Realme 16 Pro Review: specs and features, camera quality test, gaming benchmark, user opinions and photos

Realme 16 Pro - changing the terms doesn't change the sum

In 2025, the Chinese company Realme decided to move away from the standard naming conventions for its main line of smartphones. However, it appears the experiment wasn't particularly successful. So, in the updated series, we once again see a device with the Plus index and a near-clone of the "regular" 15th model. Now the device has received the Pro index. But has anything changed beyond a slightly higher price tag? Let's find out.

The new model's appearance has become more interesting. Both the glass back panel and the photo module array appear richer. There's still no metal frame, but the plastic at least has a metallic look. The bezels of the 6.78-inch AMOLED panel are slightly narrower, which improves the overall appearance. It's also worth noting that it's IP68 water-resistant. The display's image is crisp thanks to its 2772x1272 resolution, which is ideal for a diagonal screen. The refresh rate has increased to 144Hz, resulting in smoother images, and no issues with peak brightness (over 3000 nits). Color reproduction is accurately calibrated.

The specifications include the familiar MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, 8GB/12GB of RAM, and a Mali G615MC2 graphics adapter. While the performance isn't stratospheric, AnTuTu scores of 650,000-700,000 points are sufficient for smooth playback of the RealmeUI (Android) interface. Gaming isn't too bad either. While you can't use maximum graphics settings or incredibly high frame rates in resource-intensive games, Zenless Zone Zero runs reliably on medium graphics presets. Battery life is definitely a competitive advantage, thanks to the 7000 mAh battery. You only need to search for an outlet every two or three days, and there's 80W fast charging. Storage is 128/256 GB, but there's no microSD card slot.

Photography is quite good. However, the simple 8-megapixel wide-angle lens is unlikely to be praised. The main 200-megapixel Samsung ISOCELL HP5 sensor with hybrid stabilization is much more sophisticated. It delivers high-quality photos and videos even in frankly mediocre lighting. Stereo sound is present, but it's still far from flagship quality in terms of volume and volume. NFC contactless payment, 5G support, and an IR port round out the gadget's list of advantages, but the lack of significant improvements over its predecessor calls into question its relevance.