Moto E7 vs Realme C11 (2021): A Deep Dive into Budget Smartphone Performance

The Motorola Moto E7 and Realme C11 (2021) represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at a minimal cost, but they take different approaches to achieving this. This comparison dissects their core components to determine which offers the best value for users prioritizing performance and efficiency.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user, the Motorola Moto E7 is the better choice. While both phones offer similar basic functionality, the Moto E7’s Mediatek Helio G25 chipset, built on a more modern 12nm process, provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Realme C11 (2021)'s older 28nm Unisoc SC9863A, translating to a smoother user experience.

PHONES
Phone Names Motorola Moto E7 Realme C11 (2021)
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - Europe, AsiaHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40, 41 - Europe1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41
SpeedHSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 MbpsHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41 - Asia-
Launch
Announced2020, November 24. Released 2020, December 092021, June 28
StatusDiscontinuedAvailable. Released 2021, June 28
Body
BuildGlass front, plastic frame, plastic backGlass front, plastic frame, plastic back
Dimensions164.9 x 75.7 x 8.9 mm (6.49 x 2.98 x 0.35 in)165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight180 g (6.35 oz)190 g (6.70 oz)
 Water-repellent coatingSplash resistant design
Display
Resolution720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)
Size6.5 inches, 102.8 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio)6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCDIPS LCD, 400 nits (typ)
Platform
CPUOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53)Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetMediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm)Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm)
GPUPowerVR GE8320IMG8322
OSAndroid 10Android 11, Realme Go UI
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM
 eMMC 5.1eMMC 5.1
Main Camera
Dual48 MP, f/1.7, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF 2 MP (macro)-
FeaturesLED flash, HDR, panoramaLED flash, HDR, panorama
Single-8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
FeaturesHDRHDR, panorama
Single5 MP, f/2.25 MP, f/2.2, (wide)
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack YesYes
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE4.2, A2DP
NFCNoNo
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEOGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS
RadioFM radioUnspecified
USBUSB Type-C 2.0microUSB 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/nWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Features
SensorsFingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximityAccelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging10W wired10W wired Reverse wired
TypeLi-Po 4000 mAh5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsMineral Gray, Aqua Blue, Satin CoralCool Blue, Cool Grey
Models-RMX3231
PriceAbout 110 EURAbout 80 EUR

Motorola Moto E7

  • More efficient processor (Helio G25)
  • Modern CPU architecture (Cortex-A53)
  • Potentially better battery life

  • Lacks reverse wired charging
  • Basic camera system

Realme C11 (2021)

  • Reverse wired charging capability
  • Affordable price point
  • Functional for basic tasks

  • Less efficient processor (Unisoc SC9863A)
  • Older CPU architecture (Cortex-A55)
  • Potentially slower performance

Display Comparison

Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price point. Detailed specs like resolution and brightness are unavailable, but the focus here is on internal components. The display quality will likely be similar, adequate for basic viewing but lacking vibrancy or sharpness compared to higher-end devices.

Camera Comparison

Camera performance is likely to be similar and unremarkable on both devices. Without detailed sensor information, it’s safe to assume both rely on basic sensors for capturing images. The Realme C11 (2021) may include a secondary depth sensor, but these are often of limited utility. Image processing will be basic on both, prioritizing speed over quality. Users shouldn't expect exceptional low-light performance or detailed images from either phone.

Performance

The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Moto E7’s Mediatek Helio G25 (12nm) utilizes a combination of Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz and 1.5 GHz. This is a more modern architecture than the Realme C11 (2021)’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm), which employs Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz. The 12nm fabrication process of the Helio G25 is significantly more efficient, leading to lower power consumption and potentially less thermal throttling. While both are octa-core CPUs, the newer architecture and smaller process node give the Moto E7 a clear advantage in sustained performance, particularly in multitasking and app loading times. The Unisoc chip's larger process node suggests it will generate more heat for the same workload.

Battery Life

Both phones feature 10W wired charging, indicating similar charging speeds. While battery capacity isn't specified, the Moto E7’s more efficient Helio G25 chipset will likely translate to slightly longer battery life under typical usage. The Realme C11 (2021) does offer reverse wired charging, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices, a feature the Moto E7 lacks. However, this convenience comes at the cost of overall efficiency.

Buying Guide

Buy the Motorola Moto E7 if you need a phone that feels responsive for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light messaging. Its more efficient processor will also contribute to slightly better battery life under moderate use. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you prioritize reverse wired charging – a feature absent on the Moto E7 – and are willing to accept a trade-off in processing power. It's a reasonable option for users who primarily need a basic calling and texting device.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Will the Unisoc SC9863A in the Realme C11 (2021) struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the Realme C11 (2021) can run these apps, the Unisoc SC9863A's older architecture and 28nm process may result in noticeable lag and slower loading times, especially when multitasking. The Moto E7’s Helio G25 will handle these apps more smoothly.
❓ Is the reverse charging feature on the Realme C11 (2021) useful for emergency situations?
Yes, the reverse charging feature can be a lifesaver if you need to top up another device, like a Bluetooth earbud or smartwatch, when a power outlet isn't available. However, the 10W charging speed is slow, so it's best suited for small devices and emergency situations.
❓ Can either of these phones handle basic mobile gaming?
Both phones can handle very basic 2D games. However, demanding 3D games will likely be unplayable or experience significant frame rate drops. The Helio G25 in the Moto E7 will offer a slightly better gaming experience, but don't expect high performance.