Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The Xiaomi Poco C51 and C50 are both contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Poco C51 edges out the C50 thanks to its octa-core processor and slightly improved performance. While both offer basic functionality, the C51's more powerful chipset makes it a better choice for smoother multitasking and slightly faster app loading. Both share the same charging speed.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, April 07 | 2023, January 03 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, April 13 | Available. Released 2023, January 10 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 in) | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| | - | Dust & splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G36 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 13 (Go edition), MIUI | Android 12 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio, recording | FM radio, recording |
| 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 | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Power Black, Royal Blue | Country Green, Royal Blue |
| Models | MZB0E6DIN, MZB0DXKIN, 2302EPCC4I, 2305EPCC4G, 2302EPCC4H | MZB0D3DIN, 220733SPI, 220733SPH |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR | 0.97 W/kg (head) 0.87 W/kg (body) | 0.87 W/kg (head) 0.84 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Poco C51
- More powerful octa-core processor
- Slightly improved performance
- Potentially better image processing
- Modern design
- 10W charging is slow
- HD+ display isn't the sharpest
- Camera quality is still basic
Xiaomi Poco C50
- Very affordable
- Long battery life
- Simple and easy to use
- Slower quad-core processor
- Less responsive
- Basic camera performance
- 10W charging is slow
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar 6.53-inch HD+ display with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Expect decent viewing angles and adequate brightness for indoor use, but outdoor visibility might be challenging. The C51 *might* have slightly improved color accuracy due to its newer chipset, but this is difficult to confirm without specific testing.
Camera Comparison
Both phones are expected to have a dual-camera setup, likely featuring a 13MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. Image quality will be similar in well-lit conditions, but the C51's newer chipset *could* offer slightly better image processing. Low-light performance will be average on both devices.
Performance
This is where the C51 has a clear advantage. The Helio G36 octa-core processor is significantly more powerful than the C50's quad-core Helio A22. Expect smoother app switching, faster loading times, and a more responsive user experience on the C51. The C50 will feel noticeably slower, especially with multiple apps open.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. The charging speed is identical at 10W, so expect relatively slow charging times.
Buying Guide
The Poco C51 is ideal for users who need a bit more processing power for basic multitasking and occasional gaming. The Poco C50 is a great option for those prioritizing simplicity and affordability above all else, primarily for calls, texts, and light social media use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Poco C51 worth the extra money compared to the C50?
If you value performance and a smoother user experience, then yes. The C51's octa-core processor makes a noticeable difference. If you're on a very tight budget and only need basic functionality, the C50 is still a viable option.
❓ What kind of games can I play on these phones?
Both phones are best suited for light, casual games. The C51 will handle slightly more demanding games at lower settings, but don't expect high-end gaming performance from either device.