Gaming-focused realme 14 5G launched, promises performance on a budget

The realme 14 5G Mecha Silver budget gaming phone

MANILA -- Mobile gamers on a budget will soon have another option with the launch of the realme 14 5G--a midrange phone with gaming-focused specs.

While gaming phones are generally expensive because of their demanding hardware, some manufacturers have recently been aiming for a sweet spot that balances cost with performance.

Realme said its 14 5G features the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor, 12GB of memory, 256GB storage, a massive 6000 mAh battery, and ability to further boost memory to 26GB depending on the task. 

While the processor isn't exactly flagship-class like in the highest-end gaming phones, the memory, storage, and battery specs guarantee that this phone can handle demanding mobile games.

The 6.67-inch 1080 x 2400 resolution AMOLED screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz and peak brightness of 600 nits is pretty standard for midrange phones, but it's enough for most games. 

Additional gaming features include the GT Boost AI gaming optimization, and a cooling system that realme says can bring down the phone's temperature to 20C.

The realme 14 5G Mecha Silver budget gaming phone

The phone also comes with a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization. While a casual glance at the back may make you think that it has dual cameras, only the cutout at the top actually houses a camera. I'm not sure why realme made this design choice, but don't be confused.

It would have been nice if they included another wide-angle or 2x telephoto lens, but the main shooter is a pretty decent camera for a phone that costs less than P20k. It can also record 4K video at 30fps.

A 16MP shooter up front meanwhile takes care of selfie duties.

Speaking of design, the phone comes in several colors, namely: Storm Titanium,  Warrior Pink and Mecha Silver-- which was the variant of our review unit. 

Realme really nailed the design on this one. The polished finish and slanting lines of the Mecha Silver variant ooze gamer aesthetic. It's almost a shame to have to cover this with the translucent case that came with the phone. 

Realme said the 14 series will be available online, beginning with a first selling period from May 5 to 15 on both TikTok and Shopee with freebies. 

The realme 14 5G is priced at P17,999 , while the realme 14T 5G is priced at P14,999.

Watch out for our full review of this sub-P20k gaming phone.