The Xiaomi Poco C3 and Realme C11 (2021) represent the extreme end of the budget smartphone spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at the lowest possible price point. However, significant differences in their core components – specifically the chipset – dictate vastly different user experiences. This comparison dissects those differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and general performance, the Xiaomi Poco C3 is the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio G35 chipset, built on a more modern 12nm process, provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Realme C11 (2021)'s older 28nm Unisoc SC9863A, despite similar core counts. While both offer basic functionality, the Poco C3 feels less sluggish in everyday tasks.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, October 06 | 2021, June 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2020, October 16 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 77.1 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.04 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 |
| Weight | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant design |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Panda Glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.43 inches, 102.1 cm2 (~80.3% 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 (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 10, MIUI 12 | Android 11, Realme Go UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 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 | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired
Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Arctic Blue, Lime Green, Matte Black | Cool Blue, Cool Grey |
| Models | M2006C3MII, MZB07RIIN, MZB07RJIN, MZB07QAIN, MZB07RLIN, MZB07RKIN, MZB07RHIN | RMX3231 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR | 0.51 W/kg (head) 0.83 W/kg (body) | - |
Xiaomi Poco C3
- Better overall performance due to the Helio G35 chipset
- More efficient chipset leads to longer battery life
- Potentially better camera image processing
- Lacks reverse wired charging
- Basic display quality
Realme C11 (2021)
- Reverse wired charging functionality
- Potentially lower price point
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Significantly slower and less efficient Unisoc chipset
- Noticeable lag and sluggishness in everyday tasks
- Potentially shorter battery life under load
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature basic LCD panels with resolutions around 720p+, typical for this price bracket. However, the lack of detailed display specifications prevents a direct comparison of brightness or color accuracy. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. The Realme C11 (2021) doesn't offer any display features like high refresh rates or PWM dimming, which are absent on the Poco C3 as well.
Camera Comparison
Both phones are expected to feature basic camera setups, likely headlined by a 13MP main sensor. However, the image signal processor (ISP) within the chipset plays a crucial role in image quality. Given the Helio G35’s superior processing capabilities, the Poco C3 is likely to produce slightly better photos, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on both devices is largely a marketing gimmick and offers limited practical benefit. Focusing on the primary sensor, the Poco C3’s chipset provides a more capable foundation for image processing.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Poco C3’s Mediatek Helio G35 (12nm) utilizes Cortex-A53 cores clocked up to 2.3 GHz, while the Realme C11 (2021) employs the Unisoc SC9863A (28nm) with slower Cortex-A55 cores peaking at 1.6 GHz. The 12nm fabrication process of the Helio G35 is significantly more efficient than the 28nm process of the Unisoc chip, resulting in better thermal management and sustained performance. While both are octa-core CPUs, the architectural improvements and higher clock speeds of the Helio G35 translate to a more fluid user experience. The Unisoc chip, being older and less efficient, will likely exhibit more noticeable lag during multitasking and app loading. The Poco C3 is the clear winner for users who value responsiveness.
Battery Life
Both devices feature a 5000mAh battery and 10W wired charging. While the battery capacity is identical, the Unisoc SC9863A’s lower efficiency means the Realme C11 (2021) will likely drain its battery faster under similar usage. The Poco C3’s more efficient chipset will translate to longer screen-on time. The Realme C11 (2021) does offer reverse wired charging, a feature absent on the Poco C3, allowing it to function as a power bank for other devices. However, the slow 10W charging speed limits its practicality.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Poco C3 if you need a phone that feels reasonably responsive for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light messaging. Its chipset offers a better foundation for future software updates and a slightly smoother user experience. Buy the Realme C11 (2021) if your primary concern is having reverse wired charging functionality, allowing you to top up accessories, or if you find it at a significantly lower price point than the Poco C3, and absolute performance is not a priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C11 (2021) struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
The Unisoc SC9863A chipset in the Realme C11 (2021) is relatively underpowered. While it can run basic apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, you may experience noticeable lag when switching between apps or loading media. The Poco C3, with its Helio G35, will handle these tasks more smoothly.
❓ Is the reverse charging feature on the Realme C11 (2021) useful given the 10W charging speed?
The 10W reverse charging on the Realme C11 (2021) is a slow process. It's best suited for topping up accessories like wireless earbuds or a smartwatch in emergencies, rather than fully charging another phone. It's a niche feature, but unique to this device in this comparison.
❓ Can either of these phones handle mobile gaming?
Neither phone is ideal for gaming. The Helio G35 in the Poco C3 can handle very light gaming at low settings, but don't expect a smooth experience with demanding titles. The Unisoc SC9863A in the Realme C11 (2021) will struggle even with less demanding games.
