The Realme C series is known for offering impressive features at budget-friendly prices. The Realme C25Y and C21Y are two popular contenders in this space, both targeting users seeking affordability. But which one truly delivers the best value?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C25Y edges out the C21Y primarily due to its faster charging capabilities. While both share the same Unisoc T610 chipset, the C25Y's 18W charging offers a noticeable advantage. If reverse charging isn't a priority, the C25Y is the slightly better choice.
| 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, September 16 | 2021, June 21 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 30 | Available. Released 2021, July 02 |
| 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, 420 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 T610 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MP2 | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI R | Android 10/ Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB 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 | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 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, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@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 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| 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 | 18W wired | Reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Glacier Blue, Metal Gray | Cross Black, Cross Blue |
| Models | RMX3265, RMX3268, RMX3269 | RMX3261, RMX3263 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Realme C25Y
- Faster 18W Charging
- Potentially Slightly Better Camera
- Modern Design
- Good Battery Life
- Unisoc T610 Chipset (Limited Performance)
- HD+ Display (Not the Sharpest)
Realme C21Y
- Reverse Charging Capability
- Good Battery Life
- Potentially Lower Price
- Slower Charging
- Lower Resolution Main Camera
- Older Design
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels (HD+). Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of color accuracy and brightness, though the C25Y might have a slightly more modern panel. Neither phone excels in display quality, but they are adequate for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
The Realme C25Y typically features a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens, while the C21Y has a 13MP main camera, a 2MP monochrome sensor, and a 2MP macro lens. The C25Y's higher resolution main sensor should result in slightly better image quality, especially in well-lit conditions. Both offer decent front-facing cameras for selfies.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. Both devices are powered by the Unisoc T610 chipset, which is a decent performer for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Don't expect flagship-level performance; these phones are designed for efficiency rather than raw power. Expect some lag with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery, offering excellent all-day battery life. However, the C25Y supports 18W fast charging, while the C21Y offers reverse charging. This means the C25Y will charge significantly faster, while the C21Y can be used to charge other devices (albeit slowly).
Buying Guide
The Realme C25Y is ideal for users who prioritize faster charging and a slightly more modern design. The Realme C21Y is a good option for those who value reverse charging functionality and potentially a lower price point (depending on current deals).
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Unisoc T610 chipset good for gaming?
The Unisoc T610 is adequate for casual games, but don't expect to play demanding titles smoothly. It's best suited for basic usage and light gaming.
❓ What does reverse charging on the C21Y mean?
Reverse charging allows you to use the C21Y's battery to charge other devices, like earbuds or smartwatches, albeit at a slow rate.
