Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Realme C35 and the Google Pixel 8a. I'll break down the specs, analyze what they mean for you, and help you decide which phone might be the right fit.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table comparing the key specifications of the Realme C35 and Google Pixel 8a, with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Google Pixel 8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 × 75.6 × 8.1 mm | 152.1 × 72.7 × 8.9 mm | The Realme C35 is taller and wider, the Pixel 8a is more compact and slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 189g | 188g | Both phones are nearly identical in weight. |
| Build Quality | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | The Pixel 8a will likely be more durable with a known glass protection on the screen. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.1" | Realme C35 has a larger display, better for media consumption; Pixel 8a is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 | 1080 x 2400 | Both have sharp displays; resolution differences are negligible. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 401 | 430 | Pixel 8a is slightly sharper, though likely unnoticeable in most cases. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Pixel 8a's OLED panel offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 8a's 120Hz screen offers much smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Neither phones information on Brightness is available which is odd, further investigation is required |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8a's chip is significantly more powerful, leading to faster app loading, better multitasking, and smoother gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 876,512 | The Pixel 8a’s performance is vastly superior in terms of speed and fluidity. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8a has a much more powerful GPU for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB | Pixel 8a's extra RAM means better multitasking and smoother app switching. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP (f/1.8) | 64MP (f/1.89) | Pixel 8a captures more detailed images with a higher-resolution sensor and better sensor tech, though the C35 has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | N/A | 1/1.72" Sony IMX787 | Pixel 8a’s bigger sensor allows for better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP (f/2.0) | 13MP (f/2.2) | Pixel 8a will deliver more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | N/A | 1/3.06" Sony IMX712 | Pixel 8a will have better low-light selfie performance. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | Not included | The C35 allows close-up shooting though quality is low |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not included | 13MP (f/2.2) | The Pixel 8a offers a superior wide-angle lens. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps | Pixel 8a records much higher quality video with added OIS for stabilisation. |
| Stabilisation | No | Yes (OIS) | The Pixel 8a has better stabilisation when recording video. |
| Slow-motion Video | 30 fps | 240 fps | Pixel 8a has an improved slow-motion feature |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | N/A | 136 Overall, 141 Photo, 128 Video | Pixel 8a has excellent camera performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | Realme C35 has a larger battery and likely will offer longer battery life, but the Tensor G3 chip in the 8a is highly efficient. |
| Charging Speed | 18W | 18W | Both charge at the same speed and it is slow by modern standards. |
| Features | Non-Removable | Reverse Charging, Non-Removable | The 8a provides reverse charging features |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 14 | The Pixel 8a has a more up to date OS version |
| OS Updates | No info | 7 years | Google provides great update support for the Pixel line. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Up to Wi-Fi 5 | Up to Wi-Fi 6E | The Pixel 8a will have faster speeds and improved network features. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 is the newer standard with improved features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 8a’s added compatibility with other GPS services mean more accurate results. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano & eSIM) | The pixel offers greater flexibility through eSIM support |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | The pixel is available in greater storage sizes. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone can expand its storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers, Noise Cancellation | The Pixel 8a provides an improved audio experience |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | The C35 has a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint scanner. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity, Barometer, Fingerprint | The Pixel has an improved sensor set. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35 Strengths:
- Larger Display: Ideal for users who prioritize a bigger screen for media consumption, browsing, and gaming.
- Bigger Battery: A 5000mAh battery suggests it could offer longer usage between charges.
- Affordable Price: The C35 is likely to be a more budget-friendly option.
Realme C35 Limitations:
- Weak Performance: The Unisoc chip will struggle with anything beyond basic use and will quickly feel slow.
- Outdated Software: Android 11 with no update guarantee is a big drawback.
- Basic Display: The IPS LCD won’t match the Pixel's OLED in colour and vibrancy.
- Basic Camera: The camera is very average in comparison to the Pixel.
Google Pixel 8a Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Tensor G3 chip makes the Pixel 8a much faster and more responsive.
- Stunning OLED Display: The 120Hz OLED screen delivers a superior viewing experience.
- Excellent Camera: It has a much more advanced camera system with better detail, low-light performance, and video recording.
- Up-to-Date Software: It runs on Android 14 with guaranteed updates and features for 7 years, a huge advantage.
- Better Audio Quality: With stereo speakers, noise cancellation, and 3 microphones, it provides a better user experience.
- Improved Connectivity: Has an improved range of connectivity options.
Google Pixel 8a Limitations:
- Smaller Display: Might not be ideal for users who prefer a large screen.
- Smaller Battery: Could offer shorter battery life than the Realme C35.
- Higher Price: The Pixel 8a is undoubtedly a more expensive option.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35 is best for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Individuals who want a large screen and a decent battery without spending much.
- Basic Users: People who need a phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light browsing.
Google Pixel 8a is best for:
- Power Users: Users who demand strong performance, smooth multitasking, and good gaming capabilities.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value high-quality photos, excellent video, and advanced camera features.
- Tech Enthusiasts: People who want the latest software, a smooth user experience, and long-term software support.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide between these phones:
- What is your budget? The Realme C35 will be the cheaper option, but consider if you can afford a device that offers a much more premium experience with the Pixel 8a.
- How important is performance to you? If smooth, quick performance is a must, the Pixel 8a is the only way to go.
- What do you prioritize more: a large screen and longer battery life or a better display and camera? If your use case is more heavy in media and basic tasks the C35 might be acceptable, if you require higher performance, a better camera, and features, then the 8a is ideal.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: A student on a tight budget needs a phone for basic tasks and the occasional streaming. The Realme C35 is a suitable option.
- Scenario 2: An avid photographer who also games on their phone. The Google Pixel 8a is ideal, it has a superb camera and a better gaming experience.
- Scenario 3: A user who values a large screen and long battery life for media consumption but is not overly concerned with speed. The Realme C35 is an acceptable, though limited choice.
Conclusion
The Realme C35 and Google Pixel 8a cater to very different needs and priorities. The Realme C35 is a more budget-friendly option that provides a large display and basic functionality, while the Pixel 8a provides a huge leap in technology, display quality, camera capabilities and performance, although with a higher price tag and a smaller display. It's crucial to weigh what matters most to you — price versus performance, display quality versus screen size — and base your decision on that.
What I Would Choose
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would absolutely go for the Google Pixel 8a. Here’s why:
As a tech journalist who analyzes the latest technology, I value performance, camera quality, and a smooth user experience. The Pixel 8a’s Tensor G3 chip is lightyears ahead of the C35’s Unisoc chip, which means a much more responsive and enjoyable phone. The OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is a game-changer, providing superior visuals and smooth navigation. The camera capabilities of the 8a are much better, especially when it comes to video quality and low-light performance, and I regularly use the video function on my phone. Finally, the 7-year software support guarantee means I will have a device that stays modern for much longer. While the Pixel 8a is a little more expensive, the improvements in performance, display and software make it well worth the investment. The Realme C35 would leave me frustrated with its slow speeds, basic display, and poor camera.
