Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The Realme C11 (2021) and C21Y are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a range of features at attractive price points. But which one is the better choice for you?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C21Y edges out the C11 (2021) thanks to its significantly more powerful chipset and improved efficiency. While both offer decent value, the C21Y's performance boost makes it the preferable option for smoother multitasking and a better overall user experience.
| 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, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June 28 | 2021, June 21 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, June 28 | Available. Released 2021, July 02 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 164.5 x 76 x 9.1 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| | 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 (~81.6% 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 (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 10/ Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | HDR, panorama |
| 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, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired
Reverse wired | Reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cool Blue, Cool Grey | Cross Black, Cross Blue |
| Models | RMX3231 | RMX3261, RMX3263 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Realme C11 (2021)
- Large display
- Affordable price
- Reverse wired charging
- Weak performance
- Outdated chipset
- Basic camera
Realme C21Y
- Better performance
- More efficient chipset
- Improved camera processing
- Reverse wired charging
- Slightly higher price (potentially)
- Design may be less appealing to some
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1600 x 720 (HD+). Expect similar viewing experiences, though the C21Y's more efficient chipset *might* lead to slightly better color accuracy and brightness management. The C11 (2021) may have slightly thicker bezels.
Camera Comparison
The C21Y typically features a 13MP main camera with AI capabilities, alongside a depth sensor. The C11 (2021) also has a 13MP main camera, but image processing and overall quality are likely to be better on the C21Y due to the more powerful processor. Both likely have a front-facing camera around 5MP.
Performance
This is where the C21Y shines. The Unisoc T610 chipset (12nm) is a substantial upgrade over the C11 (2021)'s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The C21Y's Cortex-A75 cores provide a noticeable performance boost for demanding apps and multitasking. The C11 (2021) will feel sluggish by comparison.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life under moderate usage. The C21Y's more efficient chipset should translate to slightly better battery endurance.
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 C21Y is better suited for those who need a more responsive phone for social media, casual gaming, and everyday tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme C11 (2021) good for gaming?
The Realme C11 (2021) is not ideal for gaming. Its chipset struggles with even basic games, resulting in lag and stuttering. The C21Y offers a significantly better gaming experience.
❓ Which phone has better software support?
Realme typically provides software updates for a reasonable period. However, both phones are likely to receive updates for a similar timeframe, focusing on security patches rather than major Android version upgrades.
