Okay, let's dive deep into this comparison of the Realme C35 and the Google Pixel 8. It's a classic David vs. Goliath matchup, but as we know, the story is all in the details.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key specs, presented in a way that emphasizes real-world implications:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Google Pixel 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm | Realme C35 is larger; Pixel 8 is more compact, might be easier for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 189g | 187g | Virtually identical, both feel substantial but not overly heavy. |
| Build | Plastic Frame and Back | Glass Front (Gorilla Glass Victus), Aluminum Frame | Pixel 8 will likely feel more premium and offers better scratch resistance for the screen. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.2" | Realme C35 offers more screen real estate for content consumption. Pixel 8 is more compact with a high quality display. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2400 | Both offer crisp, Full HD quality visuals. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 401 | 428 | Pixel 8 has slightly sharper visuals due to higher pixel density, but the difference will be difficult for the average user to notice. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Pixel 8 has superior color accuracy, contrast, and deeper blacks, which will enhance content consumption experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 8 offers much smoother scrolling and animations for a more responsive feel. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2000 nits | Pixel 8 has dramatically better outdoor visibility, making it suitable for bright sunlight. Realme C35 will be harder to see in daylight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8 will have much faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in heavy tasks like gaming and editing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 876,512 | Pixel 8's raw performance is significantly higher which translates to a huge day-to-day user experience difference. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8 delivers superior graphics for a noticeably better gaming experience. |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB | Pixel 8 will handle more apps running in the background, resulting in smoother multitasking. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31" sensor | Pixel 8's larger sensor size and wider aperture allow for better low-light performance, more details, and shallower depth of field. |
| Ultrawide Camera | None | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9" sensor | Pixel 8 offers a versatile wide angle lens allowing for unique photos. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Realme C35 offers a dedicated macro camera for detailed close up shots. |
| Black & White Camera | 2MP, f/2.8 | None | Realme C35 offers a dedicated black and white camera for artistic effect. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" sensor | Pixel 8's selfie camera will likely produce better images with greater dynamic range and more detail. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Pixel 8 can record much higher quality video with enhanced stabilization, useful for content creators. |
| Additional Features | Triple camera, Digital zoom, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF) | Dual camera, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), Laser autofocus (LAF), NPU AI Engine, RAW, Night Mode | Pixel 8 offers more advanced camera features and will likely take better photos with more detail and better dynamic range. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4575mAh | Realme C35 has a slightly larger battery, but real-world battery life also depends on optimization, and other variables. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 27W fast charging | Pixel 8 will recharge faster. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Pixel 8 can wirelessly charge other devices and accessories. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Google Pixel 8 offers newer OS, more up-to-date security and features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11be, WiFi 6, WiFi 7 | Pixel 8 offers far more advanced WiFi capabilities offering more stable and faster connection. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Pixel 8 offers far more advanced Bluetooth audio codecs, and a newer version of Bluetooth. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Google Pixel 8 offers more accurate location services |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB or 128GB | 128GB or 256GB | Pixel 8 offers more storage for apps, photos, and other files. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows you to expand the storage via microSD. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35:
- Strengths:
- Larger Display: Ideal for media consumption and those who prefer a more expansive viewing area.
- Bigger Battery: Can potentially last longer, catering to users who prioritize battery life.
- Dedicated Macro and Black & White Lens Offers more versatility for creative photography.
- Limitations:
- Basic Performance: The Unisoc chip struggles with heavy tasks.
- Lower Quality Display: IPS LCD is not as vibrant or bright as OLED.
- Older OS: Android 11 is outdated compared to newer phones.
- Basic Camera Performance: Struggles to take good photos in low light conditions.
Google Pixel 8:
- Strengths:
- Superior Performance: Google's Tensor G3 chip is incredibly powerful.
- Premium Display: The OLED panel offers rich colors and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
- Excellent Camera: Top-tier image quality and videography.
- Latest Software: Offers a pure Android experience with the latest features and updates.
- Advanced Connectivity: Uses the newest Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies.
- Better Protection: The display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus.
- Limitations:
- Smaller Screen: Might be less ideal for users who love large screens.
- Slightly Smaller Battery: May not offer the absolute longest battery life, but should comfortably get through a day.
- No Dedicated Macro and Black & White Lens: Might disappoint users that like the flexibility of having those lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35 is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users: Looking for a basic smartphone for everyday tasks.
- Users who prioritize battery life: Will benefit from the bigger battery.
- Those who want a large display: Ideal for watching videos and browsing the web.
- Users who are keen on macro and black and white photography: The macro and black and white cameras will be suitable for this user.
Google Pixel 8 is ideal for:
- Tech enthusiasts: Want the latest features and top-tier performance.
- Photography enthusiasts: Looking for a device with excellent image quality.
- Users who value smooth performance: Want a phone that can handle demanding tasks and multitasking.
- Users who want the latest OS with the longest support: Will get the latest software updates and features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, consider these questions:
- What’s your primary use case? (e.g., basic communication, social media, photography, gaming).
- How important are camera quality and performance? (Are you a casual user or a photography enthusiast?).
- What is your budget? (Are you looking for a value-oriented device or willing to pay more for premium features?).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User on a Budget: If you mostly use your phone for calls, messaging, and social media, the Realme C35 offers reasonable performance at a lower cost.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast: The Google Pixel 8 is the clear winner with its exceptional camera quality and advanced features.
- Scenario 3: Power User: If you need a phone that can handle demanding tasks and gaming, the Google Pixel 8 is the better option.
My Choice
If I were to pick one, I would go with the Google Pixel 8. While the Realme C35 offers a larger screen and potentially longer battery, the Pixel 8 surpasses it in virtually every other area that I value in a phone.
Here's why:
- Performance: As a tech journalist and analyst, I need a device that can handle multiple apps, heavy multitasking, and photo editing. The Tensor G3 chip ensures this phone would remain smooth and responsive.
- Camera Quality: The Pixel line is renowned for its cameras. The Pixel 8's imaging capabilities are essential for capturing high-quality photos and videos. I also like that it has a good video recording mode for content creation.
- Software: I prefer the pure Android experience and the guaranteed software updates offered by Google's phones. This ensures the phone will remain secure and up-to-date for longer than the Realme C35.
- Display Quality: The OLED screen offers a far superior experience for media consumption. The 120 Hz refresh rate makes the experience even more pleasant.
Yes, the Pixel 8 is more expensive, but it also offers a vastly more premium experience. For someone who relies on a smartphone every day for both work and personal life, the improved performance, superior camera, and more advanced software features justify the higher cost. The Realme C35 would be good for someone looking for a secondary phone, but it is not good for people who are looking for the best possible experience.
