Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The Realme C11 (2021) and Realme C20A are both contenders in the budget segment, offering essential features at attractive prices. But which one delivers the better overall experience?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C20A edges out the C11 (2021) thanks to its more powerful chipset and slightly better performance. While both offer decent battery life and basic features, the C20A's Helio G35 provides a smoother user experience for everyday tasks and light gaming.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June 28 | 2021, May 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, June 28 | Available. Released 2021, May 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | Splash resistant design | Splash-resistant design |
| 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 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 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 | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired
Reverse wired | Reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cool Blue, Cool Grey | Iron Grey, Lake Blue |
| Models | RMX3231 | - |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Realme C11 (2021)
- Large 6.5-inch display
- Decent battery life
- Affordable price
- Reverse wired charging
- Underpowered chipset
- Sluggish performance
- Basic camera quality
Realme C20A
- More powerful Helio G35 chipset
- Smoother performance
- Decent battery life
- Reverse wired charging
- Basic camera quality
- Plastic build
- Limited storage options
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch HD+ display, offering adequate viewing angles and brightness for their price range. Color accuracy is typical for budget devices, leaning towards slightly oversaturated hues. The C11 (2021) might have a slightly better screen-to-body ratio due to its design, but the difference is minimal.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature a dual-camera setup on the rear. The C20A typically has a 13MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, while the C11 (2021) has a 13MP main sensor and a 2MP B&W sensor. Image quality is comparable in good lighting conditions, with decent detail and color reproduction. Low-light performance is underwhelming on both devices. The C20A's depth sensor might offer slightly better portrait mode results.
Performance
This is where the C20A shines. The Mediatek Helio G35 chipset (12nm) is significantly more powerful than the Unisoc SC9863A (28nm) in the C11 (2021). Expect smoother app launches, faster multitasking, and a more responsive user interface on the C20A. The C11 (2021) can feel sluggish at times, especially with multiple apps open.
Battery Life
Both phones pack a large 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. Reverse wired charging is available on both, allowing you to charge other devices. Battery performance is largely comparable, with both easily lasting a full day on a single charge.
Buying Guide
The Realme C11 (2021) is ideal for users prioritizing a large display and basic functionality for calls, texts, and light media consumption. The Realme C20A is a better choice for those needing a bit more processing power for multitasking, social media, and occasional gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Unisoc SC9863A and the Mediatek Helio G35?
The Mediatek Helio G35 is a significantly more powerful chipset than the Unisoc SC9863A, offering better performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.
❓ Can I expand the storage on either of these phones?
Yes, both the Realme C11 (2021) and Realme C20A support microSD card expansion, allowing you to increase the storage capacity.
