The Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus review begins with a simple question many Kenyan smartphone buyers are asking in 2025: Can a curved-display, flagship-style phone still be truly affordable? With its 6.78-inch curved 1.5K AMOLED display, a blazing 144Hz refresh rate, and the new-generation MediaTek Helio G200 chipset — among the first smartphones to ship with this processor — Tecno is sending a clear signal that the budget segment is no longer meant to feel basic.
Launched into a fiercely competitive market and retailing in Kenya at roughly KES 21,999–24,500, the Spark 40 Pro Plus sits firmly in the affordable tier. Yet on paper, it borrows heavily from phones that usually cost far more — from flagship-grade display smoothness to modern performance tuning and improved battery endurance.
And unlike previous Spark models, Tecno is no longer playing safe. By pushing premium design, high refresh rates, and aggressive pricing into one device, the Spark 40 Pro Plus is now applying real pressure on the mid-range space. The question is no longer just whether it is affordable — but whether Tecno has finally cracked the formula for a true budget-to-midrange disruptor.
In this in-depth review, we examine the Spark 40 Pro Plus across design, display performance, camera reliability, battery life, real-world usage, and overall value for money, to help you decide whether this is the right upgrade for you — or if there are stronger alternatives worth considering.
An In-depth Review of the Spark Pro 40 Pro Plus
Key Features and Unique Selling Features
First and foremost, let’s examine the key features that distinguish it in the competitive, crowded mid-range handset segment. Spark 40 Pro+ comes with some outstanding key features.
Spark 40 Pro Plus Key Features
- Build: Gorilla Glass 7i, IP64 water/dust resistance, 6.49mm ultra-slim profile
- immersive, large Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED 1.5K screen, with 144Hz refresh rate, 4500 nits peak brightness
- Chipset: MediaTek Helio G200 (6nm), AnTuTu score ~470,000
- Battery: 5200mAh with 45W wired + 30W wireless charging
- Camera: 50MP ultra-clear main sensor with EIS stabilization
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
- Software: HiOS 15 based on Android 15, with AI assistant Ella
- Connectivity: NFC, GPS 2.0, Super Wi-Fi 2.0, IR remote, FreeLink offline sharing
Unique Selling Points
- Ultra-Slim & Durable Design: impressively thin at 6.49mm. Besides, it’s IP64-rated for dust and splash resistance.
- The World’s First Helio G200 Chipset: Built on a 6nm process, this processor delivers an impressive AnTuTu score of ~470,000—ensuring smooth multitasking, gaming, and app performance.
- Flagship-Level Display: A 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen with 144Hz refresh rate, 4500 nits peak brightness, and Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection offers vivid visuals and ultra-responsive touch.
- Wireless Charging + Reverse Charging: The Spark 40 Pro+ Supports 30W magnetic wireless charging, 45W wired fast charging, and reverse wireless/wired charging. This is a rare combo in this price range.
- AI-Powered Imaging: A 50MP EIS rear camera with AI RAW domain processing and FlashSnap ensures sharp, stabilized shots even in motion or low light.
- Hi-Res Audio with Dolby Atmos: Dual stereo speakers tuned for immersive sound, plus 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res Wireless audio for audiophiles.
- Smart Artificial Intelligence Suite: the comprehensive suite includes Ask Ella, AI Eraser 2.0, AI Writing, and Circle to Search. Wholesomely, it helps in boosting productivity, creativity, and convenience.
- FreeLink Technology: FreeLink enables seamless outdoor communication without relying on a cellular network. Using standard Bluetooth, it creates a direct, point-to-point wireless link between compatible devices. This allows users to make free calls and send messages to nearby FreeLink-enabled phones—even in remote areas or off-grid environments.
Lightweight, Slim Profile Design
At just 6.49mm thick, the Spark 40 Pro Plus is impressively slim—designed to slip seamlessly into your pocket, palm, or lifestyle. It’s lighter than most, weighing only 160g, making it one of the most featherweight performers in its category. Compared to models in the slim profile and featherlight category, how does the Spark 40 Pro Plus measure up?
Table 1: Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus Review | Smartphones in the Slim Profile and Featherlight Category
| Rank | Smartphone | Thickness (mm) | Weight (g) | Notable Remarks |
| 1️⃣ | Tecno Spark Slim | 5.75 mm | 146 g | Concept phone; thinnest ever revealed; 5200mAh battery; not commercially available |
| 2️⃣ | Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge | 5.8 mm | 163 g | Thinnest flagship; titanium build; 6.7-inch AMOLED; Snapdragon 8 Elite |
| 3️⃣ | Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus | 6.49 mm | 160.4 g | Commercially available; ultra-slim with 5200mAh battery; curved AMOLED display |
| 4️⃣ | Samsung Galaxy S25 | 7.2 mm | 162 g | Compact flagship; IP68; 6.2-inch AMOLED; triple camera setup |
| 5️⃣ | Google Pixel 9a | 7.6 mm | 186 g | Midrange; 5100mAh battery; Tensor G4 chip; IP67 rated |
| 6️⃣ | Vivo V50 | 7.4 mm | 189 g | Slim midrange; 5000mAh battery; Snapdragon 7 Gen 3; dual 50MP cameras |
Deductively, Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus ranks #3 overall, but #2 among commercially available phones. It’s thinner and lighter than most midrange competitors, including the Pixel 9a and Vivo V50. Only the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge edges it out in commercial availability, while the Tecno Spark Slim remains a concept.
How did Tecno achieve the evasive engineering feat? | The Spark 40 Pro+’s Ultra-Thin Design and Heavenly Feather-lightness
Tecno’s Spark 40 Pro+ redefines sleekness. At just 6.5mm thick, it stands out as one of the slimmest smartphones ever built—with no compromise on power, performance, or durability. For Tecno, who have an equally ambitious project in delivering the Spark Slim (5.75mm), they achieved this engineering marvel by:
- Using ultra-light materials with high tensile strength: Adopting a precision-curved design—front and back panels slope evenly, enhancing both grip and symmetry.
- Integrating internal components with surgical precision to minimize bulk: Deploying a flush-mounted camera inside a matte-finish plastic frame, which includes a polished metallic bump for contrast and durability.
- Power Meets Efficiency: Despite its razor-thin frame, the device houses a massive 5,200mAh battery—a rare feat in ultra-slim phones. Thanks to the 6nm MediaTek Helio G200 processor, power efficiency and heat management are seamless, eliminating the need for heavy cooling hardware.
- Featherlight Build, Premium Feel: The lightweight construction doesn’t just save grams—it elevates comfort and usability. The matte-textured back adds grip and sophistication, while the reinforced frame delivers long-term resilience. This perfect balance of form, function, and finesse is a key selling point for users who crave cutting-edge tech in a slim, elegant shell.
For the Spark 40 Pro+, every gram shaved and every millimeter trimmed makes a difference: this device moves with you, never against you. Whether you are commuting, multitasking, or binge-watching in bed, the Spark 40 Pro Plus offers comfort, mobility, and style—wrapped in an ultra-slim silhouette that’s all substance.
Immersive 6.67-inch AMOLED Display
I was genuinely impressed the moment I powered on the device, and the display popped up. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display on the Spark 40 Pro+ isn’t just bright—it’s breathtaking. At 4,500 peak brightness and 1,600 nits (HBM), it outperforms any other contenders within its price range. With vivid 1.07 billion colors, every scroll, swipe, and stream feels alive. Deep blacks enhance contrast. Crisp details turn everyday moments into cinematic experiences.
Boasting FHD+ resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, this screen adapts instantly—from smooth gaming to silky social browsing. It’s tailor-made for immersive viewing, whether bingeing on Netflix or editing photos in dazzling clarity. Overall, 1224 x 2720 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~440 ppi density) is a statement of intent, a definition for immersion.
Its in-display fingerprint sensor is sleek, responsive, and secure—merging aesthetics with utility. Ultra-thin bezels maximize visual real estate, while curved edges add elegance and comfort.
This isn’t just a display. It’s a digital canvas. A productivity hub. A binge-watching beast.
Decent Camera Package | Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus Review
On paper, the Spark 40 Pro+ features a 13 MP (wide) selfie lens, capable of recording 1080p videos at 30 frames per second (fps). The primary camera features a single 50 MP (wide) lens with PDAF, accompanied by an auxiliary lens. What the heck is an auxiliary lens? It is an additional lens that is attached in front of the built-in camera (in this case, the 50MP camera) to enhance its capabilities or add new functions. It works in tandem with the primary lens to extend the range of effects or perspectives you can capture. The primary camera shoots at 1440p@30fps and 1080p@30fps, supported by gyro-EIS, and features a Dual-LED flash.
AI Powered Shots
Let’s delve deeper in our Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus Review, specifically into the engineering mechanisms of the phone’s camera setup. Arguably, it strikes a rare balance between affordability and everyday usability. Its 50MP primary lens with EIS delivers crisp, vibrant shots in daylight, with AI RAW algorithms enhancing detail and dynamic range. Most users love or will love the dual video mode, which records from both front and rear cameras—perfect for vlogging or storytelling on the go. This feature was initially reserved for flagship models.
Decent Selfies
Selfies taken with the 13MP front camera are bright and well-lit, thanks to the dual flash, although skin tones may appear slightly softened. Some reviewers highlight the camera’s strength in portrait mode, with surprisingly accurate edge detection and natural background blur. We are yet to verify this, based on our experience from long-term use.
Limitations
However, several limitations are apparent. There’s no ultra-wide or telephoto lens, and low-light shots—while improved by Super Night Mode—still struggle with noise and sharpness. The secondary rear modules are primarily aesthetic, offering minimal functional value.
For casual users, it’s a social-media-ready shooter. For creators, it’s a solid backup. And for new buyers? It’s a budget win with just enough creative flair to keep things exciting.
Created for Performance
The engine room is where all magic happens. This is where the rubber meets the road, and a flop, pass, or excellent badge is earned. Boasting of a much-talked-about Mediatek Helio G200 chipset, does the Spark 40 Pro+ stutter or hit higher heights for devices within its price range? In Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus Review, we shall get our hands dirty.
Beast Performance Chip
Under the hood, the Spark 40 Pro+ packs the world’s first MediaTek Helio G200—a 6nm octa-core chipset engineered for speed and efficiency. With two Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.2 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 2.0 GHz, it delivers a 10% performance boost over its predecessor.
Real-world usage confirms this:
- app launches are snappy
- multitasking is fluid
- and background processes remain stable even under pressure.
Powerful, but not invincible
The Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, now clocked at 1.1 GHz, handles casual gaming, such as PUBG and Asphalt 9, at 60 fps with minimal frame drops. While it’s not designed for ultra-high graphics, it holds its own in mid-tier gaming and video rendering. The 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, expandable to 16GB via memory fusion, ensures seamless switching between apps, split-screen multitasking, and smooth video binge-watching—even at 1.5K resolution.
However, it’s not invincible. Heavy 3D games on maximum settings may push thermal limits, though bypassing charging and utilizing Super Wi-Fi 2.0 helps maintain stability.
Overall, the chipset does justice to the Spark 40 Pro+, almost a steal for that price. It sets the device apart from other midrange devices within its price segment. Moreover, the 128GB 8GB RAM / 256GB 8GB RAM storage options anchoring the handset make it the favourite when compared to what competitor brands offer. The Infinix Hot 60i, Hot 60 Plus, Samsung Galaxy A16, and Vivo Y29 all fall short in terms of the immense processing power and packaging of the slim, feather-light, premium-looking Spark 40 Pro+.
Engineered for Seamless, Intelligent, and Adaptive Communication
The Spark 40 Pro+ redefines mid-range connectivity with a dual-band Wi-Fi 5 setup enhanced by Super Wi-Fi 2.0 and a dedicated gaming antenna design—ensuring uninterrupted signal flow even during intense online gameplay or video streaming. Its Bluetooth 5.3 offers faster pairing, lower latency, and improved energy efficiency for wireless accessories. For navigation, GPS 2.0 integrates GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, and QZSS, delivering pinpoint accuracy even in urban canyons or remote trails.
Communication is equally robust. FreeLink enables direct device-to-device calls and messaging without a cellular signal, making it ideal for off-grid adventures. The phone supports dual nano-SIMs, NFC, and infrared, expanding its versatility across payments, remote control, and smart device integration. With AI Call Noise Cancellation and AI Call Translation, conversations remain clear and barrier-free, even in noisy environments or across languages.
In short, the Spark 40 Pro+ is engineered for seamless, intelligent, and adaptive communication.
Artificial Intelligence Integration
The Tecno Spark 40 Pro+ offers a smart and accessible AI experience for users seeking intelligent technology without complexity. Right from the box, it feels premium—complete with a wireless charging case, fast 45W charger, screen protector, and a guide that introduces users to Ella Assistant and Circle to Search.
Ella
Ella, Tecno’s built-in AI concierge, responds to voice commands to help with messaging, scheduling, translations, and even summarizing phone calls. Circle to Search lets users visually explore anything on screen—draw a circle around text or images to search instantly. The device also handles document-to-text conversion and real-time translation across 44 voice and 51 photo languages.
Enhanced Photography and Videography
AI Eraser
For photography, AI Eraser 2.0 and Image Extender simplify editing—no apps or skills required. With HiOS 15 on Android 15, these smart tools work intuitively, with no deep menus or learning curve. The Spark 40 Pro+ offers an AI-driven lifestyle for students, content creators, and everyday users, making smart living easier to adopt and enjoy.
AI Raw
AI RAW on the Spark 40 Pro+ enhances image clarity by processing photos in their uncompressed RAW format before compression. This enables the camera to retain more detail, particularly in backlit or low-light conditions. Using domain-specific algorithms, it intelligently adjusts exposure, sharpness, and color balance to restore natural tones and textures. Thanks to AI RAW intervention, you can now have sharper, more lifelike images with improved dynamic range. This is ideal for users who want DSLR-like quality from a smartphone camera, especially at a budget price point.
Battery and Powering Mechanism
As far as battery capacity, performance, and fast charging capabilities are concerned, hats off to Tecno. They did justice to users and added to the brand’s increasing popularity in Kenya, Africa, and worldwide. Why do I give these accolades?
Tecno, a major player in budget phones in Kenya, finally delivered what mid-range users have been begging for—they brought flagship-grade power management in a budget-friendly shell. The Spark 40 Pro+ boasts a massive 5200mAh Li-Po battery, optimized for all-day endurance even under heavy use. But it’s not just about capacity—it’s the charging ecosystem that sets it apart.
Charging Options
- 45W Super Flash Charge powers up the device from 0 to 50% in under 30 minutes, and 100% in 55 minutes. It is undoubtedly ideal for quick top-ups, especially for busy executives and those who are always on the go.
- 30W wireless charging: a first in this segment, it adds convenience and future-proofing. It is about time that those who always crave to use this power-saving mechanism on their devices. Interestingly, Tecno does not have a proprietary Wireless Charging Pad. Infinix has its own MagCharge, MagPad, and MagPower (part of their MagKit Ecosystem). Samsung has long adopted wireless charging for its premium devices, branding its accessories based on their capabilities or design, while Apple has the renowned MagSafe. Tecno is still incorporating wireless charging into its newer phones, a welcome development for Tecno lovers.
- 5W reverse wireless charging: turns the phone into a power bank for accessories.
- Bypass charging: keeps thermals low during gaming, preserving battery health and performance.
What Tecno did right, and has been long overdue, is to integrate premium charging features typically reserved for high-end flagships. Combined with AI Smart Charge, battery health optimization, and HiOS 15’s power-saving modes, the Spark 40 Pro+ maintains over 80% battery health after 2,000 complete cycles.
In a market flooded with 5000mAh clones, Tecno’s power trifecta—capacity, speed, and intelligence—makes the Spark 40 Pro+ a mid-range marvel. It’s not just good—it’s game-changing!
Pros and Cons of Spark 40 Pro+
So what are the merits and demerits of these fantastic, budget-friendly smartphones?
Pros
- At just 6.5mm thick and 160g, it’s one of the slimmest and lightest phones in its class.
- For its price point, the Spark 40 Pro+ is undoubtedly a steal for buyers who want value for their money and seek performance over brand or perception.
- The vibrant, immersive, 6.78-inch 1.5 K AMOLED with 144Hz refresh rate offers buttery-smooth visuals and punchy colors. For browsing, video series binge-watching, gaming, or general phone use, this is the best-in-class option.
- 4500 nits peak brightness is heavenly, especially if you love bright screens that, even in bright sunshine, give you a great viewing experience, effortlessly.
- The powerful battery setup cannot be overlooked or understated. A 5200mAh battery with 45W wired, 30W wireless, and 5W reverse wireless charging is rare at this price.
- Its 6nm MediaTek Helio G200 processor offers efficient performance that handles everyday tasks, gaming, and entertainment with ease.
- Thanks to Stereo Speakers with Dolby Atmos, you get your music, videos, and calls loud and immersive. When gaming, the immersive experience is worth it in that moment.
- For AI lovers, the Spark 40 Pro+ is fully stacked! It features AI-powered capabilities, including Circle to Search, AI Eraser 2.0, and Ella Assistant, adding smart utility.
- Enjoy the Dual Video Mode, enabling you to record with front and rear cameras simultaneously—great for creators.
- It offers basic protection against dust and water splashes, thanks to its IP64 rating for splash resistance.
Cons
- First, it is sad that such a marvel of engineering and software awesomeness lacks 5G connectivity, thus not future-proof. This one reason may make many potential admirers shy away from spending their money on it.
- Talking of future proofing, there is no confirmed long-term OS upgrade roadmap for the Spark 40 Pro+
- Plastic build makes the otherwise marvel-of-a-phone and high-performance beast feel cheap.
- Although the Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS) helps, the handset’s camera setup consciously misses optical image stabilization (OIS). Video and low-light shots can be compromised.
- No Ultrawide or Telephoto lens, limiting creative flexibility for photography
JuaTech Africa’s Merit Score Card | Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus Review
To assess the design brilliance, quality, and excellence in performance of the Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus, we compared it, based on a merit score, with three other newly launched handsets within the Kes 25,000 segment. Our merit is based on key features most budget-conscious customers look for in a smartphone.
Attributes/ Key Features most Budget-conscious Customers look for in a Smartphone
- Reliable battery power and fast charging support
- Design, build, and aesthetics
- Camera Performance
- Phone Performance (Chipset and Memory)
- Phone durability and versatility
Table 2: Smartphone Scoreboard: Mid-Range Showdown
| Device | Design & Build | Durability | Display | Camera Performance | Chipset | Battery | Overall Score | Ranking |
| Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus | 9.5 | 9.0 | 10.0 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 10.0 | 57.5 / 60 | 🥇 1st |
| Redmi 14 | 9.0 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 53.5 / 60 | 🥈 2nd |
| Realme C75 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 8.0 | 8.0 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 52.0 / 60 | 🥉 3rd |
| Vivo Y29 4G | 8.5 | 8.5 | 8.0 | 8.5 | 8.0 | 9.0 | 50.5 / 60 | 4th |
| Samsung Galaxy A16 | 8.0 | 8.0 | 8.5 | 8.0 | 8.0 | 8.5 | 49.0 / 60 | 5th |
| Infinix Hot 60 Pro Plus | 8.5 | 8.0 | 8.5 | 8.0 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 50.0 / 60 | 6th |
Verdict
The Tecno Spark 40 Pro+ is a rare gem in the mid-range smartphone market—a device that significantly outperforms its weight class. It’s worth being in a collector’s cabinet. While it lacks 5G support, its 4G performance is optimized and stable, making it a non-issue for most users in regions where 5G is still in its early stages of development.
At just 6.5mm thin and 160.4g, it’s one of the slimmest and lightest smartphones available, yet it doesn’t compromise on power. The MediaTek Helio G200 (6nm) chipset, paired with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage, delivers smooth multitasking, responsive gaming, and efficient thermal management. The 6.78-inch AMOLED display, featuring a 144Hz refresh rate and 4500 nits of peak brightness, offers flagship-level visuals—vivid, fluid, and ultra-bright, even in direct sunlight.
AI integration is deeply embedded, with Ella Assistant, Circle to Search, AI RAW, AI Eraser 2.0, and Image Extender enhancing productivity, creativity, and accessibility. Add in over 136 real-time translation languages, and it becomes a globally ready tool.
Powering this beast is a 5200mAh battery supported by 45W wired, 30W wireless, reverse charging, and bypass charging—a premium-grade setup rarely seen at this price point.
When stacked against rivals like the Infinix Hot 60 Pro+, Samsung Galaxy A16, Vivo Y29, Realme C75, and Realme 14, the Spark 40 Pro+ consistently outshines in display quality, charging versatility, AI features, and overall value.
Our Parting Shot!
Thus, if you are on a budget but crave premium features, the Spark 40 Pro+ is not just a smart buy—it’s a statement. We hope this thorough, in-depth Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus Review has empowered, informed, and educated you on many critical aspects of this device. For more reviews and tech bites on related topics, subscribe and follow us across all our social media channels. Check our refreshed review on Best Smartwatches for professionals. and subscribe to our Newsletter for fresh weekly and monthly updates.
