Looking for a budget-friendly smartphone? The Realme C2 2020 and C25Y are popular contenders. But which one offers the best value for your money? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their specs, performance, and features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C25Y edges out the C2 2020 thanks to its more modern chipset (Unisoc T610), faster charging (18W), and generally improved performance. While the C2 2020 remains a budget option, the C25Y provides a better overall experience.
| 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 | 2019, November. Released 2019, November | 2021, September 16 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, September 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 154.3 x 73.7 x 8.5 mm (6.07 x 2.90 x 0.33 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 | 166 g (5.86 oz) | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.1 inches, 91.3 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 420 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), ColorOS 6 Lite | Android 11, Realme UI R |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.0, 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, 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 | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | 4000 mAh, non-removable | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Diamond Black, Diamond Blue | Glacier Blue, Metal Gray |
| Models | - | RMX3265, RMX3268, RMX3269 |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 140 EUR |
Realme C2 2020
- Very Affordable
- Large Battery
- Decent for Basic Tasks
- Outdated Chipset
- Slow Charging
- Mediocre Camera
Realme C25Y
- Better Performance (Unisoc T610)
- Faster Charging (18W)
- Improved Camera
- More Modern Design
- Slightly More Expensive
- Still a Budget Phone
Display Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 6.5-inch HD+ IPS LCD display. While the resolution is similar, the C25Y might offer slightly better color accuracy and viewing angles due to potential panel improvements. However, neither phone excels in display quality compared to higher-end devices.
Camera Comparison
The Realme C2 2020 usually has a dual rear camera setup (13MP + 2MP depth sensor) and a 5MP front camera. The C25Y typically features a triple rear camera setup (13MP + 2MP depth sensor + 2MP macro) and an 8MP front camera. While megapixels aren't everything, the C25Y's additional macro lens and potentially improved image processing algorithms give it a slight edge in camera versatility and quality.
Performance
This is where the C25Y shines. The Unisoc T610, with its dual Cortex-A75 cores, offers a noticeable performance boost over the Helio P22's all-Cortex-A53 configuration. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user experience on the C25Y. Gaming performance will also be better on the C25Y.
Battery Life
Both phones typically pack a 5000mAh battery, offering excellent all-day battery life. However, the C25Y's 18W fast charging support is a significant advantage, allowing for quicker top-ups compared to the C2 2020's slower charging speeds.
Buying Guide
The Realme C2 2020 is a good choice for users on the absolute tightest budget who prioritize affordability above all else. The Realme C25Y is ideal for those seeking a slightly better performing phone with faster charging and a more modern processor, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme C25Y worth the extra money compared to the C2 2020?
Yes, the C25Y's improved performance, faster charging, and slightly better camera make it a worthwhile upgrade if your budget allows.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Realme C25Y is significantly better for gaming due to its more powerful chipset.
