Realme has released the C85 5G which is positioned as an affordable 5G smartphone that comes with a number of higher-end features for a lower price point. The device aims to cater to customers needing extended battery life coupled with solid performance without breaking the bank.
Key Features & Specifications
- Technology & Performance: Generates a dependable opportunity to run all your daily activities and play some casual gaming with an octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset providing a smooth performance along with a Mali-G57 GPU for graphics rendering.
- Screen: The 6.8″ HD+ LCD display has a fast 144 Hz refresh rate and can reach brightness levels of up to 1200 nits so you can scroll seamlessly and have good visibility when using it outdoors.
- Memory & Storage: 8GB of RAM with the option to add additional memory via Dynamic RAM expansion, with either 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, as well as the ability to expand your storage via a microSD card slot.
- Camera: The rear contains a 50 MP Sony IMX852 sensor that produces images at 1080p along with an 8 MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
- Power & Charging: A large 7000 mAh battery with approximately 22 hours of playback, 50 hours of talk time, or 145 hours of music playback, can be charged at 45W, and can also provide reverse charging support, with a maximum of 6.5W, using wired charging.
- Durability: The device has an IP66/IP68/IP69 rating, indicating that it is both water and dust resistant and therefore rugged in design.
- Build & Design: It has dimensions of 166.07mm × 77.93mm × 8.38mm and weighs approximately 215g. The device is slim with an 8.38mm framed profile. It is available in “Parrot Purple” and “Peacock Green” colours.
- Software & Other Features: The C85 5G will include the Android 15-based Real Me User Interface 6.0 operation software and will also feature a side-mounted fingerprint reader, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, and the option of using dual-SIM cards (hybrid slot) as well as expandable storage via microSD cards.
Price & Availability in India
Real Me offers an attractive price for the C85 5G:
- 4 GB + 128 GB — ₹14,999 (This is the price before any applicable offers)
- 6-8 GB + 128-256 GB — Price for this configuration will vary based on model selection and current in-store promotions (₹16,499 to ₹16,999).
Realme will put the C85 5G on sale soon after it announces the launch on the company’s website, as well as through eCommerce sites and retail stores.
Suggested promotional methods for the first sale will include exchange offers, bank discounts, or interest-free payment plans to make this entry-level 5G phone budget-friendly.
The Significance of the C85 5G for Budget Smartphones
The C85 5G stands out as one of the few budget smartphones available in India:
- Fantastic Battery capacity: 7,000 mAh is not usually found in smartphones priced below ₹15,000. Especially for heavy users, long travel plans, or others who may require an extended battery life during the day to maximise usage.
- Built Tough for Everyday use: Having an IP69 rating for water and dust resistance and being able to withstand spills from 36 different types of liquids and the rigours of day-to-day living will give peace of mind to users who are often (or constantly) worried about accidental spills, dust, or normal wear and tear.
- Performance and Efficiency: Dimensity 6300 processor and 144 Hz Display make it possible for a smooth interface. This aids in battery performance during daily usage, media consumption, casual social app use, and light gaming.
- Exceptional Feature Set for the Price: 50MP camera, large display, Dual SIM and microSD compatibility, fast charging, an overall value for money package.
What to Watch Out For
- While the display resolution of the phone is HD+(as opposed to Full HD), it is beneficial for battery life and low-cost nature, but is not very clear or bright for power users that utilize high-definition video content on their device.
- The rear camera can produce 1080p video, but does not support 4K video and thus is suited for casual use.
- Although durability specifications are impressive on paper, the real-world performance of these devices regarding drops and extended exposure to water, among other issues, may vary considerably from manufacturer to manufacturer, thus making them subject to varying degrees of ruggedness.


