1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Realme 8 | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 164.7 × 76.1 × 8.4 mm | Realme C31 is slightly larger and thicker, potentially less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 177g | 197g | Realme 8 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
Display
| Feature | Realme 8 | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.4" | 6.5" | Negligible size difference, both offer a large viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Realme 8 has a much sharper display, with crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 411 | 270 | Realme 8 has significantly higher pixel density, leading to a more detailed and less pixelated display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Realme 8 offers superior color vibrancy, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency for dark themes, enhancing overall viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Both have a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is adequate for everyday use, but not ideal for high-end gaming. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 0 nits | Realme 8 is far better for outdoor visibility, easily usable under bright sunlight. Realme C31 brightness is unknown. |
Performance
| Feature | Realme 8 | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 | Unisoc Tiger T612 | Realme 8's chipset offers better overall performance, handling apps and games more smoothly. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 224,223 | Realme 8 is significantly faster, suitable for moderate gaming and intensive applications. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G57 | Realme 8's GPU allows for smoother graphics and better gaming performance. |
Camera
| Feature | Realme 8 | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.79 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Realme 8 captures far more detailed photos, especially in low light, thanks to the higher resolution and wider aperture. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.45 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Realme 8 takes sharper and more detailed selfies, while the C31 is a basic selfie cam. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.25 | Not Available | Realme 8 can capture wider scenes, adding flexibility in photography. |
| Macro | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar macro capabilities on both phones. |
| Black & White | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.8 | Realme 8 may have slightly better black & white shots due to its wider aperture. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | Realme 8 offers much higher video recording quality, ideal for vlogging and high-quality video capturing. |
| Features | 4K Video, Quad Camera, Ultra Stable Video | Triple Camera, PDAF, CDAF | Realme 8 has additional 4k recording and video stabilization. Realme C31 adds PDAF and CDAF for autofocus. |
Battery
| Feature | Realme 8 | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery capacity, offering comparable battery life under similar usage. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 10W fast charging | Realme 8 charges much faster, reducing downtime and allowing quick top-ups. |
| Removable | Non-removable | Non-removable | Neither battery is user-replaceable. |
Storage and RAM
| Feature | Realme 8 | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 64 GB or 128GB | 32 GB or 64 GB | Realme 8 offers larger storage options, helpful for more apps and media. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB or 8 GB | 3 GB or 4 GB | Realme 8 provides more RAM, resulting in better multitasking capabilities, especially for higher variants. |
| Expandable | No | No | Both phones lack expandable storage. |
Other
| Feature | Realme 8 | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi | 802.11ac, dual band | 802.11n | Realme 8 offers faster WiFi speeds and better range on dual bands. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.0 | Realme 8 has a slightly newer Bluetooth standard with potentially more efficient power consumption. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio | Basic audio | Realme 8 delivers higher quality audio for a better music listening experience. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Realme C31 has a more ergonomic side-mounted sensor. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass | Realme 8 offers more sensor options for advanced functionality. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Protection type is not specified for either phone. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness provides a far better visual experience, especially outdoors.
- Significantly Better Performance: The Helio G95 chipset offers substantially faster processing and better gaming capabilities, as seen in the AnTuTu benchmark.
- Enhanced Camera System: Higher resolution sensors, a wide-angle lens, and 4K video recording enable better photo and video quality with added versatility.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging is much faster than 10W, saving time on charging.
- Better Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi ac, better bluetooth and Dual Band Wi-Fi support
- Hi-Res Audio: Better audio quality for music and media consumption
- More RAM: higher RAM options improve overall speed and performance.
More Internal Storage Options: Larger internal storage options to hold more media, apps and files.
Practical Implication: The Realme 8 is designed for users who prioritize a high-quality display, smooth performance, and versatile camera capabilities.
Realme C31 Advantages:
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Potentially more ergonomic for unlocking the phone quickly.
More affordable: Given the lower specs, the C31 is likely to be a lower cost device.
Practical Implication: The Realme C31 is targeted at budget-conscious users looking for a basic smartphone with standard functionality.
Trade-offs:
- Realme 8: Users would pay a higher price for the increased performance, better display and improved cameras.
- Realme C31: Users trade off performance, display quality, and camera capabilities for a lower price point and a more ergonomic fingerprint sensor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8: Ideal User
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate a high-quality display and faster processing.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want more advanced camera capabilities and better video recording.
- Moderate Gamers: Individuals who play games occasionally and need smooth performance.
Multimedia Consumers: People who frequently watch videos or consume other media on their phones.
- Use Cases:
- Watching high-resolution videos on streaming services.
- Playing mobile games with better frame rates.
- Capturing high-quality photos and 4K videos.
- Daily users that require fast performance and multitasking.
- Use Cases:
Realme C31: Ideal User
- Budget-Conscious Users: People looking for a basic, affordable smartphone for daily tasks.
- First-Time Smartphone Users: Those new to smartphones and only need basic features.
- Users with Basic Needs: Individuals who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, and basic apps.
Users not requiring the latest tech: Users that do not require high end features on a smartphone.
- Use Cases:
- Making calls and sending texts.
- Checking social media.
- Basic web browsing.
- Basic photography.
- Use Cases:
Price-to-Value Ratio
- Realme 8: Offers superior features that align with its price point, making it a good value for performance-oriented users.
- Realme C31: Offers great value in the budget segment, suitable for users who need basic functionality.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality to you? (Are you okay with an average quality display or would you like a more vibrant experience?)
- What is your primary use case? (Do you want to take good photos or play games or just want something that will do calls and texts.)
- What is your budget? (Are you looking to get the best performance or something that is easy on the wallet?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High-Quality Media Consumption and Gaming: If you frequently watch videos, play games, and want a vibrant display, the Realme 8 is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: Basic Usage and Budget Constraints: If you need a phone for basic tasks and want the most cost-effective option, the Realme C31 is more suitable.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Daily Use: If you need a phone for daily use with the odd photography and gaming requirements and are willing to pay a bit more, the Realme 8 will be the better fit.
My Choice
If I were to choose between the Realme 8 and the Realme C31, I would opt for the Realme 8. My reasoning is based on the significantly better display technology (AMOLED), the far superior performance provided by the Helio G95 chipset, the better camera system with 4K recording capabilities and the much faster 30W charging.
While the Realme C31 might appeal to those on a strict budget, I believe the improved user experience, smoother performance, and much higher quality display of the Realme 8 justifies the additional cost. As someone who consumes media, uses intensive apps, and needs reliable performance on a daily basis, the Realme 8 provides a much more satisfying and long lasting device compared to the C31. The improved camera capabilities are also a big draw, enabling more flexibility in daily photography and video needs. The faster charging would be very useful for on the go usage.
In essence, the Realme 8 provides a better overall package tailored to performance and overall quality which is important for my daily use.
