Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely compromise on features? The Realme Narzo 50i and Narzo 50i Prime are both contenders in the budget segment, but which one offers the best value? We'll break down the key differences to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Narzo 50i Prime generally edges out the Narzo 50i thanks to its more powerful Unisoc chipset, offering a noticeable performance boost. While both are budget phones, the Prime's improved processor makes it a better choice for smoother multitasking and slightly better gaming, despite similar battery life.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 24 | 2022, June 22 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2022, June 27 |
| 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) | 164.1 x 75.6 x 8.5 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 182 g (6.42 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 (~82.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 11, Realme UI Go |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@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, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| 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, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Mint Green | Dark Blue, Mint Green |
| Models | RMX3235 | RMX3506 |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Realme Narzo 50i
- Reverse wired charging
- Large 6.6-inch display
- Decent battery life
- Less powerful processor
- Basic camera performance
- HD+ resolution
Realme Narzo 50i Prime
- More powerful Unisoc T612 chipset
- Improved performance
- Large 6.6-inch display
- Decent battery life
- Basic camera performance
- HD+ resolution
- 10W charging speed
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.6-inch HD+ IPS LCD display, offering a decent viewing experience for media consumption. Color accuracy and brightness are typical for this price range, with neither phone excelling in this area. The resolution is adequate for everyday use, but don't expect stunning visuals.
Camera Comparison
The Narzo 50i typically features a 13MP main camera with AI capabilities, while the Narzo 50i Prime often has a 13MP main camera as well. Image quality is comparable in well-lit conditions, but both struggle in low light. Video recording capabilities are basic on both devices.
Performance
This is where the Narzo 50i Prime takes a clear lead. The Unisoc Tiger T612 chipset with its dual Cortex-A75 cores provides a significant performance upgrade over the Narzo 50i's older, less efficient CPU. Expect smoother app launches, faster multitasking, and slightly better gaming performance on the Prime.
Battery Life
Both phones typically pack a 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life for moderate users. Charging speeds are similar, around 10W wired charging, and both offer reverse wired charging, a handy feature for topping up accessories.
Buying Guide
The Realme Narzo 50i is a good option for users prioritizing basic functionality and reverse charging. The Narzo 50i Prime is ideal for those seeking a slightly more responsive experience, better performance for everyday tasks, and a more modern chipset, even within a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Realme Narzo 50i Prime worth the extra money?
Yes, if performance is a priority. The Unisoc T612 offers a noticeable improvement over the Narzo 50i's processor, making it a better choice for multitasking and gaming.
❓ 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.
