The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Realme C20A and Xiaomi Redmi 9AT represent two strong contenders. Both devices target first-time smartphone buyers and those seeking a reliable secondary device. However, subtle differences in their chipsets and features can significantly impact the user experience. This comparison dissects these nuances to determine which phone offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme C20A emerges as the slightly better choice. Its Helio G35 chipset, with higher clocked Cortex-A53 cores, delivers a noticeable performance edge in everyday tasks and light gaming. The inclusion of reverse wired charging is a practical bonus, making it a more versatile option.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 09. Released 2020, September 09 | 2021, May 11 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, May 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 77 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.03 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 |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10, MIUI 12 | Android 10, Realme UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm |
| 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 |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Gray, Sky Blue, Ocean Green | Iron Grey, Lake Blue |
| Models | M2006C3LVG | - |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | 0.87 W/kg (head) 1.01 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.78 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) | - |
Xiaomi Redmi 9AT
- Established brand reputation (Xiaomi)
- Likely wider availability of accessories
- Potentially better software support (depending on region)
- Slower processor (Helio G25)
- No reverse charging capability
- Potentially less responsive user interface
Realme C20A
- Faster processor (Helio G35)
- Convenient reverse wired charging
- Slightly better gaming performance
- Less established brand (Realme)
- Potential for less frequent software updates
- May be harder to find in some markets
Display Comparison
Neither the Redmi 9AT nor the Realme C20A are display champions. Both are expected to feature basic LCD panels, likely with 720p+ resolution. Specifics like peak brightness and color gamut coverage are not provided, suggesting a focus on cost reduction. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both devices, typical for this price bracket. The user experience will be adequate for basic consumption, but not ideal for media viewing or gaming.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices, relying on basic image processing. Details regarding sensor sizes and apertures are unavailable, but it's safe to assume both feature a primary camera and potentially a depth sensor. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) means low-light photography will be challenging. The focus should be on capturing usable photos in good lighting conditions, rather than expecting flagship-level image quality. Any 2MP macro sensors included should be considered a marketing feature rather than a significant photographic tool.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme C20A boasts the Mediatek Helio G35, featuring an octa-core CPU clocked up to 2.3 GHz (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53). The Redmi 9AT uses the Helio G25, with a slightly slower configuration of 2.0 GHz (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53). While both are 12nm chips, the higher clock speeds on the G35 translate to faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. The G35's slightly improved GPU will also offer a marginally better gaming experience, though neither phone is designed for demanding titles. Both devices will likely be paired with 3GB or 4GB of RAM, further limiting performance headroom.
Battery Life
Both phones likely house a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. However, the Realme C20A distinguishes itself with 10W reverse wired charging. This allows the phone to act as a power bank for accessories like wireless earbuds or smartwatches, a feature absent on the Redmi 9AT. While 10W charging isn't fast, it's a valuable addition for users who frequently rely on multiple devices. 0-100% charging times will likely be in the 3-4 hour range for both devices.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 9AT if you prioritize a well-established brand ecosystem and are primarily focused on basic smartphone functions like calls, messaging, and light social media use. Buy the Realme C20A if you want a bit more performance for the price, appreciate the convenience of reverse charging to top up accessories, and are willing to consider a newer entrant to the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme C20A handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Helio G35 is a step up from the G25, neither phone is a gaming powerhouse. PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty will be playable at low to medium settings with reduced frame rates. Expect occasional stuttering and frame drops, especially during intense action sequences. These phones are better suited for casual gaming.
❓ How much storage do these phones typically come with, and can it be expanded?
Both the Redmi 9AT and Realme C20A typically ship with 32GB of internal storage. Fortunately, both devices support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add up to 256GB or 512GB of additional storage for photos, videos, and apps. This is highly recommended, as 32GB fills up quickly.
❓ What version of Android do these phones run, and will they receive updates?
Both phones likely launched with Android 10 or 11, potentially with a custom skin from Xiaomi (MIUI) or Realme (Realme UI). Software update support is a concern in this price segment. While both brands promise updates, the frequency and duration of support can vary significantly by region. Don't expect major Android version upgrades beyond one or two iterations.
❓ Is the reverse charging on the Realme C20A useful for everyday use?
Yes, the reverse charging feature is surprisingly practical. It's ideal for topping up wireless earbuds, smartwatches, or even a friend's phone in a pinch. While 10W charging is slow, it can provide a significant boost to smaller devices, eliminating the need to carry multiple chargers.
