Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Realme C35 and the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G. These two devices, while launched closely together, aim for slightly different user segments. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand which one might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Realme C35 | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Physical Size | 164.4 × 75.6 × 8.1 mm | 160.6 × 73.2 × 7.8 mm | Realme C35 is slightly larger, which might be less comfortable for smaller hands. |
| Weight | 189g | 173g | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G is lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.43" | Realme C35 has a slightly larger screen, good for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2400 | Very similar resolutions; both offer sharp visuals. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 401 | 409 | Both have excellent pixel density resulting in clear, sharp images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G has superior display tech with deeper blacks, vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G has smoother animations, making the UI feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have the same screen brightness |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 900 (6 nm) | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G has a more powerful, efficient processor; better for gaming and multitasking. |
| Antutu Score | 230,726 | 424,800 | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G is significantly faster, handling demanding tasks with ease. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G68 MC4 | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G has a significantly better GPU for gaming and graphics-intensive applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res. | 50MP, f/1.8 | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" sensor | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G has better low-light performance due to its wider aperture and larger sensor. |
| Selfie Camera Res. | 8MP, f/2.0 | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" sensor | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G captures more detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle lens | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2 | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G lets you capture landscape and group photos. |
| Macro lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both provide similar macro shooting experiences, which can be used to take close up shots |
| Black & white | 2MP, f/2.8 | N/A | Realme C35 lets you capture B&W photos |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@30/60/120fps | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G records higher resolution videos with better stabilization. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | Realme C35 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 65W fast charging | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G charges much faster, reducing downtime significantly. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G can share power with other devices |
| Software | |||
| OS Version | Android 11 | Android 11, upgradable to 13 | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G provides more software updates providing the latest features |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi Versions | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers more reliable connections |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers better power efficiency and reliability |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers more precise location tracking |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both phones offer Dual SIM feature |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G comes with 128 GB internal storage, while Realme C35 offers an option for 64 GB |
| RAM | 4 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G has more RAM which allows for better multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No expandable storage | No expandable storage | Neither phone has a slot for additional storage |
| Audio | |||
| Features | Basic audio features | Noise cancellation microphone | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers noise cancelling feature |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Realme C35 uses side mounted fingerprint reader |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G screen is better protected |
| Sensors | |||
| Other sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Gravity, Geomagnetic | OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers more sensors |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35: Strengths
- Battery Life: The larger 5000mAh battery is a significant advantage for users who prioritize long-lasting power.
- Lower Entry Cost: Typically, the Realme C35 will be the more budget-friendly of the two, making it attractive to price-conscious buyers.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is more advanced than the basic one from the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G.
OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G: Strengths
- Display Quality: The AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate offers a superior visual experience, with vibrant colors and smooth animations.
- Performance: The Dimensity 900 chipset provides a huge performance boost, making it much better for gaming and heavy usage.
- Fast Charging: The 65W fast charging is a game-changer, allowing you to charge your phone much faster.
- Camera Performance: With better sensors and processing, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G camera is more capable in various lighting situations.
- Advanced Connectivity: The device features more advanced WiFi and Bluetooth technologies, as well as wider GPS support.
- Software Updates: The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G can be upgraded to the newer Android 13 version while the Realme C35 is stuck with Android 11.
Trade-offs
- Realme C35: Lacks the processing power and visual experience of the OnePlus, but offers better battery life and a more affordable price.
- OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G: While it has superior features, you'll get slightly less battery life and have to pay extra for those features.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Ideal for Realme C35 Users
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those seeking a reliable phone without spending too much.
- Long Battery Life: Users who need their phone to last all day without frequent charging.
- Basic Functionality: Individuals who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, and basic social media.
Ideal for OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G Users
- Performance Enthusiasts: Gamers and power users who demand fast performance.
- Media Consumers: Users who enjoy watching videos, movies, and playing graphically intensive games.
- Camera Lovers: Those who want a versatile camera that performs well in various conditions.
- Software Updates: Users who want the latest features of Android.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What is my budget? If your priority is to save money, the Realme C35 may be the better choice.
- How important is performance? If you prioritize fast performance for gaming and heavy tasks, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G is the clear winner.
- How important is visual experience? For a more vibrant display and smoother animations, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G excels.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: A student looking for a reliable phone for daily use, social media and media consumption.
- Recommendation: OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G: The superior display, faster performance, and decent camera will provide a better overall experience.
Scenario 2: A user who needs a phone that lasts all day and is very budget conscious.
- Recommendation: Realme C35: The larger battery and lower cost make it a practical choice for basic tasks.
Scenario 3: A gamer who wants a fast, smooth experience and high-quality gaming graphics.
- Recommendation: OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G: The powerful processor, better GPU, and high refresh rate display are ideal for gaming.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would pick the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G. While the Realme C35 is a capable budget device, the OnePlus offers a much better overall user experience, thanks to its vastly superior performance, significantly better display, and fast charging. The difference in these areas is so big, in my opinion, that it justifies the difference in price. As a tech journalist, I appreciate a device that can handle complex tasks with ease, and the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G does that far better than the Realme. Also, the fact that I can get the latest software updates makes the phone more future proof than the Realme C35.
