itel A80 vs Realme C30s: A Deep Dive into Two Ultra-Affordable Smartphones

The itel A80 and Realme C30s represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum, targeting first-time buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. Both phones aim to deliver essential functionality at an incredibly low cost, but key differences in their underlying hardware dictate which one offers a better user experience. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on performance, usability, and overall value.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing basic functionality like calls, messaging, and light social media, the Realme C30s edges out the itel A80. Its slightly higher clocked CPU, while still Cortex-A55 based, provides a marginally smoother experience. However, the itel A80 remains a viable option if found at a significantly lower price point.

PHONES
Phone Names itel A80 Realme C30s
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100
4G bandsLTE1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
Launch
Announced2024, September2022, September 14
StatusAvailable. Released 2024, SeptemberAvailable. Released 2022, September 23
Body
Build-Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back
Dimensions8.5 mm thickness164.2 x 75.7 x 8.5 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in)
SIMDual SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight-186 g (6.56 oz)
Display
Resolution720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~262 ppi density)720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density)
Size6.7 inches, 108.4 cm26.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCD, 120Hz, 500 nits (peak)IPS LCD
Platform
CPUOcta-coreOcta-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55
ChipsetUnisoc T603-
GPU-IMG8322
OSAndroid 14, itel OS 14Android 12, Realme UI Go
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal128GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM
Main Camera
FeaturesDual-LED flash, HDRLED flash, HDR, panorama
Single50 MP Auxiliary lens8 MP, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
Features-HDR
Single8 MP5 MP, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
VideoYes720p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack -Yes
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
BluetoothYes4.2, A2DP
NFCNoNo
PositioningGPSGPS, GLONASS
RadioUnspecifiedUnspecified
USBUSB Type-C 2.0microUSB 2.0, OTG
WLANYesWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Features
SensorsFingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensorsFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity
Battery
Charging10W wired10W wired
Type5000 mAh5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsSandstone Black, Glacier White, Wave BlueStripe Blue, Stripe Black
ModelsA671L, A671LCRMX3690
Price₹ 6,499About 100 EUR

itel A80

  • Potentially lower price point
  • Reliable for basic communication
  • Unisoc T603 is a proven chipset for entry-level tasks

  • Likely slower performance than Realme C30s
  • Unspecified display details suggest a basic panel

Realme C30s

  • Slightly faster CPU clock speed (1.6 GHz)
  • Potentially smoother user experience
  • More recognizable brand name

  • May be slightly more expensive than itel A80
  • 2MP macro camera offers limited utility

Display Comparison

Neither the itel A80 nor the Realme C30s are expected to deliver a premium display experience. Specifics regarding panel type (IPS vs. TFT) and resolution are not provided, but both likely utilize basic LCD panels. The absence of details suggests a focus on cost reduction. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. Color accuracy and viewing angles will likely be limited, making them suitable for basic content consumption but not ideal for media enthusiasts.

Camera Comparison

Camera performance on both the itel A80 and Realme C30s will be limited. Details regarding sensor size and aperture are unavailable, but both likely feature basic camera modules. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera on the Realme C30s is largely a marketing tactic, as image quality will be significantly compromised. Expect acceptable results in well-lit conditions, but poor performance in low light. Image processing will likely be minimal, resulting in images lacking detail and dynamic range. These cameras are best suited for quick snapshots rather than serious photography.

Performance

Both devices feature octa-core CPUs, but the Realme C30s boasts a clock speed of 1.6 GHz compared to the itel A80’s unspecified clock speed. While both utilize the ARM Cortex-A55 architecture, the higher clock speed on the Realme C30s translates to slightly faster processing for everyday tasks. The Unisoc T603 in the itel A80 is a capable chip for basic operations, but the Realme C30s’ CPU offers a marginal advantage in responsiveness. RAM configurations are not specified, but both are likely to be limited, potentially impacting multitasking performance. Neither phone is designed for demanding gaming or resource-intensive applications.

Battery Life

Both the itel A80 and Realme C30s utilize 10W wired charging, indicating a similar charging speed. Battery capacity is not specified for either device, but given their target market, capacities are likely in the 4000-5000 mAh range. A full charge from 0-100% will likely take around 2-3 hours. Battery life will be dependent on usage patterns, but both phones should be able to last a full day with moderate use, primarily consisting of calls, messaging, and light browsing. The efficiency of the Unisoc T603 versus the Realme C30s’ CPU will play a role, but the difference is unlikely to be substantial.

Buying Guide

Buy the itel A80 if you need an absolute bare-bones smartphone for essential communication and are on the tightest of budgets. It's ideal for users who primarily make calls and send texts. Buy the Realme C30s if you prefer a slightly more responsive experience for basic app usage and occasional light browsing, and are willing to spend a little extra for that incremental performance boost. It's better suited for users who want a bit more than just core functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Will the Realme C30s handle popular social media apps like WhatsApp and Facebook without significant lag?
Yes, the Realme C30s’ 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU should be capable of running WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly, although multitasking with other apps open simultaneously may result in some slowdown. The phone is designed for basic app usage, and these popular social media platforms fall within its capabilities.
❓ Is the itel A80 a good choice for a first smartphone for an elderly person?
The itel A80 is a reasonable option for a first smartphone for an elderly person, particularly if simplicity and affordability are key concerns. Its basic functionality and straightforward interface make it easy to learn. However, the limited performance may be frustrating if they attempt to use more demanding apps.
❓ Can either of these phones run multiple apps at the same time without slowing down?
Multitasking is limited on both devices due to unspecified, but likely small, RAM configurations. Running several apps concurrently will likely result in noticeable slowdowns and app reloading. It's best to stick to one app at a time for optimal performance.