Realme C61 Review: Budget-Friendly and Feature-Packed

Realme C61 Introduction

Among budget smartphones, the Realme C61 has swiftly established itself as a formidable rival since its release in June 2024.It boasts a contemporary design, powerful performance, and affordable prices, making it appealing to value-conscious consumers who do not want to sacrifice vital features.

Key Specifications

• Display: 6.78 inches HD+ IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate.
• Processor: Unisoc T612 Octa-core.
• RAM: Comes in both 4GB and 6GB capacities.
• Storage: 64GB and 128GB options, expandable up to 2TB.
• Rear Camera: 32MP AI Dual Camera.
• Front Camera: 5MP.
• Battery: 5000mAh with 15W fast charging.
• Operating System: Android 14 with Realme UI.
• Colors: Marble Black and Safari Green.

Unboxing Experience

Included with the Realme C61 is the brand’s distinctive yellow packaging. Within the package, you’ll discover:

• The Realme C61 handset.
• 15W charger.
• USB Type-C cable.
• SIM ejector tool.
• Protective case.
• Quick start guide and warranty card.

This complete deal makes sure that users have everything they need to start using a smartphone right away, without having to buy anything else.

Design, Build Quality, and Handling

The Realme C61 is one of the thinnest smartphones in its class. It is only 7.84 mm thick and weighs 187 grams. The style of the device is based on high-end looks, and it comes with a glossy back panel in two colors: Marble Black and Safari Green.High-quality materials and a micro-nano lithography process give the back panel patterns that are both complex and pleasing to the eye.

Because of its ergonomic design, the gadget is comfortable to hold, and the fingerprint sensor that is located on the side makes it easy to unlock it in a secure manner. As an additional feature, the Realme C61 has an IP54 rating, which indicates that it is resistant to dust and splashes, hence extending its lifespan.

Display

There are 720×1600 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio on the 6.78-inch HD+ IPS LCD screen on the Realme C61. The screen has a refresh rate of 90Hz, which makes the images look better than on regular 60Hz screens. The screen can be read in full sunlight thanks to its maximum brightness of 560 nits. With two light sensors, the screen’s brightness can be changed intelligently and adaptively, so you can get the best watching experience no matter the lighting.

Battery Life and Charging Speed

With a large 5000mAh battery, the Realme C61 enables you to spend a lot of time on one single charge. Real-world tests reveal that, with light use, the gadget can run for two days—longer than many other devices in the same class. The huge battery can be rapidly charged with 15W fast charging across the USB Type-C connection, therefore reducing downtime. With their industry-leading 4-year battery health warranty, which assures continuous performance over time, Realme clearly shows their attention to battery lifetime.

Software and Performance

The C61 has an easy-to-use interface and a lot of customization choices. It runs on Android 14 and has Realme UI. With up to 6GB of RAM and an octa-core processor, the Unisoc T612 makes it easy to switch between tasks and do daily chores quickly. The device works well for casual games and watching videos, but it might have trouble with more demanding apps. Adding the AI Boost Engine improves speed even more, making sure that users have a responsive experience.

Camera, Photo, and Video Quality

On the rear of the Realme C61, you’ll find not one but two 32MP AI cameras. In well-lit areas, these cameras can capture images that are both clear and brilliant. The camera app is versatile, accommodating a wide range of photography demands with its various modes such as Night, Portrait, and Panorama. Night mode enhances image quality by reducing noise and making details more discernible in low-light conditions. Despite its low megapixel count, the front-facing camera is more than adequate for selfies and video chatting. For regular usage, the 1080p resolution and 30 fps video recording is more than enough.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Sleek and lightweight design.
• 90Hz refresh rate display.
• The 5000mAh cell lasts a long time and charges quickly with 15W.
• Expandable storage up to 2TB.
• Affordable pricing.

Cons:

• HD+ resolution may be less sharp compared to Full HD displays.
• Limited 5MP front camera.
• Lacks NFC support.

Price and Availability

The following prices are in effect for the Realme C61 in India as of December 2024:

• 4GB RAM + 64GB storage: ₹7,699.
• 4GB RAM + 128GB storage: ₹8,499.
• 6GB RAM + 128GB storage: ₹8,999.

You can buy the phone from Realme’s main website, Flipkart, and authorised stores all over the country.

Is It Available in India?

Yes, you can easily get the Realme C61 in India through a number of online and local stores. It is a good choice for Indian customers on a budget because of its low price and wide range of features.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a feature-packed smartphone on a budget, the Realme C61 is a standout choice. With its long-lasting battery life, good speed, and fast refresh rate, this screen is perfect for daily usage. The screen quality and charging speed are two areas where it falls short, but considering the price, it is an excellent bargain.

Why Should You Buy?

• Affordability: The C61 is affordable and offers a number of contemporary conveniences, which appeals to a broad spectrum of buyers.
• Durability: With an IP54 rating and robust build quality, it is designed to withstand daily wear and tear.
• Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery ensures prolonged usage, reducing the need for frequent charging.
• User Experience: A 90Hz panel and high-performance parts work together to give users a smooth and responsive experience.

Why Should You Not Buy?

• Display Resolution: If a Full HD display is a priority, the 720p resolution may be a drawback.
• Charging Speed: Users who are looking for really quick charging capabilities may not be satisfied with the 15W charging.
• Software Optimisation: Potential software glitches could be a concern for those desiring a flawless out-of-the-box experience.

Additional Features

• Storage Expansion: The device supports expandable storage of up to 2TB via a dedicated microSD slot, accommodating extensive media libraries.
• Security: A side-mounted fingerprint sensor and facial recognition provide quick and secure unlocking options.
• Connectivity: Features include dual SIM support, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring versatile connectivity options.

Accessories and Ecosystem

Realme sells a variety of extras that work with the C61, such as screen protectors, protective cases, and wireless earbuds. Users can easily control all of Realme’s smart devices when they are connected to the Realme Link app.

User Feedback and Reliability

Most reviews from users have been good, praising the design, battery life, and value for money of the device. Sometimes, users have said that the program doesn’t work right. This means that new versions might fix the problem in the future. Most people think the C61 is a good choice in its class.

Alternatives

If you are looking for choices in the same price range, here are some to think about:

Xiaomi Redmi 12
Offers a Full HD+ display, a 50MP triple-camera setup, and a 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging. It provides a balanced performance with the MediaTek Helio G88 processor.

Samsung Galaxy M13
Features a 6.6-inch Full HD+ display, an Exynos 850 processor, and a 6000mAh battery.

Buying Guide for Realme C61

Consider the following elements to make sure the Realme C61 fits your needs when you are thinking about buying it:

1. Performance Needs: The Realme C61 is powered by the UNISOC Tiger T612 processor, suitable for daily tasks and moderate gaming. But for more demanding tasks or games, looking into devices with stronger computers might be a good idea.
2. Battery Life: With a 5000mAh battery, the C61 offers substantial usage time. Nonetheless, the included 15W charger may result in longer charging periods compared to competitors offering faster-charging solutions.
3. Camera Quality: The device boasts a 50MP main camera, delivering satisfactory results in well-lit conditions. If advanced photography features are a priority, considering alternatives with superior camera systems is advisable.
4. Software and Updates: Operating on Android 14 with Realme UI, the C61 provides a contemporary user experience. It’s essential to verify the manufacturer’s commitment to future updates and support.
5. Budget Constraints: The Realme C61 is positioned as an affordable smartphone, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, comparing prices and features with similar devices can ensure optimal value for money.
6. Availability and After-Sales Service: Ensure that Realme’s service centers and customer support are accessible in your region to address any potential issues promptly.

Conclusion

If you want a cheap smartphone with a strong battery, fast performance, and a durable camera setup, the Realme C61 is a great choice. But when you look at its flaws, like the 15W charger that comes with it and some features that aren’t there, you should think about what you need. When you look at your choices and think about the things in the buying guide, you can make the best choice for your needs.