Tecno has built a strong reputation for delivering affordable smartphones, and the Tecno Pop 9 5G is no exception. Launched in September 2024, the device quickly gained attention for its smooth display, reliable camera setup, and impressive battery life—making it a solid choice for users seeking low-cost 5G connectivity. Fast forward to January 2025, and Tecno has raised the bar by introducing a new variant with 8GB of RAM, catering to users who demand faster performance and enhanced multitasking capabilities.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Tecno Pop 9 5 G’s features, performance, and value for money—and ultimately answer the question: Is this budget 5G phone worth buying in 2025?
Design and Display: Looks Good and Feels Sturdy
The Tecno Pop 9 5G wears a contemporary look, packing a slim 8 mm chassis and a feather-light 189 g frame that feels comfortable in one hand or a pocket. Offered in Aurora Cloud, Azure Sky, and Midnight Shadow, it brings just enough personality without straying from a clean aesthetic. Front and center is a 6.6-inch LCD with a buttery-smooth 120 Hz refresh rate—ideal for quick scrolling and casual gaming—though its HD+ (720p) resolution means on-screen text and icons aren’t quite as sharp as those of a flagship. Brightness is perfectly fine indoors but can fade under direct sunlight. An IP54 rating completes the hardware store, adding protection against dust and the occasional splash, so the phone looks good and feels sturdy despite its budget pedigree.
Performance and Software: Smooth for Everyday Use
Under the hood, the Tecno Pop 9 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300—a reliable mid-range chipset that handles calls, video streaming, and social media scrolling without excessive heat or slowdowns. It won’t top any benchmark charts, but it’s snappy enough for everyday users. The new 8 GB RAM variant (expandable to 12 GB via Memory Fusion) further enhances multitasking and app switching. In contrast, the standard 4 GB model can stutter if too many apps are left open in the background. Storage is available in 64 GB or 128 GB options and can be easily expanded via a microSD card, so space shouldn’t be a concern. Out of the box, you get Android 14 with Tecno’s HiOS 14 skin. A handful of pre-installed apps are present, but they’re removable, allowing you to tailor the experience to your liking.
The Tecno Pop 9 5G strikes a smart balance between form and function, offering a practical design that’s comfortable for everyday use. Measuring 165 × 77 × 8 mm and weighing 189 grams, it feels slim and lightweight, making it easy to hold for long periods—whether you’re texting, browsing, or watching videos.
The device features a glass front paired with a plastic back and frame, which may not feel as premium as metal or glass builds but offers clear advantages. The plastic construction makes it more durable against drops, resistant to shattering, and helps keep the phone’s overall weight and cost down—a key benefit in the budget segment.
Despite its 6.6-inch display, the phone’s 8mm thickness maintains a sleek profile that slides comfortably into most pockets without adding bulk. Its well-balanced weight ensures it doesn’t feel top-heavy during one-handed use, though users with smaller hands might still find the width a bit large.
Available in three stylish colors—Aurora Cloud, Azure Sky, and Midnight Shadow—the Tecno Pop 9 5G also adds personality to the mix, giving users the option to choose a finish that suits their style.
In short, Tecno has designed the Pop 9 5G with durability, comfort, and affordability in mind, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing 5G phone without straining their budget.
Cameras: Good for the Price
The 48MP main rear camera on the Tecno Pop 9 5G delivers surprisingly good results, especially in low-light and red conditions, where colors remain vibrant and details are well-preserved. While it’s not perfect in dim environments, the built-in LED flash adds some much-needed clarity when lighting is limited. The addition of a Night Mode in the camera app does help improve low-light photography slightly, though it still struggles with very dark scenes.
On the front, the 8MP selfie camera performs decently for both selfies and video calls. Thanks to Tecno’s built-in AI beauty features, users will notice smoothed skin and enhanced facial tones—something many casual users will appreciate.
Video recording is capped at 1080p resolution, which is fair for this price point. However, the lack of image stabilization means that handheld footage can appear shaky, especially when in motion. Overall, the Pop 9 5 G’s camera system offers solid performance for a budget device, particularly in well-lit and moderately low-light scenarios.
Rear: 48 MP Sony IMX582, AI depth lens, dual LED flash
Front: 8 MP selfie cam, dual LED flash
Video: 1080p @ 30 fps (no EIS)
Daylight
Shots showcase punchy colors and above-average dynamic range for the segment. The 48 MP mode preserves detail for post-cropping.
Low Light
Night Mode enhances exposure and reduces noise but struggles with handling heavy shadows. The dual flash helps for close-ups; otherwise, expect softer results.
Selfies
Skin-tone reproduction is natural, and AI Beautify can be adjusted to suit your preference for realism. The front flash is a lifesaver for late-night video calls.
Battery Life and Charging: Lasts All Day
One of the standout features of the Tecno Pop 9 5G is its robust 5,000mAh battery, which delivers excellent endurance. For most users, it easily lasts a full day on a single charge, even with regular use. For light users, the battery can comfortably stretch to two days, making it a reliable companion for on-the-go lifestyles.
Charging is handled by an 18W fast charger, which, although not the fastest on the market, is respectable at this price point. A full charge from 0 to 100% takes around 90 minutes, striking a good balance between speed and convenience for a budget 5G device.
The Tecno Pop 9 5G packs a robust 5,000mAh battery, delivering all-day power with ease—especially for moderate users. Thanks to the power-efficient MediaTek Dimensity chipset and the phone’s HD+ resolution display, battery performance is one of its strongest features. Whether you’re browsing, streaming, or multitasking on the go, you can count on fewer interruptions to recharge.
When it’s time to plug in, the phone supports 18W wired fast charging. While it’s not the fastest in the market, it provides a reasonable top-up time that aligns well with the phone’s budget-friendly positioning. For everyday users, it’s a reliable and practical charging solution that gets the job done without keeping you tethered to a wall for too long.
5G and Other Features: Future-Ready
If 5G connectivity is your top priority, the Tecno Pop 9 5G is one of the most affordable smartphones that delivers on that front. With access to faster internet speeds—provided 5G is available in your area—it becomes a compelling choice for budget-conscious users looking to future-proof their devices.
Additional features enhance everyday usability:
- Dual SIM support allows you to use two numbers simultaneously—ideal for work and personal use.
- Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2 offer stable, reliable wireless connections for browsing, streaming, and pairing accessories.
- NFC support enables contactless payments, a welcome feature at this price point.
- A USB Type-C port is included for modern charging and data transfer.
For added security, the phone features both a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking and Face Unlock for enhanced convenience.
Price and Availability: A Great Deal?
Pricing & Availability: One of the Most Affordable 5G Phones in India
The Tecno Pop 9 5G is positioned as one of the most budget-friendly 5G smartphones currently available in India. It offers solid value for money across its variants:
- 4GB RAM + 64GB Storage – ₹9,499
- 4GB RAM + 128GB Storage – ₹9,999
- 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage – ₹10,999 (New Variant)
The newly introduced 8GB RAM model justifies the slight price bump with noticeably smoother performance and improved multitasking, making it a better choice for users who demand more from their phones.
The device is available for purchase on Amazon India and at offline retail stores nationwide, making it easily accessible to buyers both online and in person.
Should You Buy It?
If you’re looking for 5G connectivity, a smooth 120Hz display, and a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery—all at a budget-friendly price—then the Tecno Pop 9 5G stands out as a strong contender. It offers great value for its price segment, making it an ideal choice for users who want reliable performance and modern features without incurring a high cost.
Pros
- Affordable 5G Connectivity – Enjoy faster internet speeds without breaking the bank
- Smooth 120Hz Display – Ultra-responsive screen ideal for gaming and everyday use
- Long-Lasting 5,000mAh Battery – Easily powers through a full day on a single charge
- Capable 48MP Rear Camera – Delivers good detail and color, even in low light
- Secure Unlock Options – Includes both a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and Face Unlock for added convenience
- True 5G under ₹11 k
- NFC, IR blaster, Dolby Atmos stereo speakers
Cons
The Tecno Pop 9 5G is one of the most affordable 5G smartphones available in India, offering a well-rounded package for under ₹11,000. With its smooth 120Hz display, long-lasting 5,000mAh battery, and reliable performance, it delivers solid value for everyday use.
- That said, it does come with a few compromises:
- The display is HD+, not Full HD, so sharpness is limited
- The camera struggles in low light, even with Night Mode
- 18W fast charging is decent but not particularly fast by today’s standards
Despite these trade-offs, if you’re looking for a budget 5G phone and can overlook some spec limitations, the Tecno Pop 9 5G is a smart and practical choice. It’s ideal for users who want a phone with stable performance, decent visuals, and excellent battery life, all without exceeding ₹11,000.
TECNO Pop 9 5G Launch in India
Launched in India on September 24, the TECNO POP 9 5G brings a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the POP 8. With next-gen 5G connectivity, a 48MP Sony AI camera, and a vibrant 6.6-inch 120Hz display, this device has quickly captured the attention of users in the sub-₹11,000 budget segment.
What truly sets the POP 9 5G apart from its rivals is the inclusion of NFC support—a rare find in this price range. Combined with a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery and 18W fast charging, Tecno has packed features that deliver both performance and practicality for everyday users.
IP Rating
The Tecno Pop 9 5G comes equipped with an IP54 rating, offering a decent level of dust and splash resistance—a welcome feature in the budget smartphone segment. While it’s not designed for full submersion like IP68-rated flagships, it can withstand light splashes, accidental spills, and moderate dust exposure, providing users with a little extra peace of mind during daily use.
Let’s break down what IP54 actually means:
The first digit (5) refers to protection from solid particles. It indicates that the phone is partially dust-protected, meaning it can prevent most dust from entering and causing harm, though it’s not entirely dustproof.
The second digit (4) addresses water resistance. A rating of 4 means the device can withstand water splashes from any direction, making it safe from rain or accidental splashes—but not suitable for immersion in water.
Sound
The Tecno Pop 9 5G excels in the audio department, offering dual stereo speakers enhanced with Dolby Atmos support—a rare find at this price range. Whether you’re watching YouTube videos, streaming movies, or playing music, the sound is richer, fuller, and more immersive than what you’d expect from a budget device.
The inclusion of Dolby Atmos transforms audio playback into a three-dimensional experience, making you feel as if sound is coming from all directions—above, beside, and behind you. It’s not just about volume—it’s about spatial realism. Whether it’s the subtle fall of rain or the deep rumble of thunder, Dolby Atmos adds depth, clarity, and cinematic quality that traditional stereo audio can’t match.
For those who prefer wired audio, Tecno hasn’t forgotten the essentials—the 3.5 mm headphone jack is still present, allowing for easy connection to your favorite earphones or external speakers without the need for adapters.
All in all, the Tecno Pop 9 5G delivers an unexpectedly strong audio experience, enhancing entertainment on the go and elevating your daily listening beyond basic playback.
Connectivity
The Tecno Pop 9 5G ensures you stay connected with a comprehensive range of modern connectivity options, often reserved for pricier smartphones.
- Wi-Fi Support: Whether you’re at home, work, or using public hotspots, the device offers reliable Wi-Fi connectivity to keep you online without relying on mobile data.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: With Bluetooth support, pairing your phone with wireless headphones, speakers, fitness trackers, or other devices is fast and seamless—ideal for cord-free convenience.
- GPS Navigation: The Pop 9 5G features built-in GPS support for accurate location tracking and navigation, making it ideal for map-based apps, ride-hailing services, or sharing your real-time location.
- NFC Functionality: One of the standout features in this budget phone is NFC (Near Field Communication). This enables contactless payments, quick file sharing, and effortless pairing with other NFC-enabled devices—bringing premium-level convenience to an affordable handset.
- IR Blaster: Another notable inclusion in this price range is the IR blaster, which allows you to use your smartphone as a universal remote for TVs, air conditioners, and other appliances—handy and fun for home control.
- USB Type-C Port: Completing the package is the inclusion of a USB Type-C port, the universal standard for modern charging and data transfer. It ensures faster charging, more stable connections, and easy compatibility with a wide range of accessories.
Frequently Asked Question
Does the Tecno Pop 9 5G support 5G networks in India?
Yes, the Tecno Pop 9 5G supports multiple 5G bands, making it compatible with major 5G networks in India, which enables faster internet speeds and lower latency.
What processor does the Tecno Pop 9 5G use?
It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset, built on a 6nm process for efficient and smooth performance during everyday tasks and light gaming.
Does the Tecno Pop 9 5G have a high refresh rate display?
Yes, it features a 6.67-inch LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smoother scrolling and better responsiveness in supported apps.
Is the Tecno Pop 9 5G good for photography?
The phone features a 48MP Sony IMX582 rear camera with AI enhancements, as well as an 8MP front camera. It performs well in daylight and offers decent low-light results with Night Mode.
How is the battery life on the Tecno Pop 9 5G?
It has a 5,000 mAh battery, capable of lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. It also supports 18W fast charging, although no charger is included in the box.
Does the Tecno Pop 9 5G come with NFC?
Yes, NFC is available—allowing you to use contactless payments, share files, and pair devices with a simple tap. This feature is rare in phones under ₹11,000.
Conclusion
The Tecno Pop 9 5G is an excellent example of how far budget smartphones have come—especially under ₹11,000. It brings together an impressive combination of features, including 5G connectivity, a 120Hz smooth display, a capable 48MP Sony AI camera, and a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery, all in a sleek and lightweight design.
Where this phone truly shines is in offering premium-like features—such as Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, NFC support, and an IR blaster—that are rarely seen in this segment. While it makes a few compromises, such as an HD+ screen resolution and modest charging speeds, these are more than forgivable at this price point. Suppose you’re in the market for an affordable 5G smartphone that delivers reliable performance, great multimedia features, and future-ready connectivity without breaking the bank. In that case, the Tecno Pop 9 5G is a solid choice. It’s ideal for students, casual users, and anyone upgrading to 5G for the first time.
