The Realme 3i and LG W30 represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both devices aim to deliver essential features at an accessible price point, but they diverge significantly in their core processing power. This comparison dissects the key differences, focusing on how the chipset choices impact real-world performance and user experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme 3i emerges as the stronger choice. Its Helio P60 chipset, featuring Cortex-A73 cores, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the LG W30’s Helio P22, making it better suited for multitasking and moderately demanding applications. While both offer similar battery capacities, the Realme 3i’s 10W charging is a slight advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat12 600/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, June. Released 2019, July | 2019, July. Released 2019, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 159 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm (6.26 x 3.01 x 0.32 in) | 156.1 x 75.6 x 8.3 mm (6.15 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 175 g (6.17 oz) | 175 g (6.17 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~271 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.26 inches, 97.8 cm2 (~80.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.2 inches, 95.9 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6771 Helio P60 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G72 MP3 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/1.8, 1/3.1", 1.12µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Triple | 12 MP, (wide), 1/2.9", 1.25µm, PDAF
13 MP, 18mm (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 13 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable | 4230 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Thunder Blue, Platinum Grey, Aurora Green | Diamond Blue, Diamond Red, Diamond Black |
| Models | LMX440IM, LM-X440IM, LMX440ZM, LM-X440ZM | RMX1827 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 8000 INR |
| SAR | 0.82 W/kg (head) 0.32 W/kg (body) | - |
| Tests |
|---|
| Performance |
AnTuTu: 76697 (v7)
GeekBench: 3534 (v4.4)
GFXBench: 4.8fps (ES 3.1 onscreen) | - |
LG W30
- Potentially simpler software experience (depending on LG’s UI)
- May be available at a slightly lower price point
- Reliable basic functionality for essential tasks
- Significantly weaker processor performance
- Less responsive user experience
- Inferior multitasking capabilities
Realme 3i
- Faster and more responsive performance thanks to the Helio P60
- Better multitasking capabilities
- 10W charging offers a slight convenience advantage
- Realme UI can be somewhat bloated with pre-installed apps
- May be slightly more expensive than the LG W30
- Potentially less refined camera image processing (though still likely better than the W30)
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, common in this price bracket. Without specific display specs, it's difficult to assess color accuracy or brightness. However, the focus here is on performance, where the chipset differences are far more impactful than potential minor display variations. Bezels are expected to be relatively substantial on both models, reflecting their budget positioning.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications beyond the chipsets, a direct comparison is limited. Both phones likely feature a primary camera and potentially depth/macro sensors. However, image processing quality is heavily influenced by the ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the chipset. The Helio P60 in the Realme 3i generally offers a more capable ISP, potentially leading to better dynamic range and noise reduction in photos. The LG W30’s Helio P22 ISP is more basic, and image quality will likely be less refined. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is unlikely to significantly impact overall camera performance.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme 3i’s Mediatek Helio P60 (12nm) is a significant step up from the LG W30’s Helio P22 (12nm). The P60 utilizes a big.LITTLE architecture with four Cortex-A73 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz and four Cortex-A53 cores, also at 2.0 GHz. This contrasts with the W30’s eight Cortex-A53 cores at 2.0 GHz. The A73 cores in the P60 offer substantially higher single-core performance, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. While both are 12nm chips, the architectural advantage of the P60 is crucial. Users will experience noticeably faster performance on the Realme 3i, especially when switching between apps or running more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both devices likely feature similar battery capacities, typical for this price range (around 4000-5000 mAh, based on market segment). The Realme 3i includes 10W wired charging, while the LG W30’s charging speed is unspecified but likely similar. 10W charging isn’t fast by modern standards, but it’s a slight advantage for the Realme 3i, allowing for a marginally quicker top-up. Real-world battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but the more efficient Helio P60 in the Realme 3i may contribute to slightly longer runtimes under similar workloads.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG W30 if your primary needs are basic smartphone functionality – calls, texts, and light social media – and you prioritize a potentially simpler software experience. Buy the Realme 3i if you value smoother performance for everyday tasks, enjoy occasional gaming, or anticipate running multiple apps simultaneously. The Realme 3i is the better option for users who want a phone that feels more responsive and capable.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme 3i handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Realme 3i’s Helio P60 can run PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but likely at medium graphics settings and frame rates. Expect some occasional frame drops during intense action. The LG W30’s Helio P22 would struggle significantly with these titles, offering a less enjoyable gaming experience.
❓ Does the Realme 3i’s processor get hot during extended use?
The Helio P60 is a relatively efficient processor. While it will generate heat during prolonged gaming or demanding tasks, it’s unlikely to overheat significantly. Thermal throttling may occur, reducing performance slightly, but it shouldn’t lead to uncomfortable temperatures or system instability. The LG W30’s P22 will likely heat up less due to its lower performance ceiling.
❓ Is the difference in performance between the two phones noticeable in everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Yes, the difference is quite noticeable. The Realme 3i’s Helio P60 provides a smoother and more responsive experience when browsing the web, scrolling through social media feeds, and opening apps. The LG W30’s Helio P22 will feel comparatively sluggish, especially when multitasking.
