Looking for a budget-friendly smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The Realme Narzo series is known for offering great value, and the Narzo 50i and Narzo 50A are two popular contenders. But which one should you choose? This comprehensive comparison will break down the key differences to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Realme Narzo 50A is the clear winner, offering a significantly more powerful chipset (Helio G85) and faster charging. While the Narzo 50i is more affordable, the 50A's improved performance and features justify the slightly higher price 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 | 2021, September 24 | 2021, September 24 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2021, October 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 164.5 x 75.9 x 9.6 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 207 g (7.30 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 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 570 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 18W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Mint Green | Oxygen Blue, Oxygen Green |
| Models | RMX3235 | RMX3430 |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Realme Narzo 50i
- Very affordable
- Large 6000mAh battery
- Reverse wired charging
- Basic performance
- Slow charging
- Limited camera features
Realme Narzo 50A
- Better performance (Helio G85)
- Faster 18W charging
- Versatile triple-camera system
- Reverse wired charging
- Slightly more expensive
- Still a budget phone - not flagship performance
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch HD+ display, offering decent visuals for everyday use. However, the Narzo 50A might have slightly better color accuracy due to its more advanced chipset, though this difference is subtle. Screen brightness is comparable on both.
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 rear camera. The 50A's additional lenses offer more versatility, and the improved image processing capabilities of the Helio G85 chipset generally result in better image quality, especially in low light. Both phones have an 8MP front camera.
Performance
This is where the Narzo 50A shines. The Helio G85 chipset provides a substantial performance boost over the Narzo 50i's Octa-core processor. Expect smoother app loading, better multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience on the 50A. The 50i will struggle with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones pack a large 6000mAh battery, promising excellent battery life. However, the Narzo 50A's 18W fast charging support is a significant advantage over the Narzo 50i's standard charging, allowing for quicker top-ups.
Buying Guide
The Realme Narzo 50i is ideal for users on a very tight budget who primarily need a phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use. The Realme Narzo 50A is a better choice for those who want a smoother experience for gaming, multitasking, and general use, and appreciate faster charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme Narzo 50i good for gaming?
The Narzo 50i is suitable for very light gaming, but it will struggle with more demanding titles. The Narzo 50A is a much better choice for gaming due to its more powerful chipset.
❓ What is reverse wired charging?
Reverse wired charging allows you to use your phone to charge other devices, like earbuds or smartwatches, using a USB cable.
