There is no doubt that there are still a few of the users who do not care much about 5G in their smartphones. Because of this, we can still see the presence of various 4G devices flooding the market at the moment. At the same time, various alternatives have also been provided for users. For example, Realme 10 4G launched in Malaysia at a price of RM999. Continue reading this review article to see more about it.
Specifications
REALME 10 4G
6.4″ AMOLED FHD+ screen (1080 x 2400 pixels), 90Hz
Aspect ratio: 20:9 (~411 ppi density)
Mediatek Helio G99 processor (6nm)
4 x 2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 chips
6 x 2.0 GHz Cortex-A55
Mali-G57 MC2 Graphics Chip
RAM 8GB RAM
Internal Storage 128GB UFS2.2
Primary Camera 50MP, f/1.8, (Wide)
2MP, f/2.4, (B&W)
Selfie Camera 16 MP, f/2.5, (wide)
5000mAh battery
33W fast charging (wired)
SIM/Telephony SIM Nano + SIM Nano + MicroSD
NFC None
Audio Jack Yes
Waterproof None
Scanning System Fingerprint scanner on the side & face
Selling Price RM999
Realme 10 is a mid-range device that comes with 4G LTE network support. Yes, this device only supports 4G because it is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 chip that should perform better than the Snapdragon 680 in the previous generation. Realme 10 4G also comes with the same screen as the previous generation through a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED panel with FHD+ resolution (1080×2400 pixels).
Furthermore, there are no sudden changes that also occur on the front panel of the device when the use of a flat screen is maintained with an adaptive refresh rate of 90Hz. The device also has a screen-to-body ratio of 90.8% with three thin bezels and a thick chin. Its presence is a bit annoying for some users but can be considered as a common thing on a mid-range device.
The body made of plastic is still used with a noticeable difference that can be seen in the boxy design and the aluminum frame. This is also matched with the sides that are curved throughout to provide long-lasting comfort when held in the hand. I also have no problem handling it because it is very comfortable in the hand or stored in a trouser pocket. There is no longer a design with a dynamic 3D texture concept like the previous generation, instead it is now more minimalist which is considered to be able to meet the latest trends of the younger generation.
For example, a combination of black, blue and gray tones called Rush Black gives a relaxed mood to create variety. It also shimmers in a rather pretty way. As another option, there is also the Realme 10 Clash White with a combination of bright colors such as pink, white and purple used as the background of the back panel of the device which is suitable for evoking a cheerful spirit.
The right side houses the power button which also functions as a fingerprint scanner. Although there is a clear and noticeable difference compared to the previous generation that provided an in-screen fingerprint scanner, the experience of opening the device quickly can still be enjoyed here.
Then it is also considered easier to use, but we understand that there are limitations for left-handed users. Audio adjustment buttons with a solid construction and comfortable to press can also be found on the same side. Next, the SIM card slot is placed on the opposite side. Through it as many as two different SIMs can be fully used without having to share with the microSD card.
The speaker is placed at the bottom. Also included is a USB-C connection port and a 3.5mm audio jack that gives users easy access to listen to music. It is considered interesting because this feature is being actively eliminated by the closest competitors and at the same time the user has to increase the cost to get additional accessories.
Another interesting thing that can also be seen is when the charging head is given for free in the purchase box. The only downside is that the device doesn't pass any water and dust resistance ratings. The same goes for wireless charging and NFC, as does the mono speaker.
Usage Experience
In terms of screen performance, the experience of watching videos is enjoyable through vivid color reproduction. It even supports Widevine L1 DRM certification that lets you watch your favorite shows on Netflix without a problem. The same goes for the YouTube app which can be watched on FHD but no HDR certification is given. Furthermore, the bright screen makes it usable without any problems in most conditions except under bright sunlight.
The included 90Hz refresh rate is also capable of working well and smoothly. However, continuous use results in the battery not being able to last for a long time. Results Realme provides other options such as 60Hz screen (standard) and auto select (automatic) through settings we can praise. This is very helpful in reducing the use of battery on the device, further users are plagued by the worry of running out of battery.
Next, I can also perform various normal daily tasks on the device without chronic issues. This includes me using this device to surf the web and social media, reply to messages and emails, capture photos, map navigation and so on. Everything runs smoothly with no issues of apps closing themselves or failing to work. It's just that the experience of opening an application takes a few seconds before it is fully available.
I use it for low class casual first session also no problem. But the frame rate issue drops significantly when used for extreme games like MLBB and COD. But one positive thing about the device is that it doesn't have overheating issues after being used for long gaming sessions. Here I have included a summary of the scores recorded by the device in the two main benchmark tests:
Geekbench 5 – 572/1743
Antutu 3D – 398,203
For everyone's information, the Realme 10 4G in Malaysia is only available in one option which consists of 8GB RAM memory and 256GB built-in internal storage. Although it can be considered an adequate combination, the device also supports the addition of virtual RAM which can reach a maximum of 8GB RAM. This makes the amount of RAM that can be used on the device up to 16GB if necessary. In addition, microSD support is also provided for users who need larger storage.
On the software front, the Android 12-based Realme UI 3.0 interface is used on the device. Most of the built-in features are well optimized which in turn gives me a smooth experience using the device. Scrolling on the interface is smooth without chronic lag issues due to the built-in high refresh rate that works well. Then this software also allows me to set the settings as needed.
It also supports Split Screen, Flexible Windows and Smart sidebar capabilities to facilitate multi-tasking. Other additional features that exist such as Game Toolkit become a settings hub for the game that is being played on this device. The built-in children's mode is also very useful for parents to ensure that children use smartphone facilities wisely.
Camera Quality
The Realme 10 4G is equipped with two main cameras with a setup of 50MP (main) + 2MP (B&W) which is then followed by a 16MP selfie camera. The device also allows users to record videos up to 1080P/60fps on both cameras, but there is no video stabilization feature provided. The ability to zoom up to 5x optical, further increasing to 10x digital. The interface of the camera app is similar to existing Realme phones further making it easy to use.
It's just that the features and functions of the built-in camera depend on the device itself, which consists of Night, Street, Video, Photo, Portrait, 50M and More. The camera also supports built-in AI and HDR to allow photos to be taken with good light balance. At the same time, this ability can also be turned off manually through the settings available at the top of the camera application. The picture capture option can be taken at a ratio of 1:1, 4:3, 16:9 and full.
The quality of pictures taken with the main camera is good in sufficient lighting. I found the camera to be able to deliver consistent results with vibrant color reproduction, along with good detail and dynamic range. In a simple sense, pictures with quality results can be taken in the right lighting conditions. It also contains a built-in AI feature that is seen to further increase the contrast in the image and produce a more saturated color effect. This is especially suitable for those who like to take unedited photos to quickly upload to social media posts.
Next I can take pictures between 1X zoom and 2X optical zoom easily through the icon provided. It can also be zoomed up to 5X optical zoom with decent picture results. Then increasing to 10X digital zoom produces blurry and broken images. I was also able to capture night shots through the dedicated night mode, but the results were inconsistent with moderate detail and noise issues in some cases. The results of the portrait photos are satisfactory even though they are not perfect.
Battery
The performance of the 5,000mAh battery used is satisfactory depending on the individual use. In my own use the SOT readings received can reach over 9 hours with moderate use and a 90Hz screen. Among the activities involved during my use included web browsing, social media scrolling, taking pictures, GPS applications and playing games for several sessions.
All these activities involve the dependency of LTE and WiFi connection access. However, I'm sure the device can last a lot longer when put to normal use with standard features with a 60Hz screen or full-time auto. The process of recharging the battery can be done in about an hour more using the 33W charger supplied in the box.
What's In The Box
Here is what was included in the box we received:
1 x Realme 10 4G.
1 x 33W Charger Head.
1 x USB-C to USB-A Cable.
1 x Silicone Frame.
1 x User Manual.
1 x SIM Extractor.
Conclusion
Realme 10 4G is a device with a small update from the previous model. For example the use of the MediaTek Helio G99 chip which is basically better but not perfect. Next, it can also be another competitor with adequate functions, at the same time suitable as a daily device for those who don't really care about 5G support.
The combination between a smooth screen, simple camera, easy-to-use software and acceptable battery life has been a plus for this device. But all of these work well when used in the right way. The selling price is RM999 each and is available now through authorized Realme dealers throughout Malaysia, both online and offline.
Pro
Relaxed and comfortable design in the palm of your hand.
AMOLED screen with high refresh rate
The combination of RAM and internal storage is adequate.
5000mAh battery with 33W fast charging.
Cons
No 5G support.
Not dust and water proof.