Alright, let's dive deep into this comparison between the Realme GT2 Pro and the Xiaomi Poco C65. It's a classic David vs. Goliath scenario, and as usual, the devil is in the details.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Realme GT2 Pro | Xiaomi Poco C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.2 × 74.7 × 8.2 mm | 168 × 78 × 8.1 mm | Poco C65 is slightly taller and wider, but both are similar in thickness. GT2 Pro is more compact. |
| Weight | 199g | 192g | Poco C65 is marginally lighter, a difference that might be noticeable during extended use, but not by much. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-folding phones. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.74" | Virtually identical screen sizes, a negligible difference. |
| Resolution | 1440x3216 | 720x1600 | GT2 Pro's screen is drastically sharper, text and images will appear much clearer and detailed, a huge upgrade for visuals. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 526 | 260 | GT2 Pro has far higher pixel density leading to a noticeably sharper and more refined visual experience. |
| Technology | N/A | IPS LCD | Poco C65's IPS LCD is a decent display technology, but the GT2 Pro likely has superior tech behind the screen for better clarity and color depth. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | GT2 Pro's 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel smoother and more fluid, a visible perk for avid social media users. |
| Brightness | 1400 nits | 0 nits | GT2 Pro can get much brighter, making it far more usable outdoors in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Helio G85 (12 nm) | GT2 Pro's chip is vastly more powerful, meaning faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and significantly better gaming performance. |
| Antutu Score | 1,054,189 | 237,768 | GT2 Pro's score is drastically higher, a direct indicator of significantly faster and more responsive performance overall. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G52 MC2 | GT2 Pro's Adreno 730 is a far superior GPU, resulting in much higher frame rates in demanding mobile games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity, suggesting similar battery life, though performance can impact this. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 18W fast charging | GT2 Pro charges dramatically faster. You'll spend less time tethered to a wall and more time using the phone. |
| Features | Non-removable, 2x2500mAh | Non-removable, Reverse charge | Both have non-removable batteries. GT2 Pro uses dual batteries and Poco C65 supports reverse charging which can be useful in certain situations. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56" Sony IMX766 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | GT2 Pro has a larger sensor which translates to better low-light performance, less noise and higher image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/2.74" Sony IMX615 | 8MP, f/2.2 | GT2 Pro's selfie camera is significantly higher resolution with better clarity and dynamic range in good lighting, but the wider aperture on the C65 allows for more light. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | None | GT2 Pro has a dedicated wide-angle lens offering a wider field of view in photos. |
| Portrait (Depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Poco C65 has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/3.0, 1/5" GalaxyCore GC02M1 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Poco C65 has a slightly wider aperture for macro shots, but both are 2MP sensors. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | GT2 Pro can record much higher-resolution videos. Its electronic image stabilization is also much more sophisticated for stable videos. |
| Features | OIS, 8K video | RAW | GT2 Pro has better video stabilization and 8K recording while the C65 can capture RAW photos. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (max 13) | Android 13 | Poco C65 ships with a slightly newer version of Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) + MiMO | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | GT2 Pro has Wi-Fi 6, which is faster and more efficient. MiMO allows for better data speeds. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 + LDAC | Bluetooth 5.3 | Poco C65 has newer bluetooth with better efficiency. GT2 Pro supports a wider array of audio codecs. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5) + QZSS | GPS | GT2 Pro supports more accurate dual-band GPS and other systems for improved location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Both have dual SIM card support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256 GB | GT2 Pro has an extra storage option of 512 GB for users who need large space for media. |
| RAM | 8 GB / 12 GB | 4 / 6 / 8 GB | GT2 Pro offers more RAM for smoother multitasking, especially in the 12GB configuration. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | Basic Audio | GT2 Pro has drastically better audio, offering much more immersive and high-fidelity sound. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Poco C65 has a more modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | GT2 Pro has significantly better screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Proximity, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Compass | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Both phones offer similar sensors, GT2 Pro has traditional Proximity, while Poco C65 offers virtual proximity, which might be less accurate in certain situations. GT2 Pro has other sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Realme GT2 Pro:
- Strengths: The GT2 Pro is a powerhouse. It boasts a significantly superior display with higher resolution, pixel density, brightness, and a smoother refresh rate. Its performance is in a different league thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and Adreno 730 GPU. The camera system is excellent with a larger main sensor, a dedicated wide-angle lens, and significantly better video recording capabilities, including 8K recording and better stabilization. Additionally, it has much faster charging, better audio quality with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, plus a more accurate GPS. It's built with Gorilla Glass Victus for added durability.
- Competitive Advantages: The main advantage of the GT2 Pro is its high-end specifications, targeted at users who prioritize top-tier performance, excellent display quality, and a professional-grade camera system.
- Trade-offs/Limitations: It lacks expandable storage, but with options up to 512 GB this may not be an issue for many.
Xiaomi Poco C65:
- Strengths: The Poco C65 is a budget-friendly device with an adequate display for everyday use, decent camera and a large 5000 mAh battery for long battery life, a decent primary camera, and reverse charging.
- Competitive Advantages: It's much more affordable.
- Trade-offs/Limitations: The Poco C65 suffers when it comes to performance, the resolution, pixel density, brightness and refresh rate of the display is inferior, it lacks features like a wide-angle camera and fast charging. Its performance is significantly lower than the GT2 Pro, and the display isn't very bright.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme GT2 Pro:
- Ideal For: Power users, gamers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who values a premium visual and performance experience. If you need top-tier specs, a great camera, and a fantastic display, and don't mind the lack of expandable storage, this is your pick.
- Use Cases: Heavy multitasking, playing demanding games, creating professional content, and enjoying high-quality media consumption.
Xiaomi Poco C65:
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious users, those who need a reliable daily driver for basic tasks like calls, messaging, browsing, and social media. It's suitable for those who value battery life over performance and who don't require advanced gaming or high-end camera features.
- Use Cases: Everyday tasks, casual gaming, social media browsing, and extended battery life.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your choice:
- How important is performance and gaming to you? If top-tier performance is crucial, the GT2 Pro is the only way to go. If you are only doing basic tasks then the C65 will suffice.
- What are your camera needs? If you want high-quality images, a versatile set of lenses, and high-res video recording, the GT2 Pro is far superior. If a decent camera for daily shots is enough, the C65 can handle that.
- What is your budget? If budget is your primary concern, the Poco C65 is more cost-effective. However, be prepared to make some trade-offs on performance and display quality. If you are willing to spend more, the GT2 Pro provides you with top of the line performance.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Gamer/Tech Enthusiast: If you crave a device for intensive gaming and demanding apps, the Realme GT2 Pro is the clear choice.
- The Photography Lover: If photography is important to you and you want the best possible images and video from your phone, choose the Realme GT2 Pro.
- The Budget-Conscious User: If you need an affordable and reliable daily phone for calls, messages and social media, go with the Xiaomi Poco C65.
- The Average User: If you need a good phone that can perform well in all tasks, the Realme GT2 Pro is your choice, given you can afford it.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd absolutely go for the Realme GT2 Pro. The differences in performance, display quality, and camera capabilities are just too significant to ignore. As a tech journalist and someone who appreciates a great user experience, I value a device that excels in all aspects. While the price difference is considerable, the GT2 Pro provides a far more premium and future-proof experience. I often edit photos, play graphically intensive games, and enjoy watching content in the best quality possible. The GT2 Pro would cater to all my needs and make my daily life much easier. The Poco C65 is an entry-level phone, while the GT2 Pro is a high end device, which suits my daily routine.
