The Realme Narzo 30 and Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G represent compelling options in the sub-$200 smartphone segment. While both aim to deliver strong value, they take different approaches: the Narzo 30 prioritizes raw processing power with the Helio G95, while the Poco M3 Pro 5G focuses on 5G connectivity and a more efficient chipset in the Dimensity 700. This comparison dissects their strengths and weaknesses to determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G is the better choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset, built on a 7nm process, offers a more balanced experience with 5G connectivity, while the Narzo 30's Helio G95, though powerful, lacks 5G and is less efficient. The similar battery endurance ratings further solidify the M3 Pro 5G's advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, May 18 | 2021, May 19 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, May 20 | Available. Released 2021, May 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 162.3 x 75.4 x 9.4 mm (6.39 x 2.97 x 0.37 in) | 161.8 x 75.3 x 8.9 mm (6.37 x 2.96 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~405 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~405 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~83.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 580 nits (peak) | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 400 nits (typ), 500 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6785V/CD Helio G95 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 | Android 11, MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.1, (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, gyro-EIS | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | - |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.1, (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30/120fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 30W wired, 100% in 65 min | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Racing Blue, Racing Silver | Poco Yellow, Power Black, Cool Blue |
| Models | RMX2156 | M2103K19PG, M2103K19PI, M2103K19PY |
| Price | About 460 EUR | About 140 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.94 W/kg (head) 1.06 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.54 W/kg (head) 0.90 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life | - |
Endurance rating 121h
|
| Camera | - |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 1475:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
-27.9 LUFS (Good)
|
Realme Narzo 30
- Faster 30W charging for quicker top-ups.
- Potentially higher sustained CPU performance in benchmarks.
- May offer more vibrant image processing.
- Lacks 5G connectivity.
- Less efficient 12nm chipset leads to potential throttling.
- Likely lower GPU performance for gaming.
Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G
- Integrated 5G modem for future-proof connectivity.
- More efficient 7nm Dimensity 700 chipset.
- Brighter display for better outdoor visibility.
- Slower 18W charging.
- Slightly lower CPU clock speed.
- May have a more natural (less vibrant) image processing style.
Display Comparison
Both the Realme Narzo 30 and Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G share a contrast ratio of 1475:1, suggesting similar visual pop. However, the Poco M3 Pro 5G boasts a measured peak brightness of 536 nits, providing a noticeably brighter viewing experience, especially outdoors. While neither phone specifies panel technology (IPS vs AMOLED), the brightness difference is a key differentiator. Bezels are likely comparable given the price point, and color accuracy is expected to be standard for this segment.
Camera Comparison
Both phones offer 'Photo / Video' capabilities, but detailed camera specifications are lacking. Without sensor size or aperture information, a direct comparison is difficult. However, given the market segment, it’s safe to assume both rely on primary sensors around 48MP. The image processing style will likely differ – Realme often leans towards vibrant, saturated colors, while Xiaomi tends towards a more natural look. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely inconsequential due to its limited resolution and image quality.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Poco M3 Pro 5G’s Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) offers a more modern architecture and superior efficiency compared to the Realme Narzo 30’s Mediatek Helio G95 (12nm). While the Narzo 30’s CPU clocks slightly higher (2.05 GHz vs 2.2 GHz on the Poco), the Dimensity 700’s 7nm process allows for sustained performance without significant throttling. The Dimensity 700 also integrates a 5G modem, a feature absent in the Narzo 30. Both utilize an octa-core configuration with the same Cortex-A76 and A55 core arrangement, but the Dimensity 700’s GPU is more capable for modern gaming.
Battery Life
Both devices achieve an endurance rating of 121 hours, indicating comparable real-world battery life despite differing battery capacities (not specified). However, the Poco M3 Pro 5G’s 18W charging is significantly slower than the Narzo 30’s 30W charging, taking approximately 65 minutes to reach 100% on the Narzo 30. This faster charging is a significant convenience factor for users who frequently need to top up their battery quickly. The Dimensity 700’s efficiency helps offset the slower charging speed.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme Narzo 30 if you prioritize maximum CPU performance for demanding tasks and don't require 5G connectivity. This phone is ideal for users who frequently edit photos/videos or play graphically intensive games and are willing to trade battery efficiency for raw power. Buy the Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G if you value 5G access, a more efficient processor, and a balanced overall experience. This is the better choice for everyday users, streaming enthusiasts, and those looking for future-proof connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Mediatek Dimensity 700 in the Poco M3 Pro 5G support all 5G bands?
While the Dimensity 700 supports a wide range of 5G bands, compatibility varies by region and carrier. It's crucial to check with your mobile carrier to ensure the Poco M3 Pro 5G is compatible with their 5G network before purchasing.
❓ Is the 30W charging on the Realme Narzo 30 compatible with Power Delivery (PD) chargers?
Realme typically uses its own proprietary charging standards, even with 30W charging. While it *might* work with some PD chargers, it's best to use the included charger to ensure optimal charging speed and safety. Using a non-compatible charger could result in slower charging or potential damage.
❓ How does the Helio G95 handle graphically demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
The Helio G95 can run PUBG Mobile at high settings, but you may experience some frame drops and throttling during extended gaming sessions due to its less efficient 12nm process. The Poco M3 Pro 5G's Dimensity 700 will likely offer a smoother, more consistent gaming experience.
❓ What is the typical screen-on time I can expect from the Poco M3 Pro 5G with moderate usage?
With moderate usage (social media, browsing, occasional video streaming), you can realistically expect around 6-8 hours of screen-on time from the Poco M3 Pro 5G. Heavy gaming or prolonged 5G usage will reduce this figure.
