Realme C35 Review: Style with Compromises

The Realme C35 attempts to shake up the budget smartphone market with its modern, premium design, but this aesthetic focus comes at the cost of several key performance areas. Measuring 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1mm and weighing 189 grams, the device sports a glass front with a plastic back and frame, giving it a sleek appearance that stands out from typical budget offerings. However, this visual appeal is offset by several limitations.

The 6.6-inch FHD+ IPS LCD display, while adequate for the price, lacks the vibrancy of AMOLED panels found in competitors and operates at a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Performance is handled by the Unisoc T616 4G chipset, which manages everyday tasks reasonably well but struggles with gaming and multitasking. The triple-camera setup includes a 50MP main lens but misses an ultrawide sensor, and video recording is hampered by poor stabilization.

Battery life benefits from a sizable 5000mAh cell, lasting just over a day on a single charge, with 18W charging included. Software features Realme UI 'R' Edition based on Android 11, lacking advanced customization options and promising no future updates. The mono speaker delivers thin audio, and the side-mounted fingerprint sensor can be difficult to locate.

Priced at NPR 20,499 for the 4/64GB model and NPR 21,999 for the 4/128GB variant, the Realme C35 faces strong competition. The Samsung Galaxy F22 offers better performance, a higher-refresh-rate AMOLED display, and an ultrawide camera at a similar price point. Realme's own Narzo 50, just NPR 2,500 more expensive, provides superior gaming performance with its Helio G96 chipset and a 120Hz display. For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, the Redmi Note 11 presents another compelling alternative.

While the Realme C35 succeeds in delivering an attractive design for budget-conscious buyers, its compromises in performance, display technology, and camera versatility mean it may not be the best choice for most users seeking overall value.