Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The Realme Narzo series is known for offering great value, and the Narzo 50A and Narzo 50i are two of their most accessible options. But which one should you choose? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme Narzo 50A is the clear winner for performance, boasting a significantly more powerful chipset and faster charging. However, the Narzo 50i remains a compelling option for those prioritizing affordability and basic functionality, making it a great entry-level device.
| 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 | 2021, September 24 | 2021, September 24 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2021, October 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.5 x 75.9 x 9.6 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.38 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 | 207 g (7.30 oz) | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| | - | Splash-resistant design |
| 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 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 570 nits (HBM) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core 1.6 GHz |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
5W reverse wired | Reverse wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Oxygen Blue, Oxygen Green | Carbon Black, Mint Green |
| Models | RMX3430 | RMX3235 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Realme Narzo 50A
- More powerful processor
- Faster charging (18W)
- Triple camera system
- Reverse wired charging
- Slightly more expensive than Narzo 50i
- Design may be less appealing to some
Realme Narzo 50i
- More affordable
- Long battery life
- Reverse wired charging (niche feature)
- Weaker processor
- Single camera system
- Slower charging
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1600 x 720 (HD+). While both offer a large screen for media consumption, the Narzo 50A might have slightly better color accuracy due to its more advanced chipset, but this is not definitively confirmed without detailed testing. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
The Narzo 50A typically features a triple camera setup (13MP main + 2MP depth + 2MP macro), while the Narzo 50i usually has a single 13MP main camera. The Narzo 50A's additional lenses allow for more versatile photography, including depth sensing for portrait mode and macro shots. Image quality on both will be decent in good lighting, but expect limitations in low-light conditions.
Performance
This is where the Narzo 50A shines. Its Mediatek Helio G85 chipset is considerably more powerful than the unspecified CPU in the Narzo 50i. The G85 offers better gaming performance and smoother multitasking. The Narzo 50i will handle basic tasks adequately, but expect noticeable slowdowns with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. The Narzo 50A has 18W wired charging, while the Narzo 50i offers reverse wired charging, which is a niche feature. The Narzo 50A's faster charging speeds give it an edge in convenience.
Buying Guide
The Realme Narzo 50A is ideal for users who need a bit more processing power for gaming or multitasking. It's a good choice for students or anyone on a tight budget who still wants a decent experience. The Realme Narzo 50i is perfect for first-time smartphone users or those who primarily need a device for calls, texts, and basic apps. It's a fantastic option for those prioritizing affordability above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme Narzo 50A worth the extra money?
If you value performance and camera versatility, the Narzo 50A is worth the investment. However, if you're on a very tight budget and only need basic functionality, the Narzo 50i is a solid choice.
❓ Can the Realme Narzo 50i handle gaming?
The Narzo 50i can handle very light games, but don't expect smooth performance with demanding titles. The Narzo 50A is significantly better suited for gaming.
