The Realme C series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. Two popular contenders are the Realme C25Y and the Realme C25s. But which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their specs, performance, and more to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C25s edges out the C25Y thanks to its superior Helio G85 chipset, offering noticeably better performance for gaming and everyday tasks. While both offer decent battery life and cameras, the C25s's 5W reverse charging adds extra utility. It's a worthwhile upgrade if performance matters.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 16 | 2021, June 08 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 30 | Available. Released 2021, June 09 |
| 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 75.9 x 9.6 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 200 g (7.05 oz) | 209 g (7.37 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 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 420 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 570 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MP2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI R | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 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 | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF (International model)
or
13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF (India model)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 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 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Glacier Blue, Metal Gray | Water Blue, Water Gray |
| Models | RMX3265, RMX3268, RMX3269 | RMX3195, RMX3197 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 180 EUR |
Realme C25Y
- More affordable
- Decent battery life
- Sufficient for basic tasks
- Weaker processor
- Less smooth performance
- No reverse charging
Realme C25s
- Better performance (Helio G85)
- 5W reverse charging
- Slightly better camera processing
- Slightly more expensive
- Still a budget phone - don't expect flagship performance
Display Comparison
Both phones 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, the C25s might offer slightly better color accuracy due to its more powerful chipset allowing for better image processing. Viewing angles and brightness are comparable.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature a similar camera setup: a 50MP main camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. Image quality is generally decent in good lighting conditions. The C25s's more powerful processor may allow for slightly better image processing and low-light performance, but the difference is not substantial. The front-facing camera is typically 8MP on both models.
Performance
This is where the C25s shines. The Mediatek Helio G85 chipset is significantly more powerful than the Unisoc T610. Expect smoother app loading, faster multitasking, and a better gaming experience on the C25s. The C25Y can handle basic tasks adequately, but will struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both devices pack a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. However, the C25s has a slight advantage with its 5W reverse charging capability, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices.
Buying Guide
The Realme C25Y is a good choice for users prioritizing affordability and basic functionality. It's ideal for those primarily using their phone for calls, texts, and light social media. The Realme C25s is better suited for users who want a smoother experience, especially for gaming or multitasking, and appreciate the added convenience of reverse charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme C25s worth the extra money?
If you value performance and want a smoother experience, especially for gaming or multitasking, then yes, the C25s is worth the extra cost. The Helio G85 chipset makes a noticeable difference.
❓ Can the Realme C25Y handle gaming?
The Realme C25Y can handle very light games, but you'll likely experience lag and low frame rates in more demanding titles. The C25s is a much better choice for gaming.
