The Realme V23i and Honor X8c represent compelling options in the crowded budget smartphone market. While both aim to deliver essential features at an accessible price point, they take distinctly different approaches to achieving this. The V23i leverages MediaTek's Dimensity 700, prioritizing 5G connectivity, while the X8c opts for Qualcomm's Snapdragon 685, focusing on efficiency and a faster charging experience. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing fast charging and sustained performance, the Honor X8c emerges as the better choice. Its Snapdragon 685, built on a more efficient 6nm process, coupled with 35W charging, provides a smoother user experience and quicker top-ups than the Realme V23i's Dimensity 700 and 10W charging.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, August 25 | 2025, January 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August 25 | Available. Released 2025, January 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back or silicone polymer back (eco leather) |
| Dimensions | 163.8 x 75.1 x 8.1 mm (6.45 x 2.96 x 0.32 in) | 161.1 x 74.6 x 7.1 mm (6.34 x 2.94 x 0.28 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 174 g (6.14 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 1080 x 2412 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~394 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 104.2 cm2 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.7 inches, 108.0 cm2 (~89.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | AMOLED, 120Hz, 1200 nits (HBM), 2800 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.8 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x1.9 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 685 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 610 |
| OS | Android 12, ColorOS 12 | Android 15, MagicOS 9 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | No |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 512GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 108 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide), 1/1.67", PDAF, OIS
5 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 50 MP, f/2.1, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0/5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | Yes | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, compass, proximity (ultrasonic) |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 35W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue | Marrs Green, Midnight Black, Moonlight White, Cloud Purple |
| Models | RMX2163C | ABR-LX1, ABR-LX2, ABR-LX3 |
| Price | About 270 EUR | € 190.78 / $ 213.42 / £ 159.00 |
Realme V23i
- Potentially faster peak CPU performance due to Cortex-A76 cores.
- 5G connectivity for future-proofed data speeds.
- Lower initial purchase price (likely).
- Significantly slower 10W charging.
- Less efficient 7nm chipset may lead to throttling.
- Potentially inferior image processing.
Honor X8c
- Faster and more efficient 6nm Snapdragon 685 chipset.
- 35W fast charging for quick top-ups.
- Better thermal management for sustained performance.
- May lack 5G connectivity.
- Potentially higher initial purchase price.
- Cortex-A73 cores are older architecture.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. While specific panel details (like peak brightness or color gamut coverage) are unavailable, the focus here is on core functionality. Both likely utilize LCD panels common in this price bracket. The absence of high refresh rates is expected. The real difference lies elsewhere.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup with a primary sensor and supporting lenses. However, the image processing capabilities of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon ISP are generally considered more refined than MediaTek’s equivalent, potentially leading to better image quality in the Honor X8c, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing gimmick and shouldn't heavily influence purchasing decisions.
Performance
The core of the distinction lies in the chipsets. The Realme V23i’s MediaTek Dimensity 700 (7nm) features a dual-cluster CPU configuration with 2x 2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 cores for performance and 6x 2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores for efficiency. The Honor X8c, however, utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 (6nm). While the Snapdragon 685 has a lower clock speed on its performance cores (4x 2.8 GHz Cortex-A73), its 6nm fabrication process offers superior power efficiency compared to the Dimensity 700’s 7nm node. This translates to less heat generation under sustained load and potentially better long-term performance. The Snapdragon 685’s architecture, while older, is optimized for efficiency, making it a better fit for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. The V23i's Cortex-A76 cores offer a theoretical performance edge, but the 6nm process of the X8c will likely close the gap in real-world usage.
Battery Life
The Honor X8c’s 35W wired charging is a significant advantage over the Realme V23i’s sluggish 10W charging. This difference in charging speed dramatically impacts the user experience. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging of the X8c mitigates any potential disadvantage from a slightly smaller battery. A full charge on the X8c will take significantly less time, offering greater convenience for users on the go.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme V23i if you absolutely need 5G connectivity on a tight budget and are willing to compromise on charging speed and sustained performance. It's a good option for users who primarily use their phone for basic tasks and occasional social media. Buy the Honor X8c if you prioritize a more responsive user experience, faster charging, and better thermal management, even if it means sacrificing the absolute lowest price point and 5G.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 685 in the Honor X8c struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Snapdragon 685 isn't a gaming powerhouse, it's capable of running PUBG Mobile at medium settings with acceptable frame rates. The 6nm process helps maintain thermal control, preventing significant throttling during extended gaming sessions. Expect a smoother experience than the Dimensity 700, which may exhibit more noticeable performance drops under sustained load.
❓ Is the 10W charging on the Realme V23i realistically usable in 2024?
10W charging is significantly slower than the industry standard, even for budget phones. Expect a full charge to take well over 3 hours, making it inconvenient for users who need a quick top-up. It's a major drawback of the V23i and a key reason to consider the Honor X8c.
❓ Does the Honor X8c support VoLTE and VoWiFi for improved call quality?
While not explicitly stated, Honor phones generally support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) in regions where these technologies are deployed by carriers. It's advisable to check compatibility with your specific carrier before purchasing.
❓ How does the Dimensity 700's 5G capability impact real-world speeds compared to 4G on the Honor X8c?
The benefit of 5G on the Realme V23i depends heavily on 5G network availability in your area. If 5G coverage is limited, the speed difference compared to the Honor X8c's 4G will be minimal. 5G offers significantly faster speeds when available, but its practical advantage is currently limited for many users.
