Both the Realme Q3 5G and Oppo A74 5G target the increasingly competitive budget 5G market. While both offer next-generation connectivity at an accessible price point, they diverge significantly in their core hardware. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on performance, charging, and overall user experience to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme Q3 5G emerges as the stronger contender. Its Snapdragon 750G chipset delivers noticeably better performance than the Oppo A74 5G’s Snapdragon 480, making it a superior choice for gaming and demanding applications. While the Oppo A74 5G offers a more conservative approach, the Realme Q3 5G’s faster charging and processing power justify its slight price premium.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 |
| 5G bands | 1, 28, 41, 78 SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | CDMA2000 1x | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, April 22 | 2021, April 05 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, April 29 | Available. Released 2021, April 13 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 162.5 x 74.8 x 8.8 mm (6.40 x 2.94 x 0.35 in) | 162.9 x 74.7 x 8.4 mm (6.41 x 2.94 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 189 g (6.67 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~405 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~405 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~83.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~83.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (peak) | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 480 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 460 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 460) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) | Qualcomm SM4350 Snapdragon 480 5G (8 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 619 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 | Android 11, ColorOS 11.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.1 (single lane) |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama |
| Quad | - | 48 MP, f/1.7, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 119˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.1, 26mm (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
8 MP, f/2.3, 16mm, 119˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) | - |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps; gyro-EIS | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | Panorama |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.1, 26mm (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | - | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 30W wired, 100% in 63 min | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver | Fluid Black, Space Silver |
| Models | RMX3161 | CPH2197, CPH2263 |
| Price | About 170 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Realme Q3 5G
- Faster Snapdragon 750G processor for better performance
- 30W fast charging for quicker top-ups
- Potentially superior image processing due to the ISP
- May have a less refined software experience compared to Oppo
- Potentially less optimized battery life due to higher performance
Oppo A74 5G
- More balanced power consumption for potentially longer battery life
- Oppo’s ColorOS is known for its user-friendly interface
- Generally more affordable
- Slower Snapdragon 480 processor limits performance
- 18W charging is significantly slower
- Image quality may be lower, especially in low light
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, a common cost-saving measure in this segment. While specific details like peak brightness and color gamut coverage are unavailable, the focus here is on functionality rather than visual fidelity. Bezels are expected to be moderate on both, prioritizing affordability over an immersive edge-to-edge experience. The Realme Q3 5G may have a slight edge if it incorporates a higher refresh rate, though this is unconfirmed.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, a direct camera comparison is difficult. However, the chipset plays a role. The Snapdragon 750G in the Realme Q3 5G includes a more capable Image Signal Processor (ISP), enabling better image processing, noise reduction, and dynamic range. While both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, the Realme Q3 5G is expected to deliver superior image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The Oppo A74 5G will likely rely more heavily on software processing to compensate for a potentially less capable sensor.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme Q3 5G’s Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) features an octa-core configuration with 2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 cores and 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570 cores. This is a significant step up from the Oppo A74 5G’s Snapdragon 480 5G (8 nm) with its 2x2.0 GHz Kryo 460 cores and 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 460 cores. The higher clock speeds and more advanced core architecture of the 750G translate to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive gaming experience. While both use 8nm fabrication, the 750G’s architecture is more efficient for sustained performance. The Realme Q3 5G will handle graphically intensive games with higher frame rates and fewer stutters.
Battery Life
The Realme Q3 5G’s 30W wired charging is a clear advantage over the Oppo A74 5G’s 18W charging. The Realme Q3 5G can reach 100% charge in approximately 63 minutes, while the Oppo A74 5G will take considerably longer. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging speed of the Realme Q3 5G mitigates any potential disadvantage from a slightly smaller battery. Users who prioritize quick top-ups will strongly favor the Realme Q3 5G.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme Q3 5G if you prioritize performance and fast charging, and frequently engage in mobile gaming or resource-intensive tasks. You'll benefit from the Snapdragon 750G's superior processing capabilities. Buy the Oppo A74 5G if you prefer a more balanced, energy-efficient experience and aren't heavily reliant on demanding applications. Its Snapdragon 480 is sufficient for everyday tasks and offers good battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 480 in the Oppo A74 5G struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
Yes, the Snapdragon 480 is an entry-level 5G chipset. While it can run PUBG Mobile, you'll likely need to lower graphics settings and accept lower frame rates for a smooth experience. The Realme Q3 5G’s Snapdragon 750G will provide a significantly better gaming experience with higher settings and more consistent performance.
❓ How much faster is the 30W charging on the Realme Q3 5G compared to the 18W charging on the Oppo A74 5G in real-world use?
The Realme Q3 5G can charge from 0-100% in around 63 minutes. The Oppo A74 5G, with its 18W charging, will likely take over 2 hours to achieve a full charge. This difference is substantial and makes the Realme Q3 5G a much more convenient option for users who frequently need to top up their battery quickly.
❓ Does the Realme Q3 5G overheat during prolonged gaming sessions?
The Snapdragon 750G is relatively efficient, and the Realme Q3 5G is expected to manage thermals reasonably well. However, prolonged gaming will inevitably generate heat. The device may experience some throttling to prevent overheating, but it should still maintain playable frame rates. The Oppo A74 5G, with its less powerful chipset, is less likely to overheat but also offers lower peak performance.
