realme 13 5G REVIEW: AN UNEXPECTED GAMING EXPERIENCE

I’ll be honest—gaming isn’t exactly my thing. 

I’m more of a fashion, foodie and lifestyle gal and as Mama Lou, I’d rather spend my time chatting with my grandkids or getting lost in a good book. But as someone who also covers a lot of gaming launches, I keep hearing about “gaming phones” and all these fancy features designed just for people who play mobile games. 

It got me curious: why are smartphone brands going out of their way to cater to gamers?

So, I decided to dig a little deeper. It turns out that gaming is huge—nearly 2 billion people play games on their phones, and mobile gaming alone makes close to $100 billion a year. In places like the Philippines, more than 94% of internet users play mobile games. It’s safe to say gaming is no longer just for kids; it’s a worldwide hobby bringing in billions and captivating people of all ages.

With all that in mind, I decided to test out the realme 13 5G, a gaming-focused smartphone, to see if I could understand the appeal. Since I’m not exactly the best person to test out a gaming phone, I handed it over to my grandson, Finn. 

He’s as enthusiastic about gaming as I am about a good cup of tea, so I knew he’d give it a proper workout. A week later, he had a lot to say—and for the first time, I felt like I understood a little bit more about his world.

Here’s what we discovered about the realme 13 5G together.

Display: Bigger, Smoother, and Ready for Gaming

One of the biggest perks for gamers is the screen, and Finn’s face lit up the moment he saw the 6.72-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD displayon the realme 13 5G. For him, a large display like this makes all the difference in seeing every detail in a game, and with a 120Hz refresh rate, the screen feels ultra-responsive. This refresh rate, he explained to me, helps avoid the lag and stuttering that can be frustrating when playing action-packed games. 

When we tried it out, the screen was indeed vibrant and clear, especially indoors. It reaches 580 nits of brightness, which made it easy to read text, watch videos, or play games without squinting. The colors were bright, the text was sharp, and Finn could fully appreciate the games he plays.

The eye comfort feature was another nice touch, designed to reduce eye strain during extended sessions—a plus for people of any age!

However, Finn mentioned that it could get tricky to see under direct sunlight, which is something to consider for outdoor gaming--- but who cares! The outdoors were meant to be explored IRL right? 

Audio: Loud, Clear, and Customizable

Gaming is as much about sound as it is about visuals. The realme 13 5G comes with dual stereo speakers that offer loud and clear audio, which Finn quickly noticed while playing PUBG Mobile. It also has an Ultra Volume mode that can boost sound up to 200%. At full blast, there was a bit of distortion, but the sound quality was surprisingly robust for a mid-range phone.

For those who prefer their own headphones, realme has kept the 3.5mm headphone jack—a rarity in many newer models, according to Finn. This feature he said is important for gamers who still enjoy wired audio for clarity and zero latency, especially during gaming sessions where sound cues like footsteps or gunfire make all the difference

Performance: GT Mode, AI Boost, and Ample RAM for Seamless Gameplay

 The MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor powers the realme 13 5G, and paired with 12GB of RAM, it’s more than capable of handling demanding games. Finn explained that this setup allowed him to play his favorite titles smoothly, even with high graphics settings enabled. The 6nm process of the processor ensures that the phone runs efficiently, balancing performance with battery life—a critical feature for any gaming phone.

But the star of the show is GT Mode. 

During the launch, the realme 13 ambassadors kept mentioning GT Mode. I learned that this typically was found only on realme’s premium devices. GT Mode optimizes CPU and GPU performance for maximum output, meaning higher frame rates and less lag. Finn said he noticed a difference when he switched GT Mode on, especially in games that require quick reactions, like Call of Duty MobileThe game experience felt “smoother and faster,” as he put it, with fewer hiccups and better graphics overall.

AI Boost is another feature that works behind the scenes. It uses artificial intelligence to make real-time adjustments to power usage, which Finn found useful for games that demand a lot from the processor. With 256GB of internal storage, he was able to install all his favorite games and still had room for apps and photos. The phone even offers dynamic RAM expansion—up to an additional 14GB—to keep multitasking smooth, allowing up to 19 apps to run simultaneously.

In the real world, how did the realme 13 5G perform? After a week of testing, Finn gave it high marks for smoothness, response time, and overall gameplay. He played popular games like Honor of Kings, which ran at Ultra resolution with high FPS settings without stutter or lag. Finn explained that maintaining a stable frame rate—near 60 FPS in this case—meant he could enjoy the action without interruptions.

There’s also this thing called stainless-steel vapor chamber cooling system which kept the device cool during his longer gaming sessions, even as he pushed the phone to its limits with graphically intense games like Genshin Impact. There were minimal heat issues, and Finn mentioned he barely felt any slowdown even after hours of continuous play, which he found impressive for a mid-range device.  

Camera: Ready for Social Sharing

While the realme 13 5G isn’t primarily a camera phone, it still packs a solid 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). This feature helps take clear, sharp photos—good enough for social sharing, which is important to Finn and his friends. I had the chance to test it myself, and I was surprised by how crisp the images looked, especially in well-lit conditions. There’s also a 16MP front camerafor selfies, which Finn said worked well, though it benefits from added light in dim settings.

Design: A Refreshing, Understated Style

When I checked how other “gaming phones” looked, I did notice a big difference. Unlike the tech-heavy look of other phones, the realme 13 5G has a more refined, subtle design. With a dual-pattern finish that combines a “Speedy Curve” at the top with a “Speedy Lightning Texture” at the bottom, it feels unique without screaming “gaming phone.” Finn liked the Speed Green color of our review unit, but for those who prefer a less striking look, there’s also Dark Purple.

At 7.79mm thick and weighing 190 grams, the realme 13 5G is light and comfortable to hold, even during longer gaming sessions. Finn appreciated the flat, matte-finished sides, which helped keep fingerprints at bay and provided a better grip.

Built to last, the realme 13 5G comes with IP64 water resistance and ArmorShell Drop-Proof Protection, making it durable enough to withstand everyday use and the occasional bump. It’s nice to see a gaming phone that combines durability with style.

Battery Life and Fast Charging

The realme 13 5G’s 5,000mAh battery kept up with Finn’s gaming needs, lasting a full day with a mix of heavy gaming and regular phone use. When the battery did run low, the 45W fast charging got it back to full power in about an hour and 20 minutes—a convenient feature for quick top-ups between sessions.

CONCLUSION: More than just a Gaming Phonea

I may not be a gamer, nor will I ever fully understand the world of online battles and epic quests. But after trying out the realme 13 5G with Finn, I’ve gained a new appreciation for why brands are investing in gaming-focused phones. The realme 13 5G’s GT Mode, smooth display, solid battery life, and AI Boost all contribute to an immersive experience that kept my grandson fully engaged.

For anyone with kids or grandkids who love gaming, the realme 13 5G is definitely worth considering if you are planning to get them one this Christmas. It’s not just a good gaming phone—it’s a device that gives us something to bond over. And for its price P16,999, the realme 13 5G delivers a surprisingly good overall experience!

Wet + Wild: The HONOR x7c Review Premium Durability made Affordable

It’s a familiar sight in the city—motorcycle taxis, couriers and delivery riders weaving through traffic with their phones wrapped in plastic, mounted on handlebars, or sometimes even tucked under tiny, quirky umbrellas. 

For these riders, their phones are just as important as their rides, helping them get bookings, navigate the city, track orders, and stay connected with customers. But during the rainy season, things can get twice as challenging. A sudden downpour can turn an ordinary delivery into a risky situation, not only for the rider but also for the phone, which has to survive the elements.

I’ve even witnessed a few times when a rider’s phone slipped out of its mount and clattering onto the road, with the rider pulling over abruptly to retrieve it—something that’s far more dangerous on busy highways. Seeing this, I couldn’t help but think that riders need is a truly tough phone, one that can withstand water, falls, and everything in between without extra gadgets or plastic covers—but those features often come at higher price points—Enter the Honor x7c. 

At the launch event for the HONOR X7c held at the Manila Ocean Park, I watched as the phone was dropped, splashed, slid and thrown into the pool—all in the name of testing its durability. Each test seemed bolder than the last, and by the end of it, I was sure the phones would be done for. But to my surprise, it survived every challenge. 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCIuDj1B9ke/?igsh=MTZ4bmpzMTh1cW90MA==

Now, after using the HONOR X7c for a few weeks myself, here’s what I think about this entry-level warrior.

Design and Build

The HONOR X7c’s design especially the Forest Green variant, which I have, looks similar to the HONOR x8b because of its finish. I appreciate the textured back, which provides a solid grip and resists fingerprints, so it still looks fresh without a case. There are two other color options, Midnight Black, and Moonlight White—which should be enough to cater to a variety of different tastes, though it’s clear that functionality is the design priority here.

HONOR has packed serious durability into this device, which is a rare find at this price. First off, the HONOR X7c has an IP64 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and splashes. While it’s not a phone you’d want to fully submerge, (although we have washed it and tried it while swimming) so it definitely can survive a few surprise rain showers or accidental spills. Do note that you have to make sure the phone is really dry before plugging it for a charge.

Adding to its toughness is its SGS five-star drop resistance rating, backed by a combination of reinforced materials and cushioned architecture. HONOR has used tempered glass for the screen, and the frame feels solid without adding much extra weight. This phone is built for those who are likely to drop their device now and then. Whether you’re a courier, a student on the go, or just someone prone to accidents, the HONOR X7c’s durable build is reassuring.

DISPLAY AND AUDIO

The HONOR X7c’s display offers a few unexpected perks for a phone in its price range. With a 6.77-inch TFT LCD screen and an HD+ resolution of 1610 x 720, it delivers visuals that are crisp enough for day-to-day use. While the TFT panel may lack the deep contrasts of an AMOLED display, HONOR has tuned the colors to appear well-balanced, so they don’t look overly muted. The generous screen size also provides a good viewing experience for streaming and casual gaming, making it enjoyable for watching videos or browsing social media.

One standout feature here is the 120Hz refresh rate, which is rare at this price point and certainly adds value. Scrolling feels smooth and snappy, whether you’re reading, watching, or navigating. The high refresh rate is particularly helpful for casual gaming and social media, where the extra fluidity makes everything feel just a bit faster and more responsive. Outdoors, the display reaches up to 850 nits in brightness, which, while not the brightest, is adequate for most environments and should be visible under moderate sunlight.

Audio-wise, the HONOR X7c comes equipped with dual stereo speakers. These speakers pack a punch, capable of reaching up to 300% louder. For a phone in this range, audio clarity at high volumes is a welcome surprise. Music, calls, and video soundtracks come through clearly, and while it may not rival flagship-level audio, the HONOR X7c does an excellent job of avoiding the “tinny” sound that’s often associated with budget devices. Plus, the phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a convenience that many users will appreciate in an era where wired connections are increasingly rare.

CAMERA QUALITY

HONOR has equipped the X7c with a capable camera system for an entry-level phone. The dual rear setup includes a 108MP primary camera, paired with a 2MP depth sensor. For a budget device, the 108MP sensor is an impressive inclusion, offering a level of detail that you wouldn’t typically expect. In good lighting, the camera captures sharp, detailed photos with accurate colors, making it a great choice for those who enjoy taking photos on the go.

In everyday use, the camera performs well, especially in daylight or well-lit settings. Images come out with a decent level of contrast, though it can struggle with high-contrast scenes where detail in shadows or highlights might get lost. When it comes to portraits, the 2MP depth sensor does a respectable job of separating the subject from the background, achieving a soft bokeh effect that’s ideal for close-up shots.

On the front, there’s an 8MP selfie camera. It’s solid for video calls and quick selfies, with decent sharpness and color reproduction in good lighting. However, as with most budget phones, low-light photography remains a challenge. Indoor or low-light shots tend to pick up a bit of grain, and photos can blur if you’re not holding the camera steady. 

The HONOR X7c’s video capabilities are pretty standard, supporting 1080p recording. While there’s no stabilization, making it tricky to capture smooth video on the go, the quality is clear enough for casual recording. You can still use apps like Google Photos for post-processing and stabilization if needed.

PERFORMANCE AND GAMING

Under the hood, the HONOR X7c is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 chipset, a competent processor that handles most tasks smoothly. This octa-core chip, paired with an Adreno 610 GPU, provides a reliable experience for day-to-day activities like browsing, social media, and messaging. Thanks to 8GB of physical RAM and an additional 8GB of virtual RAM (via HONOR’s RAM Turbo), the phone is surprisingly capable of handling multitasking with minimal lag. App switching feels responsive, and I rarely encountered slowdowns during general use.

Gaming performance is decent for a phone at this price, although it’s best suited for lighter games. Titles like Mobile Legends and Call of Duty: Mobile are playable, but for smoother gameplay, you’ll want to keep the graphics settings lower. More demanding games will run, but with noticeable frame drops and some stutter—again, not unusual for an entry-level device. For casual gamers or users who occasionally enjoy mobile gaming, the HONOR X7c is capable enough to deliver a satisfactory experience.

One thing worth noting is the absence of 5G connectivity. While this may not be a deal-breaker for many users, those looking to future-proof their device might see it as a limitation. Still, the phone’s 4G LTE connectivity is reliable, and it provides stable, quick browsing speeds in most areas.

BATTERY LIFE

Battery life is another one of the HONOR X7c’s most impressive features. With a large 6000mAh battery, this phone is built to last through extended usage, easily providing up to two days on a single charge with moderate use. In real-world terms, that means you can stream videos, browse social media, handle daily communication, and even play a few games without worrying about finding a charger at the end of the day. For people on the go—especially delivery riders or commuters who rely heavily on their phones—this long-lasting battery is a valuable asset.

To complement its capacity, HONOR has also equipped the X7c with 35W HONOR SuperCharge, which helps speed up the charging process despite the large battery. In my experience, the phone charges from 20% to full in about an hour and a half, which is reasonable considering its size. And when you’re down to just a few percent, the Ultra Power Saving Mode steps in to squeeze out some extra time, allowing for up to 75 minutes of calls on just 2% battery. This feature is especially helpful if you’re on the road and need to conserve every bit of power until you can find a charger.

CONCLUSION

HONOR has mastered the art of creating buzz around durability with their HONOR X9 series, just mentioning the brand brings to mind all those smash and drop tests that went viral on social media. 

Now that they are bringing premium durability features to the entry-level market, HONOR has made it clear that you don’t need to sacrifice toughness when opting for a budget device.

With its IP64 water resistance, drop protection, long-lasting battery, and functional design, the HONOR X7c is ideal for users looking for a reliable, durable smartphone. It’s built for people who face the elements daily, whether they’re delivery riders, students, or simply users prone to accidents. With a price tag of Php8,999, the HONOR X7c delivers exactly what it promises: a phone that’s as tough as it is practical. 

 

Tecno Spark 6 Go Review: Should it be in your Christmas List?

Christmas is just around the corner. If youre not done with your shopping yet and still thinking of what to give your loved ones this holiday season. Then, I suggests you might consider picking the Tecno Spark 6 Go.  The Spark Go variant was just released this November. 

Last week, I had a privilege of reviewing the new Tecno Spark 6 Go smartphone.

It comes in Aqua Blue, Ice Jadeite and Mystery White colorway.  

I just love the sleek and yet classy design of Mystery White, the one I got for review. It has a glossy finish to it. What I love about this affordable smart phone is that it has a large display. Perfect for gaming and binge-watching your korean movie/series in Netflix. 

Its packed with A 6.52 inches dot in display screen with 20:9 screen aspect ratio and 720 x 1600 resolution for a wider, clearer, immersive display effect, rich color contrast, and great visual experience. 

The battery stays longer with its 5,000 mAh battery this is also ideal for photography, gaming, browsing, video streaming and music. 

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CAMERAS

The camera is equipped with a 13MP + 8MP dual-camera 

Rear Cameras: 13MP Main + AI Lens, Dual Cameras, LED Flash

Front Camera: 8MP Selfie Camera, LED Flash

with AI Scene Detection that can recognize 18 different scenes with a 95% recognition rate, and AI Beauty functions and AR shots and smart processing that ensures high-quality images even in low-light conditions. It also has a dual-tone LED flash.

It also has a Bluetooth Audio Share feature that can connect to multiple wireless Bluetooth headsets at the same time, enabling users to listen and watch with friends for up to 3 devices. 

Im not much of a techie but all I know is that it equipped with HiOS for a more intelligent and convenient user experience, with a brand new dark theme feature that uses less phone battery.

The Spark 6 Go also has the AI Dual Unlock. The face unlock has the Screen fill-in light and Closed Eyes Protection for lesser eye strain. 

Spark 6 Go comes in 4GB RAM +64GB and 2GB RAM+32GB.

Here are my sample photo shots:

This was taken in broad daylight while driving.

AR Shot

If youre into food photography, Spark 6 Go takes perfect pictures with the right angle and food shots. It only struggles when zooming in. I also love the AR feature. That one alone sparks joy and its also best when taking your selfie. 

TECNO Spark 6 Go Specs

 

Display: 6.52-inch HD+ Dot Notch Display, 1600 x 720

Processor: 1.8GHz Quad-core MediaTek Helio A20

GPU: IMG PowerVR GE83200

RAM: 2GB/4GB RAM

Storage: 32GB/64GB Storage

Rear Cameras: 13MP Main + AI Lens, Dual Cameras, LED Flash

Front Camera: 8MP Selfie Camera, LED Flash

Network: 4G LTE, Dual SIM

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS

Others: Rear-mounted Fingerprint Scanner, MicroUSB, VoLTE

OS: HiOS 6.2, Android 10 Go

Colors: Aqua Blue, Ice Jadeite, Mystery White

Battery: 5,000mAh Battery

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So if you are looking for a budget phone that doesn’t deny you of the essential features like long battery life and big screen, the Spark 6 Go would be a great choice to get your loved ones this christmas. 

Perfect for your children's remote schooling, your partner's gaming or if you need a secondary standby phone for your Netflix binge-watching. 

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

The Spark 6 Go Series is available at TECNO Mobile partner retail stores, and it comes in three models – Spark 6 Go 4GB RAM+64GB at PhP5,490, and Spark 6 Go 2GB RAM+32GB for only PhP3,990. 

For a complete list of stores, visit http://bit.ly/TecnoStoresPH. 

 

To stay updated on products and the latest offering from TECNO Mobile, visit www.tecno-mobile.com/ph and follow TECNO Mobile Philippines on Facebook.