The Realme C series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. The C25Y and C33 are two recent additions, both targeting budget-conscious buyers. But which one offers the better value? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C25Y edges out the C33 thanks to its faster charging and slightly more powerful chipset. While the C33 boasts a refreshed design and potentially better camera software, the C25Y's overall performance and charging speed make it the more practical choice for most users.
| 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 | 2022, September 06 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 30 | Available. Released 2022, September 12 |
| 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, 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 Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MP2 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI R | Android 12, Realme UI S |
| 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, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, (wide), 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 | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 720p@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 | 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 | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Glacier Blue, Metal Gray | Sandy Gold, Aqua Blue, Night Sea |
| Models | RMX3265, RMX3268, RMX3269 | RMX3624 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 110 EUR |
Realme C25Y
- Faster 18W Charging
- Slightly better chipset performance
- Generally good battery life
- Reliable software support
- Design is a bit dated
- Camera performance can be inconsistent
Realme C33
- More modern design
- Potentially improved camera software
- Decent battery life
- Sleek appearance
- Slower 10W Charging
- Marginally less powerful chipset
- May receive fewer software updates
Display Comparison
Both phones feature similar display specs – typically a 6.5-inch LCD panel with an HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles and color accuracy for everyday use, but don't expect flagship-level vibrancy. The C33 might have a slightly more modern design that impacts perceived screen size and bezel reduction.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are generally similar, with both phones featuring a primary 50MP sensor. However, Realme's software processing can vary significantly. The C33 might benefit from newer image processing algorithms, potentially resulting in slightly better photos in certain lighting conditions. Expect decent image quality for social media and casual photography.
Performance
The C25Y utilizes the Unisoc T610, while the C33 uses the Unisoc Tiger T612. While both have the same core configuration, the T612 generally offers a marginal performance improvement, but it's unlikely to be noticeable in everyday tasks. The C25Y's slightly more mature chipset might have better software optimization.
Battery Life
The C25Y typically has a 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life. The C33 also features a 5000mAh battery. However, the C25Y supports 18W fast charging, while the C33 is limited to 10W charging. This is a significant difference in charging time.
Buying Guide
The Realme C25Y is ideal for users prioritizing performance and faster charging. It's a good option for those who multitask and want a smoother experience. The Realme C33 is better suited for users who value aesthetics and a slightly more modern design, and are less concerned about charging speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone has better gaming performance?
The Realme C25Y likely offers slightly better gaming performance due to its marginally more powerful chipset, although both phones are best suited for casual games.
❓ Is the Realme C33's design worth the trade-off in charging speed?
If aesthetics are a high priority and you don't mind slower charging, the C33's design might be worth it. However, the C25Y's faster charging is a significant advantage for most users.
