The Tecno Pop 5S and Realme C11 (2021) represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver basic smartphone functionality at the lowest possible cost, but they approach this goal with different hardware choices. This comparison dissects those choices to determine which device offers the best value for users prioritizing affordability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a functional, if basic, smartphone experience, the Realme C11 (2021) emerges as the slightly better choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A chipset provides a demonstrable performance advantage over the unknown configuration of the Tecno Pop 5S, making it more responsive for everyday tasks. However, the Tecno Pop 5S may offer a competitive price point.
| 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 | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, February 07 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, February 07 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 148 x 72.3 x 9.9 mm (5.83 x 2.85 x 0.39 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 | 160 g (5.64 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.7 inches, 81.1 cm2 (~75.8% 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 | - | 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 | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 5 MP
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 2 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 3020 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Light Purple, Deep Blue | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | - | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Tecno Pop 5S
- Potentially the lowest price point in its class.
- May offer a larger battery capacity (speculation).
- Basic smartphone functionality.
- Unknown processor performance.
- Lack of publicly available specifications.
- Potentially limited software support.
Realme C11 (2021)
- Known Unisoc SC9863A chipset offers predictable performance.
- Large 5000mAh battery for all-day usage.
- Reverse wired charging capability.
- Slow 10W charging.
- Basic camera system.
- LCD display with limited color accuracy.
Display Comparison
Unfortunately, specific display details for the Tecno Pop 5S are unavailable. The Realme C11 (2021) features a 6.5-inch LCD, a common size and technology for this price bracket. Without knowing the Tecno Pop 5S’s resolution or brightness, it’s difficult to assess a clear advantage. However, given the price point, both are likely to utilize panels with limited color accuracy and viewing angles. The Realme C11’s larger screen size may be preferable for media consumption, assuming comparable brightness levels.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications for the Tecno Pop 5S are unavailable. The Realme C11 (2021) features a 13MP main camera, which, while not exceptional, is a reasonable sensor for capturing basic photos in good lighting conditions. The inclusion of a 2MP depth sensor is largely marketing fluff, offering minimal practical benefit. Without knowing the Tecno Pop 5S’s camera hardware, it’s impossible to make a direct comparison. However, given the price point, both devices likely rely heavily on software processing to enhance image quality, with limited success in low-light scenarios.
Performance
The Realme C11 (2021) is powered by the Unisoc SC9863A, a 28nm octa-core processor. This chipset features a cluster of four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz and another four at 1.2 GHz. While not a powerhouse, this configuration provides a noticeable performance uplift compared to the typically even slower processors found in this segment. The Tecno Pop 5S’s processor remains unknown, but given its positioning, it’s likely to be a less capable chipset. The Unisoc SC9863A’s architecture, while dated, offers a more predictable and potentially smoother experience for basic multitasking and app usage. The Realme C11 also benefits from having a known chipset, allowing for more accurate performance expectations.
Battery Life
The Realme C11 (2021) packs a 5000mAh battery and supports 10W wired charging. This battery capacity is substantial for a budget device and should provide all-day battery life for moderate usage. The 10W charging, while slow by modern standards, is adequate for overnight charging. The Tecno Pop 5S’s battery capacity is unknown. However, given the competitive nature of this segment, it’s likely to be similarly sized. The Realme C11’s inclusion of reverse wired charging, albeit at 10W, is a unique feature that allows it to act as a power bank for other devices.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 5S if you absolutely need the lowest possible upfront cost and are willing to compromise on performance and potentially software support. It's suited for users with extremely limited needs – basic calling, texting, and light app usage. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you prioritize a smoother user experience, even for simple tasks, and appreciate the benefit of a known chipset and potentially more reliable software updates within its lifecycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Unisoc SC9863A in the Realme C11 (2021) capable of running popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc SC9863A is sufficient for running commonly used apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and basic web browsing. While it won't handle demanding games or heavy multitasking, it provides a reasonably smooth experience for everyday tasks. Expect some loading times and occasional slowdowns with multiple apps open.
❓ How long does it take to fully charge the Realme C11 (2021) with the 10W charger?
With the included 10W charger, the Realme C11 (2021) typically takes around 3-4 hours to fully charge from 0% to 100%. This is a relatively slow charging speed compared to modern smartphones, but it's acceptable for overnight charging.
❓ What kind of storage options are available on the Realme C11 (2021), and can it be expanded?
The Realme C11 (2021) typically comes with 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card slot. This allows you to add up to 256GB of additional storage for photos, videos, and other files. This is crucial given the limited base storage.
