The Realme 7i and LG Q61 represent compelling options in the sub-$200 smartphone market. While both aim to deliver essential features at an accessible price, they diverge significantly in their internal hardware, particularly in the chipset department. This comparison dissects these differences to determine which device offers the best value for everyday use and light gaming.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme 7i emerges as the superior choice. Its Helio G85 chipset, featuring more modern CPU cores, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the LG Q61’s Helio P35, making it better suited for multitasking and gaming. The inclusion of 18W fast charging is another significant advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, May 21. Released 2020, May 29 | 2020, December 22. Released 2020, December 23 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 77.5 x 8.3 mm (6.48 x 3.05 x 0.33 in) | 164.5 x 75.9 x 9.8 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 208 g (7.34 oz) |
| | MIL-STD-810G compliant*
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 104.7 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ), 560 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 118˚, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | - |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.3, 16mm, 119˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 16 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | HTML, Adobe Flash | - |
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Stand-by | Up to 200 h | - |
| Talk time | Up to 8 h 20 min | - |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | White | Glory Silver, Victory Blue |
| Models | LM-Q630N | - |
| Price | About 270 EUR | About 190 EUR |
LG Q61
- Potentially more compact size for easier one-handed use.
- Simpler, less cluttered software experience (potentially).
- May be available at a slightly lower price point.
- Significantly weaker processor performance.
- Lacks fast charging.
- Likely inferior gaming performance.
Realme 7i (Global)
- More powerful Helio G85 chipset for smoother performance.
- 18W fast charging for quicker top-ups.
- Larger 5000mAh battery for extended usage.
- Better suited for gaming and multitasking.
- Larger size may not appeal to all users.
- Software experience may include more pre-installed apps.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both utilize LCD panels, and specific details like peak brightness and color gamut coverage are unavailable. However, the Realme 7i’s larger screen size (6.5 inches vs. 6.1 inches on the Q61) offers a more immersive viewing experience. Bezels are likely comparable given the price bracket, and both will likely lack high refresh rate technology. The Q61's smaller size may appeal to users who prefer a more pocketable device.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is difficult to assess without detailed sample images. Both phones likely feature a primary camera, but specifics regarding sensor size and aperture are missing. The Realme 7i’s marketing often emphasizes camera capabilities, suggesting a potentially more refined image processing pipeline. The LG Q61 likely relies on simpler algorithms. Given the price point, both will likely struggle in low-light conditions. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on the Realme 7i is largely a marketing gimmick and offers limited practical benefit.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme 7i’s Mediatek Helio G85 (12nm) is a significant upgrade over the LG Q61’s Helio P35 (12nm). The G85 features a dual-core Cortex-A75 setup clocked at 2.0 GHz alongside six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz, while the Q61 uses four Cortex-A53 cores at 2.3 GHz and four at 1.8 GHz. The A75 cores in the G85 offer substantially better single-core performance, crucial for app responsiveness. While the Q61’s A53 cores are clocked slightly higher, the architectural improvements in the G85’s cores provide a more noticeable real-world performance boost. The G85 also has a more capable GPU, making it better suited for gaming. Both devices likely feature similar RAM configurations, but the G85’s superior processing power will minimize bottlenecks.
Battery Life
The Realme 7i’s 18W wired charging is a clear advantage over the LG Q61, which lacks fast charging capabilities. While battery capacity isn’t specified for the Q61, the 7i packs a 5000mAh battery. This combination of large capacity and fast charging translates to significantly reduced downtime. The 7i can likely achieve a full charge in around 2 hours, while the Q61 will take considerably longer. The larger battery in the 7i also provides longer screen-on time for users who engage in media consumption or gaming.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG Q61 if you prioritize a simple, straightforward Android experience and are primarily focused on basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use. Its lower price point may also be attractive. Buy the Realme 7i (Global) if you want a phone capable of handling more demanding apps, enjoy occasional gaming, and appreciate the convenience of faster charging. It’s the better option for users who want a bit more future-proofing.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme 7i handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Realme 7i’s Helio G85 chipset is specifically designed for gaming. While it won’t deliver flagship-level performance, it can comfortably run PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings with playable frame rates. Expect some frame drops during intense action, but the overall experience should be enjoyable.
❓ How long will the Realme 7i’s 5000mAh battery last with moderate usage?
With moderate usage – including browsing, social media, and occasional video streaming – the Realme 7i’s 5000mAh battery should easily last a full day. Heavy users may still get through a day, but will likely need to top up the battery in the evening. The 18W fast charging ensures quick replenishment when needed.
❓ Is the LG Q61 a good option for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
Yes, the LG Q61 is a perfectly adequate choice for basic communication. Its Helio P35 chipset is sufficient for handling calls, texts, and simple apps. If your primary needs are limited to these functions, the Q61 offers a functional and affordable solution.
❓ Does the Realme 7i support reverse wired charging, and how useful is it?
Yes, the Realme 7i supports 5W reverse wired charging. While not particularly fast, it can be useful for topping up accessories like wireless earbuds or a smartwatch in a pinch. It's not a replacement for a dedicated power bank, but it's a convenient feature to have.
