Alright, let's break down the Realme C35 and Google Pixel 7 Pro. These two phones sit at very different ends of the smartphone spectrum, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses is key to figuring out which one is right for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at their specs, with a focus on what they actually mean for your day-to-day use:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm | 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9 mm | C35 is slightly taller but thinner, while the Pixel 7 Pro is a bit wider and thicker. The Pixel has a larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 189g | 212g | The C35 is noticeably lighter, which will be more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.7" | Both have large displays, but the Pixel 7 Pro offers a negligibly larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1440x3120 | The Pixel 7 Pro’s display is significantly sharper, with 72.8% more pixels and thus superior visual clarity. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 401 | 512 | The Pixel 7 Pro offers noticeably sharper text and images with higher pixel density. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | The Pixel 7 Pro's AMOLED display offers richer colors, deeper blacks, better contrast, and superior power efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The Pixel 7 Pro has noticeably smoother animations and transitions, making daily use feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1500 nits | The Pixel 7 Pro will be far more readable in bright sunlight due to its significantly higher peak brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | The Pixel 7 Pro has a far more powerful and efficient processor, leading to snappier performance and better multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 831,716 | The Pixel 7 Pro will provide significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, better gaming performance, and more future-proof performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G710 MP7 | The Pixel 7 Pro has a much more powerful GPU, leading to better gaming and graphic-intensive app performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery capacities, but real-world battery life will vary based on usage and software optimization. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 23W fast, 23W wireless charging | The Pixel 7 Pro charges faster and also supports wireless charging, offering greater flexibility. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging | Pixel 7 Pro offers more advanced features including reverse wireless charging, meaning it can charge other devices. C35 has no charger in the box. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31", 1.2µm | While both have 50MP main sensors, the Pixel 7 Pro has a larger sensor with bigger pixels, resulting in better image quality, especially in low light, and it's using the Samsung GN1 while C35 doesn't have a model. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | The Pixel 7 Pro has a higher resolution selfie camera with bigger pixels, offering better detail and low-light performance while having a smaller aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 48MP, f/3.5, 1/2", 0.8µm | The Pixel 7 Pro has a telephoto lens for optical zoom, which the C35 lacks. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.3", 1.55µm | The Pixel 7 Pro has a wide-angle lens, while the C35 doesn't. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | The C35 has a dedicated macro lens, while Pixel 7 Pro doesn't offer one. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP, f/2.8 | None | The C35 has a dedicated black and white lens, while Pixel 7 Pro doesn't offer one. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | The Pixel 7 Pro can record higher-resolution video with advanced stabilization features (OIS and EIS), whereas the C35 is limited to 1080p at 30fps. |
| DXOMARK Score | N/A | Mobile: 147, Selfie: 142 | The Pixel 7 Pro has been thoroughly tested and scored excellently for its camera performance. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 (upgradeable to 14) | The Pixel 7 Pro offers a newer operating system with timely updates, ensuring a more secure and feature-rich experience. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Up to 802.11ac | Up to Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | The Pixel 7 Pro supports the latest Wi-Fi standards for faster speeds and better network performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | The Pixel 7 Pro features a more up-to-date Bluetooth version with better audio codec support for higher-quality wireless audio. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | The Pixel 7 Pro supports a wider range of satellite navigation systems for more accurate positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | The Pixel 7 Pro offers eSIM for more flexible carrier options. C35 can hold 2 physical SIMs simultaneously. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | The Pixel 7 Pro offers significantly more storage options, which are critical for high-resolution photos and videos. |
| RAM | 4GB | 12GB | The Pixel 7 Pro has considerably more RAM for smoother multitasking and better overall performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers, Noise Cancellation | The Pixel 7 Pro has high-quality audio playback, with stereo speakers and noise-canceling microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | The C35 has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, while Pixel has a basic one on the screen. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | The Pixel 7 Pro's screen offers much better protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | The Pixel 7 Pro includes a more comprehensive array of sensors, enabling a wider range of functionalities. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35 Strengths:
- Affordable: Its primary advantage is its budget-friendly price point, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Lightweight Design: The C35’s lighter weight is a boon for those who value comfort during prolonged use.
- Macro and B&W Lenses: It does offer dedicated macro and black & white lenses which are not available in Pixel 7 Pro.
Realme C35 Limitations:
- Lower Performance: Its weaker processor results in a less smooth experience, especially for gaming or multitasking.
- Inferior Display: The IPS LCD screen, with its lower resolution, refresh rate, and brightness, is noticeably inferior to the Pixel 7 Pro's AMOLED display.
- Basic Camera: The C35's camera system is more basic, lacking features like optical zoom and higher-resolution video recording.
- Older Software: Ships with older version of Android.
- Lacks Features: No Wireless charging.
Google Pixel 7 Pro Strengths:
- Flagship Performance: Its Google Tensor G2 chip offers blazing-fast performance and AI capabilities.
- Exceptional Display: The AMOLED screen is vibrant, sharp, smooth, and highly visible in sunlight.
- Superior Camera System: The camera system delivers excellent image quality, along with optical zoom, and high-resolution video recording.
- Advanced Features: It has modern features like wireless charging, advanced connectivity options, and the latest Android software.
- Better Build Quality: Offers robust Gorilla Glass Victus protection on screen.
- Audio Quality: Boasts stereo speakers and noise cancellation.
Google Pixel 7 Pro Limitations:
- High Price: Its flagship status comes with a premium price tag, making it less accessible.
- Heavier: Its heavier build may feel less comfortable for some.
- No Macro Lens: It lacks the dedicated macro camera that C35 has.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35 is Best For:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who prioritize affordability over top-tier features.
- Casual users: People who primarily use their phones for basic tasks like calls, messaging, and social media browsing.
- First-time smartphone owners: Individuals who want a reliable and simple device without a steep learning curve.
- Users who want to capture macro shots.
Google Pixel 7 Pro is Best For:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who desire the best possible performance, display quality, and camera capabilities.
- Content Creators: Professionals or hobbyists who need high-quality photos and videos.
- Power Users: Those who engage in heavy multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications.
- Users who prioritize latest software and security updates.
- Users who want the best audio quality.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Budget: What is your maximum budget? If it is lower than Pixel 7 Pro, then Realme C35 will make more sense.
- Primary Use: What will you use your phone for the most? If it’s just basic everyday use, C35 is enough. For more complex tasks, Pixel 7 Pro is the obvious choice.
- Features: Which features are the most important to you? Do you value top-tier camera quality and premium display or value macro lens on budget?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student on a Tight Budget: The Realme C35 is a solid, affordable option for day to day tasks and for simple media consumption.
- Photographer/Videographer: The Pixel 7 Pro's camera capabilities is unmatched, making it the ideal choice.
- Mobile Gamer: The Pixel 7 Pro's superior performance is essential for demanding games.
- Casual User: C35 is more than enough for basic tasks.
- Traveler: Pixel 7 Pro with its eSIM functionality and advanced GPS is better for traveling.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd go with the Google Pixel 7 Pro. While the price difference is significant, the Pixel 7 Pro's overall package provides a far superior experience. As a tech enthusiast who values performance, high-quality photos, and an immersive display, the Pixel 7 Pro ticks all the boxes. The camera system is excellent, the display is a joy to use, and the performance is buttery smooth. While I appreciate the affordability of the C35, the compromises on performance, display, and camera are simply too significant for my needs.
