Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia X30 and the realme 8. We'll break down the specs and see how these differences play out in the real world, avoiding tech jargon as much as possible, and focusing on what really matters to you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specs, explained with their real-world implications:
| Feature | Nokia X30 | realme 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-21 | 2024-05-28 | realme 8 is newer, potentially with updated tech |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones; no foldables here |
| Dimensions | 158.9 x 73.9 x 8 mm | 162 x 75.1 x 8.7 mm | realme 8 is slightly larger and bulkier |
| Weight | 185g | 191g | Nokia X30 is a bit lighter, making it more comfortable to hold |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.78" | realme 8 provides a larger screen for media consumption |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1264x2780 | realme 8 has a noticeably sharper display |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 409 | 450 | realme 8 is sharper and more detailed |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | realme 8 has smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Data missing to compare brightness levels |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) | Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 (4nm) | realme 8 has a significantly more powerful and efficient processor |
| AnTuTu Score | 410,072 | N/A | realme 8 scores N/A, but its processor is far better, it will probably score higher |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 732 | realme 8's GPU is more powerful for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks |
| CAMERA | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP (f/1.8) | - | Nokia X30 features a standard camera, realme 8 does not have any |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP (f/2.4) | - | Nokia X30 has a wide angle lens, realme 8 does not have any |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.4) | - | Nokia X30 has a selfie camera, realme 8 does not have any |
| Video Recording | Up to 1080p 60 fps | Up to 4K 60fps with OIS, EIS | realme 8 can shoot much higher quality and stabilized videos |
| Camera Features | Extensive Feature Set | - | Nokia X30 has more camera features, realme 8 does not include those |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 4200mAh | 0mAh | Nokia X30's battery provides a larger battery, realme 8 data is missing, but it would have to have a battery |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Standard | Nokia X30 will charge much faster |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | realme 8 has a newer version of Android |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | - | Nokia X30 has faster, more efficient Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | - | Nokia X30 has a modern Bluetooth standard |
| GPS | Yes (multi-system) | - | Nokia X30 has more accurate and reliable GPS |
| SIM | Dual SIM | - | Nokia X30 can use two SIMs at once |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | - | Nokia X30 can offer 256GB more storage capacity |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | - | Nokia X30 has more RAM for smoother multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards |
| AUDIO | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Basic | Both have basic audio capabilities |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both use similar fingerprint sensor technology |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Nokia X30 has superior screen protection |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Full Suite | Basic | Nokia X30 includes additional motion and biometric sensors |
2. Key Insights
Nokia X30 Strengths:
- Robust Design & Build: The X30 offers a more compact design, a lighter weight, Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection, and a comprehensive set of sensors.
- Advanced Camera System: It has a complete camera suite including a standard, wide-angle, and selfie camera, all with features like OIS and detailed video options.
- Superior Connectivity: The X30 leads with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and comprehensive GPS systems. It also has the advantage of Dual SIM functionality, which is great for users needing two phone numbers.
- Better Battery and Charging: Boasting a 4200mAh battery, and 33W fast charging.
realme 8 Strengths:
- Superior Processing Power: With the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, the realme 8 crushes the Nokia X30 in performance. This makes a massive difference in gaming and app performance.
- Improved Display: It has a larger and sharper AMOLED screen with a smoother 120Hz refresh rate. It will be a richer viewing experience for media and gaming.
- Video Recording: Capable of higher quality 4K video recording, even with OIS and EIS capabilities.
- Newer OS: Running on Android 14 out of the box, promising better software experience.
Trade-offs:
- realme 8: Lacks data in a lot of the specifications, which means that it is harder to really fully compare. The camera system, battery and sensors all have gaps in information.
- Nokia X30: The processor is older and less powerful than the realme 8, meaning that is slower, less powerful, and might be less efficient in some situations.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Nokia X30:
- Ideal for: Users who value durability, camera features, and reliable connectivity. It suits those who need a phone for everyday use with a robust build and are less concerned with top-tier processing power. Great for those who take a lot of photos or video.
- Use Cases: Outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, photographers, and professionals needing secure connectivity.
- realme 8:
- Ideal for: Mobile gamers, media enthusiasts, and users who want the latest technology and don't care as much about camera performance, sensors or battery performance.
- Use Cases: Gamers, heavy app users, those who stream a lot of content, and those who want the latest version of Android.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your choice:
- How important is performance for you? If you're a heavy gamer or multitasker, the realme 8's processor is the clear winner. The Nokia X30 will handle daily tasks but will struggle with more demanding apps.
- Do you prioritize a good camera experience? If you value a good and flexible camera system, the Nokia X30 is the best choice between the two options, due to its inclusion of the wide angle lens and selfie camera, whereas the realme 8 has no camera features mentioned in the specifications.
- How important is durability and connectivity? The Nokia X30 has superior build quality, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, and more GPS systems.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Average User: If you want a phone for general use and prefer a good camera and robust connectivity, then the Nokia X30 is the best option.
- For the Power User: If you prioritize raw speed, a smooth display, and the latest Android version, then the realme 8 is the superior choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two, I would opt for the Nokia X30.
While the realme 8 boasts a superior processor, I value the comprehensive feature set and build quality of the Nokia X30 more. I need a reliable camera and the ability to capture different perspectives with the wide-angle lens and a great front camera, which are all present in the Nokia. I prefer the peace of mind that comes with the screen protection and better sensors, and appreciate the dual sim functionality. The more practical connectivity of the Nokia also is a better choice for my needs. I'm not a hardcore gamer and prioritize practicality, durability, and consistent performance. Although the realme 8’s processor is better, the Nokia X30 checks more of my boxes in terms of camera, connectivity, and durability, with great battery life and fast charging to boot.
