The Realme 8 5G: A Deep Dive into Budget-Friendly 5G
The Realme 8 5G entered the market with a clear mission: to democratize 5G technology. In a world increasingly reliant on high-speed internet, Realme aimed to deliver a capable 5G smartphone at an accessible price point. But does it live up to the hype? This comprehensive review delves into every facet of the Realme 8 5G, exploring its features, performance, and overall value proposition.
The Realme 8 5G adopts a pragmatic design philosophy. It prioritizes functionality over extravagant aesthetics, which is understandable given its budget-friendly nature.
Material and Finish
The device features a plastic build, which is standard for its price range. While it might not exude a premium feel, the plastic back provides a comfortable grip and minimizes fingerprint smudges. The “Supersonic Blue” and “Supersonic Black” color options offer a subtle gradient effect, adding a touch of visual appeal.
Ergonomics and Portability
The Realme 8 5G is relatively lightweight and slim, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. Its ergonomic design ensures that the buttons are easily accessible. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor, integrated into the power button, is responsive and conveniently placed.
Display: Smooth Visuals on a Budget
The display is a crucial aspect of any smartphone experience, and the Realme 8 5G offers a respectable visual experience for its price segment.
Screen Size and Resolution
The device boasts a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels (Full HD+). This provides a sharp and detailed visual output, suitable for browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Refresh Rate and Brightness
A standout feature is the 90Hz refresh rate, which delivers smoother animations and scrolling compared to standard 60Hz displays. The display’s brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, but visibility might be challenging under direct sunlight.
Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G Power
The Realme 8 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chipset, a processor designed to bring 5G connectivity to budget-friendly devices.
Processor and RAM
The Dimensity 700 is an octa-core processor with two Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.2 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. It is paired with either 4GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the variant. This configuration provides sufficient performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and casual gaming.
Gaming Performance
While not a dedicated gaming phone, the Realme 8 5G can handle popular mobile games at medium settings. The Mali-G57 MC2 GPU provides decent graphics rendering, but demanding games might experience occasional frame drops.
5G Connectivity
The Dimensity 700 chipset enables dual-SIM 5G connectivity, ensuring that users can take advantage of high-speed internet where available. This is a significant selling point for the device, especially for those looking to future-proof their smartphone experience.
Software and User Interface: Realme UI 2.0
The Realme 8 5G runs on Realme UI 2.0, based on Android 11. This custom skin offers a clean and intuitive user interface with a range of customization options.
User Experience and Customization
Realme UI 2.0 provides a smooth and responsive user experience. It offers various customization options, including themes, wallpapers, and icon packs. The software is generally bloatware-free, although some pre-installed apps might be present.
Features and Functionality
Realme UI 2.0 includes features like Dark Mode, Game Space, and App Cloner, enhancing the overall user experience. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable, and face unlock is also available.
Camera: Versatile Triple Camera Setup
The Realme 8 5G features a triple rear camera setup, offering versatility for different photography scenarios.
Main Camera and Image Quality
The primary camera is a 48MP sensor with an f/1.8 aperture. It captures decent images in daylight conditions, with good detail and color accuracy. However, low-light performance is average, with noticeable noise and reduced detail.
Macro and Depth Sensors
The device also includes a 2MP macro lens and a 2MP depth sensor. The macro lens allows for close-up shots, while the depth sensor enables portrait mode with a bokeh effect.
Front Camera and Video Recording
The 16MP front camera captures clear selfies in good lighting conditions. The rear camera supports 1080p video recording at 30fps, while the front camera also records at 1080p 30fps.
Battery Life and Charging: Long-Lasting Power
Battery life is a crucial factor for any smartphone, and the Realme 8 5G delivers impressive endurance.
Battery Capacity and Endurance
The device is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, which provides excellent battery life. It can easily last a full day of moderate to heavy use.
Charging Speed and Technology
The Realme 8 5G supports 18W fast charging, which allows for relatively quick top-ups. While not the fastest charging solution available, it is sufficient for most users.
Connectivity and Ports: Essential Features
The Realme 8 5G offers a standard set of connectivity options.
5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
The device supports dual-SIM 5G, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.1. These connectivity options ensure seamless internet access and wireless connectivity.
Ports and Sensors
The Realme 8 5G features a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. It also includes essential sensors like an accelerometer, gyroscope, and proximity sensor.
Audio: Decent Sound Output
The audio output of the Realme 8 5G is adequate for everyday use.
Speakers and Audio Quality
The device features a single bottom-firing speaker, which provides decent sound output for media consumption. The audio quality is clear, but it lacks depth and bass.
Headphone Jack and Audio Output
The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome feature for users who prefer wired headphones. The audio output through the headphone jack is satisfactory.
Value Proposition: Affordable 5G
The Realme 8 5G’s primary selling point is its affordability, especially considering its 5G capabilities.
Price and Availability
The device is available in various configurations, with prices varying depending on the RAM and storage options. Its competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a 5G smartphone.
Comparison with Competitors
The Realme 8 5G competes with other budget-friendly 5G smartphones in the market. Its combination of 5G connectivity, decent performance, and long battery life makes it a strong contender in its price segment.
Final Verdict: A Reliable Budget 5G Option
The Realme 8 5G is a reliable and capable smartphone that delivers on its promise of affordable 5G connectivity. It offers a smooth user experience, decent performance, and long battery life. While it might not excel in every aspect, it provides excellent value for its price.
Affordable 5G connectivity.
Plastic build.
The Realme 8 5G is ideal for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize 5G connectivity and long battery life. It is suitable for users who need a reliable smartphone for everyday tasks, media consumption, and casual gaming.
The Realme 8 5G successfully brings 5G technology to a wider audience. While it makes some compromises in terms of design and camera performance, it offers a compelling package for its price. If you are looking for an affordable 5G smartphone with a smooth display and long battery life, the Realme 8 5G is definitely worth considering.