Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The Realme Narzo 50i and Realme C11 (2021) are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a range of features at attractive price points. But which one reigns supreme?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme Narzo 50i generally edges out the C11 (2021) thanks to its slightly more modern processor and reverse charging capability. However, the C11 (2021) remains a solid option, particularly if you prioritize a larger battery and are on a tighter budget. It's a close call!
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 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, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 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 | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | Splash-resistant design | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 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 | 4.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Mint Green | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | RMX3235 | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Realme Narzo 50i
- Slightly better processor
- Reverse wired charging
- Modern design (potentially)
- Good value for money
- Camera performance could be better
- May lack some features found in higher-end phones
Realme C11 (2021)
- Large battery capacity
- Affordable price
- Decent camera for the price
- Reliable for basic tasks
- Older chipset
- Slower performance
- Less modern design
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1600 x 720 (HD+). While the Narzo 50i might have a slightly more modern panel, the difference in visual quality will be minimal for everyday use. Expect similar viewing angles and color accuracy in both devices.
Camera Comparison
The Realme C11 (2021) typically features a dual-camera setup (13MP main + 2MP depth sensor), while the Narzo 50i often has a single 13MP main camera. Image quality will be adequate for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions, but low-light performance will be a challenge on both phones. The C11's depth sensor might offer slightly better portrait mode results.
Performance
The Narzo 50i's Octa-core 1.6 GHz processor offers a slight advantage over the C11 (2021)'s Unisoc SC9863A. While both are entry-level chips, the Narzo 50i should handle basic apps and multitasking a bit more smoothly. Don't expect high-end gaming performance from either device.
Battery Life
The Realme C11 (2021) often boasts a larger battery capacity (typically 5000mAh) compared to the Narzo 50i (usually around 5000mAh as well). Expect all-day battery life from both devices with moderate usage. The C11 (2021) might have a slight edge in endurance.
Buying Guide
The Realme Narzo 50i is ideal for users who prioritize a bit more processing power for smoother multitasking and occasional gaming. The Realme C11 (2021) is a great choice for those primarily focused on basic tasks like calling, texting, and social media, and who value extended battery life above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Realme Narzo 50i has a slightly more powerful processor, making it a marginally better choice for casual gaming, although neither phone is designed for demanding titles.
❓ Can I use the Narzo 50i to charge other devices?
Yes, the Realme Narzo 50i supports reverse wired charging, allowing you to use it as a power bank for other devices.