Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Realme C35 and the Huawei nova 9 SE. I'll break down the specs, analyze the real-world implications, and provide clear recommendations to help you choose the right phone for your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specs, broken down by category, with a focus on what these numbers mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Huawei nova 9 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm | 164.6 x 75.6 x 7.9 mm | Both phones are practically identical in size, making handling similar. Slight difference in thickness is negligible. |
| Weight | 189g | 191g | Virtually identical weight makes both feel equally substantial in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.78" | Huawei's slightly larger screen provides a more immersive viewing experience for videos, games, and reading. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2388 | Both offer sharp visuals, making content clear and crisp. Minor differences in pixel count are not noticeable. |
| PPI | 401 | 387 | Both have a very sharp display. Differences are negligable. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use IPS LCD technology, which offers good colors and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Huawei's 90Hz refresh rate results in smoother scrolling and animations, making the phone feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical peak brightness, performance in direct sunlight may vary but not based on these numbers. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm) | Snapdragon 680 is more efficient and powerful leading to better performance in daily use and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 248,000 | Huawei has a slightly faster processing speed. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Adreno 610 | Adreno 610 provides slightly better graphics performance for gaming and GPU-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear (Main) | 50MP f/1.8 | 108MP f/1.9 | Huawei captures much more detailed photos with a 108MP sensor while Realme is slightly better in low-light due to wider aperture.. |
| Front (Selfie) | 8MP f/2.0 | 16MP f/2.2 | Huawei takes sharper selfies with more detail, while Realme provides slightly better low light. |
| Depth (Portrait) | N/A | 2MP f/2.4 | Huawei enhances portrait shots with a dedicated depth sensor. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both phones have similar macro cameras, for close up shots. |
| Wide + Macro Lens | N/A | 8MP f/2.2 | Huawei's additional wide lens enables you to take more creative photos, especially landscapes. |
| Black & White | 2MP f/2.8 | N/A | Realme's dedicated B&W sensor allows you to take unique monochromatic photos. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps + EIS | Both capture similar quality videos. Huawei has EIS for better stabilization but no slow motion. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4000mAh | Realme likely provides longer battery life between charges, good for heavy users on the go. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 66W Fast Charging | Huawei charges the phone at much faster speeds, minimizing downtime and improving overall convenience. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, non-removable | Huawei can act as a power bank for other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 | Both have an older Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | ac | ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Huawei has faster Wi-Fi speeds for faster downloads and smoother streaming on compatible networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 | Huawei supports better codecs, leading to better sound over wireless headphones. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, BeiDou (B1) | Huawei is more accurate due to the additional satellite networks. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support using two SIM cards simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Huawei has more internal storage options, which is useful for heavy users. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB/8GB | Huawei’s extra RAM allows better multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable Storage | N/A | N/A | Neither of the phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Basic | Both phones have basic audio, quality is similar |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side Mounted | Side Mounted | Both phones have similar side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Screen protection is unconfirmed in both phones. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Both phones are similar. Huawei has an additional biometric sensor for enhanced security. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35 Strengths:
- Battery Life: The larger 5000mAh battery provides more endurance, making it a reliable choice for all-day use without frequent charging.
- Aperture: The slightly wider aperture on the main and front cameras may offer better low-light performance.
- Black and white lens: This might appeal to those interested in unique photographic aesthetics.
Huawei nova 9 SE Strengths:
- Display: The 90Hz refresh rate and slightly larger screen result in smoother animations and a more immersive viewing experience.
- Performance: The Snapdragon 680 chipset provides better overall performance.
- Camera: The 108MP main camera produces more detailed photos, and the additional ultrawide and depth sensors are useful for creative photography.
- Fast Charging: 66W fast charging is a significant advantage, allowing for quick top-ups.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 offers faster network speeds, and the inclusion of more GPS satellites improves accuracy.
- Software Extras: Comes with features like Ultra stable video, RAW, Night Mode.
- More RAM/Storage: Comes with more RAM for better multitasking and more storage.
Trade-offs:
- Realme C35: Slower charging and less versatile camera setup compared to the Huawei.
- Huawei nova 9 SE: Smaller battery with less endurance.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize battery life and all day usage without worrying about charging.
- Use Cases: Great for users who are always on the go and can't charge frequently. It is also great for photography enthusiasts that may be interested in the Black and White lens.
- Recommendation: If you are looking for reliable and long lasting battery, the Realme C35 is a solid choice.
Huawei nova 9 SE:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize display quality, performance, and camera versatility.
- Use Cases: Excellent for content creators, social media enthusiasts, and gamers, or anyone that loves taking great pictures and videos.
- Recommendation: If you want a good all around phone, with a great camera and screen, the Huawei nova 9 SE should be your first choice.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Practical Questions:
- Battery Life vs. Fast Charging? Do you prefer a longer battery life between charges or the ability to quickly top-up your phone?
- Camera Versatility? How important is a versatile camera setup for you?
- Smoothness? Do you value a smoother overall experience?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Battery-Conscious User: Choose the Realme C35 if long battery life is your top priority, and you don't mind slightly slower charging speeds.
- Scenario 2: The Multimedia Enthusiast: If you prioritize a high-quality display, faster charging, and a versatile camera, the Huawei nova 9 SE is your go-to.
- Scenario 3: The Budget-Minded User: If both phones are in your price range, consider the Huawei for its overall better performance and quality.
Final Thoughts:
Personally, I would choose the Huawei nova 9 SE.
Although the Realme C35 offers a larger battery, the Huawei nova 9 SE has a significant advantage in almost every other aspect that I consider essential. The 90Hz display provides a noticeably smoother user experience, and the faster Snapdragon chipset handles daily tasks and games with better performance. The Huawei's 108MP camera and additional lenses offer much more versatility for photography, and the 66W fast charging is a game-changer for keeping the phone powered up throughout the day. Additionally, the better wifi and GPS support make it a clear winner in my eyes.
While the battery life might be slightly less, the other features and its better all around performance make it a more compelling choice for my daily needs, and I would take a slight hit in battery for all the other significant upgrades.
