The Samsung Galaxy M02 and Realme C20A represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a minimal cost, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The M02 relies on a tried-and-true, if aging, chipset, while the C20A opts for a newer, more powerful processor. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which device offers the best experience for budget-conscious users.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and multitasking, the Realme C20A is the clear winner. Its Helio G35 chipset, with its octa-core configuration and 12nm process, provides a significant performance uplift over the Samsung Galaxy M02’s quad-core MT6739W. While both phones are limited in features, the C20A offers a smoother, more usable 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, February 02 | 2021, May 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, February 09 | Available. Released 2021, May 11 |
| 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 (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.9% 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 | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739W (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10, One UI 2.0 | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB 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), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| 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, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Gray, Blue, Red | Iron Grey, Lake Blue |
| Models | SM-M022F, SM-M022F/DS, SM-M022G, SM-M022G/DS | - |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 90 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.65 W/kg (head) 1.71 W/kg (body) | - |
Samsung Galaxy M02
- Potentially lower price point
- Samsung brand recognition
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Significantly weaker performance
- Outdated chipset architecture
- Less efficient power consumption
Realme C20A
- Faster and more responsive performance
- Octa-core processor for better multitasking
- Reverse wired charging capability
- May be slightly more expensive
- Realme’s software can be more intrusive
- Potentially less brand recognition than Samsung
Display Comparison
Neither Samsung nor Realme provide detailed display specifications for these models. Given their price points, it’s safe to assume both utilize LCD panels with resolutions around 720p+. However, the lack of detailed specs makes a direct comparison impossible. The focus here is on the internal hardware, as display quality is likely similar and adequate for basic use.
Camera Comparison
Both devices likely feature basic camera setups, with the Realme C20A potentially offering slightly better image processing due to its more modern chipset. However, without detailed sensor information, a definitive comparison is difficult. It’s reasonable to assume both phones rely on a primary sensor paired with a depth or macro lens, but image quality will be heavily dependent on software optimization rather than hardware prowess. Users shouldn't expect flagship-level camera performance from either device.
Performance
The Realme C20A’s Mediatek Helio G35 is the standout performer here. Built on a more efficient 12nm process compared to the Samsung Galaxy M02’s 28nm Mediatek MT6739W, the G35 boasts an octa-core CPU configuration (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) versus the M02’s quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53. This translates to significantly faster app launch times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface. The G35’s GPU also offers a noticeable improvement in graphics performance, making it a better choice for casual gaming. The older MT6739W in the M02 will struggle with even moderately demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified in the provided data. However, both phones likely feature batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range, typical for this price segment. The Realme C20A’s inclusion of reverse wired charging is a unique feature, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices. While charging wattage isn’t specified, the more efficient Helio G35 chipset in the C20A may contribute to slightly better battery life during typical usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy M02 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and are willing to tolerate significant performance limitations for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. Buy the Realme C20A if you prefer a more responsive user experience, occasionally play mobile games, or frequently switch between apps. The C20A’s reverse wired charging is also a unique benefit for users with other compatible devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C20A handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Helio G35 is a gaming-focused chip, don't expect flagship-level performance. PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty will likely be playable at low to medium settings with reduced frame rates. The M02’s MT6739W will struggle significantly with these titles.
❓ Does the Samsung Galaxy M02 support software updates beyond Android Go?
Given its age and price point, the Samsung Galaxy M02 is unlikely to receive significant software updates. It likely launched with a limited version of Android (potentially Android Go Edition) and may only receive security patches for a short period. The Realme C20A may have a slightly longer software support lifecycle, but expectations should remain modest.
❓ What is the benefit of reverse wired charging on the Realme C20A?
Reverse wired charging allows you to use the Realme C20A as a power bank to charge other devices, such as wireless earbuds, smartwatches, or even another smartphone, using a USB cable. This is a convenient feature for users who frequently travel or find themselves in situations where they need to share power.
