The Realme C3 and the vivo Y11 (2023) represent the fiercely competitive entry-level smartphone market. Both aim to deliver essential features at an accessible price point, but they diverge significantly in their internal hardware. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on performance, camera capabilities, and overall value to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and occasional gaming, the Realme C3 emerges as the stronger choice. Its Mediatek Helio G70 chipset offers a noticeable performance advantage over the vivo Y11’s Helio P35, making it better suited for multitasking and demanding applications. However, the Y11 remains a viable option for basic usage.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - Global | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/75 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 38, 40, 41 - India | CDMA2000 1x |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, February 19. Released 2020, February 20 | 2023, April 01 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2023, April 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75 x 9 mm (6.47 x 2.95 x 0.35 in) | 164 x 75.6 x 8.5 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 186 g (6.56 oz) |
| | Weather-sealed ports & loudspeaker | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | - |
| 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 (~82.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.7 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769V/CB Helio G70 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 2EEMC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10, Realme UI | Android 12, OriginOS Ocean |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Triple | 12 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 1/2.8", 1.25µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired
Reverse wired | 10W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Frozen Blue, Blazing Red | Cosmic Grey, Orchid Blue |
| Models | - | V2236A |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 120 EUR |
Realme C3 (3 cameras)
- Superior processor (Helio G70) for smoother performance
- Reverse wired charging for accessory top-ups
- Potentially more versatile camera system
- May be slightly more expensive than the vivo Y11
- Likely similar display quality to the vivo Y11
vivo Y11 (2023)
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Adequate for basic smartphone tasks
- Significantly weaker processor (Helio P35)
- Slower reverse wired charging (5W)
- Less capable camera system
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, common in this price bracket. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but on functionality. Without specific display specs, we can assume similar resolutions and brightness levels. The Realme C3’s slightly larger form factor *may* translate to a marginally more immersive viewing experience, but this is speculative. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both models.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature multiple camera setups, but the Realme C3’s three cameras likely offer more versatility than the vivo Y11’s two. While the exact sensor details are unknown, the presence of a third camera on the C3 suggests features like depth sensing or a dedicated macro lens. However, it’s crucial to note that 2MP macro lenses are often of limited practical use. The Helio G70’s image signal processor (ISP) is also likely more capable than the P35’s, potentially leading to better image processing and low-light performance. Without specific aperture and sensor size data, it’s difficult to definitively declare a winner, but the C3’s chipset advantage gives it an edge.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme C3’s Mediatek Helio G70, built on a 12nm process, features an octa-core configuration with 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6x1.7 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This architecture prioritizes performance with the A75 cores. Conversely, the vivo Y11 (2023) utilizes the Helio P35, also 12nm, but with a less potent octa-core setup of 4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. The P35’s reliance solely on A53 cores results in lower single-core and multi-core performance. This translates to slower app loading times, less fluid animations, and a less responsive overall experience on the vivo Y11. The G70’s architecture is demonstrably better for gaming and multitasking.
Battery Life
Both devices offer 10W wired charging, a standard for this price range. The Realme C3 also includes reverse wired charging, a useful feature for topping up accessories. While battery capacity isn’t specified, both are likely in the 5000mAh range, typical for budget smartphones. The slightly more efficient Helio G70 in the Realme C3 *may* translate to marginally better battery life under heavy use, but real-world usage will be the deciding factor. The 5W reverse wired charging on the Y11 is slower than the C3's 10W, making it less convenient for quickly charging accessories.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme C3 (3 cameras) if you need a phone capable of handling more than just basic tasks, such as light gaming or running multiple apps simultaneously. Its superior processor provides a smoother user experience. Buy the vivo Y11 (2023) if you prioritize simplicity and are primarily looking for a device for calls, texts, and very light social media use, and want to save a few dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C3 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
The Realme C3’s Helio G70 chipset is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty, but likely at lower graphics settings and frame rates to maintain a playable experience. Expect medium settings for smoother gameplay. The vivo Y11’s Helio P35 will struggle with these titles.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge both phones from 0%?
With 10W charging, both phones will take approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours to fully charge from 0%. The charging time will vary depending on usage during charging and the charger used. The Y11's 5W reverse charging will take significantly longer to charge other devices.
❓ Is the camera quality on either phone good enough for social media posts?
Both phones can capture acceptable photos for social media in good lighting conditions. However, the Realme C3 is likely to produce more detailed and vibrant images due to its more powerful chipset and potentially better camera sensors. Low-light performance will be limited on both devices.
❓ Does the Realme C3 support fast charging?
No, the Realme C3 only supports 10W wired charging. While not 'fast charging' in the modern sense, it's standard for this price point. The vivo Y11 also only supports 10W charging.
