The Realme 7i and LG W31 represent compelling options in the sub-$150 smartphone market. While both aim to deliver essential features at an accessible price, they diverge significantly in their core hardware. This comparison dissects these differences, focusing on performance, battery life, and camera capabilities to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme 7i emerges as the superior choice. Its Helio G85 chipset, featuring more powerful Cortex-A75 cores, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the LG W31’s Helio P22, particularly in gaming and multitasking. The inclusion of 18W charging is a significant convenience advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, November 06. Released 2020, December 23 | 2020, December 22. Released 2020, December 23 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 166.2 x 76.3 x 8.4 mm (6.54 x 3.00 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 + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 173.6 g (6.14 oz) | 208 g (7.34 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~80.9% 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 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Triple | 13 MP, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.12µm, PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | 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 | 8 MP, (wide) | 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 | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue | Glory Silver, Victory Blue |
| Models | LMK315IM, LM-K315, LM-K315IM | - |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 190 EUR |
LG W31
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- May offer longer standby time (depending on battery capacity)
- Significantly weaker performance due to Helio P22 chipset
- Slower charging speeds
- Likely inferior camera performance
Realme 7i (Global)
- Superior performance with Helio G85 chipset
- Faster 18W wired charging
- 5W reverse wired charging capability
- Likely better camera performance
- Potentially higher price
- May have slightly shorter standby time (depending on battery capacity)
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both utilize 12nm chipsets, suggesting similar power constraints impacting display capabilities. While specific display specs (resolution, panel type) are missing for the LG W31, it’s reasonable to assume a basic IPS LCD panel. The Realme 7i’s display details are also absent, but given its market segment, a similar IPS LCD is expected. The lack of high refresh rates or advanced features like HDR on either device means display quality won’t be a deciding factor for most buyers.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications beyond the presence of cameras, a direct comparison is difficult. However, the Realme 7i’s brand positioning suggests a greater emphasis on camera capabilities. Realme typically equips its devices with larger sensors and more sophisticated image processing algorithms. The LG W31, positioned as a more basic device, likely features a more modest camera setup. The absence of OIS on either device suggests image stabilization will rely primarily on software processing. It’s safe to assume the Realme 7i will deliver more detailed and vibrant photos, particularly in good lighting conditions.
Performance
The Realme 7i’s Helio G85 chipset is the clear winner here. The Helio G85 utilizes a combination of two 2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 cores and six 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, a significant architectural upgrade over the LG W31’s Helio P22, which relies solely on eight 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. The A75 cores offer substantially higher single-core performance, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. While both are 12nm chips, the G85’s core configuration provides a tangible advantage in CPU-intensive tasks. The Realme 7i is better suited for gaming, even at moderate settings, while the LG W31 will likely struggle with demanding titles.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, the Realme 7i’s inclusion of 18W wired charging is a major advantage. This allows for significantly faster charging times compared to the standard 10W or 15W charging typically found in this price segment. While a larger battery capacity on the LG W31 could offset the slower charging, the convenience of quickly topping up the Realme 7i is a significant benefit for users on the go. The Realme 7i also features 5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices – a feature absent on the LG W31.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG W31 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 moderate gaming, smoother multitasking, and appreciate the convenience of faster charging. It’s the better option for users who demand more from their smartphone.
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 capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile at medium settings with acceptable frame rates. While it won’t deliver a flagship gaming experience, it provides a playable experience for casual gamers. The LG W31’s Helio P22 will struggle with these titles, likely requiring significant compromises in graphics settings.
❓ Does the Realme 7i support fast charging protocols beyond 18W, like Quick Charge or Power Delivery?
While the Realme 7i supports 18W charging out of the box, it also supports various charging protocols including Quick Charge and Power Delivery. However, to take full advantage of these protocols, you’ll need a compatible charger. The included charger is rated for 18W.
❓ Is the LG W31 a good option for elderly users who primarily need a phone for calls and texts?
Yes, the LG W31 is a suitable option for users with basic needs. Its simpler interface and potentially lower price point make it an accessible choice for those who primarily use a phone for calls, texts, and occasional photos. However, its limited performance may be noticeable even with basic tasks if many apps are open simultaneously.
