Alright, let's dive deep into this head-to-head between the Realme C35 and the Google Pixel 7. We have two very different devices here, each with its own set of priorities and target users. It’s all about understanding what you value most in a smartphone and how that matches up with what these devices offer. Let's break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the key specifications, including what they mean for your daily use:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Google Pixel 7 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm | 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm | The Realme C35 is taller and wider, while the Pixel 7 is a bit thicker, potentially affecting one-handed use and pocketability. |
| Weight | 189g | 197g | The Realme C35 is slightly lighter, which may make it a bit more comfortable during long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.3" | The Realme C35 offers a slightly larger screen for content consumption, while the Pixel 7 might be more comfortable for single-hand use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2400 | Both have very similar sharpness, so you wouldn't likely notice the minor difference in clarity. |
| PPI | 401 | 416 | Both have good pixel density; you'll get sharp images and text on both. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED on the Pixel 7 offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, significantly enhancing the visual experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | The Pixel 7’s 90Hz display provides smoother scrolling and animations, making it feel more responsive than the 60Hz display on the Realme C35. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1400 nits | The Pixel 7 is dramatically brighter, making it much more usable outdoors in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5nm) | The Tensor G2 in the Pixel 7 is significantly more powerful, leading to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better overall performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 827,033 | The Pixel 7 is in a completely different league, offering vastly superior performance, especially in demanding tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G710 MP7 | The Pixel 7's GPU is much more capable for demanding graphics and gaming, the Realme C35 will struggle with heavy games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4355mAh | The Realme C35 has a larger battery, likely leading to longer battery life between charges for less demanding use cases. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 20W Fast, 23W Wireless | The Pixel 7 charges slightly faster and offers wireless charging, which is much more convenient. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable, No charger in box, Wireless charge 23W, Reverse wireless charge | Pixel 7 can wirelessly charge other devices, a nice quality-of-life feature. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31" Sensor, Samsung GN1, 1.20µm | The Pixel 7's main camera has a larger sensor and pixel size, plus more advanced processing, leading to better image quality, particularly in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, Sony Exmor | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" Sensor, Samsung S5K3J1, 1.22µm | The Pixel 7's front camera has higher resolution, a larger sensor, and larger pixels for higher quality selfies. |
| Wide-Angle Camera | N/A | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.3" Sensor, Sony IMX381 Exmor RS, 1.55µm | The Pixel 7 includes a dedicated wide-angle lens, offering more versatile photography options compared to the Realme C35. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Realme C35 offers a Macro Lens for taking close up shots, that is missing from the Pixel 7 |
| Black & White Camera | 2MP, f/2.8 | N/A | Realme C35 offers a Black & White Camera that is missing from the Pixel 7 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps, OIS, EIS | The Pixel 7 offers vastly superior video recording quality, with higher resolution, optical image stabilization, and electronic image stabilization. |
| DXOMARK Scores | N/A | Main: 140, Selfie: 138 | The Pixel 7 scores significantly higher, suggesting noticeably better image and video quality. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | The Pixel 7 ships with a much newer version of Android and is promised updates to the next one, while the Realme C35 is stuck with an older version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | The Pixel 7 supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | The Pixel 7 has a newer, more efficient Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | The Pixel 7 has more reliable and precise GPS with more navigation systems |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + eSIM) | The Pixel 7 has eSIM capabilities which could be beneficial for travelers who use different mobile networks |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | The Pixel 7 offers more internal storage, meaning that more of your files, music and photos can be stored without the need for external drives. |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB | The Pixel 7's larger RAM allows for smoother multitasking and better app performance, especially for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage so you are limited to the storage the device has |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | The Pixel 7 offers superior audio features, including noise cancellation and stereo speakers, enhancing both call and media experiences. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | The Realme C35 offers a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | The Pixel 7 offers robust screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | The Pixel 7 offers a more comprehensive suite of sensors for a wider range of features. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35 Strengths:
- Larger Display: A bigger screen for media consumption and browsing.
- Battery Life: The larger battery will likely offer longer run time between charges.
- More Cameras: Has macro and a black and white sensor, missing in Pixel 7.
- Budget-Friendly: Likely positioned as a lower-cost device, making it accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
- Simplicity: Doesn't try to over complicate the experience with added features.
Realme C35 Competitive Advantages:
- A more budget-friendly option for those who prioritize screen size and battery.
- Physical fingerprint sensor.
Realme C35 Trade-offs:
- Significantly less powerful processor and GPU, impacting performance and gaming.
- Inferior screen quality with an LCD display, low refresh rate and brightness.
- Basic camera performance compared to the Pixel 7.
- Older Android version.
Google Pixel 7 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Google Tensor G2 offers flagship-level performance.
- Excellent Display: The AMOLED screen is vibrant, bright and smooth.
- Top-Tier Camera: Fantastic camera with advanced features and high image quality.
- Up-to-date Software: Ships with the latest Android and will get feature updates.
- Premium Features: Wireless charging, better speakers, water resistance, and more.
Google Pixel 7 Competitive Advantages:
- A superior user experience across the board, with cutting-edge performance, a beautiful display, and an amazing camera.
- More premium design and feel.
Google Pixel 7 Trade-offs:
- Higher price point.
- Smaller battery, might need charging more often compared to the Realme C35.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35 is Best For:
- Budget-conscious users: Prioritizing affordability above all else.
- Basic Users: Those who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, browsing, and social media and don't need top-tier performance.
- Long Battery Life Seekers: Users who need a device that lasts through a full day without constant charging.
- Macro Photography: People who like taking closeup photos of plants and bugs.
- Physical Fingerprint Sensor: People who prefer using a fingerprint sensor to unlock their device.
Google Pixel 7 is Best For:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want the latest features and top performance.
- Photography Lovers: Users who value exceptional photo and video quality.
- Power Users: Those who need a smooth and fast phone for multitasking and demanding applications.
- Media Consumers: People who appreciate high-quality visuals and audio.
- Android Users: Who would prefer to have the latest version of Android and the next version, with a guaranteed update schedule.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself These Questions:
- What's your budget? If you need to keep the price as low as possible, the Realme C35 is the more affordable option.
- What do you use your phone for most? If it's primarily for basic tasks and you value battery life, the Realme C35 will be adequate. If you need power, a great camera, and a premium experience, the Pixel 7 is the way to go.
- How important is the software experience? If you want the latest version of Android, then Pixel 7 is the better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Budget-Conscious User: If you are on a tight budget and need a phone for basic tasks with long battery life, the Realme C35 is a solid option.
- Scenario 2: The Photography Enthusiast: If your main focus is the camera, the Pixel 7 will deliver significantly better images and video with its advanced hardware and software.
- Scenario 3: The Performance Seeker: If you play graphically intensive games or use demanding apps, the Pixel 7's powerful processor is far superior to the Realme C35.
- Scenario 4: The Everyday User: For someone looking for a well-rounded phone that performs well in all areas, the Pixel 7 is the better choice, even with its higher price.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Google Pixel 7 without hesitation. While the Realme C35 offers a larger battery, and a very tempting low-cost option, the Pixel 7 simply provides a much better all-around smartphone experience. The vastly superior performance of the Tensor G2 chipset, combined with a beautiful AMOLED display, a best-in-class camera, and the latest version of Android makes it worth the extra cost in my opinion.
The camera, in particular, is a standout feature for me. As a tech journalist, I need a phone that can capture great photos and videos consistently, and the Pixel 7's camera, along with its video recording capabilities is simply unmatched. While the larger battery of the C35 might be tempting, the wireless charging of the Pixel 7 more than makes up for the smaller battery.
Ultimately, the Pixel 7 is the better choice for anyone who values performance, display quality, and an outstanding camera, all while having a smooth, up-to-date software experience. The Realme C35 has its place for budget-conscious users who just need the basics, but for me, the Google Pixel 7 is the clear winner.
