Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The Realme C30s and C33 2023 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering essential features at attractive prices. But which one delivers the best value for your money?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C33 2023 edges out the C30s thanks to its significantly more powerful chipset and improved performance. While both offer basic functionality, the C33 2023 provides a smoother user experience and better multitasking capabilities, making it the slightly better choice overall.
| 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 | 2022, September 14 | 2023, March 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 23 | Available. Released 2023, March 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 75.7 x 8.5 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 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 | 186 g (6.56 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 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 12, Realme UI Go | Android 12, Realme UI S |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, (wide), 1/5.0", 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 | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Stripe Blue, Stripe Black | Sandy Gold, Aqua Blue, Night Sea |
| Models | RMX3690 | RMX3627 |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 110 EUR |
Realme C30s
- Very affordable
- Decent battery life
- Lightweight and compact
- Slow performance
- Basic camera
- Limited features
Realme C33 2023
- Improved performance
- Slightly better camera processing
- More responsive user experience
- Still a budget phone
- Slow charging
- Design may not appeal to everyone
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar LCD displays, probably around 6.5 inches with an HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles and color accuracy for the price point, but don't anticipate flagship-level display quality. The C33 2023 might have a slightly brighter display, but this is speculative without official data.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely similar, with both phones probably featuring a 50MP main camera and a depth sensor. Image quality will be adequate in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The C33 2023's more powerful processor *might* allow for slightly better image processing, but the difference will likely be minimal.
Performance
This is where the C33 2023 shines. Its Unisoc Tiger T612 chipset with dual Cortex-A75 cores offers a substantial performance boost over the C30s' Cortex-A55-only CPU. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and better overall responsiveness on the C33 2023. The C30s will feel sluggish by comparison, especially when multitasking.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. Charging speeds are identical at 10W, so expect relatively slow charging times. Battery optimization will play a larger role in real-world battery performance.
Buying Guide
The Realme C30s is ideal for users who prioritize simplicity and affordability above all else, primarily needing a phone for basic calling, texting, and occasional social media browsing. The Realme C33 2023 is better suited for those who want a slightly more responsive phone for light gaming, multitasking, and a generally smoother experience without spending a lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme C30s good for gaming?
The Realme C30s is not ideal for gaming. Its processor struggles with even basic games, resulting in lag and stuttering. The C33 2023 offers a slightly better gaming experience, but it's still limited to less demanding titles.
❓ How long does the battery last on each phone?
Both phones offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. Expect around 8-10 hours of screen-on time. Heavy users may need to charge before the end of the day.
