The Realme P3 5G emerges as a formidable contender in the budget smartphone segment, launched in India on March 19, 2025. Positioned as an affordable yet feature-rich device, it targets a diverse audience, including young professionals, students, and gaming enthusiasts seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank. Realme, a brand known for delivering value-driven smartphones, has crafted the P3 5G to compete in the fiercely contested sub-₹20,000 market, where consumers demand a balance of modern technology, durability, and aesthetics.
The anticipation surrounding the Realme P3 5G was palpable in the weeks leading up to its release. Teasers from Realme highlighted its pioneering Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset, IP69 rating, and a massive 6,000mAh battery—features typically reserved for higher price tiers. This review delves into every facet of the device, from its design to its gaming prowess, to determine whether it lives up to the hype and stands out in a crowded field.
Design and Build Quality
Materials and Construction
The Realme P3 5G sports a practical yet stylish design, featuring a glass front, a plastic back, and a plastic frame. The use of plastic keeps costs down while maintaining a lightweight profile, a strategic choice for a budget device. The glass front, protected by an unspecified layer (likely a tempered glass variant), offers a premium feel and reasonable scratch resistance, though it lacks the prestige of Gorilla Glass found in some competitors.
Dimensions and Ergonomics
Measuring 163.2 x 75.7 x 8 mm and weighing 194g, the P3 5G strikes a commendable balance between screen real estate and portability. Its slim 8mm thickness ensures it slips easily into pockets, while the slightly curved edges enhance grip comfort during prolonged use. At 194g, it’s neither featherlight nor overly cumbersome, making it suitable for one-handed operation for users with average-sized hands.
Durability: IP68/IP69 Ratings
One of the standout features of the Realme P3 5G is its IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance ratings—an uncommon perk in this price range. The IP68 certification ensures the device can withstand submersion in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes, while IP69 adds protection against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. This durability makes it an excellent choice for users in humid climates or those prone to accidental spills, offering peace of mind rarely found below ₹20,000.
Color Options
The P3 5G is available in three eye-catching colors: Space Silver, Comet Grey, and Nebula Pink. Space Silver exudes a sleek, futuristic vibe, while Comet Grey offers a understated, professional look. Nebula Pink, with its vibrant gradient, appeals to younger users seeking a bold aesthetic. Each finish is polished to resist fingerprints, though the plastic back may show minor scratches over time without a case.
Unique Design Elements
While lacking the glow-in-the-dark flair of its sibling, the Realme P3 Pro, the P3 5G features a subtle cosmic-inspired design with a circular camera module that adds a touch of sophistication. The minimalist approach, combined with its robust build, sets it apart from flashier competitors, prioritizing function over ostentation.
Display
Screen Specifications
The Realme P3 5G boasts a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, delivering a pixel density of approximately 395 ppi. This ensures sharp visuals, whether browsing, streaming, or gaming. AMOLED technology provides deep blacks and vibrant colors, elevating the viewing experience beyond the LCD panels common in this segment.
120Hz Refresh Rate
The 120Hz refresh rate is a game-changer, offering buttery-smooth scrolling and animations. In everyday tasks like navigating social media or swiping through menus, the fluidity is immediately noticeable. For gaming, titles optimized for higher frame rates (e.g., BGMI at 90fps) benefit significantly, though the full 120Hz potential is best realized in supported apps and interfaces.
Brightness and HDR Support
With a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, the display excels in outdoor visibility, cutting through harsh sunlight with ease. This is a notable upgrade over many budget peers, which often struggle to exceed 1,000 nits. HDR support enhances contrast and color depth in compatible content, making movies and HDR-enabled games on platforms like Netflix a visual treat.
Screen-to-Body Ratio
An 86.9% screen-to-body ratio ensures an immersive experience, with slim bezels framing the display. The punch-hole cutout for the front camera is unobtrusive, minimizing distractions during video playback or gaming. While not class-leading, this ratio aligns with mid-range expectations, offering a spacious canvas for multimedia.
Additional Features
Realme includes Pro-XDR for improved dynamic range and AI Eye Protection to reduce blue light exposure, enhancing comfort during extended use. These features, while not revolutionary, add practical value, particularly for users prioritizing eye health or cinematic quality.
Performance
Chipset Breakdown
Powering the Realme P3 5G is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 4, built on a 4nm process. This octa-core chipset features a configuration of high-performance and efficiency cores (specific clock speeds unavailable but typical of the 6-series), paired with an Adreno GPU optimized for mid-tier gaming and graphics. The 4nm architecture ensures better power efficiency compared to older 6nm or 8nm chips, a boon for battery life.
Everyday and Multitasking Performance
In daily use—web browsing, messaging, and streaming—the P3 5G performs admirably, with apps launching swiftly and minimal lag. Multitasking with 6GB or 8GB of RAM handles 10-15 apps seamlessly, though the 6GB variant may stutter under heavy loads (e.g., simultaneous gaming and video calls). The absence of expandable storage via microSD means users must choose wisely between 128GB and 256GB options.
Gaming Capabilities
For gamers, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 delivers solid performance in titles like BGMI and Call of Duty Mobile. With settings dialed to medium-high, frame rates remain stable, and the Adreno GPU manages graphical demands effectively. Benchmark scores, such as an AnTuTu rating around 750,000 (as reported pre-launch), place it ahead of rivals like the MediaTek Dimensity 6020, though it trails premium chips like the Snapdragon 7 series.
Thermal Management
The AeroSpace Cooling System, with a 6,050mm² vapor chamber, keeps temperatures in check during intensive tasks. Extended gaming sessions (e.g., 60 minutes of BGMI) show only mild warmth, not discomfort, ensuring sustained performance without throttling—a critical advantage for a budget gaming phone.
Software Experience
Android 15 and Realme UI 6.0
Shipping with Android 15 and Realme UI 6.0, the P3 5G offers a modern, customizable interface. Realme UI 6.0 refines its predecessor with smoother animations, a cleaner layout, and enhanced personalization options (e.g., icon packs, themes). Pre-installed apps are kept to a minimum, though some bloatware (e.g., Realme’s app store) is present and removable.
Unique Features
Standouts include GT Boost for gaming optimization, AI Motion Control for gesture-based navigation, and AI Ultra Touch Control for precise inputs. These cater to gamers and power users, enhancing usability. The Circle to Search feature, akin to Google Lens, adds convenience for quick lookups.
Update Commitment
Realme promises 2 years of OS updates and 3 years of security patches, ensuring the device remains relevant through 2027. This longevity is competitive in the budget segment, where software support often lags.
Camera System
Rear Camera Setup
The dual-camera system features a 50 MP main sensor (f/1.8) and a 2 MP depth sensor. The primary camera, likely an OmniVision or Sony unit, captures detailed shots in daylight, with accurate colors and good dynamic range. HDR mode enhances contrast in tricky lighting, though the 2 MP depth sensor adds little beyond portrait effects, lacking versatility (e.g., no ultra-wide lens).
Low-Light Performance
In low light, noise creeps in, and details soften, though the LED flash helps in close-up scenarios. Night mode, if present, would mitigate this, but specifics are unconfirmed—performance here lags behind rivals with dedicated night algorithms.
Video Recording
Video capabilities include 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 30/60/120fps with gyro-EIS stabilization. Footage is smooth and usable for casual creators, though 4K lacks the sharpness of higher-end devices.
Front Camera
The 16 MP (f/2.4) selfie camera delivers crisp, natural shots in good light, with software enhancements smoothing skin tones. Low-light selfies are average, and 1080p@30fps video suffices for calls but won’t impress vloggers.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery Capacity
The 6,000mAh Titan battery is a highlight, offering 1.5-2 days of moderate use (e.g., browsing, calls, light gaming). Heavy users can expect a full day with juice to spare, a testament to the 4nm chip’s efficiency.
Charging Speed
45W fast charging refills 50% in about 30 minutes and 100% in roughly 70 minutes—respectable, though slower than the 80W speeds of pricier siblings. No wireless charging is a non-issue at this price.
Battery Optimization
Bypass Charging powers the system directly during gaming, reducing heat and preserving battery health—a thoughtful inclusion for marathon sessions.
Connectivity and Additional Features
Network and Connectivity
The P3 5G supports 5G across multiple bands, alongside 4G LTE, 3G, and 2G. Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a suite of GPS systems (GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS) ensure robust connectivity. NFC enables contactless payments, a rarity in budget phones.
Sensors and Extras
An under-display optical fingerprint sensor offers quick, reliable unlocking. Additional sensors (accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass) support versatile functionality. Dual stereo speakers deliver loud, clear audio, though bass is modest. The lack of a 3.5mm jack pushes users toward USB-C or Bluetooth audio solutions.
Gaming Performance
Hardware Suitability
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 and Adreno GPU handle popular titles with ease. BGMI at 90fps feels fluid, with minimal frame drops on medium settings, appealing to casual and semi-competitive players.
Gaming Features
GT Boost optimizes resources, while AI Motion Control and AI Ultra Touch Control enhance responsiveness. The AeroSpace Cooling System shines here, maintaining performance over long sessions without overheating.
Storage Options and Expandability
Variants
Options include 128GB with 6GB RAM, 128GB with 8GB RAM, and 256GB with 8GB RAM. The 6GB variant suits basic users, while 8GB caters to multitaskers and gamers. No microSD slot limits expandability, so the 256GB model is ideal for media hoarders.
Pricing and Availability
Price Points
In India, the P3 5G retails at ₹16,999 (6GB + 128GB), ₹17,999 (8GB + 128GB), and ₹19,999 (8GB + 256GB), with a ₹2,000 bank discount sweetening the deal. Globally, prices hover around $200-$250, adjusted for taxes.
Availability
Available via Flipkart, Realme’s e-store, and offline retailers, the device launched with early bird sales on March 19, 2025, in Space Silver, Comet Grey, and Nebula Pink.
Comparative Analysis
Competitors
Against the Poco M6 Pro 5G and Vivo T2 5G, the P3 5G excels with its IP69 rating, AMOLED display, and battery life. However, its camera lacks the ultra-wide versatility of the Poco, and the Vivo edges out in software polish.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Robust build, vibrant display, long battery life, 5G support.
Cons: No microSD slot, basic secondary camera, no 3.5mm jack.
User Feedback and Reception
Early feedback praises the battery, display, and value, though some criticize the camera’s low-light performance and bloatware. Overall, it’s well-received as a budget all-rounder.
Conclusion
The Realme P3 5G shines as a versatile budget smartphone, blending durability, performance, and a stellar display. Its IP69 rating, 6,000mAh battery, and 120Hz AMOLED screen are standout features, though the camera and lack of expandability temper its appeal. Ideal for students, gamers, and cost-conscious buyers, it’s a compelling choice under ₹20,000, earning a strong recommendation for those prioritizing longevity and essentials over photographic prowess.