The mid-range Android tablet space is fiercely competitive, and the Realme Pad 2 and Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 both aim for the sweet spot of affordability and functionality. Interestingly, both devices are powered by the same MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, leading to a head-to-head battle where software, ecosystem features, and subtle design choices become the deciding factors.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a clean software experience and potential for faster updates, the Realme Pad 2 edges out the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2. While performance is virtually identical due to the shared Helio G99, Realme's UI and reverse charging capability offer a slight advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, July 19 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, August 01 | Available. Released 2023, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 268.2 x 168.5 x 7.2 mm (10.56 x 6.63 x 0.28 in) | 269.1 x 169.4 x 7.4 mm (10.59 x 6.67 x 0.29 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 518 g (1.14 lb) | 520 g (1.15 lb) |
| | - | Stylus support |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~203 ppi density) | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~203 ppi density) |
| Size | 11.5 inches, 376.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 11.5 inches, 376.4 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 1B colors, 120Hz, 450 nits (peak) | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 13 or Android 14, Realme UI 4 | Android 12L |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 13 MP, f/2.4, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS - cellular model only | GPS, GLONASS, BDS - cellular model only |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG, magnetic connector |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 33W wired
Reverse wired | - |
| Type | 8360 mAh | Li-Po 7700 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gray, Green | Storm Grey, Sage |
| Models | - | TB350FU |
| Price | About 220 EUR | About 350 EUR |
Realme Pad 2
- Faster 33W charging for quicker top-ups.
- Reverse wired charging adds versatility.
- Potentially cleaner software experience with Realme UI.
- Long-term software support is uncertain.
- LCD panel may lack vibrancy compared to OLED alternatives.
Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2
- Lenovo's established ecosystem of accessories.
- Potentially more robust build quality (based on brand reputation).
- May offer more consistent software updates (depending on region).
- Slower charging speeds compared to the Realme Pad 2.
- Lenovo's software can include bloatware.
Display Comparison
Both the Realme Pad 2 and Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 utilize LCD panels, a common choice in this price bracket. While specific screen resolutions and sizes aren't provided, the shared chipset suggests similar graphical capabilities. The absence of high refresh rate panels (90Hz or 120Hz) is expected, focusing instead on power efficiency. Color accuracy and peak brightness will likely be comparable, making them suitable for media consumption but potentially lacking vibrancy for professional photo or video editing. Bezels are likely to be similar, contributing to a standard tablet aesthetic.
Camera Comparison
Given the focus on affordability, camera performance isn't a primary strength of either tablet. Details regarding sensor sizes and lens apertures are missing. It's reasonable to expect both tablets to feature a basic rear camera setup suitable for casual snapshots and video calls. The inclusion of a secondary ultra-wide or macro lens is likely minimal in impact, and image processing will prioritize speed over quality. The front-facing camera will be crucial for video conferencing, but specifics are unavailable.
Performance
The core of both tablets is the MediaTek Helio G99 (6 nm) paired with an Octa-core CPU configuration (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55). This means CPU performance will be nearly indistinguishable between the two. The 6nm process node offers a good balance of power and efficiency, capable of handling everyday tasks, streaming, and light gaming. However, sustained performance under heavy load will depend on the thermal design of each tablet, a detail not provided. RAM configurations (LPDDR4x or LPDDR5) are unknown, but faster RAM would provide a slight edge in multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are absent, but the Helio G99's efficiency suggests reasonable battery life for both devices. The Realme Pad 2's 33W wired charging is a notable advantage over what Lenovo typically offers in this segment. The inclusion of reverse wired charging on the Realme Pad 2 is a unique feature, allowing it to act as a power bank for smartphones or other accessories. 0-100% charging times will vary depending on battery size, but the Realme Pad 2 will likely be significantly faster.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme Pad 2 if you need a tablet with a streamlined Android experience, appreciate the convenience of reverse wired charging for topping up accessories, and value a potentially quicker software update cycle. Buy the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 if you prefer Lenovo's established ecosystem of accessories, or if you find a significantly better deal that outweighs the software advantages of the Realme Pad 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio G99 handle demanding games like Genshin Impact on these tablets?
While the Helio G99 is capable, Genshin Impact will likely require low to medium graphics settings for a playable experience. Expect some frame drops during intense scenes. These tablets are better suited for less demanding games and casual gaming.
❓ Does the Realme Pad 2 receive regular software updates and security patches?
Realme's software update track record is improving, but it's not as consistent as Lenovo in some regions. Expect at least one major Android version update, but long-term security patch support is less certain. Check Realme's official website for the latest update information.
❓ Can I use a stylus with either the Realme Pad 2 or Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2?
Neither tablet officially supports a stylus out of the box. While you might be able to use a generic capacitive stylus, it won't offer the pressure sensitivity or advanced features found on tablets designed for stylus input.
❓ Is the reverse charging feature on the Realme Pad 2 useful in real-world scenarios?
Yes, reverse charging can be surprisingly useful for topping up your smartphone, wireless earbuds, or other small accessories when you're away from a power outlet. It's a convenient feature for travelers or anyone who frequently uses multiple devices.
