, but sharpness is low, and visibility under sunlight may be limited.
What processor and performance can I expect?
The phone runs on a Unisoc T615 chipset paired with 3 or 4 GB RAM and up to 128 GB storage (expandable via microSD). It handles basic tasks well but isn’t suited for heavy multitasking or demanding gaming.
Does it offer any durability features or protection?
Yes—the Pop 9 has an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance. It also includes an IR blaster, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
What software does it run, and what's the update policy?
The device launches with Android 14 (Go Edition) layered under HiOS 14. As an entry-level model, long-term OS or security updates aren’t guaranteed—typical of Spark/Pop series offerings.
Are there any performance or usability issues reported by users?
Some users report occasional blurriness in video playback or during calls, which may point to camera or processing quirks. One user mentioned that the device occasionally hangs or crashes, especially when answering calls, causing a significant delay.
How is the Tecno Pop 9 5G variant different?
The Pop 9 5G model steps up in specs with a Dimensity 6300 chipset, a 48 MP Sony IMX582 rear camera, 18 W charging, and NFC, while keeping the 5,000 mAh battery and 120 Hz display. It also carries a slightly higher price.
Are there common software concerns with Tecno's HiOS?
Users across Tecno models frequently mention that UI animations feel sluggish and less refined compared to competitors. One user noted their experience with Pop series software animations as notably poor.