The Realme C series is known for delivering affordable smartphones packed with essential features. The C21Y and C25Y are two popular contenders in this segment, but what sets them apart? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone best suits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C25Y edges out the C21Y thanks to its faster 18W charging. Both phones share the same Unisoc T610 chipset, but the C25Y's charging advantage makes it a more practical choice for everyday use, especially if you value quicker top-ups.
| 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 | 2021, June 21 | 2021, September 16 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 02 | Available. Released 2021, September 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 76 x 9.1 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.36 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 | 200 g (7.05 oz) | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 420 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MP2 | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 10/ Android 11 | Android 11, Realme UI R |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB 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 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 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, panorama | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 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 | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | 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 (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cross Black, Cross Blue | Glacier Blue, Metal Gray |
| Models | RMX3261, RMX3263 | RMX3265, RMX3268, RMX3269 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 140 EUR |
Realme C21Y
- Very affordable
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Decent display for the price
- Slow charging
- Unisoc T610 chipset can feel sluggish
- Camera quality is average
Realme C25Y
- Faster 18W charging
- Slightly better camera (48MP main)
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Good value for money
- Unisoc T610 chipset can feel sluggish
- Display quality is adequate but not exceptional
- Design is somewhat generic
Display Comparison
Both the Realme C21Y and C25Y typically feature a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels (HD+). While the panels are similar in size and resolution, slight variations in color accuracy and brightness may exist depending on the specific production batch. Expect decent viewing angles and adequate clarity for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
The Realme C21Y generally features a 13MP main camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The C25Y often includes a 48MP main camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The C25Y's higher resolution main camera *should* offer slightly better image quality, especially in well-lit conditions, though software processing plays a significant role. Both offer basic video recording capabilities.
Performance
Powered by the Unisoc T610 chipset, both phones offer similar performance for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Don't expect flagship-level speeds; these are entry-level devices. Multitasking with several apps open simultaneously might result in some lag.
Battery Life
Both phones typically come with a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. However, the Realme C25Y's 18W fast charging support is a significant advantage over the C21Y's standard charging, allowing for quicker top-ups.
Buying Guide
The Realme C21Y is a good option for users on a very tight budget who prioritize basic functionality and don't mind slower charging. The Realme C25Y is ideal for those who want a slightly better overall experience, particularly faster charging, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Unisoc T610 chipset good for gaming?
The Unisoc T610 is not ideal for demanding games. It can handle basic games at low settings, but you may experience lag and frame drops in more graphically intensive titles.
❓ What is the difference in camera quality between the two phones?
The Realme C25Y generally has a slightly better camera due to its higher resolution 48MP main sensor. However, both phones offer similar overall camera performance for casual photography.
