TECNO CAMON 30 5G Review: A quirky camera-centric budget smartphone
The TECNO CAMON 30 has been introduced as a camera-focused device priced competitively at ₹22,999. TECNO, a brand known for offering value-for-money smartphones, has strategically positioned the TECNO CAMON 30 to cater to consumers seeking quality cameras at budget-friendly prices.
The TECNO CAMON series has gained recognition for its emphasis on camera performance, with the TECNO CAMON 30 5G continuing this trend by prioritising camera capabilities. The device, launched amidst fierce competition from established brands like OnePlus, Nothing, and Poco, aims to carve a niche by offering a compelling camera experience and an attractive price point.
Pricing details reveal that the TECNO CAMON 30 5G is available in two variants: the 8GB+256GB model starting at ₹22,999 and the higher-end 12GB+512GB variant priced at ₹26,999 — it is currently on sale for ₹14,999 and ₹18,999, respectively, on the official website. Consumers can choose between two colour options: Uyuni Salt white and Iceland Basaltic Dark, with the latter variant boasting a sleek black-greyish finish that enhances its aesthetic appeal.
Design-wise, the TECNO CAMON 30 draws inspiration from professional cameras. Its camera module is crafted to resemble a high-end camera with a distinctive red dot that illuminates during charging, adding a touch of sophistication. The device features a premium glass back panel with a dual-tone matte and glossy finish, complemented by essential features like a Type-C charging port and dual speakers supporting Dolby Atmos technology. Additionally, the phone incorporates an infrared remote control feature, allowing users to control compatible devices such as TVs and air conditioners.
The TECNO CAMON 30 5G boasts a large 6.78-inch full HD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering an immersive viewing experience for multimedia content. While the display excels indoors, outdoor visibility may be compromised under direct sunlight, affecting readability.
Camera enthusiasts will appreciate the device's camera setup, which includes a 50-megapixel OIS camera, a 2-megapixel depth camera, and an AI lens, delivering impressive day shots with accurate colours and sharp details. However, the absence of a wide-angle lens may be a drawback for users seeking versatile photography options.
The smartphone offers a range of camera features such as Twinkle Portrait Filter mode, dual video mode, Super Night mode, and more, enhancing the photography experience for users. The front camera, equipped with a 50-megapixel sensor and 2K 30fps video recording support, captures high-quality selfies suitable for social media sharing.
Despite its strong camera performance and appealing design, the TECNO CAMON 30 5G faces challenges in terms of overall performance, with noticeable lags and app crashes affecting user experience. The device's benchmark scores indicate a lower performance level than its competitors, indicating room for improvement.
On the software front, TECNO offers extended support with two years of software updates and three years of security patches, ensuring users receive timely updates for an enhanced user experience. Regarding battery performance, the TECNO CAMON 30 impresses with its 5000mAh battery capacity and fast charging capabilities, providing extended usage without frequent recharging.
In conclusion
While the TECNO CAMON 30 excels in camera quality, battery life, and design aesthetics, its performance limitations and pricing strategy may hinder its competitiveness in the Rs 25,000 price segment. With smartphones like the OnePlus Nord CE 4 and Nothing Phone 2a offering a more refined user experience at a similar price point, the TECNO CAMON 30 faces stiff competition in the Indian smartphone market.