What Is SP Flash Tool?

SP Flash Tool (SmartPhone Flash Tool) is a free utility developed for flashing firmware onto devices powered by MediaTek (MTK) processors. It's widely used for stock firmware restoration, unbrick procedures, and partition-level flashing on a huge range of Android devices — from budget smartphones to tablets.

Important: This guide is for educational purposes. Flashing firmware carries risk. Always back up your data and ensure you have the exact correct firmware for your device model before proceeding.

What You'll Need

  • A Windows PC (Windows 7, 10, or 11)
  • SP Flash Tool (latest stable version)
  • Correct MediaTek USB drivers installed on your PC
  • Stock firmware package for your exact device model (includes a scatter file)
  • A USB cable (preferably the original cable)
  • At least 30% battery charge on the device

Step 1: Install MediaTek USB Drivers

Before connecting your device, install the MediaTek (VCOM) USB drivers on your PC. Without the correct drivers, your PC won't recognize the device during the flashing process.

  1. Download the MTK VCOM USB drivers package.
  2. Extract the ZIP file and run the installer as Administrator.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation.
  4. Restart your PC if prompted.

Step 2: Extract Your Firmware Package

Your firmware download will typically be a ZIP or RAR archive. Extract it to a folder on your desktop. Inside, you should find:

  • A scatter file (e.g., MT6765_Android_scatter.txt) — this is the most important file.
  • Multiple .img files representing individual partitions (boot, system, vendor, etc.).
  • Sometimes a preloader.bin file.

Step 3: Open SP Flash Tool

  1. Extract the SP Flash Tool ZIP to a folder.
  2. Run flash_tool.exe as Administrator (right-click → Run as administrator).
  3. The tool will launch with the Download tab selected by default.

Step 4: Load the Scatter File

  1. In SP Flash Tool, click the "Choose" button next to the "Scatter-loading File" field.
  2. Browse to your extracted firmware folder and select the scatter (.txt) file.
  3. The tool will automatically populate the partition list with all available firmware components.
  4. Ensure all partitions you want to flash are checked. For a full firmware restore, leave all checked.

Step 5: Select the Flash Mode

SP Flash Tool offers several flash modes. For most firmware restoration scenarios:

  • Download Only: Flashes only the partitions listed without wiping user data (use with caution).
  • Format All + Download: Wipes the device completely and flashes fresh firmware — recommended for unbricking or resolving persistent issues. This erases all data.

For a clean restoration, select Format All + Download.

Step 6: Connect the Device and Flash

  1. Click the green Download button in SP Flash Tool.
  2. Power off your device completely.
  3. While keeping the device off, connect it to the PC via USB.
  4. SP Flash Tool will automatically detect the device and begin flashing.
  5. A progress bar will show each partition being written.
  6. When complete, a green circle with a checkmark will appear.

Step 7: First Boot After Flashing

Disconnect your device and power it on. The first boot after a firmware flash may take 5–10 minutes — this is normal. Do not interrupt the boot process.

Troubleshooting Common SP Flash Tool Errors

  • Error 4032 (COM port not found): USB drivers not installed correctly. Reinstall drivers and try again.
  • Error 8038 (Scatter file mismatch): Your firmware does not match the device. Verify the model number.
  • Device not detected: Try a different USB port (use USB 2.0 if available), or a different cable.

Final Warning

Always triple-check that the firmware file matches your exact device model number, chipset, and region before flashing. Flashing incorrect firmware can brick your device.