The Samsung Galaxy F02s and Realme C20A represent the ultra-budget end of the smartphone spectrum, targeting first-time buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at a minimal cost, but significant differences in their core hardware – specifically the chipset – dictate their performance characteristics. This comparison dissects those differences to determine which phone offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and occasional gaming, the Realme C20A is the better choice. Its MediaTek Helio G35, built on a more efficient 12nm process, delivers noticeably faster CPU performance than the Samsung Galaxy F02s’ Snapdragon 450. While both offer basic functionality, the C20A provides a smoother user experience.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, April 05 | 2021, May 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, April 09 | Available. Released 2021, May 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 196 g (6.91 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash-resistant design |
| 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 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM450 Snapdragon 450 (14 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 506 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| 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, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ceramic Blue, Ceramic White, Ceramic Black | Iron Grey, Lake Blue |
| Models | SM-E025F, SM-E025F/DS | - |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | 0.52 W/kg (head) | - |
Samsung Galaxy F02s
- Established Brand Reputation (Samsung)
- Potentially more refined software experience
- 15W Wired Charging
- Less powerful Snapdragon 450 chipset
- 14nm process less efficient
- No reverse charging
Realme C20A
- Faster MediaTek Helio G35 chipset
- More efficient 12nm process
- Reverse Wired Charging capability
- Less established brand in some markets
- Realme UI may not appeal to all users
- Potentially less frequent software updates
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. Specifics like resolution and brightness are not provided, but we can assume they are similar – around 720p+ and adequate for indoor use. The lack of higher refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like LTPO is expected. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar and unremarkable on both devices. Without sensor size or aperture information, it’s difficult to make definitive claims. However, given the price point, both will likely rely on basic 13MP or 8MP main sensors. Image processing will be the key differentiator, and Realme’s software often prioritizes vibrant, social media-ready images, while Samsung tends towards more natural color reproduction. The presence of 2MP macro/depth sensors on both is largely marketing fluff and offers minimal practical benefit.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme C20A’s MediaTek Helio G35 (12nm) features a more complex CPU configuration – four cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and four at 1.8 GHz – compared to the Samsung Galaxy F02s’ Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 (14nm) with its uniform octa-core 1.8 GHz setup. The 12nm fabrication process of the Helio G35 is more efficient, leading to better performance per watt. This translates to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking on the C20A. While both use Cortex-A53 cores, the higher clock speeds and process node advantage give the C20A a clear edge. The Snapdragon 450 is known for being adequate for basic tasks but struggles with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified, but both devices likely house around a 4000-5000mAh battery. The Realme C20A’s inclusion of reverse wired charging is a significant advantage, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices. The Samsung Galaxy F02s offers 15W wired charging, a standard speed for this segment. The Helio G35’s improved efficiency may also contribute to slightly better battery life on the C20A, offsetting any potential capacity differences.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy F02s if you prioritize brand recognition and a slightly more established software ecosystem, and your usage is limited to very basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. Buy the Realme C20A if you prefer a more responsive device for everyday tasks, appreciate the convenience of reverse wired charging, and are comfortable with Realme’s UI. The C20A is the better option for anyone planning to play even casual mobile games.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C20A handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Helio G35 isn't a gaming powerhouse, the Realme C20A can run PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty at low to medium settings with acceptable frame rates. Expect some occasional stuttering, especially in intense scenes. The Snapdragon 450 in the F02s will struggle more with these titles.
❓ Does the Samsung Galaxy F02s receive regular software updates?
Samsung generally provides more consistent software updates than Realme, but the F02s is an entry-level device. Expect security patches and minor updates, but major Android version upgrades are unlikely. Realme’s update schedule for the C20A is less predictable.
❓ What is the benefit of reverse charging on the Realme C20A?
Reverse charging allows you to use the Realme C20A as a power bank to charge other devices, like wireless earbuds or a friend’s phone, using a USB cable. This is incredibly useful in situations where you have no access to a power outlet.
❓ Is the difference in performance between the Snapdragon 450 and Helio G35 noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the difference is noticeable. The Helio G35’s faster CPU cores and more efficient process node result in snappier app launches, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive overall user experience. The Snapdragon 450 can feel sluggish in comparison, especially when multitasking.
