Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The Realme C31 and C21 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a range of features at attractive price points. But which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C21 edges out the C31 thanks to its slightly more powerful Helio G35 chipset, resulting in smoother performance for everyday tasks and gaming. While both offer decent battery life and cameras, the C21's overall performance makes it the better 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 - India |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, March 25 | 2021, March 05 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, March 31 | Available. Released 2021, March 05 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 76.1 x 8.4 mm (6.48 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 197 g (6.95 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Panda Glass | - |
| 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 (~81.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | 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 | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/2.2, 25mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 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, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Light Silver, Dark Green | Cross Black, Cross Blue |
| Models | RMX3501 | RMX3201 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 410 EUR |
Realme C31
- Modern design
- Larger screen (potentially)
- Slightly newer model
- Less powerful chipset
- Potentially slower performance
- 10W charging
Realme C21
- Better performance (Helio G35)
- Slightly better gaming
- Reverse wired charging
- Older design
- 10W charging
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1600 x 720 (HD+). While the C31 might have a slightly more modern panel, the difference in visual quality will be minimal. Expect similar viewing angles and color accuracy in both devices.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a triple-camera setup, with a primary sensor around 13MP. Expect similar camera performance in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance will likely be comparable, with both phones struggling to capture detailed images. The C21 might have slightly better image processing due to its chipset.
Performance
Here's where the C21 takes a slight lead. The MediaTek Helio G35 generally outperforms the Unisoc Tiger T612. The C21's CPU clock speeds are higher, and the G35 has a Mali-G52 GPU, offering a better gaming experience. The C31's T612 is adequate for basic tasks but may struggle with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both devices are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. Charging speeds are identical at 10W wired, so expect similar charging times.
Buying Guide
The Realme C31 is a good option for users prioritizing a modern design and a slightly larger screen. The Realme C21 is ideal for those seeking a more responsive experience and a bit more power for basic gaming and multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Realme C21 is generally better for gaming due to its more powerful Helio G35 chipset and Mali-G52 GPU.
❓ Do both phones have a fingerprint sensor?
Yes, both the Realme C31 and C21 typically include a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for added security.
❓ What is reverse wired charging?
Reverse wired charging allows you to use your phone to charge other devices, like earbuds or smartwatches, using a USB cable.
