The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. Both the Wiko Y81 and Realme C30s aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an accessible price point. However, they take different approaches: the Wiko Y81 relies on a tried-and-true, if older, chipset, while the Realme C30s opts for a newer, octa-core processor. This comparison will dissect the key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme C30s is the better choice. Its octa-core Cortex-A55 CPU provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Wiko Y81’s quad-core Helio A20, translating to smoother multitasking and app loading. While both phones are basic, the C30s offers a more responsive experience for everyday tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 40 | 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 | 2020, August 18. Released 2020, August 18 | 2022, September 14 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, September 23 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 157.9 x 76.1 x 8.3 mm (6.22 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 164.2 x 75.7 x 8.5 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 166 g (5.86 oz) | 186 g (6.56 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~271 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.2 inches, 95.9 cm2 (~79.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761D Helio A20 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8300 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 12, Realme UI Go |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, AF | 8 MP, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | - | 720p@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 |
| 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, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Deep Blue, Gold, Green | Stripe Blue, Stripe Black |
| Models | - | RMX3690 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 100 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.56 W/kg (head) 1.61 W/kg (body) | - |
Wiko Y81
- Potentially simpler software experience.
- May be more readily available in certain regions.
- Likely very affordable.
- Significantly slower processor.
- Less efficient CPU leading to shorter battery life.
- Outdated chipset architecture.
Realme C30s
- More powerful and efficient octa-core processor.
- Smoother multitasking and app performance.
- 10W charging support.
- May have a more cluttered software experience.
- Potentially slightly higher price point.
- Basic camera system.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature basic LCD panels with resolutions around 720x1600. The Realme C30s doesn't specify display specs, but given its market segment, it's unlikely to offer significant improvements. The Wiko Y81's display quality will likely be adequate for basic viewing, but don't expect vibrant colors or wide viewing angles. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, reflecting their budget nature.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be limited. Neither manufacturer provides detailed camera specifications beyond the megapixel count. Expect basic image quality, particularly in low light. The Realme C30s likely includes a standard main sensor, potentially 8MP or 13MP, while the Wiko Y81's sensor is likely similar. Any additional cameras (often 2MP macro or depth sensors) on either device are unlikely to provide significant value. Image processing will be basic, focusing on contrast and saturation rather than detail and dynamic range.
Performance
The core difference lies in the processors. The Wiko Y81’s MediaTek Helio A20 (with a quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU clocked at 1.8 GHz) is a relatively old design. The Realme C30s, however, features an octa-core Cortex-A55 CPU clocked at 1.6 GHz. While the clock speed is lower, the Cortex-A55 architecture is significantly more efficient and offers better instructions-per-clock (IPC) than the A53. This means the C30s will handle multitasking and app launches more smoothly. The A55's efficiency also suggests better battery life under load. The Wiko Y81 will struggle with demanding apps or even multiple apps open simultaneously.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified for the Wiko Y81, but given its positioning, it's likely around 4000-5000 mAh. The Realme C30s supports 10W wired charging. While 10W is slow by modern standards, it's sufficient for overnight charging. The Realme C30s’ more efficient Cortex-A55 processor will likely result in longer battery life between charges, even with a similar capacity battery to the Wiko Y81. The Wiko Y81’s older processor will consume more power during typical usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Wiko Y81 if you prioritize extreme simplicity and a minimal software experience, and are comfortable with potentially slower performance. It's a good option for first-time smartphone users or those needing a very basic communication device. Buy the Realme C30s if you want a more modern processor for smoother app usage, even if it means a slightly more complex user interface. It’s the better choice for anyone who uses social media, messaging apps, or light web browsing regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C30s be able to run popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Realme C30s’ octa-core Cortex-A55 processor is significantly better equipped to handle the demands of social media apps like TikTok and Instagram compared to the Wiko Y81’s Helio A20. You should experience smoother scrolling, faster loading times, and fewer instances of lag.
❓ Is the 10W charging on the Realme C30s really that slow? How long will it take to fully charge?
10W charging is indeed slow by today's standards. Expect a full charge from 0% to 100% to take approximately 3-4 hours. However, given the likely battery capacity (around 5000mAh) and the phone's basic usage profile, overnight charging is a practical solution.
❓ Can the Wiko Y81 handle basic games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers?
The Wiko Y81 can run very simple games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers, but performance will be limited. Expect longer loading times and potential frame rate drops, especially during more visually intensive moments. The Helio A20 is not designed for gaming.
❓ Which phone is better for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
Both phones are adequate for calls and texts. However, the Realme C30s’ more efficient processor will contribute to slightly longer battery life, which is beneficial for a phone primarily used for communication. The Wiko Y81’s simplicity might appeal to those who prefer a minimal interface.
