If you’re in Nigeria and searching for a budget smartphone in 2025, the Tecno Pop 9 is likely on your radar. As inflation increases the cost of food, fuel, and essentials, and the Naira continues to struggle, more Nigerians are turning to affordable smartphones that deliver essential features without breaking the bank.
In this detailed Tecno Pop 9 review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the device, including official specs, real user opinions, and insights from Nigerian phone retailers. If you’re asking, “Is the Pop 9 worth buying in 2025?” this review has your answer.
Tecno Pop 9 Key Specifications (4G Version)
Display: 6.6–6.67″ HD+, up to 120Hz refresh rate
Battery: 5000mAh, 10W–15W charging
Camera: 13MP rear, 8MP front
Performance: Unisoc T615, 3GB/4GB RAM, 64GB/128GB storage
Network: Dual SIM, 4G LTE
OS: Android 14 Go Edition
Extras: IP54 rating, side fingerprint, IR remote, DTS dual speakers
1. Display: HD+ With Smooth Scrolling
The Tecno Pop 9 offers a 6.6″–6.67″ HD+ display—not Full HD, but still sharp enough for video streaming, web browsing, and reading. The real highlight is the high refresh rate, with versions supporting 90 Hz or even 120 Hz, making scrolling and transitions feel fluid.
With 480 nits of brightness, it holds up well under direct sunlight, making it great for outdoor users in Nigeria.
2. Performance: Good Enough for Everyday Tasks
Under the hood, the Pop 9 is powered by a Unisoc T615 processor, suitable for browsing, social media, and light gaming. You can choose from:
- 3GB or 4GB RAM
- 64GB or 128GB internal storage
- Plus Extended RAM to slightly boost performance
It runs on Android 14 Go Edition, optimised for entry-level phones. While performance is mostly smooth, some users report occasional lag during multitasking or heavier app use.
3. Battery Life: All-Day Power
The 5000 mAh battery is a strong selling point. Tecno claims up to 60 days standby time, and in real-world use, most users get a full day or more per charge.
However, charging speed varies:
- Some models support 15W fast charging
- Others are limited to 10W, requiring about 2.5 hours to fully charge
This is slower than the older Tecno Pop 8, which had 18W charging.
4. Camera: Decent for Social Media
You get a 13MP main camera with dual flash and an 8MP selfie camera with front flash. Key features include:
- Portrait and beauty modes
- Wide-angle selfies
- 1080p video at fps
In daylight, images are decent for WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, but night performance is weak. Users hoped for more, especially considering the capable chipset.
5. Design & Build: Lightweight With Premium Feel
At just 189 g, the Pop 9 is lightweight and slim, with a glass front and plastic back. Users often say it has iPhone-inspired design vibes. Key build features:
- IP54 rating (dust/splash resistant)
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor
- IR blaster for remote control
- “Wet & Oily Touch Control” for humid or sweaty hands
However, some features are missing; split-screen, gesture shortcuts, and smart tools found on earlier models are notably absent.
6. Connectivity & Audio: Covers the Basics
The Tecno Pop 9 (4G version) includes:
- Dual SIM with 4G LTE/4.5G (LTE-A)
- USB-C port
- 3.5mm headphone jack
- FM radio and GPS
- No NFC on this model
Audio performance is better than expected thanks to DTS dual stereo speakers, offering rich and clear sound for the price.
Final Verdict: Is the Tecno Pop 9 Worth It in 2025?
The Tecno Pop 9 delivers reliable performance, strong battery life, and solid features for budget-conscious buyers in Nigeria. If you’re not expecting premium specs but just want a smartphone that works for calls, messaging, photos, and apps, this phone ticks all the right boxes in its price range.
Pros:
- Great battery life
- Smooth display refresh rate
- Solid design and usability
- Decent day camera performance
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- No fast charging on some models
- Lacks NFC
- Occasional lag during heavy use
- No night photography capabilities
