The Samsung Galaxy A04 Core and Realme C30s 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. This comparison dissects their key specifications to determine which offers the best value for users prioritizing affordability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Samsung Galaxy A04 Core is the better choice. Its Exynos 850 chipset provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Realme C30s’ slower processor, making it more capable for everyday tasks and light multitasking. While the C30s offers a slightly simpler experience, the A04 Core’s processing power justifies the potentially small price difference.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | Not announced yet | 2022, September 14 |
| Status | Cancelled | Available. Released 2022, September 23 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | - | 164.2 x 75.7 x 8.5 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 186 g (6.56 oz) |
| 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 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 |
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | - |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12, Realme UI Go |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF | 8 MP, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Green, Rose Gold | Stripe Blue, Stripe Black |
| Models | - | RMX3690 |
| Price | - | About 100 EUR |
Samsung Galaxy A04 Core
- More powerful Exynos 850 chipset
- Potentially better image processing
- Samsung’s software optimization
- Charging speed likely similar to Realme C30s
- Display specifications are unknown
Realme C30s
- Simpler software experience
- Potentially longer battery life due to lower power consumption
- Very affordable price point
- Significantly slower processor
- Limited performance for multitasking
- Low-resolution macro camera offers minimal value
Display Comparison
Neither Samsung nor Realme provide display specifications beyond size. Given the price point, both likely utilize LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. The Realme C30s’ focus on simplicity suggests a more basic display implementation. The A04 Core, benefiting from Samsung’s display expertise, may offer slightly better color accuracy and viewing angles, though neither is expected to compete with higher-end displays. Bezels are likely substantial on both devices, reflecting their budget nature.
Camera Comparison
Camera details are sparse for both devices. It’s safe to assume both feature a primary camera and potentially a secondary depth sensor. However, the Realme C30s’ inclusion of a 2MP macro camera is largely a marketing tactic, offering limited practical benefit due to the low resolution. The A04 Core, while likely not boasting a high-end camera system, benefits from Samsung’s image processing algorithms, potentially delivering slightly more pleasing photos in good lighting conditions. Expect both to perform poorly in low-light scenarios.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipset. The Samsung Galaxy A04 Core’s Exynos 850 (8nm) is a significantly more capable processor than the Realme C30s’ octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55. The Exynos 850’s 8nm fabrication process allows for greater efficiency and sustained performance. While both CPUs feature Cortex-A55 cores, the Exynos 850’s higher clock speeds (2.0 GHz) and more complex architecture translate to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user experience. The Realme C30s will likely struggle with demanding applications or multiple apps running simultaneously.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, the Realme C30s includes 10W wired charging, while the A04 Core’s charging speed is unknown but likely similar. Given the lower processing demands of the C30s, it may achieve slightly longer battery life on a single charge. However, the A04 Core’s more efficient Exynos 850 could mitigate this difference. The 10W charging on the C30s will result in relatively slow charging times, requiring several hours to reach a full charge.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy A04 Core if you need a phone that can handle more than just basic calling and texting – think social media, light web browsing, and occasional gaming. Buy the Realme C30s if you prioritize absolute simplicity and a minimal software experience, and your usage is limited to essential communication and very light tasks. The C30s is best suited for first-time smartphone users or those needing a very basic backup device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 850 chip in the Samsung A04 Core get hot during extended use?
The Exynos 850 is an 8nm chip, which means it's relatively efficient. While it will generate heat during prolonged gaming or video recording, it's unlikely to overheat significantly given the phone's budget cooling solutions. Expect some performance throttling after extended heavy use, but it shouldn't be a major issue for typical tasks.
❓ Is the Realme C30s a good option for someone upgrading from a feature phone?
Yes, the Realme C30s is a very basic smartphone that could be a good entry point for someone new to smartphones. Its simplified interface and essential features make it easy to learn. However, be aware that its performance is limited, and it may struggle with more demanding apps.
❓ Can the Samsung A04 Core handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
The Samsung A04 Core can *run* PUBG Mobile, but not at high settings. Expect to play at the lowest graphics settings and potentially with a lower frame rate to maintain a playable experience. The Exynos 850 is not a gaming powerhouse, so don't expect flagship-level performance.
❓ What type of storage does the Realme C30s use, and is it expandable?
Storage type and expandability are not explicitly stated. However, given the price point, it likely uses eMMC storage. Expandability via microSD card is highly probable, but confirmation is needed from Realme's official specifications.
