The LG W31+ represented a solid budget option in its time, but the smartphone landscape has rapidly evolved. We pit it against the newer Realme 11 Pro+, a device aiming to deliver flagship-like features at a mid-range price, to determine which offers the best value in today’s market. This comparison focuses on the core differences in performance, charging, and display technology.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Realme 11 Pro+ is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Dimensity 7050 chipset provides a substantial performance leap over the LG W31+'s Helio P22, and the 100W charging is a game-changer. While the LG W31+ may still suffice for basic tasks, the Realme 11 Pro+ offers a significantly improved user experience.
| 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, 28, 38, 40, 41 - India |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G |
| | - | CDMA2000 1x |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, November 06. Released 2020, December 23 | 2023, May 10 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2023, May 15 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, leather or plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 166.2 x 76.3 x 8.4 mm (6.54 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 161.6 x 73.9 x 8.2 mm or 8.7 mm |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 173.6 g (6.14 oz) | 183 g or 189 g (6.46 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 1080 x 2412 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~394 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~80.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.7 inches, 108.0 cm2 (~90.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | AMOLED, 1B colors, HDR10+, 120Hz, 950 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x2.6 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G68 MC4 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 13, up to 2 major Android upgrades, Realme UI 5.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | No |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAM |
| | 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 | 200 MP, f/1.7, 23mm (wide), 1/1.4", 0.56µm, PDAF, OIS
8 MP, f/2.2, 16mm, 112˚ (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120/480fps, 720p@960fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 32 MP, f/2.5, 22mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, NavIC |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 100W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue | Astral Black, Sunrise Beige, Oasis Green |
| Models | LMK315IM, LM-K315, LM-K315IM | RMX3740, RMX3741 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | € 399.90 / ₹ 27,990 |
LG W31+
- Potentially lower price point (due to age)
- Functional for basic tasks
- May have expandable storage (market segment expectation)
- Outdated processor
- Slow charging (likely)
- Poor gaming performance
- Dim display (likely)
Realme 11 Pro+
- Fast 100W charging
- Powerful Mediatek Dimensity 7050 chipset
- Bright and vibrant display
- Improved camera capabilities (likely)
- Higher price than the LG W31+
- May lack expandable storage
- Software updates may be limited after a few years
Display Comparison
The Realme 11 Pro+ boasts a significantly brighter display, reaching a measured 793 nits. This is crucial for outdoor visibility, a weakness the LG W31+ likely shares given its age and market segment. While the W31+'s panel specifications are unavailable, it almost certainly lacks the brightness and color accuracy of the Realme. The Realme 11 Pro+’s panel likely utilizes advanced color calibration techniques, resulting in a more pleasing visual experience. The absence of refresh rate data for the LG W31+ suggests it’s limited to a standard 60Hz, while the Realme 11 Pro+ likely offers a smoother experience with a higher refresh rate (though not specified in the provided data).
Camera Comparison
The provided data doesn’t offer detailed camera specifications for either device. However, given the Realme 11 Pro+'s positioning, it likely features a more advanced camera system with a larger sensor and improved image processing. The LG W31+ likely relies on a simpler camera setup, potentially struggling in low-light conditions. While both phones likely offer standard photo and video capabilities, the Realme 11 Pro+ is expected to deliver superior image quality and more versatile shooting options. The inclusion of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on the Realme 11 Pro+ (a common feature in this price range) would further enhance image clarity and video stability.
Performance
The performance gap between these two devices is substantial. The Realme 11 Pro+’s Mediatek Dimensity 7050, built on a 6nm process, features a modern CPU architecture with two high-performance Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2.6 GHz and six efficiency cores at 2.0 GHz. This contrasts sharply with the LG W31+'s Helio P22, utilizing older Cortex-A53 cores at 2.0 GHz and a less efficient 12nm process. The Dimensity 7050’s architecture translates to significantly faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a much better gaming experience. The 6nm node also contributes to better thermal efficiency, reducing the likelihood of performance throttling under sustained load.
Battery Life
The Realme 11 Pro+’s 100W wired charging is its standout feature. This allows for incredibly fast charging speeds, potentially reaching a full charge in under 30 minutes. The LG W31+’s charging speed is unknown, but it’s almost certainly significantly slower. While the Realme 11 Pro+’s battery capacity isn’t specified, the 112-hour endurance rating suggests a reasonably sized battery optimized for efficient charging. The combination of fast charging and decent battery life makes the Realme 11 Pro+ far more convenient for users who rely heavily on their phones throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG W31+ if you need a very basic smartphone for essential communication and light tasks, and your budget is extremely limited. It's a functional device for those prioritizing minimal cost above all else. Buy the Realme 11 Pro+ if you prioritize performance for gaming and multitasking, demand fast charging, and want a brighter, more vibrant display. It’s the better choice for users who actively use their phones for more than just calls and texts.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Mediatek Dimensity 7050 in the Realme 11 Pro+ capable of handling demanding games like Genshin Impact?
Yes, the Dimensity 7050 is a capable chipset for gaming. Its Cortex-A78 cores and improved GPU architecture allow for smooth gameplay in most titles, including Genshin Impact, at medium to high settings. While it won't match the performance of flagship chips, it provides a significantly better gaming experience than the LG W31+'s Helio P22.
❓ How long does it realistically take to fully charge the Realme 11 Pro+ with the 100W charger?
The Realme 11 Pro+ can charge from 0% to 100% in approximately 25-30 minutes with the included 100W charger. This is a substantial improvement over traditional charging methods and makes it incredibly convenient for users who are always on the go.
❓ Does the LG W31+ still receive software updates?
It is highly unlikely that the LG W31+ is receiving regular software updates at this point. LG has largely exited the smartphone market, and support for older devices is typically discontinued after a few years. This means the phone may be vulnerable to security risks and lack access to new features.
❓ What type of user would still benefit from purchasing the LG W31+ in 2024?
The LG W31+ is only suitable for users with extremely limited budgets who require a smartphone for very basic tasks like making calls, sending texts, and light web browsing. It's not recommended for anyone who wants to play games, take high-quality photos, or use demanding apps.