realme 8i

The realme 8i is an affordable smartphone but one with a smooth 120Hz screen. Such a screen is usually only found in much more expensive phones. So what else does this 8i have, what not, and whether it is worth considering, we will find out here.

The luxury of a 120Hz screen

A few years ago, you didn't hear anyone talking about it, but anyone who has ever had one won't want to go back without it: a phone screen with a high refresh rate. It looks much smoother, makes your phone feel faster, and looks modern and contemporary. But while a screen with a high refresh rate used to be reserved for the lucky few expensive phones with high-end specs, nowadays, it is also available to the commoner. Indeed, the realme 8i does not cost much but is equipped with a screen with fast 120Hz. By refreshing images 120 times per second, animations and transitions look much smoother. But beware; once experienced and you never want to go back.

Up to 3GB of extra RAM memory

That speed comes partly from the screen and partly from the built-in processor. Realme applies a MediaTek helio G96. This chipset consists of eight cores with a maximum speed of 2.05 GHz and is powerful enough for gaming. To be able to run smoothly, it also needs RAM. Realme provides between 4 and 6GB of such RAM inside. Conveniently, the 8i can expand this by another 3GB virtually by taking space away from the storage memory. This is admittedly slower, but apps will not shut down unexpectedly. In terms of storage memory, there is a choice of 64 and 128GB. If you have a hard time making that choice right now, it's good to know that you can always insert an external memory card later.

Most important realme 8i specifications

• 6.6-inch large Ultra Smooth Display with 120Hz playback
• 50+2+2MP camera system with portrait mode and macro lens + Full HD video
• 16MP selfie camera with bright f/2.05 lens
• Helio G96 gaming processor by MediaTek at up to 2.05GHz
• Choose between 4+64GB or 6+128GB of RAM+storage memory
• Dual SIM functionality + room for memory card (3-Card Slot)
• 5000mAh large battery with 18W fast charging (charger included)
• Suitable for 4G mobile internet

Three camera system with AI

Realme has also thought of the necessary cameras. On the back of the 8i, we find a trio of them. The highest camera resolution of these is 50MP. AI is also present. Artificial intelligence lets the device know which settings are needed to take the best selfies. You will also find a black and white camera for portraits and a macro camera for close-ups from 4cm up close. A separate camera for widescreen photos or zooming is missing. Up front, we find a 16MP selfie camera inside the screen. It's amusing that there is a function where you can simultaneously record a video with the front and rear cameras. So with this Dual-view Video, you also record your reaction.

Pro and cons realme 8i

• Smooth 120Hz
• Excellent 50MP main camera
• Large battery, long duration
• Suitable for gaming

• Camera without an ultra-wide-angle lens