Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The Realme C12 and C33 2023 are both contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C33 2023 edges out the C12 thanks to its more modern chipset and slightly improved performance. While both offer decent battery life and basic features, the C33 2023's CPU provides a smoother user experience, making it the better overall choice for most users.
| 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, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, August 14. Released 2020, August 14 | 2023, March 14 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2023, March 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 75.9 x 9.8 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.39 in) | 164.2 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 209 g (7.37 oz) | 187 g (6.60 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~264 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 103.7 cm2 (~83.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 | Android 12, Realme UI S |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP B/W, f/2.4
2 MP, f/2.4 | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Marine Blue, Coral Red, Silver, Power Blue, Power Silver | Sandy Gold, Aqua Blue, Night Sea |
| Models | RMX2189 | RMX3627 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 110 EUR |
Realme C12
- Larger Display
- Excellent Battery Life
- Affordable Price
- Slower Performance
- Outdated Chipset
- Slow Charging
Realme C33 2023
- Better Performance
- More Modern Chipset
- Slightly Improved Camera
- Smaller Display (marginally)
- Still Slow Charging
- Slightly Higher Price
Display Comparison
The Realme C12 typically features a larger 6.5-inch display, often with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels. The Realme C33 2023 usually has a slightly smaller 6.51-inch display, also with a 1600 x 720 resolution. While the sizes are very close, the C12's slightly larger screen might be preferable for media consumption. Both offer adequate viewing angles and brightness for their price range.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a triple-camera setup on the rear, with a primary sensor around 13MP. The C33 2023 might have slightly improved image processing due to its newer chipset, resulting in marginally better photos in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance is likely to be similar on both devices. Front-facing cameras are generally around 8MP on both.
Performance
Here's where the C33 2023 takes a lead. The Unisoc Tiger T612 chipset, with its dual Cortex-A75 cores, offers a noticeable performance boost over the Helio G35's all-Cortex-A53 configuration. Expect smoother multitasking and app loading on the C33 2023. The C12 can feel sluggish at times, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both devices are known for their impressive battery life, typically packing a 5000mAh battery. Expect all-day battery life with moderate usage on either phone. Charging speeds are identical at 10W wired, which is relatively slow by today's standards.
Buying Guide
The Realme C12 is a good option for users prioritizing a large display and extended battery life on a very tight budget. The Realme C33 2023 is ideal for those seeking a slightly faster and more responsive experience, even if it means a smaller screen, and are willing to spend a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme C12 good for gaming?
The Realme C12's Helio G35 chipset is adequate for basic games, but don't expect high frame rates or smooth performance in demanding titles. The C33 2023 offers a better gaming experience.
❓ What is the difference between the Realme C12 and C33 2023?
The main difference lies in the chipset. The C33 2023 has a Unisoc Tiger T612, which provides better performance than the C12's Helio G35. The C33 2023 also often features a slightly more modern design.
