The Realme C11 and Tecno Spark Go 2021 represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting first-time buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at the lowest possible price, but significant differences in processing power and architecture dictate which phone offers the better experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and multitasking, the Realme C11 is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Helio G35 chipset, with its octa-core configuration, provides a substantial performance advantage over the Tecno Spark Go 2021’s quad-core processor, making it better suited for everyday tasks and light gaming.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, June 30. Released 2020, July 07 | 2021, July 01 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, July 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.47 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) | 165.6 x 76.3 x 9.1 mm (6.52 x 3.00 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 196 g (6.91 oz) | 193 g (6.81 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~264 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 103.7 cm2 (~83.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 480 nits |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Quad-core 1.8 GHz |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | - |
| OS | Android 10, Realme UI | Android 10 (Go edition), HiOS 6.2 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/1.8, AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 27mm (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | 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 |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Mint Green, Pepper Grey | Maldives Blue, Horizon Orange, Galaxy Blue |
| Models | RMX2185 | - |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Realme C11
- Significantly faster processor for smoother performance
- Octa-core CPU enables better multitasking
- 10W charging, while slow, is a standard feature
- Slow 10W charging speed
- Basic camera system
Tecno Spark Go 2021
- Extremely affordable price point
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Potentially longer battery life with minimal usage
- Slow quad-core processor limits performance
- Poor multitasking capabilities
- Likely limited software updates
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the lack of detailed display specifications for either phone, we can assume both utilize basic LCD panels. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but on functionality. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. Color accuracy and brightness will likely be average, suitable for indoor use but potentially washed out in direct sunlight.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be basic. Without detailed sensor information, it’s safe to assume both feature low-resolution primary sensors. The absence of details regarding Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) or advanced image processing suggests image quality will be heavily reliant on good lighting conditions. Any secondary cameras (often 2MP macro or depth sensors) are unlikely to provide significant value. The Realme C11 may have a slight edge if it utilizes a more modern image signal processor (ISP) integrated within the Helio G35 chipset.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Realme C11’s Mediatek Helio G35 is an octa-core processor built on a 12nm process, featuring four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and another four at 1.8 GHz. This contrasts sharply with the Tecno Spark Go 2021’s quad-core 1.8 GHz CPU. The Helio G35’s higher core count and clock speeds translate to significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user experience. While neither chipset is a gaming powerhouse, the G35 will handle less demanding titles with greater ease. The 12nm process also suggests slightly better power efficiency compared to potentially older, larger-node manufacturing processes used in the Tecno.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature batteries in the 5000mAh range, typical for this price segment. However, the Realme C11’s 10W wired charging is a limiting factor. While 5000mAh provides good endurance, the slow charging speed means topping up the battery will take a considerable amount of time. The Tecno Spark Go 2021’s charging speed is unspecified, but likely similar. Battery life will largely depend on usage patterns, but both phones should comfortably last a full day with moderate use.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme C11 if you need a phone capable of handling more than just basic calling and texting – social media, light web browsing, and occasional gaming will be noticeably smoother. Buy the Tecno Spark Go 2021 if your primary need is a very affordable device for essential communication and you prioritize simplicity over performance, and are willing to accept slower app loading times and limited multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C11 handle popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Realme C11’s Helio G35 processor is capable of running social media apps without significant lag. While it won’t offer the same experience as a flagship device, basic scrolling, photo uploads, and video playback should be reasonably smooth.
❓ Is the Tecno Spark Go 2021 suitable for video calls?
The Tecno Spark Go 2021 can handle video calls, but the experience may be less reliable due to its slower processor. Expect potential delays in app loading and occasional stuttering during the call, especially if other apps are running in the background.
❓ Can I play games on either of these phones?
Both phones can play games, but only less demanding titles. The Realme C11 is better suited for light gaming due to its more powerful processor, but don't expect to run graphically intensive games at high settings. The Tecno Spark Go 2021 will struggle with even moderately demanding games.
❓ What Android version do these phones run?
Both devices likely ship with Android Go Edition, a lightweight version of Android designed for phones with limited processing power and storage. This helps ensure a smoother experience on these entry-level devices.
