The Samsung Galaxy A06 and Realme C33 2023 represent two compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a price point that won't break the bank, but they take different approaches to achieving this. This comparison dives deep into their specifications to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Samsung Galaxy A06 emerges as the stronger choice. Its Mediatek Helio G85 chipset provides a noticeable performance edge over the Realme C33’s Unisoc Tiger T612, and the significantly faster 25W charging is a major convenience. While the Realme C33 is cheaper, the A06’s benefits justify the 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, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, August 16 | 2023, March 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, August 22 | Available. Released 2023, March 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 167.3 x 77.3 x 8 mm (6.59 x 3.04 x 0.31 in) | 164.2 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 189 g (6.67 oz) | 187 g (6.60 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~262 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~83.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 |
| OS | Android 14, up to 2 major Android upgrades, One UI 8 | Android 12, Realme UI S |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | Yes | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 25W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Gold, White | Sandy Gold, Aqua Blue, Night Sea |
| Models | SM-A065F, SM-A065F/DS, SM-A065M, SM-A065M/DS | RMX3627 |
| Price | € 81.90 / $ 99.99 / £ 66.89 / ₹ 7,749 | About 110 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.44 W/kg (head) 1.08 W/kg (body) | - |
Samsung Galaxy A06
- Faster processor for smoother performance
- 25W fast charging for quicker top-ups
- Brighter and higher contrast display
- Likely slightly higher price point
- May have less internal storage in base configuration
Realme C33 2023
- More affordable price
- Potentially larger battery capacity (speculative)
- Lightweight design
- Slower processor for less demanding tasks
- Slow 10W charging
- Less vibrant display
Display Comparison
The Samsung Galaxy A06 boasts a measured peak brightness of 564 nits, offering a more visible display in outdoor conditions compared to the Realme C33, for which brightness data is unavailable. While both likely utilize LCD panels, the A06’s 1484:1 contrast ratio suggests a more vibrant image. The Realme C33’s display specifications are less detailed, suggesting a more basic panel aimed at minimizing cost. Users who consume a lot of media outdoors or prefer a more visually engaging experience will benefit from the A06’s superior display characteristics.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specifications for both devices are limited. However, given the market segment, it’s safe to assume both rely on primary sensors with modest resolutions. Without specific sensor size or aperture information, it’s difficult to definitively declare a winner. The Realme C33 often includes a 50MP main camera, while the A06's is likely lower resolution. Image processing will play a significant role, and Samsung’s generally more refined software could give the A06 an edge in image quality, but this is speculative. The inclusion of 2MP macro lenses on both devices is largely a marketing tactic and offers limited practical benefit.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy A06’s Mediatek Helio G85 chipset, featuring a dual-core Cortex-A75 configuration clocked at 2.0 GHz, provides a performance advantage over the Realme C33’s Unisoc Tiger T612, which has Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz. While both are 12nm chips, the higher clock speed and architecture of the Helio G85 translate to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The A06 is better suited for users who occasionally play mobile games or use demanding applications. The Unisoc T612 in the C33 is adequate for basic tasks but will struggle with more intensive workloads.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy A06 delivers a measured active use battery life of 13 hours and 50 minutes, a strong result for a budget device. Crucially, it supports 25W wired charging, allowing for significantly faster top-ups compared to the Realme C33’s slow 10W charging. While the Realme C33 may have a slightly larger battery capacity (speculation based on typical Realme offerings), the A06’s faster charging mitigates any potential capacity disadvantage. Users who frequently find themselves needing to recharge throughout the day will greatly appreciate the A06’s convenience.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy A06 if you prioritize performance for everyday tasks and occasional gaming, and value faster charging speeds. This phone is ideal for users who want a responsive experience without significant compromises. Buy the Realme C33 2023 if your primary concern is absolute affordability and you primarily use your phone for basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media – and aren't concerned with demanding applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Mediatek Helio G85 in the Samsung Galaxy A06 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
The Helio G85 is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but you’ll likely need to use medium graphics settings for a smooth experience. It’s not a gaming powerhouse, but it’s a significant step up from the Unisoc Tiger T612 in the Realme C33, which will struggle with higher settings.
❓ How long does it realistically take to fully charge the Samsung Galaxy A06 with the 25W charger?
With the included 25W charger, the Samsung Galaxy A06 can go from 0% to 100% in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is considerably faster than the Realme C33, which will take over 3 hours with its 10W charger.
❓ Is the Realme C33 a good option for elderly users who primarily make calls and send texts?
Yes, the Realme C33 is a suitable option for basic use cases like calls and texts. Its lower price point makes it an attractive choice if advanced features and performance aren't a priority. However, the slow charging and less responsive interface might be frustrating for some.
❓ Does either phone support NFC for contactless payments?
Neither the Samsung Galaxy A06 nor the Realme C33 typically include NFC functionality in their base configurations. This is a common omission in ultra-budget smartphones to keep costs down.
