Highlights

• MediaTek Dimensity 7050 delivers reliable performance.
• 6.67-inch AMOLED display enhances visual experience.
• 50MP main camera captures vibrant, detailed photos.
• 5000mAh battery supports fast charging with 45W SUPERVOOC.

The Realme P1 5G has been launched as a fresh face in Realme’s brand new P series lineup, positioning itself as a performance-oriented contender in the budget-range smartphone segment.

Having a gander at the specs, I am of the opinion that this new series is designed to offer superior performance coupled with an exceptional user experience, promising to shake up the current market dynamics.

But does it manage to do that?

Is there just one too many Realme lineups floating in the budget market?

Let’s find out in this detailed review of the Realme P1.

Realme P1 5G: Key Specs

• MediaTek Dimensity 7050 5G
• 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED
• 50MP Main Camera
• 5000mAh Battery, 45W Charging
• Up to 16GB Dynamic RAM
• Realme UI 5.0, Android 14
• Dual Stereo Speakers

Realme P1 5G: Unboxing Experience

Unpacking the Realme P1 5G, I was satisfied with the inclusion of Realme’s regular accessory set — a rare commitment in today’s market.

This included the smartphone, a clear silicone case, a charging brick, and a USB Type-A to Type-C cable for charging.

Alongside this, you also get the standard documentation including the Setup guide and warranty papers.

Finally there is the SIM ejector toolkit packaged neatly in the middle.

Realme P1 5G: Design and Display

The Realme P1 5G features a design that I think is best described as a double-edged sword in today’s competitive market.

It adopts the Bird Culture-inspired Phoenix Design, incorporating a micro-crystal sparrow feather texture that gleams under light, offering a tactile sensation reminiscent of nature’s elegance.

This unique approach adds an artistic flair, but it’s nestled within a form factor that might feel too familiar to Realme enthusiasts.

I feel that the design from the back, while premium, does not stray far from the aesthetic seen in numerous previous Realme models, which might disappoint users looking for something distinctly fresh.

The device is equipped with a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen that boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and an FHD+ resolution, providing a fluid and crisp visual experience.

The display also features an innovative Rainwater Smart Touch technology, enhancing screen interaction during inclement weather by adjusting touch sensitivity to prevent unintended inputs.

I feel that this is a significant usability boost, particularly for those living in wetter climates.

While the display offers peak brightness levels up to 2000 nits, ensuring excellent visibility in bright conditions, it lacks HDR support, which has become a common feature in many mid-range smartphones.

Even so, all things considered it is a great offering for casual viewing purposes.

Realme P1 5G: Cameras

The Realme P1 5G packs in a triple-camera setup, led by a 50MP main sensor, which initially impressed me with its ability to capture sharp, detailed photos with vibrant colours.

The high-resolution sensor ensures that each image is packed with clarity, which is particularly noticeable in well-lit environments.

However, the camera array is not without its flaws.

One notable omission is the lack of an ultra-wide sensor, which significantly limits the versatility of the camera setup.

In today’s smartphone market, where capturing landscapes and expansive scenes is highly prized, the absence of an ultra-wide option feels like a missed opportunity.

Additionally, the 2MP macro shooter included in the setup offers very limited utility due to its low resolution.

The images produced by this camera often lacked the detail necessary for impactful close-up shots, which can be frustrating for users looking to explore macro photography.

Nighttime photography with the Realme P1 5G also presented some challenges.

While the AI-enhanced night mode attempts to boost low-light performance by brightening images and reducing grain, it sometimes struggles to balance exposure and detail preservation.

In some cases, the night shots appeared washed out or overly processed, lacking the finesse seen in competitors’ night modes that use more sophisticated processing algorithms.

However, the 16MP front-facing camera does a solid job for selfies and video calls, equipped with AI beautification features that enhance portraits.

Yet, here too, the performance under low-light conditions could leave a bit to be desired.

Without the dedicated AI night boost, the selfies and video quality in dim environments often result in softer details and noticeable noise.

Realme P1 5G Camera Day Samples

Realme P1 5G Camera Night Samples

Realme P1 5G Camera Day Video

Realme P1 5G Camera Night Video

Realme P1 5G: Performance and Features

Diving into the performance, the device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset.

During my use, as  I had expected, this processor delivered solid performance, handling everyday tasks and moderate gaming without any noticeable lag.

Benchmark tests confirm its capability, showing that the P1 5G can comfortably meet the needs of most users, particularly those who aren’t pushing the device with high-end gaming or intensive multitasking.

However, while general performance is robust, the device does have limitations when it comes to more demanding games.

I found that I needed to adjust settings to low to maintain a stable frame rate, which might be a bit disappointing for avid gamers looking for a budget-friendly smartphone that doesn’t compromise gaming capabilities.

The Realme P1 5G’s dual stereo speakers were a standout feature, providing an excellent audio experience with rich and clear sound.

The inclusion of an in-display fingerprint sensor also adds to the premium feel of the device, and I found it to be fast and reliable at authentication.

As far as network connectivity, goes the Realme P1 5G supports a wide range of bands and includes features like dual 5G and Smart 5G, which efficiently manage power consumption while maintaining stable connections.

Realme P1 5G: Software and Battery Life

Realme UI 5.0, based on Android 14, offered a smooth and user-friendly interface, as I have come to expect.

The design of the UI is clean and well-organized, making it easy for me to find settings and apps quickly.

The customisation options are abundant, allowing for a personalized experience that can be tailored to individual preferences.

However, still, the presence of bloatware detracts somewhat from the overall experience.

Several pre-installed apps and persistent notifications can be intrusive, which might frustrate users who prefer a cleaner, more streamlined software environment.

This is a common issue with many manufacturer skins, and realme UI 5.0 is no exception.

On the battery front, the Realme P1 5G is equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports 45W SUPERVOOC charging.

This setup allows for relatively quick top-ups—reaching a 50% charge in just 28 minutes.

While the charging speed is efficient and certainly beneficial for quick recharges, I have to point out that it isn’t the fastest available in this segment.

Some competitors offer faster charging capabilities, which could make the Realme P1 seem less appealing to those who prioritize cutting-edge fast-charging technologies.

Despite this, the battery life is commendable, comfortably supporting a full day of moderate to heavy usage on a single charge.

Realme P1 5G: Final Verdict

The Realme P1 5G introduces a potent combination of performance and innovative features within the budget-range segment.

This device impresses with its Phoenix Design, sharp AMOLED display, and solid performance capabilities.

While it excels in daily tasks and offers a user-friendly interface with Realme UI 5.0, it is slightly marred by bloatware and a camera setup that lacks versatility.

Despite these shortcomings, the Realme P1 5G holds its own with robust battery life, effective fast charging, and commendable network performance, making it a noteworthy option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet capable smartphone.

5 Reasons to Buy

• Robust Performance: Handles everyday tasks and moderate gaming smoothly.
• High-Quality Display: Sharp AMOLED screen with innovative touch features.
• Effective Fast Charging: 45W SUPERVOOC charging quickly powers the phone.
• Solid Build: Attractive design with a comfortable grip.
• Good Network Capabilities: Stable and efficient connectivity options.

3 Reasons Not to Buy

• Limited Camera Flexibility: Lacks an ultra-wide sensor and effective low-light performance.
• Presence of Bloatware: Clutters the user interface.
• Non-Competitive Fast Charging: Slower compared to some rivals in the segment