The Realme C series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with essential features. Choosing between the Realme C31 and C21Y can be tricky, as they share similarities but also have key differences. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone best suits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme C31 edges out the C21Y thanks to its slightly more powerful chipset and potentially better camera performance. However, the C21Y's reverse charging capability adds a unique convenience. Ultimately, the C31 offers a better overall experience 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 | 2022, March 25 | 2021, June 21 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, March 31 | Available. Released 2021, July 02 |
| 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) | 164.5 x 76 x 9.1 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 197 g (6.95 oz) | 200 g (7.05 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 (~81.6% 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 (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 | Android 10/ Android 11 |
| 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 | Unspecified |
| 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 | Reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Light Silver, Dark Green | Cross Black, Cross Blue |
| Models | RMX3501 | RMX3261, RMX3263 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Realme C31
- Slightly better performance (T612 chipset)
- Potentially improved camera quality
- Modern design
- No reverse charging
- 10W charging is relatively slow
Realme C21Y
- Reverse charging capability
- Sleek design
- Reliable battery life
- Slightly less powerful chipset (T610)
- Potentially lower camera quality
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1600 x 720 (HD+). Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of size and clarity. The C31 might have slightly improved color accuracy, but this is difficult to confirm without detailed testing.
Camera Comparison
The C31 is expected to have a slightly better camera system, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor. Both likely feature a combination of main, wide-angle, and macro lenses. Image quality will depend on software processing, but the C31's hardware advantage suggests potentially better results, especially in low light.
Performance
The Realme C31 boasts the Unisoc Tiger T612, a step up from the C21Y's T610. While both utilize an octa-core CPU with Cortex-A75 and Cortex-A55 cores, the T612 generally offers slightly better processing power and responsiveness for everyday tasks and light gaming. Expect smoother multitasking on the C31.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. The C21Y's reverse charging capability allows it to act as a power bank for other devices, a unique feature not found on the C31.
Buying Guide
The Realme C31 is ideal for users prioritizing a bit more performance and a potentially improved camera experience within a tight budget. The Realme C21Y is a great choice for those who value reverse charging for accessories and appreciate a slightly more streamlined design.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme C31 worth the extra money compared to the C21Y?
If you prioritize performance and camera quality, the C31 is likely worth the slight price difference. However, if reverse charging is a must-have feature, the C21Y remains a compelling option.
❓ Which phone has better gaming performance?
The Realme C31, with its Unisoc Tiger T612 chipset, will generally offer better gaming performance than the C21Y.
