The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the itel S24 and Realme C51s are two contenders vying for dominance. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an accessible price, they take different approaches to achieving this. The itel S24 prioritizes processing power with the MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra, while the Realme C51s focuses on faster charging with its 33W capability. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and smoother multitasking, the itel S24 is the better choice. Its MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra chipset, featuring higher clocked Cortex-A75 cores, provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Unisoc Tiger T612 in the Realme C51s. While the Realme C51s boasts faster charging, the performance gap makes the itel S24 the winner.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, March 29 | 2024, March 15 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, April | Available. Released 2024, March 15 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 163.5 x 75.5 x 8.3 mm (6.44 x 2.97 x 0.33 in) | 167.2 x 76.7 x 7.5 mm (6.58 x 3.02 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 182 g (6.42 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.74 inches, 109.7 cm2 (~85.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 480 nits (peak) | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 560 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G91 Ultra | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 108 MP, f/1.6, (wide), 1/1.67", 0.64µm, AF
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | Yes, 360˚ (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio, recording | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired, bypass charging, 50% in 40 min | 33W wired, 0-50% in 28 min |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dawn White, Coastline Blue, Starry Black | Shiny Green, Mighty Black |
| Models | S667LN | RMX3765 |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 100 EUR |
itel S24
- Faster processor for smoother performance
- Potentially better image processing
- More responsive user experience
- Slower charging speed compared to Realme C51s
- Battery capacity not specified
Realme C51s
- Significantly faster 33W charging
- Competitive price point
- Adequate performance for basic tasks
- Less powerful processor than itel S24
- May struggle with demanding apps and games
Display Comparison
Neither itel nor Realme provide display specifications beyond the basic resolution. However, given the price point, both likely utilize LCD panels. The real differentiator will be color accuracy and peak brightness, which are currently unknown. Without this data, it's difficult to assess display quality, but we can assume both will offer a standard viewing experience for casual use.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications (sensor size, aperture, etc.), a direct comparison is limited. Both phones likely feature a primary camera and depth sensor, with the Realme C51s potentially including a macro lens. However, the image processing capabilities of the respective chipsets will play a significant role. The Helio G91 Ultra’s ISP (Image Signal Processor) is likely more advanced, potentially resulting in better dynamic range and noise reduction in photos and videos. We anticipate the itel S24 to deliver slightly superior image quality, assuming similar sensor configurations.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The itel S24’s MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra features two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz, paired with six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz. The Realme C51s utilizes the Unisoc Tiger T612, also with a 2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 configuration. The G91 Ultra’s higher clock speed on the A75 cores translates to a tangible performance boost in CPU-intensive tasks and gaming. While both use the same core architecture, the G91 Ultra’s fabrication process (likely 12nm, but unconfirmed) may offer slight efficiency gains. The Realme C51s’ 12nm Unisoc chip will be adequate for basic tasks, but will likely struggle with demanding applications compared to the itel S24.
Battery Life
The Realme C51s’ 33W charging is a clear advantage, promising a 0-50% charge in just 28 minutes. The itel S24’s 18W charging, while still respectable, takes 40 minutes to reach 50%. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging of the Realme C51s is a significant benefit for users who need to quickly top up their device. However, the itel S24’s more efficient processor may partially offset the difference in charging speed through better battery life during typical usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel S24 if you need a phone that can handle moderate gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps without significant lag. It’s ideal for users who value a responsive experience. Buy the Realme C51s if you prioritize minimizing downtime and need the fastest possible charging speeds, even if it means sacrificing some processing power. This phone suits users who frequently find themselves with limited charging opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc Tiger T612 in the Realme C51s struggle with popular games like PUBG Mobile?
The Unisoc Tiger T612 is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but likely at lower graphics settings and frame rates to maintain a playable experience. The itel S24’s Helio G91 Ultra will provide a smoother and more consistent gaming experience, allowing for higher settings and potentially better frame rates.
❓ Does the itel S24 support bypass charging, and what does that mean for gaming?
Yes, the itel S24 supports bypass charging. This allows the phone to be powered directly from the charger while gaming, bypassing the battery and reducing heat buildup. This can help maintain performance during extended gaming sessions and potentially prolong battery lifespan.
❓ Is the 33W charging on the Realme C51s compatible with Power Delivery (PD) chargers?
While the Realme C51s supports 33W charging, it's unlikely to fully utilize the capabilities of a PD charger unless the charger specifically supports Realme's proprietary charging protocol. Using a standard USB-PD charger will still charge the phone, but potentially at a slower rate.
