The Samsung Galaxy M02 and Realme C11 (2021) represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at the lowest possible cost. However, significant differences in their core hardware, particularly the chipset, dictate vastly different user experiences. This comparison will dissect those differences to determine which device offers the best value for budget-conscious consumers.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Realme C11 (2021) is the superior choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A octa-core processor provides a noticeable performance boost over the Samsung Galaxy M02’s quad-core Mediatek MT6739W, resulting in smoother multitasking and a more responsive user interface. While both phones are limited, the C11 offers a better foundation for a modern Android experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 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, February 02 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, February 09 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164 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 + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 206 g (7.27 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 (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739W (28 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 10, One UI 2.0 | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro) | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | 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 | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Gray, Blue, Red | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | SM-M022F, SM-M022F/DS, SM-M022G, SM-M022G/DS | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.65 W/kg (head) 1.71 W/kg (body) | - |
Samsung Galaxy M02
- Samsung Brand Recognition
- Potential for Android Go Edition Optimization
- Large 5000mAh Battery
- Weak Mediatek MT6739W Processor
- Limited Multitasking Capabilities
- No Reverse Wired Charging
Realme C11 (2021)
- Faster Unisoc SC9863A Octa-Core Processor
- Reverse Wired Charging
- More Responsive User Interface
- Less Established Brand
- 10W Charging is Slow
- Basic Camera System
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature LCD panels with resolutions around 720 x 1600, typical for this price bracket. Without specific brightness data, it’s safe to assume both struggle in direct sunlight. The Realme C11 (2021) likely benefits from a slightly more modern panel design, but the difference will be minimal. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Both devices likely feature basic camera setups focused on affordability. Expect a primary sensor around 13MP on the Realme C11 (2021) and potentially 13MP on the M02, alongside depth and macro sensors of questionable utility. Image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing, and both will struggle in low-light conditions. The Realme C11 (2021) may have a slight edge due to its more powerful processor enabling more sophisticated image processing algorithms, but the difference will be marginal. Focusing on the primary sensor’s megapixel count is misleading; sensor size and lens aperture are more critical factors, and data on these is unavailable.
Performance
This is where the Realme C11 (2021) decisively pulls ahead. The Unisoc SC9863A’s octa-core configuration (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) is a significant upgrade over the Samsung Galaxy M02’s Mediatek MT6739W quad-core (4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53). The Cortex-A55 architecture is more efficient than the A53, and the additional cores provide a substantial boost in multitasking and app loading times. While neither chipset is a powerhouse, the C11 will handle everyday tasks with noticeably less lag. The 28nm fabrication process is shared, meaning thermal efficiency will be similar, but the C11’s superior processing power will still translate to a better user experience.
Battery Life
Both devices likely house batteries around 5000mAh, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. The Realme C11 (2021) includes 10W wired charging and, crucially, reverse wired charging – a feature absent on the Galaxy M02. While 10W charging is slow, the ability to use the C11 as a power bank for accessories or other devices is a valuable addition. The slower processor on the M02 *might* translate to slightly better battery endurance, but the difference will be minimal and offset by the C11’s reverse charging capability.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy M02 if your primary need is a very basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage, and brand recognition is a priority. It may also appeal to those specifically seeking a device optimized for Android Go Edition. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you prioritize performance, even at this price point, and want a more capable device for everyday tasks like social media, browsing, and occasional gaming. The C11’s reverse wired charging is also a unique benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C11 (2021) struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the Unisoc SC9863A isn't a high-end processor, it's more than capable of handling everyday apps like WhatsApp and Facebook. You'll experience smoother scrolling and faster loading times compared to the Samsung Galaxy M02, making these apps more enjoyable to use. However, demanding apps or heavy multitasking may still cause some slowdown.
❓ Is the reverse wired charging on the Realme C11 (2021) useful for anything besides emergencies?
Yes, the reverse wired charging is surprisingly versatile. It's ideal for topping up accessories like Bluetooth headphones or smartwatches. While it won't rapidly charge another phone, it can provide a significant boost in a pinch, making it a valuable feature for travelers or those with multiple devices.
❓ Can the Samsung Galaxy M02 handle basic mobile games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers?
The Samsung Galaxy M02 can run basic mobile games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers, but expect low graphics settings and potential frame rate drops. The Mediatek MT6739W processor is underpowered for gaming, and you may encounter lag or stuttering during more intense gameplay. The Realme C11 (2021) will offer a noticeably better gaming experience, even on the same titles.
