The Tecno Pop 5 and Realme C11 (2021) represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting first-time buyers or those needing a very basic secondary device. Both aim to deliver functionality at the lowest possible price, but they take different approaches to achieving this, particularly in processing power and overall user experience. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Realme C11 (2021) is the superior choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU, provides a significantly more responsive experience than the Tecno Pop 5’s quad-core Cortex-A7. While both phones are limited, the Realme offers a smoother, more capable daily driver.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, July 26 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 26 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 157.7 x 75.7 x 9.6 mm (6.21 x 2.98 x 0.38 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 | - | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.1 inches, 91.3 cm2 (~76.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition), HIOS | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 5 MP
VGA | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | Unspecified | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | Unspecified | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ice Lake Green, Obsidian Black, Ice Blue | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | BD2, BD2p, BD3, BD1, BD2d | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Tecno Pop 5
- Extremely affordable price point
- Functional for basic communication
- Simple and easy to use
- Very slow processor
- Limited multitasking capabilities
- Poor camera performance
Realme C11 (2021)
- Octa-core processor for smoother performance
- 10W charging with reverse wired charging
- More versatile for basic app usage
- Still limited by budget components
- Camera quality remains basic
- May be slightly more expensive than the Tecno Pop 5
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature low-resolution panels, typical of this price bracket. However, the Realme C11 (2021) benefits from the more modern chipset potentially supporting slightly better image processing for display output. The Tecno Pop 5’s display is likely to be more basic, with lower brightness and color accuracy. Specifics like panel type (IPS vs TFT) and resolution are unavailable, but the Realme’s chipset suggests a marginal advantage.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be limited. Without specific sensor details, it’s safe to assume both feature basic sensors. The Realme C11 (2021) may have a slight edge due to the image signal processor (ISP) integrated within the Unisoc SC9863A, potentially offering better image processing capabilities. However, expect low-light performance to be poor on both, and image quality to be acceptable only in ideal conditions. Any marketing around 'AI' camera features should be viewed with skepticism.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Tecno Pop 5’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU is an older architecture, designed for basic tasks. The Realme C11 (2021) utilizes the Unisoc SC9863A, an octa-core processor with a combination of 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This represents a substantial leap in processing power. The Cortex-A55 cores are more efficient and capable than the A7, resulting in faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface. The 28nm process node of the Unisoc chip also contributes to better power efficiency compared to potentially older nodes used in the Tecno.
Battery Life
Battery life will be heavily dependent on usage patterns. While specific mAh capacities are not provided, both phones likely feature batteries in the 3000-5000 mAh range. The Realme C11 (2021) includes 10W wired charging, and even offers reverse wired charging, a feature absent on the Tecno Pop 5. This allows the Realme to act as a power bank for other devices, a useful addition. The more efficient Unisoc chipset may also contribute to slightly longer battery life on the Realme, despite potentially similar battery capacities.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 5 if your primary need is an extremely affordable device for basic communication – calls, texts, and very light app usage. It’s a functional phone for those with minimal smartphone requirements. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you want a more versatile experience, even within the budget segment. The octa-core processor allows for smoother multitasking, slightly better app performance, and a more future-proofed experience, even if still limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C11 (2021) be able to run popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc SC9863A’s octa-core processor is sufficient to run Facebook, WhatsApp, and similar social media apps without significant lag. While it won’t offer a high-end experience, it will provide a usable and responsive experience for these common tasks, unlike the Tecno Pop 5 which may struggle with even basic app loading.
❓ Is the reverse wired charging on the Realme C11 (2021) fast enough to significantly charge other devices?
No, the 10W reverse wired charging is not fast. It’s intended for emergency top-ups or charging accessories like wireless earbuds. Don’t expect to fully charge another smartphone quickly using this feature. It’s a convenience feature, not a replacement for a dedicated power bank.
❓ Can the Tecno Pop 5 handle mobile gaming at all?
The Tecno Pop 5 is not suitable for gaming beyond very simple, 2D games. The quad-core Cortex-A7 processor lacks the power and graphics capabilities to run modern mobile games at playable frame rates. Expect significant lag and stuttering even in less demanding titles.
❓ What type of SIM cards do these phones support?
Both the Tecno Pop 5 and Realme C11 (2021) are likely to support dual SIM cards (Nano-SIM). However, specific details regarding 4G/LTE band support may vary by region. Check the specifications for your local market to ensure compatibility with your carrier.
