The Honor 8A Prime and Realme C20A represent the fiercely competitive entry-level smartphone market. Both devices aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an incredibly affordable price point. However, subtle differences in their chipsets and features can significantly impact the user experience. This comparison dissects these nuances to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme C20A edges out the Honor 8A Prime. While both share the same CPU core configuration, the Helio G35 chipset in the C20A offers a slight GPU advantage and the added benefit of reverse wired charging, making it a more versatile option.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 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 | 2020, March 30. Released 2020, March 30 | 2021, May 11 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, May 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 156.3 x 73.5 x 8.2 mm (6.15 x 2.89 x 0.32 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 | 150 g (5.29 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash-resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.09 inches, 91.0 cm2 (~79.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), EMUI 9 | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.8, PDAF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| 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, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 3020 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Green | Iron Grey, Lake Blue |
| Models | JAT-LX1 | - |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Honor 8A Prime
- Potentially more established brand reputation.
- Reliable for basic smartphone tasks.
- Likely a competitive price point.
- Less capable GPU compared to the Realme C20A.
- Lacks reverse wired charging functionality.
Realme C20A
- Slightly better GPU performance with the Helio G35.
- Convenient reverse wired charging feature.
- Potentially better value for money.
- Realme is a relatively newer brand compared to Honor.
- May have more pre-installed bloatware.
Display Comparison
Neither Honor nor Realme provide detailed display specifications for these models. Given their price point, both likely utilize LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. The absence of information regarding peak brightness, color gamut coverage, or PWM dimming rates suggests a focus on cost reduction over display quality. Users sensitive to screen flicker should research independent reviews for PWM frequency data, as this is a common area of concern in budget displays.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specifications are scarce for both devices. It’s safe to assume both feature a primary camera and potentially a depth sensor. However, the emphasis on low megapixel counts in this segment often indicates limited image quality. Without knowing sensor sizes or lens apertures, it’s difficult to definitively declare a winner. Image processing algorithms will play a significant role, and user reviews are crucial for assessing real-world camera performance. The lack of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on either device suggests reliance on software-based stabilization, which is less effective.
Performance
Both the Honor 8A Prime and Realme C20A are powered by Mediatek’s Helio P35 and Helio G35 chipsets respectively, both fabricated on a 12nm process. The CPU configuration is identical: an octa-core setup with four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and another four at 1.8 GHz. However, the Helio G35 in the Realme C20A features a slightly more capable IMG PowerVR GE8320 GPU compared to the GE8320 in the P35. This translates to marginally better graphics performance, beneficial for light gaming and smoother UI transitions. While the difference isn’t massive, it’s a tangible advantage for the C20A.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are not provided in the context data. However, typical battery sizes for phones in this price range are around 4000-5000 mAh. The Realme C20A distinguishes itself with reverse wired charging, allowing it to function as a power bank for other devices. This is a practical feature often absent in the Honor 8A Prime’s class. Charging wattage is also unspecified, but given the budget nature of these phones, expect relatively slow charging speeds – likely in the 10W range.
Buying Guide
Buy the Honor 8A Prime if you prioritize a potentially more established brand reputation and are looking for a basic, reliable smartphone for essential tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use. Buy the Realme C20A if you want a slightly more capable chipset for occasional gaming, the convenience of reverse wired charging to top up accessories, and a device that feels a bit more future-proofed within this ultra-budget segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C20A handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Helio G35 is an entry-level chipset, it can run PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty at low to medium settings with acceptable frame rates. However, expect some stuttering and reduced graphical fidelity. It's not designed for demanding gaming experiences.
❓ Does the Honor 8A Prime receive regular software updates and security patches?
Honor's update track record for budget devices can be inconsistent. While they generally provide updates, the frequency and duration of support may be limited compared to brands like Xiaomi or Samsung. Users should check online forums and communities for the latest update information.
❓ How useful is the reverse wired charging feature on the Realme C20A in real-world scenarios?
Reverse wired charging is surprisingly useful for topping up accessories like wireless earbuds, smartwatches, or even a friend's phone in an emergency. While it won't fully charge another device quickly, it provides a convenient boost when a power outlet isn't available.
❓ Is the storage on either phone expandable via microSD card?
Given the target market, it's highly probable that both the Honor 8A Prime and Realme C20A feature a dedicated microSD card slot for storage expansion. However, confirm this detail in the product specifications before purchasing, as it's not guaranteed.
