The Realme C33 and its 2023 iteration are both contenders in the budget smartphone arena. Both offer a compelling package for those seeking affordability, but are there significant differences that make one a better choice? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Surprisingly, the Realme C33 and C33 2023 are virtually identical in terms of core specs like chipset and charging. The 2023 model *might* offer slight software improvements or regional variations in availability. Ultimately, the best choice depends on price and current deals.
| 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 | 2023, March 14 | 2022, September 06 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, March 14 | Available. Released 2022, September 12 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 75.7 x 8.3 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 | 187 g (6.60 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, 400 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 Tiger T612 (12 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 12, Realme UI S | Android 12, Realme UI S |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 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, f/2.2, 27mm (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 | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sandy Gold, Aqua Blue, Night Sea | Sandy Gold, Aqua Blue, Night Sea |
| Models | RMX3627 | RMX3624 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 110 EUR |
Realme C33 2023
- Potentially updated software
- Large 6.5-inch display
- Decent battery life
- Affordable price
- Slow 10W charging
- Unisoc T612 chipset performance limitations
- Basic camera capabilities
Realme C33
- Large 6.5-inch display
- Decent battery life
- Affordable price
- 90Hz refresh rate
- Slow 10W charging
- Unisoc T612 chipset performance limitations
- Basic camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of color accuracy and brightness, though real-world brightness may vary slightly depending on ambient lighting. The bezels are relatively thin, contributing to an immersive feel.
Camera Comparison
The Realme C33 boasts a 50MP main camera and a 2MP monochrome sensor. The C33 2023 retains this same camera setup. Image quality is acceptable in well-lit conditions, but struggles in low light. Video recording capabilities are limited to 1080p at 30fps. The front-facing camera is a 8MP unit on both devices.
Performance
Powered by the Unisoc Tiger T612 chipset, performance is consistent across both devices. Expect adequate performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Don't expect flagship-level speeds; this is a budget processor. Multitasking with several apps open simultaneously might result in some slowdowns.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. The 10W wired charging is a significant drawback, as it takes a considerable amount of time to fully charge the battery. Expect around 2-3 hours for a full charge.
Buying Guide
The Realme C33 2023 is ideal for budget-conscious users prioritizing a large display and decent battery life. The original Realme C33 is a great option if you find it at a significantly lower price, as the core hardware remains the same. Both are suitable for basic tasks, social media, and casual photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are the Realme C33 and C33 2023 the same phone?
Essentially, yes. The core hardware is identical. The 2023 model may have minor software updates or regional availability differences.
❓ What is the battery life like on these phones?
You can expect all-day battery life with moderate usage thanks to the 5000mAh battery. However, the 10W charging is slow.
