Realme has rapidly grown to become one of the most popular smartphone brands worldwide by offering powerful specs at affordable prices. Joining its portfolio of capable budget devices is the new Realme 10s, which promises exceptional value through a bundle of premium features.

Design and Display

The Realme 10s sports a rectangular camera module on the back with shiny gradient finishes. It’s encased in a plastic frame measuring 164.4 x 75.1 x 8.1mm and weighing 191 grams. Despite its size, the 10s feel well-balanced.

Upfront is a 6.6-inch LCD screen with Full HD+ resolution. At 1080×2408 pixels, images and videos appear detailed with over 400PPI. The 90Hz refresh rate makes animations buttery smooth. This crisp display is protected by Gorilla Glass 5.

Hardware Performance

Under the hood lies MediaTek’s Dimensity 810 chipset, built on a 6nm process. Its octa-core CPU delivers plenty of grunt for multitasking and gaming. Models offer 8GB RAM as standard paired with 128GB or 256GB UFS 2.2 storage.

An additional microSD slot supports expansion up to 1TB. All this power is kept cool via an extended heat pipe cooling system. During testing, the 10s handled everything thrown at it without slowdowns. Load times were instant and games played flawlessly.

50MP Quad Camera System

Headlining the optics is a powerful 50MP main camera utilizing a large 1/1.56″ Samsung JN1 sensor. It captures vibrant images packed with detail. An 8MP ultrawide lets you fit more in each shot. A depth and macro lens round off the versatile suite.

Selfies look sharp thanks to an 8MP front camera. Both can record detailed 1080p video at 30fps. With various shooting modes, the 10s satisfy photo enthusiasts on a budget. Image processing is handled swiftly by the Dimensity 810.

Storage, Battery Life, and Fast Charging

Internal storage options include 128GB and 256GB to store apps, files and plenty of photos/videos. The 10s also supports additional storage expansion of up to 1TB via a dedicated microSD slot.

A 5,000mAh battery with 33W SuperDart charging lasted over a day on a full charge during tests. It only takes 33 minutes to power up from 0-50% using the included charger. With moderate use, the 10s easily lasts 1.5 days between charges.

Software and Features

Realme UI 3.0 based on Android 12 delivers a clean, customizable interface. Preloaded features include three customizable sidebars, a theme store, dark mode, and more. The brand promises two major Android updates keeping the 10s future-proof.

Other nice additions include a side-mounted fingerprint reader, face unlock, dual SIM support, Bluetooth 5.2, WiFi 6, and a hybrid SIM slot for extra storage. GPS/GLONASS/Beidou provides accurate navigation too.

Value for Money

At an estimated retail price of $150-200, the Realme 10s offers remarkable specs and features. You get a high-refresh FHD+ screen, a powerful Dimensity 810 chip, ample storage, and fast charging in an attractive package. Rivals in this price bracket lack any of these premium qualities.

The Poco M5 seems comparable on paper but has an inferior 60Hz LCD and an older Dimensity 700 chip. Realme’s own Narzo 50i Prime is a much more basic offering too. For buyers seeking a capable all-rounder without breaking the bank, the 10s earn our recommendation.

Verdict

There’s a lot to like about the Realme 10s. It delivers outstanding hardware, great cameras, dependable battery life, and a modern software experience all without emptying wallets. With premium build quality and robust cooling, the 10s handles anything thrown at it confidently.

If you need a smartphone capable of both everyday tasks and more demanding apps/games without compromising on features, the Realme 10s presents exceptional value. It truly raises the bar for what is possible at this attractive price point.