Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G vs. Realme C35
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G | Realme C35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.8 × 75.3 × 8.9 mm | 164.4 × 75.6 × 8.1 mm | Similar width, Realme C35 is slightly taller and thinner. Xiaomi is slightly bulkier. |
| Weight | 190g | 189g | Virtually identical, both will feel similar in hand |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible difference in screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2408 | Very similar sharpness, negligible difference for daily use. |
| Pixel Density | 405 PPI | 401 PPI | Almost identical screen clarity. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Same LCD tech, expect comparable color accuracy and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Xiaomi will appear smoother in animations, scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is identical (However, the listed value is 0 nits, likely missing data). |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Mediatek chip is significantly more powerful, better for demanding tasks, gaming, and overall snappiness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,300 | 230,726 | Xiaomi scores much higher, indicating smoother performance and better gaming experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Xiaomi has a more powerful GPU, leading to better graphics performance in games and apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP f/1.79 | 50MP f/1.8 | Realme has a slightly higher megapixel count, but Xiaomi has a slightly wider aperture which could lead to better low-light performance, although other factors also impact quality. |
| Main Camera Sensor | Omnivision OV48B 1/2" | Not specified | Xiaomi provides sensor details, which may aid in image quality. The realme C35 doesn't specify the sensor model. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP f/2.0 | 8MP f/2.0 | Comparable front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor | Not specified | Sony Exmor | Realme uses a Sony sensor, could be higher quality than unnamed. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP depth | None | Xiaomi provides depth sensing for portrait mode with background blur. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both offer a macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Black & White Lens | None | 2MP f/2.8 | Realme offers a dedicated black and white sensor. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion 120fps | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion: No | Xiaomi supports high-speed slow motion recording. |
| Camera Features | 4K video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | Xiaomi offers 4K video and night mode while Realme offers continuous shooting and faster focus modes. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery size, likely similar battery life. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 18W fast charging | Similar fast charging capabilities. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Non-removable | Xiaomi has reverse charging capability, so can act as a power bank for other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 | Both run on Android 11 (However, the comparison states the Realme C35 also uses Android, which is redundant) |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Hotspot, Direct, Display, MIMO | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Hotspot | Xiaomi supports additional Wi-Fi features for improved network usage. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE, A2DP, EDR, HID, LE | 5.0 LE, A2DP, EDR, LE | Xiaomi uses a newer version of Bluetooth and supports HID for better connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Xiaomi has more comprehensive GPS capabilities for more accurate positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128/256 GB | 64/128 GB | Xiaomi offers a larger 256 GB option for users with lots of files. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 4 GB | Xiaomi offers more RAM options for improved multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Basic | Xiaomi provides higher quality audio playback. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Both offer the same fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Not specified | Xiaomi has screen protection, while the Realme has no screen protection mentioned. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Xiaomi offers a more comprehensive sensor suite, including a fingerprint scanner, which was also mentioned under security. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Dimensity 700 chipset offers significantly better performance (65% higher Antutu Score) for demanding tasks, multitasking, and gaming.
- Smoother Display: 90Hz refresh rate makes animations and scrolling noticeably smoother.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio support provides higher quality sound for audiophiles.
- More Storage and RAM Options: Offers up to 256GB storage and 8GB of RAM for power users.
- Better GPS: Supports Galileo satellites in addition to the common GPS systems.
- Reverse Charging: Xiaomi can charge other devices with it's reverse charging capability.
- Better Screen Protection: The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass 3.
- More Comprehensive Sensors: Includes a fingerprint sensor and gyroscope, which can help gaming and other motion related tasks.
Realme C35 Advantages:
- Slightly Higher Main Camera Megapixels: 50MP sensor vs 48MP for slightly higher resolution in the main camera.
- Dedicated B&W Camera: For artistic black and white photos.
- Sony Selfie Sensor: Potentially higher quality selfie sensor than the unnamed one in the Xiaomi.
- Faster Autofocus: Utilizes Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) and Contrast Detection Autofocus (CDAF)
- Continuous Shooting: Offers the ability to take multiple photos at a time.
Trade-offs:
- The Realme C35 has the advantage in camera sensors, however the Xiaomi comes out on top for overall performance. This means that those who prioritize performance should opt for the Xiaomi, whilst the Realme would be better for those who prioritize photography.
- The Xiaomi has a slightly less modern design being thicker than the Realme, but has a better performing chipset.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize performance, smooth UI, gaming, and multitasking.
- Use Cases: Gaming, media consumption, users who need more storage space, and anyone seeking a phone with strong performance at this price.
- Price-to-Value: Excellent performance for the price, a good value choice for those who need smooth functionality.
Realme C35:
- Ideal User: Users focused on photography features, who are not as concerned about gaming performance.
- Use Cases: Casual photography, social media sharing, everyday usage.
- Price-to-Value: A budget-friendly device focusing on camera-centric features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is performance and gaming? If gaming is a priority, choose the Xiaomi. If this is not important, consider the Realme
- Do you need a smoother display experience? The Xiaomi's 90Hz refresh rate provides smoother animation and scrolling.
- Do you prioritize camera features or performance? The Realme has a slightly better camera, but the Xiaomi has better performance.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming Enthusiast: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G for its superior performance, 90Hz display, and powerful GPU.
- Scenario 2: Casual Photographer: Choose the Realme C35 for its higher resolution main sensor, dedicated B&W lens, and autofocus.
- Scenario 3: General User: If you're a general user who needs a balance of power and performance, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G provides better value.
- Scenario 4: Budget Conscious User: If budget is the primary concern and you don't have performance intensive tasks, the Realme C35 is a solid budget device.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G. My decision is based on the fact that its better performing chipset and 90Hz display outweigh the minor camera advantages that the Realme C35 offers. While the Realme does offer slightly better camera features, the overall performance difference is much larger, resulting in better value for money with the Xiaomi. Additionally the extra storage and RAM options, the inclusion of Gorilla Glass protection and it's enhanced GPS are also beneficial. For most use cases, having a smoother and faster phone will result in a much better experience overall.
