Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The TCL 408 and Realme C11 (2021) are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But which one offers the best bang for your buck? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The TCL 408 edges out the Realme C11 (2021) thanks to its slightly more powerful chipset and potentially better display. While both offer basic functionality, the TCL provides a marginally smoother experience, making it the better overall choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - T507A, T507U, T507U1, T507U2, T507J | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 13, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - T507U, T507U1, T507U2 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/75 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28 - T507D1 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, January 05 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, March 31 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 75.4 x 9 mm (6.48 x 2.97 x 0.35 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 | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.55", 0.7µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | Yes (T507U only) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| 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 | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| | Virtual proximity sensing | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gravity Grey, Midnight Blue | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | T507D1, T507A, T507U, T507U1, T507U2, T507J | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 80 EUR |
TCL 408
- Slightly better chipset performance
- Potentially better display quality
- Modern design
- 10W charging is slow
- Camera performance is basic
- Limited storage options
Realme C11 (2021)
- Very affordable
- Large battery with reverse wired charging
- Reliable for basic tasks
- Weaker chipset
- Lower display quality
- Outdated design
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large, HD+ displays, likely around 6.5 inches. However, the TCL 408 *may* have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potentially using a more modern panel. Expect similar viewing experiences overall, suitable for everyday use like browsing and video streaming.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely similar – both will feature a primary camera around 13MP, with additional depth and macro sensors. Image quality will be adequate for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance will be a challenge on both devices. The TCL *might* have slightly better image processing.
Performance
The Mediatek Helio G25 in the TCL 408 holds a slight advantage over the Unisoc SC9863A in the Realme C11 (2021). While neither chip is a powerhouse, the G25 generally offers better performance in everyday tasks and light gaming. Expect smoother multitasking and app loading on the TCL.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have large batteries, likely around 5000mAh. Battery life should be comparable, easily lasting a full day with moderate usage. The Realme C11 (2021) has reverse wired charging, a small but potentially useful feature.
Buying Guide
The TCL 408 is ideal for users prioritizing a bit more performance and a potentially better screen within a tight budget. The Realme C11 (2021) is a good option for those solely focused on essential features and maximum battery life at the absolute lowest price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The TCL 408 is slightly better for light gaming due to its more powerful chipset, but neither phone is designed for demanding games.
❓ Can I expand the storage on either phone?
Yes, both phones likely support microSD card expansion, allowing you to increase storage capacity.
❓ What operating system do these phones use?
Both phones likely run Android 11 or 12 with a custom UI from TCL and Realme respectively.
