Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G100 and the Realme C61. As a tech journalist, I always aim to demystify the specs and focus on what truly matters to you, the user. Let’s break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Nokia G100 | Realme C61 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-10-01 | 2024-07-25 | Realme C61 is a much newer device, potentially with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 166.6 x 76.7 x 8.9 mm | 167.3 x 76.7 x 7.8 mm | Realme C61 is slightly taller but thinner, likely feeling more modern. Nokia G100 is thicker and might feel bulkier. |
| Weight | 195.1g | 188g | Realme C61 is lighter, which may be preferable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.52" | 6.74" | Realme C61 offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1600 | Both displays have the same resolution, expect similar sharpness. |
| PPI | 269 | 260 | Very similar pixel density. Both will have similar clarity. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Standard LCD technology, expect similar color and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Realme C61's 90Hz refresh rate will give you smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both displays have a reported peak brightness of 0 nits. This is either a measurement error or missing data, and is not reflective of actual display brightness. Actual numbers will vary. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11nm) | Unisoc T612 (12nm) | Realme C61's chipset has a higher benchmark score, translating to snappier overall performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 201,615 | 252,597 | Realme C61 should feel noticeably faster for most tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G57 | Different GPUs. Expect slight variation in gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 13MP, f/2.0 | 32MP, f/1.8 | Realme C61 offers a much higher resolution sensor, and a wider aperture that should capture more light and detail. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.0 | Nokia G100 has a higher resolution sensor on the front camera, while the Realme has a wider aperture which may be better for low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.2 | None | Nokia G100 has a dedicated wide-angle lens, great for landscape or group shots. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have the same depth sensor for portrait modes. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps (Slow-mo 120fps) | 1080p@30fps (Slow-mo 30fps) | Both shoot 1080p but the Nokia G100 supports a higher framerate for slow motion. |
| Camera Features | Triple, Digital zoom, OIS | Dual, Digital zoom, PDAF | Nokia has a dedicated wide angle lens. Realme has better autofocus. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity; expect similar battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | Realme C61 will charge much faster; a significant advantage. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer batteries are generally lighter and less prone to overheating. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | Realme C61 has a newer OS with access to the latest features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 | Both have standard Wi-Fi capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.0 LE (EDR, HID) | Similar, the C61 has more options for bluetooth devices. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo | Realme C61 offers better location accuracy with the addition of Galileo support. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both offer dual SIM slots, supporting two Nano SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32GB or 128GB | 64GB, 128GB or 256GB | Realme C61 has more maximum storage capacity. |
| RAM | 3GB or 4GB | 4GB, 6GB or 8GB | Realme C61 offers more RAM which should result in smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio | 2 Microphones | Stereo Speakers | Realme C61 should provide a more enjoyable audio experience through speakers. The Nokia has better microphone quality. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer similar biometric security options. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Nokia G100 has screen protection from Corning. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer | Proximity, Accelerometer | Nokia has more sensors, which can enable certain features. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G100 Strengths:
- Wider Camera Capabilities: Offers a dedicated wide-angle lens and higher FPS slow motion recording, giving you more versatility in photography and video recording.
- Robust Build Quality: Features Corning Gorilla Glass 3, providing better screen protection.
- More Sensors: Offers a gyroscope, and barometer, along with fingerprint, and proximity sensors for enhanced functionality.
Realme C61 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Unisoc T612 chipset provides significantly higher benchmark scores for smoother performance.
- Faster Charging: 45W fast charging will dramatically reduce your downtime, a significant convenience.
- Larger Screen with Higher Refresh Rate: The 6.74" display and 90Hz refresh rate offer a more immersive and fluid experience.
- Better Main Camera: A 32MP camera with a wider aperture will likely capture more detail and perform better in low-light conditions.
- Newer Software: Comes with Android 14 out of the box, ensuring access to the latest features and security updates.
- More RAM: up to 8 GB for improved performance.
- More Storage: Up to 256 GB of internal storage.
- Stereo Speakers: Provide a better audio experience.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Nokia G100: Older chipset and OS, slower charging, potentially bulkier design.
- Realme C61: Lacks a wide-angle lens and has a lower resolution selfie camera. No listed screen protection.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G100:
- Best for: Users who prioritize durability, camera versatility, and a full suite of sensors. Good for people on a tight budget.
- Use Cases: Casual photographers who like taking wide shots, someone that does not need a lot of processing power and is looking for a low cost option.
Realme C61:
- Best for: Users who prioritize performance, a smooth display, faster charging, a better primary camera, and are looking for a more modern device. This device is better for everyday use.
- Use Cases: Mobile gamers, video streamers, and anyone who values a snappy and responsive user experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your choice:
- How important is performance and speed to you? If you want the snappiest experience with faster charging, go for the Realme C61. If you're not overly concerned with top-tier speed, and value battery life, the Nokia G100 is acceptable.
- What are your camera priorities? If a wide-angle lens and a high resolution front camera are crucial, the Nokia G100 might be preferable. If you prefer higher quality photos from the main camera and do not need a wide angle lens, the Realme C61 is the choice.
- How crucial are a fast charging and a modern experience? If these are priorities for you, the Realme C61's 45W charging and newer Android version are significant advantages.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: The Nokia G100 is the lower cost option with more build quality and sensor features.
- Gaming Enthusiast: The Realme C61 with its higher performance chipset, smoother display, and more RAM is the better choice.
- Everyday User: The Realme C61 is the better overall pick, due to its newer features, faster charging and higher performance.
What I Would Choose and Why
Personally, I would choose the Realme C61. While I appreciate the Nokia G100's wide-angle lens and more robust build, the Realme C61’s combination of a faster processor, a smoother 90Hz display, significantly faster charging, and a better primary camera is too compelling. In my daily use, I prioritize snappy performance and efficiency, and the Realme C61 delivers that in spades. The updated software and stereo speakers are welcome additions, ensuring the device stays current for longer.
