The Alcatel 1 and Realme C11 (2021) represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting users prioritizing extreme affordability. While neither device will challenge flagship performance, understanding their differences is crucial for those on a tight budget. This comparison focuses on how the Realme C11 (2021)'s newer chipset impacts real-world usability compared to the older Alcatel 1.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme C11 (2021) is the better choice. Its octa-core Unisoc SC9863A processor provides a significantly smoother experience than the Alcatel 1’s quad-core Mediatek MT6739, especially for multitasking and app loading. While both phones are limited, the Realme offers a more usable daily driver experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2018, July. Released 2018, July | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 137.6 x 65.7 x 9.8 mm (5.42 x 2.59 x 0.39 in) | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 134 g (4.73 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~215 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 64.5 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.28 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go edition) | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 2 MP, f/2.8 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 2000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Gold, Pink | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | 5033X, 5033J, 5033T, 5033D, 5033G, 5033M, 5033X_EEA, 5033F, 5033E, 5033D_EEA, 5033Q, 5033O, 5033G_EEA, 5033EP, 5033XR, 5033F_EEA, 5033S, 5033D_RU | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 80 EUR |
alcatel 1
- Lowest possible price point
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Acceptable battery life for basic use
- Slow processor and limited performance
- Outdated chipset architecture
- Slow charging speeds
Realme C11 (2021)
- Significantly faster processor
- Octa-core CPU for smoother multitasking
- 10W charging and reverse wired charging
- Still limited by low RAM capacity
- Camera performance is basic
- Display quality is likely average
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature basic LCD panels with resolutions around 720p+, typical for this price bracket. Without specific brightness or color gamut data, it's safe to assume both offer adequate, but not exceptional, viewing experiences. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within their budget constraints. Color accuracy will likely be standard for the price point, leaning towards warmer tones.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be basic. Without detailed sensor information, it’s reasonable to expect a primary camera around 8-13MP on both. Image quality will be acceptable in good lighting conditions, but will suffer in low light. The Alcatel 1’s camera is likely to be more limited in software features and image processing capabilities. The Realme C11 (2021) may offer slightly better image quality due to its newer processor enabling more sophisticated image processing algorithms. Any secondary cameras (depth or macro) on either device are likely to be of very low resolution and offer limited utility.
Performance
The Realme C11 (2021) holds a clear advantage in performance. Its Unisoc SC9863A is an octa-core processor, featuring four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz and another four at 1.2 GHz. This contrasts sharply with the Alcatel 1’s Mediatek MT6739, a quad-core processor with Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.28 GHz. The architectural improvements of the Cortex-A55 cores, combined with the higher core count, translate to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface on the Realme. While neither is a gaming powerhouse, the Realme will handle less demanding titles with greater ease. Both devices are likely paired with 2GB or 3GB of RAM, further limiting performance, but the processor difference remains significant.
Battery Life
Both devices likely feature batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. The Realme C11 (2021) includes 10W wired charging and reverse wired charging, a feature absent on the Alcatel 1. While 10W charging isn’t fast, it’s a welcome addition, and the reverse wired charging allows the Realme to act as a power bank for smaller accessories. The Alcatel 1 will rely on slower, standard micro-USB charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the Alcatel 1 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and your smartphone usage is limited to basic tasks like calls and messaging. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you want a more responsive experience for social media, light web browsing, and occasional gaming, even if it means spending a little more. The Realme's improved processor offers a tangible benefit for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C11 (2021) run popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly?
Yes, the Realme C11 (2021)'s octa-core processor and 2GB/3GB of RAM should handle apps like WhatsApp and Facebook without significant lag. While multitasking with many apps open simultaneously may cause slowdowns, basic social media usage will be a smooth experience.
❓ Is the Alcatel 1 suitable for playing mobile games?
The Alcatel 1 is not ideal for gaming. Its quad-core processor and limited graphics capabilities will struggle with most modern mobile games, even at low settings. Expect significant frame rate drops and lag. The Realme C11 (2021) offers a slightly better gaming experience, but still isn't designed for demanding titles.
❓ How long will the battery last on the Realme C11 (2021) with typical use?
With typical use – including browsing, social media, and occasional calls – the Realme C11 (2021)'s 5000mAh battery should easily last a full day. Heavy users may need to charge it before the end of the day, but the 10W charging will provide a convenient top-up.
❓ Does the Realme C11 (2021) support fast charging?
The Realme C11 (2021) supports 10W wired charging, which is not considered fast charging by today's standards. However, it's still faster than the charging speeds offered by the Alcatel 1 and will fully charge the device in approximately 2.5-3 hours.
