Smartphone Comparison: Realme GT 5G vs. Realme C35
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Realme GT 5G | Realme C35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 158.5 × 73.3 × 8.4 mm | 164.4 × 75.6 × 8.1 mm | C35 is taller and wider, GT 5G is slightly thicker. GT 5G might feel more compact in hand. |
| Weight | 186g | 189g | Virtually identical, both will feel similar in weight |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.6" | C35 has a slightly larger display, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2408 | Visually identical; negligible difference. |
| PPI | 409 | 401 | Virtually identical sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | GT 5G has superior display quality with deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better contrast, especially noticeable in dark mode or for HDR content. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | GT 5G provides a significantly smoother visual experience, particularly for gaming and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have unknown peak brightness; cannot comment on outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | GT 5G offers vastly superior performance; handles demanding apps and games with ease. C35 is better suited for basic use only. |
| AnTuTu Score | 912,342 | 230,726 | GT 5G is significantly faster. The phone will feel much more responsive and future proofed for demanding applications. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G57 MP1 | GT 5G has a much better GPU for smooth gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682 | 50MP, f/1.8 | GT 5G has higher resolution and a larger sensor. This usually indicates better image quality and low light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.5 | 8MP, f/2.0, Sony Exmor | GT 5G offers higher resolution for selfies, although the C35 has a wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.3 | None | GT 5G provides more versatility with a wide angle camera. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar macro capability. |
| Black & White Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.8 | C35 has a dedicated B&W sensor for creative shots. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | GT 5G offers superior video recording capabilities with higher resolution and frame rate. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | C35 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life between charges. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | GT 5G charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 14 | Android 11, no announced update | GT 5G gets newer versions of Android with more features and security updates. The C35 may not get future updates. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB | GT 5G offers higher capacity storage. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 4GB | GT 5G has more RAM for better multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | GT 5G has superior sound quality and enhanced audio features, better for media consumption |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Dual band, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Display | Wi-Fi Hotspot | GT 5G has better wifi connectivity features. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.0 LE, EDR | GT 5G offers more advanced Bluetooth features for better audio codec support and connectivity |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GT 5G offers more precise location tracking. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | C35 offers a faster more convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Other | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | C35 has a gyroscope for more accurate motion sensing |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme GT 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers significantly faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming capabilities. This makes the GT 5G a very powerful smartphone.
- Enhanced Display: The AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and a smoother visual experience. This is more enjoyable for content consumption and gaming.
- Better Camera System: The higher-resolution main camera, wide-angle lens, and 4K video recording capabilities offer more versatility and better overall image/video quality.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging is significantly quicker, minimizing downtime compared to the C35's 18W charging.
- Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and stereo speakers provide better overall audio experience.
- Future-Proofed: Includes newer versions of Android, better performance that makes it more future proofed and likely to receive further updates.
Realme C35 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers better battery life than the GT 5G, potentially lasting longer between charges.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: The side-mounted fingerprint sensor may be seen as more convenient than the basic sensor of the GT 5G.
- Black & White Camera: Dedicated B&W sensor may appeal to some for creative shots.
- Lower cost: The C35 should be much more affordable than the GT 5G.
Trade-offs:
- GT 5G: Sacrifices battery size and has a basic fingerprint sensor for significantly better performance, display, and camera.
- C35: Sacrifices performance, display quality, and camera capabilities for longer battery life and lower cost.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme GT 5G Ideal User:
- Gamers: The powerful chipset, high refresh rate display, and advanced audio make it ideal for mobile gaming.
- Content Creators: The 4K video capabilities, versatile camera system, and fast processing are suitable for users who create social media content.
- Power Users: Users who multitask heavily, use demanding apps, and need fast performance will appreciate the GT 5G's capabilities.
- Media Enthusiasts: The superior display and audio make it ideal for watching movies and videos, as well as gaming.
Realme C35 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: The C35 is an excellent entry-level smartphone that provides basic functionality at a lower price.
- Light Users: Suitable for individuals who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, browsing social media, and light web usage.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: If battery longevity is a major concern, the C35's larger battery is advantageous.
- Users Unconcerned about Performance: Those who are not playing mobile games or using demanding apps would be fine with the C35's mid-range performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The C35 will likely be much more affordable than the GT 5G.
- How important is performance? If you play demanding games, use many apps, or value fast response, the GT 5G is far superior.
- How important is display quality and media consumption? For users that frequently watch videos or play mobile games, the GT 5G's display is far more enjoyable.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User with Limited Budget: Choose the Realme C35. Its focus on battery life and basic functionality makes it suitable for light users looking for a budget-friendly option.
- Scenario 2: Gamer or Power User: Choose the Realme GT 5G. Its superior performance, display, and fast charging are ideal for gaming and other demanding tasks.
- Scenario 3: Content Creator: Choose the Realme GT 5G. Its better cameras, video recording, and processing power will benefit those who create social media or other content.
- Scenario 4: Long-lasting Battery and Basic Usage: Choose the Realme C35 if you prefer longer battery life and you use your phone only for basic tasks.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Realme GT 5G.
Reasons:
- Performance is Key: As someone who uses their phone for a variety of tasks, I prioritize smooth performance and responsiveness. The Snapdragon 888 offers a significantly better experience compared to the Unisoc chip.
- Display Quality Matters: I value a vibrant and smooth display, particularly for content consumption. The AMOLED panel and 120Hz refresh rate make a noticeable difference in user experience.
- Camera Versatility: I appreciate having a wide-angle lens for photos and the higher video quality that the GT 5G offers.
- Future Proofing: The superior performance and more up-to-date software on the GT 5G make it a more future proof device than the C35.
- Fast Charging: I value the fast charging of the GT 5G to reduce downtime
While the C35 has a larger battery, its other shortcomings like poor performance, a basic display, and the lack of a wide angle lens make it a less compelling choice for my usage. If budget was the only factor, then the C35 would be considered, but the GT 5G offers a superior user experience overall, and that is my preference.
