The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. Both the Wiko Tommy3 Plus and the Realme C11 (2021) aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an accessible price. However, they take different approaches to achieving this, with the Realme boasting a newer, octa-core processor while the Wiko relies on a quad-core chipset. This comparison will dissect the key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme C11 (2021) is the better choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A chipset, featuring eight cores, provides a significantly more responsive experience than the Wiko Tommy3 Plus’s Mediatek MT6739WA. While both phones are entry-level, the Realme offers a noticeable performance boost for everyday tasks and light multitasking.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 20 | 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 | 2019. Released 2019 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 147.6 x 71.3 x 8.4 mm (5.81 x 2.81 x 0.33 in) | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 150 g (5.29 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.8% 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 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739WA (28 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 8.1 (Oreo) | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| 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, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Languages | Anthracite Matte, Anthracite Mirror, Gold, Cherry | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 2900 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | - | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | - | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Wiko Tommy3 Plus
- Potentially lower price point.
- Simpler user experience for tech novices.
- Reliable for basic communication tasks.
- Significantly weaker processor performance.
- Likely shorter battery life.
- Lacks modern features like reverse charging.
Realme C11 (2021)
- Faster and more efficient octa-core processor.
- Larger 5000mAh battery for extended use.
- Reverse wired charging capability.
- More responsive user interface.
- May be slightly more expensive.
- Still an entry-level device with limitations.
Display Comparison
Neither device is expected to deliver a stunning visual experience. Both utilize 28nm chipsets, suggesting a focus on cost reduction over display quality. Specific display specs (resolution, panel type, brightness) are not provided, but given the price point, expect basic IPS LCD panels. The Realme C11 (2021) likely benefits from a slightly more modern software stack, potentially offering better color calibration, but this is speculative without further data.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. However, both phones likely feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. Given the market segment, expect a primary sensor on both devices, potentially accompanied by a depth or macro sensor (often of limited utility). The Realme C11 (2021) *may* benefit from slightly more advanced image processing algorithms, but this is speculative. The absence of OIS on either device suggests image stabilization will rely heavily on software.
Performance
The Realme C11 (2021) holds a clear advantage in processing power. Its Unisoc SC9863A is an octa-core processor (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55), while the Wiko Tommy3 Plus is equipped with a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53. The Cortex-A55 architecture in the Realme is more efficient and offers improved performance per clock cycle compared to the older Cortex-A53. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive overall experience. The Realme’s octa-core configuration also allows for better multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for the Wiko Tommy3 Plus, but the Realme C11 (2021) features a 5000mAh battery. Coupled with the more efficient Unisoc chipset, the Realme is likely to offer longer battery life. Furthermore, the Realme C11 (2021) supports 10W wired charging *and* reverse wired charging, allowing it to function as a power bank for other devices – a feature absent on the Wiko.
Buying Guide
Buy the Wiko Tommy3 Plus if your primary need is a very basic, reliable phone for calls, texts, and minimal app usage, and you prioritize simplicity above all else. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if you want a more fluid user experience, better multitasking capabilities, and the convenience of reverse wired charging, even if it means spending slightly more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C11 (2021) struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the Realme C11 (2021) is an entry-level phone, its octa-core processor and sufficient RAM should handle apps like WhatsApp and Facebook without significant issues. However, running multiple apps simultaneously may lead to some slowdown.
❓ Is the Wiko Tommy3 Plus a good choice for elderly users who primarily need a phone for calls and texts?
Yes, the Wiko Tommy3 Plus could be a suitable option for elderly users with basic needs. Its simplicity and focus on core functionality make it easy to use, and its potentially lower price point is attractive. However, the slower processor may be noticeable even with simple tasks.
❓ Can the Realme C11 (2021) charge other devices wirelessly?
No, the Realme C11 (2021) supports *wired* reverse charging only. You can connect a USB cable from the Realme C11 (2021) to another device to share its battery power, but it does not support wireless power transfer.