Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The Realme C21Y and the newer Realme 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.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C33 2023 edges out the C21Y thanks to its slightly improved chipset and potentially better camera capabilities (though both are budget-focused). However, the C21Y's reverse charging feature is a unique selling point. Ultimately, the C33 2023 provides a more modern 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 | 2021, June 21 | 2023, March 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 02 | Available. Released 2023, March 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 76 x 9.1 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.36 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 | 200 g (7.05 oz) | 187 g (6.60 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 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 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 Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MP2 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 10/ Android 11 | Android 12, Realme UI S |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 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 | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cross Black, Cross Blue | Sandy Gold, Aqua Blue, Night Sea |
| Models | RMX3261, RMX3263 | RMX3627 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 110 EUR |
Realme C21Y
- Reverse wired charging
- Affordable price
- Decent battery life
- Reliable performance for basic tasks
- Older chipset
- Limited camera capabilities
- HD+ display quality
- Slower charging speed
Realme C33 2023
- Slightly improved chipset (T612)
- Potentially better camera (50MP main)
- Modern design
- Good battery life
- Still a budget phone
- Limited performance for demanding games
- 10W charging speed
- HD+ display quality
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar LCD displays, probably around 6.5 inches with an HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles but limited color accuracy. The C33 2023 might have a slightly brighter display, but this is not confirmed without specific testing.
Camera Comparison
The C21Y typically features a 13MP main camera, while the C33 2023 may have a slightly improved 50MP main camera. Both likely include macro and depth sensors. Image quality will be adequate for casual snapshots in good lighting, but low-light performance will be limited. The C33 2023's higher resolution sensor *could* offer slightly more detail.
Performance
While both utilize Unisoc chipsets with the same core configuration, the Tiger T612 in the C33 2023 is generally considered a minor upgrade over the T610. This translates to slightly smoother multitasking and potentially better gaming performance, though neither phone is a powerhouse.
Battery Life
Both phones likely pack a 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life for moderate users. The C21Y has reverse wired charging, which is a useful feature for topping up other devices. The C33 2023 has 10W charging, which is standard for this price range.
Buying Guide
The Realme C21Y is a good choice for users prioritizing reverse charging and a slightly lower price point. The Realme C33 2023 is better suited for those seeking a slightly more powerful processor and potentially improved camera performance, even within the budget category.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme C33 2023 worth the upgrade from the C21Y?
If you prioritize slightly better performance and a potentially improved camera, then yes. However, the C21Y's reverse charging is a unique feature to consider.
❓ What kind of games can I play on these phones?
Both phones are best suited for casual games and less demanding titles. Don't expect to run high-end games smoothly.
