The Realme Narzo 50i and Samsung Galaxy A04e represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at the lowest possible cost, but they take different approaches to achieving this. This comparison dissects their core specifications to determine which device offers the best value for users prioritizing affordability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a slightly more responsive experience, the Samsung Galaxy A04e emerges as the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio P35 chipset, with its faster core clock speeds, provides a noticeable performance edge over the Realme Narzo 50i’s 1.6GHz octa-core processor, despite both being entry-level options.
| 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, October 21 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2022, November 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 188 g (6.63 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 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 12, One UI Core 4.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| 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 | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Mint Green | Black, Copper, Light Blue |
| Models | RMX3235 | SM-A042F, SM-A042F/DS, SM-A042M, SM-A042M/DS |
| Price | About 90 EUR | ₹ 7,999 |
| SAR EU | - | 0.29 W/kg (head) 1.11 W/kg (body) |
Realme Narzo 50i
- Reverse wired charging offers added utility.
- Potentially lower price point.
- Simple and straightforward user experience.
- Slower processor compared to the A04e.
- Likely less refined software experience.
- Potentially lower performance in demanding apps.
Samsung Galaxy A04e
- Faster processor (Helio P35) for smoother performance.
- Samsung’s software optimization for a better user experience.
- Potentially better color accuracy on the display.
- Lacks reverse wired charging.
- May be slightly more expensive than the Narzo 50i.
- Basic camera system.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature LCD panels, typical for this price point. Without specific resolution or brightness data, it's difficult to definitively declare a winner. However, Samsung generally employs better color calibration even on its budget devices, suggesting a potentially more pleasant viewing experience on the A04e. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, minimizing screen real estate.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic camera setups. Without sensor size or aperture information, a detailed comparison is limited. It’s safe to assume both will include a primary camera and potentially a depth sensor. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely inconsequential due to its limited resolution and image quality. Image processing will likely be more refined on the Samsung Galaxy A04e, leveraging Samsung’s software expertise, but the overall camera experience will remain basic.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy A04e’s Mediatek Helio P35 (12nm) chipset is the key differentiator. Its octa-core configuration, split between 4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 cores, offers a significant clock speed advantage over the Realme Narzo 50i’s 1.6 GHz octa-core processor. The 12nm process node of the Helio P35 also suggests slightly improved power efficiency compared to an unspecified node for the Narzo 50i’s processor. This translates to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking on the A04e, particularly noticeable when switching between applications.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given the entry-level chipsets, both should offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. The Realme Narzo 50i’s inclusion of reverse wired charging is a unique feature, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices. The Samsung Galaxy A04e lacks this functionality. Without knowing charging wattage, it’s difficult to compare 0-100% charging times, but both will likely utilize slower charging speeds.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme Narzo 50i if you prioritize reverse wired charging for topping up accessories and are comfortable with a more basic user experience. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A04e if you prefer a chipset designed for slightly more demanding tasks, even if it means sacrificing the reverse charging feature. The A04e is better suited for users who occasionally browse social media or play light games.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Mediatek Helio P35 in the Galaxy A04e get noticeably hot during extended use?
The Helio P35 is a relatively power-efficient chipset. While it may warm up during prolonged gaming or video playback, it's unlikely to experience significant overheating issues. The 12nm process node contributes to better thermal management compared to older, larger node chipsets.
❓ Is the Realme Narzo 50i's reverse charging feature useful for more than just earbuds?
Yes, the reverse wired charging can be used to top up other smartphones, power banks, or any device that charges via USB. However, the charging speed will be limited by the Narzo 50i's output capabilities and the receiving device's charging requirements. It's best suited for emergency top-ups rather than full charges.
❓ Can either of these phones handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
Both phones will struggle to deliver a smooth gaming experience in PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile at high settings. They may be able to run the games at the lowest graphics settings and frame rates, but expect noticeable lag and frame drops. The Galaxy A04e's Helio P35 will offer a slightly better experience than the Narzo 50i.
