The Tecno Pop 9, released in late 2024, is a strong contender in the ultra-budget smartphone space. It’s built to deliver a modern mobile experience at a pocket-friendly price, offering a smooth display, dependable performance, solid cameras, and an all-day battery—all wrapped in a stylish package that looks more premium than its cost.
Design and Display
The Tecno Pop 9 sports a clean, contemporary design that feels far above its price point. Available in Gravity Black, Alpenglow Gold, and Fantasy White, the phone features a sleek finish that resists fingerprints while keeping a polished look. Lightweight and slim, it’s comfortable for daily use. Adding to its durability, the device comes with an IP54 rating for dust and splash protection. A side-mounted fingerprint sensor ensures quick and secure unlocking.
On the front, the phone is equipped with a 6.6-inch IPS LCD panel at HD+ resolution (1612 × 720 pixels). A standout feature is the 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and navigation feel noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz screens. The punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera helps maximize screen space, offering an immersive visual experience.
Performance and Software
Inside, the Tecno Pop 9 is powered by the Unisoc T606 (12nm), an octa-core processor designed for efficiency in handling everyday tasks such as browsing, messaging, social apps, and light gaming.
The device comes with either 3GB or 4GB of RAM and storage options of 64GB or 128GB (eMMC 5.1). For those needing more space, storage can be expanded easily via a dedicated microSDXC card slot.
On the software side, it runs Android 14 with Tecno’s HIOS 14 overlay. The interface is clean, user-friendly, and comes with extra features and optimizations to enhance the overall experience.
Camera System
For photography, the Pop 9 includes a dual rear camera setup. The main 13MP sensor with f/1.8 aperture and PDAF provides sharp images in bright conditions, while an AI-assisted secondary lens helps enhance shots.
On the front, an 8MP selfie camera handles video calls and self-portraits. Both the front and rear cameras can record 1080p video at 30fps. A dual rear flash and a dedicated front flash improve low-light results.
Battery Life
One of the Tecno Pop 9’s biggest advantages is its long-lasting battery. The 5000mAh non-removable cell, paired with the efficient chipset and HD+ screen, easily provides full-day performance, often stretching into a second day of lighter use. Charging is handled by standard 10W wired charging via USB Type-C.
Price and Value
In Nigeria, the Tecno Pop 9 starts at about ₦95,000 (around $65 USD). For its price, it delivers a well-rounded package: smooth 90Hz display, stylish design, reliable day-to-day performance, and an enduring battery life.
Conclusion
The Tecno Pop 9 is an appealing budget smartphone that offers excellent value. It blends a sleek design, smooth display, and solid performance with a dependable battery, making it a smart choice for users who want modern smartphone features without stretching their budget. While its cameras and charging speeds are modest, its overall balance of features and affordability make it a recommended option in the entry-level category.
