The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. Both the Cubot J20 and the Realme C11 (2021) aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an accessible price point. However, significant differences in their core processing power dictate which device is better suited for various user needs. This comparison will dissect those differences, focusing on real-world performance implications.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Realme C11 (2021) is the superior choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU, provides a substantial performance uplift over the Cubot J20’s quad-core Mediatek MT6739WA. While both phones share a similar manufacturing process, the core count and architecture translate to a smoother, more responsive user experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 40 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 126.3 x 60.6 x 12.7 mm (4.97 x 2.39 x 0.5 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 |
| Weight | 143 g (5.04 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~245 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.0 inches, 44.1 cm2 (~57.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TN TFT | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739WA (28 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, (wide), AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Unspecified | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | Yes | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 2350 mAh, removable | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Black, Green | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | - | RMX3231 |
| Price | - | About 80 EUR |
Cubot J20
- Potentially lower price point
- Simpler user experience
- May offer slightly longer battery life under minimal use
- Significantly weaker processor
- Poor multitasking performance
- Limited app compatibility
Realme C11 (2021)
- Faster and more efficient processor
- Better multitasking capabilities
- 10W charging with reverse wired charging
- More responsive user interface
- May be slightly more expensive
- Potentially shorter battery life under heavy use
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely utilizing LCD panels given their price bracket, and specific details like brightness and color accuracy are not provided. The focus here is on performance, not visual fidelity. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, reflecting their budget nature. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced panel technologies is standard for this segment.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. The absence of information regarding sensor size, aperture, or image stabilization suggests neither device will excel in low-light conditions. Any 2MP macro or depth sensors present on either phone are likely to offer limited practical benefit. Image processing will likely be basic on both, prioritizing speed over quality.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipset. The Realme C11 (2021)'s Unisoc SC9863A is an octa-core processor, comprised of four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz and another four at 1.2 GHz. This contrasts sharply with the Cubot J20’s Mediatek MT6739WA, a quad-core processor with Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.3 GHz. The Cortex-A55 architecture is a newer generation than the A53, offering improved efficiency and performance per clock cycle. The higher core count on the Realme C11 allows for better multitasking and smoother operation of demanding applications. While both are built on a 28nm process, the architectural advantage and core count give the Realme C11 a clear edge. The Realme C11 also benefits from potentially better GPU performance within the SC9863A, though specific GPU details are unavailable.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given the lower processing demands of the Cubot J20, it may exhibit slightly longer battery life under light usage. The Realme C11 (2021) includes 10W wired charging and reverse wired charging, a feature absent on the Cubot J20. While 10W is slow by modern standards, the reverse charging capability adds a degree of utility, allowing the Realme C11 to act as a power bank for smaller accessories.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cubot J20 if you prioritize absolute minimal cost and only need a phone for the most basic tasks – calls, texts, and very light app usage. Its simplicity might appeal to those seeking a no-frills device. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you want a phone capable of handling multitasking, social media, and occasional gaming without significant lag. The octa-core processor offers a far more versatile experience for a small price premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C11 (2021) struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
While not a powerhouse, the Realme C11 (2021)'s octa-core processor and newer Cortex-A55 architecture should handle Facebook, WhatsApp, and similar social media apps without significant issues. Expect some loading times, but the experience should be generally usable. The Cubot J20, with its quad-core processor, will likely exhibit more noticeable lag.
❓ Is the reverse wired charging on the Realme C11 (2021) useful for everyday use?
The 10W reverse wired charging is best suited for topping up smaller accessories like Bluetooth headphones or a smartwatch. It won't rapidly charge a phone, but it can provide a convenient emergency boost to other devices when a power outlet isn't available.
❓ Can the Cubot J20 handle basic mobile games?
The Cubot J20 can run very basic mobile games, but expect low frame rates and significant lag in anything beyond the simplest titles. The Mediatek MT6739WA is not designed for gaming. The Realme C11 (2021) will offer a noticeably better gaming experience, though still limited to less demanding games.
