Realme's V and Q series consistently deliver compelling value in the budget smartphone space. Both the V23i and Q3i 5G are powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 700, targeting users seeking affordable 5G connectivity. However, a key differentiator lies in their charging capabilities, making this a crucial comparison for users prioritizing convenience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Realme Q3i 5G is the better choice. While both phones share the same Dimensity 700 chipset, the Q3i 5G’s 18W charging significantly reduces downtime compared to the V23i’s slower 10W charging, offering a more practical daily experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G |
| | - | CDMA2000 1x |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, August 25 | 2021, April 22 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August 25 | Available. Released 2021, April 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | - |
| Dimensions | 163.8 x 75.1 x 8.1 mm (6.45 x 2.96 x 0.32 in) | 162.5 x 74.8 x 8.5 mm (6.40 x 2.94 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 185 g (6.53 oz) | 185 g (6.53 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~405 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 104.2 cm2 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~83.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits |
| 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 Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, ColorOS 12 | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.1, 26mm (wide) |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.1, 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 | Yes | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | Yes | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | No | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue | Supersonic Blue, Supersonic Black |
| Models | RMX2163C | RMX3042 |
| Price | About 270 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Realme V23i
- Potentially lower price point
- Same Dimensity 700 performance as Q3i 5G
- Functional 5G connectivity
- Significantly slower 10W charging
- Likely basic display quality
- Limited camera capabilities (based on market segment)
Realme Q3i 5G
- Faster 18W charging for reduced downtime
- Same Dimensity 700 performance as V23i
- More convenient daily use
- Potentially higher price than V23i
- Likely basic display quality
- Limited camera capabilities (based on market segment)
Display Comparison
Both the Realme V23i and Q3i 5G likely feature similar LCD panels, typical for this price segment. Specific details like resolution and refresh rate are not provided, but we can assume a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The lack of information prevents a detailed comparison of color accuracy or peak brightness, but the focus here isn't on display quality, given the budget nature of these devices.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications are not detailed enough to draw significant conclusions. Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the absence of sensor size or aperture information makes it difficult to assess image quality. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device is unlikely to provide substantial photographic value; these sensors often lack the detail and dynamic range needed for compelling macro shots. Image processing algorithms will play a larger role in differentiating the camera experience.
Performance
Both devices are equipped with the Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU configuration with 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This means performance will be virtually identical for everyday tasks and even moderate gaming. The Dimensity 700 provides a solid 5G experience, but thermal throttling could become a factor during extended, demanding gaming sessions. RAM configurations are not specified, but adequate RAM is crucial for multitasking; a minimum of 4GB is recommended for a smooth experience.
Battery Life
The key difference lies in the charging capabilities. The Realme Q3i 5G supports 18W wired charging, while the V23i is limited to 10W. This translates to a significantly faster charging time for the Q3i 5G. While battery capacity isn't specified, the faster charging speed will allow users to top up their device more quickly, reducing downtime. A 10W charger will take considerably longer to reach 100% compared to an 18W charger, impacting daily usability.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme V23i if you are on an extremely tight budget and can tolerate slower charging speeds. It’s a functional 5G device for basic tasks. Buy the Realme Q3i 5G if you value faster charging and a slightly more convenient user experience. The extra charging speed is worth the potential price difference for those who frequently use their phones throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How much faster is the 18W charging on the Realme Q3i 5G compared to the 10W charging on the V23i?
While exact charging times depend on battery capacity (which isn't specified), 18W charging will typically reduce the 0-100% charge time by at least 30-50% compared to 10W. This means you'll spend significantly less time tethered to a wall charger with the Q3i 5G.
❓ Will I notice a performance difference between the Realme V23i and Q3i 5G when playing games?
No, you shouldn't notice a performance difference. Both phones utilize the same Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset and CPU configuration. However, prolonged gaming may lead to thermal throttling, potentially causing slight performance dips on both devices.
❓ Are both phones capable of using 5G networks in the US?
The Realme V23i and Q3i 5G support 5G, but compatibility with US carriers is not guaranteed. These phones are primarily designed for Asian markets and may not support all 5G bands used in the US. Check carrier compatibility before purchasing.
