Tag: Fast charging

  • Realme 13+

    Realme launched the 13+ in India in August 2024 at Rs 22,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It was pitched more toward performance and gaming than the camera-led Pro models, with Realme highlighting its cooling system and support for high frame rates in popular games. Its design is flashier than the Pro models.

    The Dimensity 7300 Energy is an efficient chip that handles everyday use and gaming well at this price. The 6.67-inch AMOLED runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution. A 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main camera with OIS takes dependable photos, supported only by a 2 MP monochrome sensor, so there is no ultrawide. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 80 W, and IP65 protection adds durability.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 Pro, the Poco X6, the OnePlus Nord CE4 and the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion. The Redmi offered a sharper screen and a better camera system, while the Nord CE4 charged faster. The Realme 13+ was a solid pick for gaming on a budget. Photographers should look elsewhere.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 22,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7300 Energy
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP monochrome
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursVictory Gold, Speed Green, Dark Purple

    What we like

    • Efficient Dimensity 7300 Energy
    • 80 W charging
    • IP65 protection
    • OIS main camera

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • Full HD+ only
    • Preinstalled apps

    Who should buy it

    Budget gamers who want efficient performance and fast charging in a durable phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 13 Pro+

    Realme launched the 13 Pro+ in India in July 2024 at Rs 32,999 for 8 GB and 256 GB. It continued the camera-first approach of the 12 Pro+, upgrading both the main sensor and the periscope, and it introduced a Monet-inspired design with a textured back that resists fingerprints. Realme also pushed AI photo tools.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED at 120 Hz is bright and smooth. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 carries over from the previous model, adequate for everyday use and moderate gaming but not class-leading. The cameras are the highlight: a 50 MP Sony LYT-701 main with OIS, an 8 MP ultrawide and a 50 MP Sony LYT-600 3x periscope, along with Realme's AI-powered imaging features. The 5,200 mAh battery charges at 80 W.

    Rivals included the OnePlus Nord 4, the Poco F6, the Motorola Edge 50 Pro and the Vivo V30. The Nord 4 and Poco F6 were much faster, while the Edge 50 Pro offered a similar telephoto setup. The 13 Pro+ remained a strong choice for zoom photography. Gamers should look at the Poco instead.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 32,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 7s Gen 2
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage256 GB / 512 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 50 MP 3x periscope telephoto
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5200 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursEmerald Green, Monet Gold, Monet Purple

    What we like

    • Excellent 3x periscope telephoto
    • Strong Sony main camera
    • 80 W charging
    • Fingerprint-resistant design

    What could be better

    • Chip carried over from the previous model
    • Pricier than its predecessor
    • Ultrawide is basic

    Who should buy it

    Camera enthusiasts who want strong zoom and main-camera performance in an upper mid-range phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 12x

    Realme launched the 12x in India in April 2024 at Rs 11,999 for 4 GB and 128 GB. It targeted budget buyers who wanted 5G and fast charging, a combination that was rare under Rs 12,000, and it carried an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance. It also includes a 120 Hz screen.

    The 6.72-inch full HD+ LCD runs at 120 Hz, making scrolling smooth. The Dimensity 6100+ handles everyday tasks and light gaming. The 50 MP main camera is accompanied by a 2 MP depth sensor and produces decent daylight photos. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 45 W, noticeably faster than most rivals at this price. Realme also included its Air Gestures feature for touch-free control of some apps.

    Rivals included the Redmi 13C 5G, the Poco M6 5G, the Samsung Galaxy M15 and the Lava Blaze 5G. The Galaxy M15 offered a larger battery and longer software support, while the 12x stood out with its faster charging and sharper screen. Heavy gamers should look a little higher up the price range.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 11,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.72-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 6100+
    RAM4 GB / 6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera8 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging45W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursWoodland Green, Twilight Purple

    What we like

    • 45 W charging at a budget price
    • Full HD+ 120 Hz display
    • IP54 protection
    • Affordable 5G

    What could be better

    • LCD only
    • Basic camera setup
    • Modest gaming performance

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want 5G, a smooth screen and fast charging under Rs 12,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 12+

    Realme launched the 12+ in India in March 2024 at Rs 20,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB, bringing the design language of the 12 Pro series to a lower price. It uses a flat display rather than a curved one and keeps the vegan leather back and large circular camera module.

    The 6.67-inch flat AMOLED at 120 Hz is bright and colourful. The Dimensity 7050 handles daily use and casual gaming without trouble. The 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main camera with OIS produces reliable photos, accompanied by an 8 MP ultrawide and a 2 MP macro. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W, and IP54 protection guards against splashes. Realme also highlighted its rain-water smart touch, which keeps the screen usable with wet fingers.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 5G, the Poco X6, the Samsung Galaxy M35 and the Motorola G84. The Poco X6 had a sharper screen and more storage, while the Moto G84 offered cleaner software. The Realme 12+ appealed with its OIS camera and premium styling. Its weak macro lens is easy to ignore.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 20,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7050
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    ColoursPioneer Green, Navigator Beige

    What we like

    • OIS Sony main camera
    • Bright 120 Hz AMOLED
    • Premium vegan leather design
    • 67 W charging

    What could be better

    • Average performance
    • Weak macro camera
    • Preinstalled apps

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a stylish, well-rounded phone with a stabilised camera for around Rs 20,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite

    The Nord CE4 Lite arrived in India in June 2024 at Rs 19,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It moved the entry-level Nord from an LCD to an AMOLED display for the first time, and OnePlus highlighted its very high peak brightness and the ability to charge other devices through its USB-C port.

    The 6.67-inch AMOLED at 120 Hz is bright, rated for up to 2,100 nits, and comfortable to use outdoors. The Snapdragon 695 is an older chip; it handles daily use but is modest for gaming. A 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main camera with OIS takes reliable photos, supported by a 2 MP depth sensor. The 5,500 mAh battery delivers excellent endurance and charges at 80 W. The headphone jack and IP54 rating are welcome.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 5G, the Realme Narzo 70 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M35 and the iQOO Z9. The iQOO Z9 had a faster chip, while the Galaxy M35 offered longer updates. The CE4 Lite stood out with its battery, charging and bright display. Its chip, however, is clearly ageing.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5500 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursMega Blue, Super Silver, Ultra Orange

    What we like

    • Very bright AMOLED display
    • 5,500 mAh battery with 80 W charging
    • Reverse wired charging
    • Headphone jack

    What could be better

    • Older Snapdragon 695 chip
    • No ultrawide camera
    • Modest gaming performance

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want excellent battery life and a bright screen with clean software.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (June 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 11 Pro

    Realme launched the 11 Pro in India in June 2023 at Rs 23,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. Design was a major focus: the phone has a curved display and a vegan leather back with a large circular camera module, inspired by luxury travel luggage, giving it a premium feel at a mid-range price.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution. Performance comes from the Dimensity 7050, which is fine for everyday use and casual gaming but not a powerhouse. The 100 MP main camera with OIS produces detailed photos with good colour, but the only other rear camera is a 2 MP depth sensor, so there is no ultrawide. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 12 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M34, the iQOO Z7 Pro and the Motorola Edge 40 Neo. The iQOO Z7 Pro offered similar specs with a faster chip, while the Motorola had IP68. The Realme 11 Pro's appeal was largely its design and curved display. Those who want an ultrawide should look elsewhere.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 23,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7050
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras100 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, Realme UI 4.0
    5GYes
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursSunrise Beige, Oasis Green, Astral Black

    What we like

    • Premium vegan leather design
    • Curved 120 Hz AMOLED
    • 100 MP OIS main camera
    • 67 W charging

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • Dimensity 7050 is only average
    • Preinstalled apps

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who prioritise design and a curved display in a mid-range phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (June 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 11 Pro+

    The Realme 11 Pro+ launched in India in June 2023 at Rs 27,999 for 8 GB and 256 GB, alongside the 11 Pro. It shares the same luxury-inspired vegan leather design and curved display, but upgrades the camera system and charging speed to compete with the Redmi Note 12 Pro+.

    Its 200 MP Samsung HP3 main sensor with OIS is the headline feature and supports up to 4x in-sensor zoom with good results. An 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro complete the setup, and the front camera is a 32 MP sensor. The Dimensity 7050 is the same as in the 11 Pro, adequate for daily use but not for heavy gaming. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 100 W.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, the OnePlus Nord CE3, the iQOO Neo 7 and the Nothing Phone (1). The iQOO Neo 7 offered much better performance, while the Redmi had a similar 200 MP pitch. The 11 Pro+ appealed most to camera and design-conscious buyers. Gamers are better served elsewhere.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 27,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7050
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras200 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging100W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, Realme UI 4.0
    5GYes
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursSunrise Beige, Oasis Green, Astral Black

    What we like

    • 200 MP OIS main camera with good in-sensor zoom
    • 100 W charging
    • Premium vegan leather design
    • 32 MP selfie camera

    What could be better

    • Average Dimensity 7050 performance
    • Weak macro camera
    • No IP rating

    Who should buy it

    Camera and design-focused buyers who want a premium-looking phone with fast charging.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (June 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 12 Pro+

    The Realme 12 Pro+ launched in India in January 2024 at Rs 29,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. Its main attraction was a 64 MP periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom, a feature that had previously been limited to far more expensive phones. It shares the luxury watch-inspired design of the 12 Pro, with an extra red colour option.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED at 120 Hz looks premium and is bright enough outdoors. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 is a step up from the 12 Pro's chip and handles everyday use and moderate gaming well. The 50 MP Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS is excellent, and the periscope delivers sharp zoom shots up to about 6x. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, the OnePlus Nord 3, the Poco X6 Pro and the Motorola Edge 40. The Redmi offered IP68 and faster charging, and the Poco more speed, but the 12 Pro+ was the clear choice for zoom photography in its class. It is an easy recommendation for travel photographers.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 29,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2024
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 7s Gen 2
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 64 MP 3x periscope telephoto
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursSubmarine Blue, Navigator Beige, Explorer Red

    What we like

    • 3x periscope telephoto at a mid-range price
    • Excellent Sony IMX890 main camera
    • Premium design
    • 32 MP selfie camera

    What could be better

    • 67 W charging trails some rivals
    • Performance is only moderate
    • Ultrawide is basic

    Who should buy it

    Photography fans who want genuine optical zoom without paying flagship prices.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 12 Pro

    Realme launched the 12 Pro in India in January 2024 at Rs 25,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. Its design took cues from luxury watches, with a vegan leather back and a large circular camera ring with a sunburst-style finish. The bigger story was the camera: a dedicated 2x telephoto lens, rare at this price.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED at 120 Hz is bright and smooth. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is the weakest part of the package, adequate for everyday tasks and casual gaming but slower than many rivals. The 50 MP Sony IMX882 main camera with OIS performs well, and the 32 MP 2x telephoto produces good portraits; the 8 MP ultrawide is average. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 Pro, the Poco X6 Pro, the OnePlus Nord CE3 and the Samsung Galaxy A25. The Poco X6 Pro was significantly faster, and the Redmi had a sharper screen. The Realme 12 Pro stood out for portrait photography and design. Its weaker chip is the main compromise.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 25,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 6 Gen 1
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 32 MP 2x telephoto
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursSubmarine Blue, Navigator Beige

    What we like

    • Dedicated 2x telephoto camera
    • Premium watch-inspired design
    • Curved 120 Hz AMOLED
    • IP65 protection

    What could be better

    • Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is slower than rivals
    • Average ultrawide
    • Preinstalled apps in Realme UI

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want good portrait photography and a stylish design without paying for a flagship.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE4

    OnePlus launched the Nord CE4 in India in April 2024 at Rs 24,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It was the first phone in India with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, and its 100 W charging, previously seen only on pricier OnePlus phones, was one of its main selling points. The Celadon Marble finish gave it a distinctive look.

    The 6.7-inch AMOLED runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution and is bright and colourful. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 handles everyday use smoothly and runs popular games well. The camera system is simpler than before: a 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide. The 5,500 mAh battery lasts well over a day and charges at 100 W. Unusually, it kept a hybrid microSD slot.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 Pro, the Realme 12+, the Poco X6 Pro and the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion. The Poco X6 Pro was faster, and the Redmi had a sharper screen, but the CE4 led on charging speed and battery life. Its hybrid microSD slot is also rare at this price.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 24,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 7 Gen 3
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5500 mAh
    Charging100W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursDark Chrome, Celadon Marble

    What we like

    • 100 W charging
    • Large 5,500 mAh battery
    • OIS main camera
    • Hybrid microSD slot

    What could be better

    • Only 8 GB RAM
    • No headphone jack
    • Ultrawide is basic

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want long battery life and very fast charging in an affordable OnePlus.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.