realme C21

The realme C21 is an affordable smartphone with a large battery that can easily get you through the day. For a budget phone, this C21 has some useful features that we'll take a closer look at here. Will this be your next mobile or should you look elsewhere?

Makes the right choices

Phones do not get much cheaper than this. Ideal for those who do not want to spend too much, but always be careful. Manufacturers always have to make concessions to reach such a low price and sometimes the wrong choices are made. In the case of this Realme C21, we can immediately see that. But that doesn't mean it is all good. For example, you charge the C21 with an old-fashioned MicroUSB cable, the 32GB model has only 3GB of RAM memory, you can't make use of lightning fast Wi-Fi 802.11ac and the 13MP camera can be called "average" at best. If you're willing to turn a blind eye to that then this C21 might be for you.

Camera does the minimum

The C21 has a spacious 6.5 inch screen with HD+ resolution. Full HD + would be sharper but you rarely see that in this price segment. On top is a small notch for the 5MP selfie camera. This features its own portrait mode and also a beauty mode is not lacking. On the left side is a slot for a dual SIM card + a memory card up to 256GB. On the back is a triple camera with flash and a physical fingerprint scanner. The body is fingerprint resistant thanks to its special design. The 13MP AI Triple Camera features a night mode, slow-motion video and a separate macro lens for extreme close-ups. There is no separate widescreen or zoom lens. You can shoot video in up to FHD (1080p). Nothing exciting, but the minimum.

Most important realme C21 specifications

• Large 6.5" Mini-Drop Fullscreen display with HD+ resolution
• 13+2+2MP camera with macro and black and white lens
• 5MP selfie camera with portrait mode
• Large 5000 mAh battery that can also charge others
• 3-Card Slot: 2x SIM card + 1x memory card (up to 256GB)
• MediaTek Helio G35 processor with 3/32GB or 4/64GB of memory
• Physical fingerprint scanner at the back

Processor with HyperEngine

The built-in battery is on the large side at 5000 mAh and has a battery life of several days. There is a Super Power Saving Mode that can still deal with an almost empty battery. This gives you enough time to finish a message, leave a voice message or use the route planner. Fast charging is not an option, so once the battery is empty, you will have to give it a rest. The MediaTek Helio G35 processor is a basic chipset but realme thinks it's still suitable for gaming thanks to HyperEngine technology. It will undoubtedly help a little but don't expect miracles from it. All in all, this is and will remain a basic phone with idem price.