1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 163.7 × 76.4 × 7.8 mm | Poco F3 is taller and wider, but slightly thinner. Realme 8 might feel more compact; Poco F3 is more expansive for media consumption. |
| Weight | 177g | 196g | Realme 8 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.67" | Poco F3 offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for multimedia and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have identical sharpness; text and images will appear equally clear. |
| PPI | 411 | 395 | Both have very similar pixel density; screen clarity is essentially the same |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Identical vibrant colors and deep blacks, excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Poco F3 delivers much smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experience; Realme 8 will feel less fluid. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1300 nits | Poco F3 screen is much more visible outdoors in bright sunlight; Realme 8 may struggle in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Poco F3 offers significantly faster processing and better overall performance; smoother multitasking and more demanding apps and games |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 800,216 | Poco F3 scores almost double, indicating superior performance; noticeably snappier experience for demanding tasks like gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Adreno 650 | Poco F3 has a much stronger GPU, better for demanding gaming with higher frame rates and graphical settings. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4520mAh | Realme 8 has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering slightly longer battery life under similar usage. |
| Charging | 30W | 33W | Poco F3 charges slightly faster; difference is likely not that noticeable. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable, QC3+/PD3.0 | Poco F3 has an advanced charging protocol, potentially more efficient charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 64MP | 48MP | Realme 8 captures photos with a higher megapixel count, which can translate to better detail in good lighting but is not the only factor to consider |
| Main Camera Sensor | Omnivision OV64B | Sony IMX582 Exmor RS | Realme 8 has a different sensor technology that may yield a different image processing and rendering than the Sony sensor. |
| Main Camera Pixel | 0.70 µm pixel size | 0.80 µm pixel size | Realme 8 has a smaller pixel size, impacting low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Res | 16MP | 20MP | Poco F3 has a slightly higher megapixel count for selfies. |
| Selfie Sensor | Sony IMX471 Exmor RS | Samsung S5K3T2 | Different sensor technologies, possibly different image qualities. |
| Selfie Sensor Size | 1/3.13" | 1/3.4" | Realme 8 has a larger sensor for potentially better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle lens | 8MP | None | Realme 8 has an ultrawide camera for capturing more in a scene. |
| Macro lens | 2MP | None | Realme 8 has a macro lens for extreme close-up shots. |
| Black & White lens | 2MP | None | Realme 8 has a black and white camera for depth sensing. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps, 1080p@960fps, EIS | Poco F3 has an advantage with slow motion capabilities and improved stabilization. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 (upgradeable to 13) | Poco F3 will receive newer Android updates and features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 5 | WiFi 6 | Poco F3 offers faster speeds on compatible networks; better for large downloads and streaming. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.1, aptX, LDAC, AAC | Poco F3 has superior audio codec support for better wireless headphone quality. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System | Poco F3 has broader GPS support, resulting in more accurate location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Poco F3 offers a higher storage option, better for users with extensive media libraries. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 6GB/8GB | Both offer adequate RAM for most users, but the Poco F3 starts with more RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports memory cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Poco F3 offers richer and more immersive audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Side mounted Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor is generally faster and more ergonomically convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Poco F3 offers better scratch and drop resistance for its display. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Both phones have comprehensive sensors, with each having unique sensors that enable specific functionalities. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle for extended periods.
- Larger Battery: May offer slightly longer battery life.
- More Cameras: Includes wide, macro, and depth lenses for diverse shooting options.
Practical Implications (Realme 8):
- The lighter weight makes it ideal for those who prioritize comfort for one-handed use and those with smaller hands.
- The bigger battery means less frequent charging, good for users who are often away from power outlets.
- The multiple cameras offer versatility, but the sensors and image quality may be outmatched by the Poco F3 in many situations.
Xiaomi Poco F3 Advantages:
- Significantly Better Performance: The Snapdragon 870 delivers a superior experience with faster app loading and smoother gaming.
- 120Hz Display: Provides a noticeably smoother experience, especially for scrolling and gaming.
- Higher Brightness Display: Much better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight.
- Faster Charging: Slightly quicker to recharge the battery.
- More Storage Options: Offers a 256GB option for users who need more storage.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos, and Stereo Speakers provide a more immersive experience.
- Better Connectivity: Supports the latest WiFi 6 for faster internet.
- Better build quality: Comes with Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
- More accurate location: Has more satellite systems support for better location tracking
Practical Implications (Poco F3):
- The powerful chipset is beneficial for users who play graphics intensive games and for those who demand fast and responsive performance.
- The 120Hz display makes everything feel much smoother.
- The brighter display makes the screen more legible in challenging outdoor environments.
- The combination of better audio and visual capabilities elevates the overall multimedia experience.
- Better connectivity allows for faster internet speeds.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Realme 8: Sacrifices performance and display quality for a slightly lighter body and a larger battery.
- Poco F3: Heavier and slightly bulkier design compared to Realme 8 but offers much better performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8: Ideal User
- Casual users: Prioritizes a compact design, comfortable weight and long battery life.
- Budget-conscious users: Needs a phone with a good camera system at an affordable price.
- Users who value the versatility of additional camera lenses: The wide and macro lenses provide additional flexibility.
Realme 8: Use Cases
- Daily social media browsing, light gaming, and basic photography.
- Commuting and travel, where portability and battery life are key.
- Users that are not big into gaming, but need a good everyday workhorse.
Xiaomi Poco F3: Ideal User
- Power users: Prioritizes high performance for demanding tasks.
- Gamers: Requires smooth gameplay and a high refresh rate display.
- Multimedia consumers: Appreciates better audio, a brighter and a larger display.
Poco F3: Use Cases
- High-end mobile gaming, running demanding apps, and intensive multitasking.
- Watching movies, streaming videos, and enjoying immersive audio experiences.
- Users who want a device that will remain fast and performant for longer.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Realme 8: Offers good value for budget users and casual users.
- Poco F3: Provides better performance and display at a more premium price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my priority: performance or battery life/comfort? Consider whether you need the very best performance for demanding games or if you need the phone to be comfortable and have better battery life.
- How important is display quality, and will I use the phone in bright sunlight? If you need a screen that works well outdoors, the Poco F3 is better.
- Do I value a versatile camera setup over overall performance and a sharper display? If you want an additional wide angle, macro, and black & white lenses then the Realme 8 is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User with Basic Needs
- Recommendation: Realme 8. Its lower price will make it more accessible while providing a good overall camera and battery.
- Scenario 2: Heavy Gamer/Power User
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Poco F3. Its superior performance, 120Hz display, and better cooling system makes it the clear choice for a smoother and faster gaming experience.
- Scenario 3: Multimedia Enthusiast
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Poco F3. With a brighter display, larger display, stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, this device will be great for watching videos and listening to music.
- Scenario 4: Someone who dislikes bulky phones and prefers comfort over performance:
- Recommendation: Realme 8. Its lower weight and compact size make it much more comfortable for extended periods of time and single-handed use.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Xiaomi Poco F3.
Here's why:
- Performance Matters Most: As someone who uses their phone for demanding tasks, including moderate gaming and multitasking, the Snapdragon 870 and the Adreno 650 GPU of the Poco F3 would be far more beneficial for me. The nearly double AnTuTu score showcases a dramatic difference in speed and responsiveness that I would value.
- Better Display: The 120Hz refresh rate would contribute to a much smoother user experience, and the 1300 nits brightness would make the phone far more usable outdoors. The slightly larger display is also more enjoyable for media consumption.
- Better Build Quality: The Gorilla Glass 5 screen provides much needed protection from scratches and drops.
- Superior Audio Quality: The stereo speakers, coupled with Dolby Atmos, would greatly enhance my multimedia consumption.
- Future Proof: The Poco F3 comes with more satellite GPS options, and support for WiFi 6, and a higher Android version which means it will last me longer.
- Storage: The option for 256GB is a much better option for long-term storage, and means that I will not have to worry about storage running out.
While I appreciate the lighter weight, the larger battery, and extra cameras of the Realme 8, the performance and overall user experience advantages of the Poco F3 are too significant to ignore for my personal usage patterns. The Poco F3 simply provides a much more powerful, smoother and enjoyable overall experience.
