realme 13 Pro 5G Review, Unboxing, Camera Test, Price and Availability in the Philippines

realme has consistently delivered exceptional value with its smartphones, and the all-new realme 13 Pro 5G is no exception. Packed with features typically found in flagship models, this fairly accessible midrange smartphone aims to strike the perfect balance between performance, design, and price, especially with the launch discount promo that realme is offering for this specific model.

Whether you’re a student juggling online classes and social media, a young professional navigating the demands of work-from-home setups, or a mobile gamer competing in the latest tournaments, the realme 13 Pro 5G promises to meet your needs, and then some.

Most importantly, this phone promises to be a game-changer for budding mobile photographers, combining high-end imaging capabilities and AI-powered smart editing features with a competitive and reasonable price tag. It’s designed to cater to those who want flagship-like photography and videography features from a smartphone without the flagship price. Whether you’re capturing breathtaking landscapes, snapping candid shots at gatherings, or making video content, the realme 13 Pro 5G is here to elevate your game.

Price and Availability in the Philippines

The realme 13 Pro 5G is priced at PHP 24,999 for the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant, making it a compelling choice for those looking to invest in a premium device without completely draining their savings. With its official launch on August 28, 2024 at realme FanFest, the timing is perfect for those thinking about an upgrade before the holiday season or school year.

If you’re one of the early birds to purchase this new handset via realme TikTok Shop, realme 13 Pro 5G will be available for a discounted price of only PHP 21,499 until September 3. You’ll also score a FREE TechLife Portable Steam Iron -- but stock is limited, so act fast! Imagine unboxing not just a new phone but also another useful gadget that's handy for students and young professionals who are starting to learn how to live on their own. Definitely a win-win situation for those who move quickly.

Quick Unboxing and Package Contents

Opening the box of the realme 13 Pro 5G feels like the start of a new adventure. The bright yellow packaging is instantly recognizable, and the Micro-Ray design adds a touch of excitement before you even get to the contents. 

The model name of the handset is prominently printed on the cover and if you zoom in on the photo, you will see the micro-ray design of the yellow box.

The key features or the main selling points of realme 13 Pro 5G are listed down at the bottom of the box, giving potential buyers an idea of the handset has to offer in one glance.

Lifting the cover, you will be welcomed by the company's slogan, "Make it real"

Inside, everything is neatly arranged:

realme 13 Pro 5G handset: The star of the show, gleaming and ready to impress.

Safety Guide: Because keeping your device in tip-top shape is crucial.

USB Type-C Charging Cable: Essential for keeping your device powered up.

45W SUPERVOOC Travel Charger: A game-changer for those who are always on the move.

Metal Pin for Ejecting SIM Card Tray: Small but important, especially when you need to swap SIM cards.

Free Grey Textured Silicone Case: A practical addition that saves you from hunting down a case immediately, letting you use the phone straight out of the box without worrying about scratches.

This thoughtful packaging ensures that you’re ready to roll the moment you unbox your new device—whether that means snapping photos, gaming, or just diving into the latest TikTok trends.

Design

My review unit is the realme 13 Pro 5G in the stunning Emerald Green colorway. This model boasts a beautiful deep green back plate with a faux leather finish, exuding both elegance and practicality. The circular camera module stands out with its Emerald shimmer, adding a touch of sophistication, while the Champagne Gold metallic accents provide a subtle yet classy finish.

The phone’s design is not just about looks; it’s practical too. Measuring 161.3 x 73.9 x 8.2 or 8.4 mm and weighing 183.5 grams, it strikes a balance between sleekness and sturdiness. The IP65 certification for dust and water resistance means this phone can handle everyday challenges, from accidental spills to dusty environments, making it ideal for anyone on the go.

The phone's right panel has the volume rocker and the power button.

The left panel doesn't have anything on it apart from the metallic mid-frame, which is in Champagne Gold, matching the accent of the circular camera module.

The top panel has the microphone pin hole as well has a row of three holes of one of the loudspeakers.

Finally, the rear has the SIM card tray that you can eject using the provided pin, another microphone pinhole, the USB Type C charging port, and a row of four holes for another loud speaker.

This design isn’t just about functionality, it's also a piece of art. Collaborating with the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, realme drew inspiration from Claude Monet’s masterpieces like Haystacks and Water Lilies, which capture the beauty of light and nature across different times and seasons, for the Emerald Green colorway. The Monet Purple variant, on the other hand, features Miracle Shining Glass with millions of shimmering particles, evoking the golden hues of haystacks and the serene beauty of blooming water lilies depited in Monet's paintings. This meticulous craftsmanship extends to the camera module’s Sunrise Halo, created through a precise CNC process that integrates 436 metal lines, enhancing both the aesthetic and tactile experience of this device.

Display

The 6.7-inch Curved Vision AMOLED Display on the realme 13 Pro 5G isn't just a screen, it's your window to everything on this device, whether you’re binge-watching K-dramas on Netflix or scrolling through your Facebook feed. With its 1080 x 2412 pixel resolution and around 394 ppi, every video and photo looks sharp and vibrant, making your content truly stand out.

What sets this display apart is its 120Hz refresh rate, making every swipe and game feel smooth and responsive. This feature is a game-changer, especially in titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, where a lag-free experience can be the difference between winning and losing. Plus, with HDR support, colors are richer, and contrasts are more defined, giving you a more immersive viewing experience.

Even outdoors, the screen shines -- literally. With a peak brightness of 2000 nits, you’ll have no trouble seeing your screen clearly, even under the intense Filipino sun. The display also features a high contrast ratio and a wide color gamut, ensuring your content looks lifelike and vibrant. And for those late-night sessions, the 2160Hz PWM Dimming kicks in to reduce eye strain, keeping your eyes comfortable.

Beyond its stunning visuals, the realme 13 Pro 5G is built to last. With ArmorShield Protection and Corning® Gorilla Glass 7i, it’s ready to handle everyday bumps and drops. The phone is also IP65-rated, so it’s safe from dust and splashes. The Emerald Green variant even boasts an SGS 5-Star Drop Resistance Certification, proving it can survive drops from 1.65 meters without a scratch.

Cameras

Let’s talk cameras, because who doesn’t love capturing memories? The realme 13 Pro 5G is truly a standout when it comes to mobile photography. The dual-camera setup features:

50 MP Sony LYT-600 OIS Camera: This main camera excels in various lighting conditions, thanks to its wide f/1.9 aperture and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). The high-resolution sensor, part of Sony's Lytia line, boasts a large 1/1.95” sensor size, allowing it to capture more light and produce clearer, more vibrant photos. The camera’s 26mm equivalent focal length, combined with OIS, ensures stable captures with minimal blur, even in challenging conditions, and it supports 2x In-Sensor Zoom for added flexibility in framing your shots.

8 MP Ultrawide Lens: With a 112˚ field of view, this lens is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes, shooting architectural scenes, or fitting more people into your group shots.

The LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes further enhance your photographic experience when using the phone's rear cameras, allowing you to take professional-quality photos with minimal effort. Whether you’re snapping photos of a sunset or capturing a dynamic scene, the realme 13 Pro 5G’s camera setup ensures your shots are sharp and vivid.

32 MP Sony Selfie Camera: realme 13 Pro 5G's front cam is designed to elevate your self-portraits to higher level. Powered by the advanced Sony IMX615 sensor, this front camera ensures that every selfie is sharp, vibrant, and full of detail. With a sensor size of 1/2.74", it captures a significant amount of light, resulting in clear and well-exposed images even in lower light conditions. The camera's 90° Field of View (FoV) allows for wider shots, perfect for group selfies or capturing more of your background in a single frame. The f/2.45 aperture further enhances its ability to deliver bright, crisp images, making it a reliable companion for all your selfie needs, whether you're capturing moments at a party or snapping a quick pic on the go.

Here are some sample photos and selfies that I took using the cameras of realme 13 Pro 5G. Kindly tap on the images for a larger view:

Main Camera, 2X Zoom

Main Camera, 2X Zoom

Main Camera

Main Camera, 2X Zoom

Main Camera

Main Camera, ~2X Zoom

Main Camera, ~2X Zoom

Main Camera

Ultra-Wide Camera

Ultra-Wide Camera, No Watermark

Ultra-Wide Camera

Main Camera

Main Camera

Main Camera

Main Camera, 2X Zoom

Front-Facing Camera

Front-Facing Camera

AI Features for Photo Editing: Making Every Shot Shine

The realme 13 Pro 5G isn’t just a powerful camera phone—it’s also a handy editing tool, thanks to its advanced AI features. Two of my absolute favorites are AI Smart Removal and AI Ultra Clarity. I recently tested them out while editing a photo of Rizal’s monument that I snapped at sunrise around 6 AM, and the results were pretty impressive.

AI Smart Removal: Clean Up Your Pics Like a Pro

We’ve all been there: you snap a great photo, but there’s something in the background that totally ruins it. That’s where AI Smart Removal comes in. This feature is like magic for getting rid of unwanted stuff in your shots, whether it’s random passersby, clutter, or even buildings that don’t fit the vibe. When I used it to edit my photo of Rizal’s monument, I was able to remove the building behind it that was throwing off  the shot. The best part? The AI seamlessly filled in the background, making the monument pop against a clear sky.

Whether you’re shooting portraits, architecture, or just cool street scenes, AI Smart Removal makes it easy to clean up your photos. It gets rid of distractions so you can focus on what really matters in your shot, giving you a cleaner, more polished look with just a few taps.

Notice the building behind the Rizal Monument in Luneta Park that takes away from the beauty of the scene and image. Kindly tap for larger view.

Thanks to realme 13 Pro 5G's AI Smart Removal feature, it's now possible to remove the building from photos of Jose Rizal's Monument taken using the phone with just a few swipes and taps. After doing that, I also tweaked the shadows and highlights of this image to achieve this look.

AI Ultra Clarity: Sharpen Up Your Shots

If you’ve ever zoomed in on a photo and wished it was just a bit sharper, AI Ultra Clarity is here to save the day. This feature is a lifesaver for enhancing the resolution and sharpness of your images, especially those taken with the Telephoto or Periscope lens at high zoom levels, like 10x to 30x. I used it on my photo of Rizal’s monument, and it brought out all the intricate details of the monument’s structure, even from a distance.

But what’s really cool about AI Ultra Clarity is that it doesn’t just work on new photos, it can also sharpen up old pics you took on an older phone, low-res images from social media, or even frames from videos. It’s a super versatile tool that can make any image look crisp and clear, no matter where it came from.

With these AI editing features, the realme 13 Pro 5G makes it super easy to take your photos to the next level. Whether you’re perfecting a new shot or giving an old favorite a fresh look, these tools help you get pro-level results with minimal effort.

Video Recording

If you’re into vlogging or just love capturing moments on video, the realme 13 Pro 5G won’t disappoint. The rear camera supports 4K video recording at 30fps, ensuring that your videos are of the highest quality. Whether you’re recording a concert, a scenic drive, or just goofing around with friends, the detail and clarity are top-notch.

realme 13 Pro 5G's main camera has optical image stabilization which could help in capturing clear stills even while you're moving. However, I find that it's not enough to deliver steady walking videos. You'd really need to turn on UIltra Steady Mode for that, which benefits from electronic image stabilization.

For those quick clips or daily vlogs, the ability to shoot in 1080p at 30/60/120fps provides flexibility in terms of video quality and file size. Plus, the gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) in Ultra Steady Mode ensures that your videos remain smooth, even if you’re filming while walking or in a moving vehicle, at FullHD 60fps

Selfie-video or talking-head clip lovers will appreciate that the front camera also supports 4K video recording at 30fps. In fact, realme 13 Pro 5G is one of the first smartphones from the company to support this very useful feature, oddly enough. I'm just glad that they finally decided to put this very useful content creation functionality on their new handsets. Whether you’re recording a TikTok dance challenge or just sharing your thoughts on the day, the front camera makes sure you look your best.

Watch this exclusive TechPinas realme 13 Pro 5G Camera Test video for sample photos and videos recorded using all the cameras of this smartphone:

Internal Hardware

Underneath its sleek exterior, the realme 13 Pro 5G packs serious power with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 5G chipset. Built on a 4nm process, this octa-core processor (4 x 2.40 GHz Cortex-A78 and 4 x 1.95 GHz Cortex-A55) ensures smooth multitasking and high-end gaming without slowing down. Paired with an Adreno 710 GPU and boasting an AnTuTu Benchmark Score of 664,291, which I got when I ran the app on my realme 13 Pro 5G review unit, this phone is ready to handle demanding tasks effortlessly.

The realme 13 Pro 5G also supports advanced connectivity features like Dual Carrier Aggregation for 5G and Dual-Channel Network Acceleration, ensuring fast and stable internet access whether you’re on WiFi or cellular data. To keep things cool during intense usage, the phone features a 9-Layer 3D Vapor Chamber Cooling System, with an increased coverage area compared to its predecessor, the realme 12 Pro 5G, ensuring efficient heat dissipation.

For those who love to store everything on their phone, the 256GB of internal storage is more than enough, complemented by 12GB of RAM that can be expanded by an additional 12GB through the RAM Expansion feature. This setup guarantees that your phone remains responsive, even when juggling multiple resource-intensive apps.

While the lack of a microSD card slot might be a downside for some, the ample internal storage should suffice for most users, keeping all your essentials right at your fingertips without compromising on speed or performance.

Software

The realme 13 Pro 5G runs on Android 14 with realme UI 5.0, providing a smooth and intuitive user experience. The interface is designed to be user-friendly, with customization options that let you tailor the phone to your personal preferences. Whether you prefer a minimalist home screen or one filled with widgets, realme UI 5.0 has you covered.

Practical features like floating windor or split-screen multitasking make it easier to get things done, whether that’s replying to a message while watching a YouTube video or taking notes during an online lecture. The system is also optimized to ensure that your phone runs efficiently, with fewer background processes slowing things down.

Gaming Performance

For gamers, the realme 13 Pro 5G offers a fantastic experience. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset combined with the Adreno 710 GPU ensures smooth gameplay, even in demanding titles. Whether you’re battling it out in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang or exploring vast open worlds in Genshin Impact, the phone handles it all without breaking a sweat.

The high refresh rate display adds to the gaming experience, making every swipe and tap feel incredibly responsive. The phone also stays cool during extended gaming sessions, thanks to its efficient thermal management, ensuring that your performance doesn’t dip even during marathon gaming sessions.

realme 13 Pro 5G supports "Super" setting for High Frame Rate as well as "High" for Graphics.

Privacy and Security Features

In today’s world, privacy and security are more important than ever, and the realme 13 Pro 5G has you covered. The under-display optical fingerprint scanner is not only quick but also secure, allowing you to unlock your phone with just a touch. The facial recognition feature is equally reliable, offering a convenient way to unlock your phone, even when you’re on the go.

For those who value privacy, the phone includes features like App Lock and Private Space, which let you keep sensitive information secure. Whether it’s your financial apps or personal photos, you can be sure that your data is protected.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a crucial factor for any smartphone, and the realme 13 Pro 5G excels in this department. The 4,900 mAh battery ensures that you can get through a full day of use without needing to reach for the charger. Whether you’re attending online classes, working from home, or out and about, this battery has you covered.

But when you do need to recharge, the 45W SUPERVOOC fast charging means you won’t be waiting around for long. In just 30 minutes, you can get up to 70% battery, making it perfect for those times when you need a quick top-up before heading out.

Connectivity

The realme 13 Pro 5G supports a wide range of connectivity options, making it a versatile choice for users with different needs. The 5G capability ensures that you’re ready for the future of mobile networks, providing faster download and upload speeds. This is particularly useful for those who rely on their phones for streaming, video calls, downloading large files, as well as uploading large photos and 4K videos.

The phone also supports Wi-Fi 6, which offers faster and more reliable internet connections, especially in crowded networks. Whether you’re sharing your connection with family members at home or connecting to a public Wi-Fi hotspot, you’ll experience fewer interruptions and faster speeds.

For those who love listening to music or podcasts on the go, the Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection to your wireless headphones or speakers. And if you’re always on the move, the dual-SIM support allows you to manage both personal and work numbers on the same device, making it easier to stay connected wherever you are.

Verdict

The realme 13 Pro 5G impresses with its blend of design, performance, and photography capabilities. Its stylish Emerald Green colorway, powerful camera setup, and robust internal hardware make it a standout choice for anyone looking to elevate their mobile experience.

Pros:

Stunning Emerald Green design with a sophisticated finish

Excellent camera performance, ideal for mobile photography

Powerful internals for smooth multitasking and gaming

High-refresh-rate display enhances overall user experience

Fast charging feature ensures minimal downtime

Cons:

No microSD card slot for expandable storage

Limited to internal storage for media and apps

Recommendation

The realme 13 Pro 5G offers an impressive package that’s sure to resonate with Filipino consumers. From its stylish design and stunning display to its powerful performance and practical features, this phone is built to meet the needs of today’s users. Whether you’re a student, professional, gamer, or content creator, the realme 13 Pro 5G has something to offer, making it a worthy contender in the competitive smartphone market.

If you’re a mobile photography enthusiast or someone looking for a phone that combines flagship-like features with an accessible price, the realme 13 Pro 5G is a fantastic choice. Its camera capabilities, coupled with its sleek design and powerful performance, make it a great investment for both casual users and tech enthusiasts alike.

realme 13 Pro 5G Specs

Dimensions: 161.3 x 73.9 x 8.2 or 8.4 mm

Weight: 183.5 grams or 188 grams

IP Rating: IP65 Certified Dust Water resistant

Colorways: Emerald Green, Monet Purple

DISPLAY

Size: 6.7 inches, 108.0 cm² (~90.6% screen-to-body ratio)

Resolution: 1080 x 2412 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~394 ppi density)

Type: Curved Vision AMOLED Display, 1B colors, 120Hz, 600 nits (typ), 1200 nits (HBM), 2000 nits (peak)

120Hz Refresh Rate

Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 7i

Other: HDR image support

PLATFORM

OS: Android 14, realme UI 5.0

Chipset: 4nm Qualcomm SM7435-AB Snapdragon 7s Gen 2

CPU: Octa-core (4 x 2.40 GHz Cortex-A78, 4 x 1.95 GHz Cortex-A55)

GPU: Adreno 710

MEMORY

Card Slot: No

RAM: 12GB + 12GB RAM Expansion

Internal Storage: 256GB

MAIN CAMERA

Dual:

50 MP, f/1.9, 26mm (Wide), Sony LYT-600 OIS Camera, 1/1.95", 0.8µm, Multi-directional PDAF

8 MP, f/2.2, 16mm, 112˚ (Ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm

Features: LED flash, HDR, panorama

Video: 4K 30fps, 1080p 30/60/120fps, gyro-EIS

SELFIE CAMERA

Single: 32 MP, f/2.5, 22mm (wide)

Video: 4K 30fps (One of the first realme smartphones to support this), 1080p 30fps

SOUND

Loudspeaker: Yes, with stereo speakers

3.5mm jack: No

Other: 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res audio

COMMUNICATIONS

SIM: Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

WLAN: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band

Bluetooth: 5.2, A2DP, LE

Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS

NFC: Yes, 360˚ (market/region dependent)

Radio: No

USB: USB Type-C 2.0

PRIVACY AND SECURITY

Fingerprint Scanner: Under-Display, Optical

Facial Recognition: Yes

Pattern and Passcode: Yes

SENSORS:

Accelerometer, Gyro, Proximity, Compass

BATTERY

Type: Non-Removable 5,200 mAh Li-Po

Charging: 45W SUPERVOOC Fast Wired Charging, 50% in 27 minutes

realme 13 Pro 5G Key Features

Sony LYT-600 OIS Camera

Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 5G Chipset

120Hz Curved Vision Display

Large 5,200 mAh Battery

45W Fast Charge

Official Retail Packaging

Box Design - Yellow Box with Micro-Ray Design, Model Name Printed on Cover

Contents - realme 13 Pro 5G handset, Safety Guide, USB Type C Charging Cable, SUPERVOOC Travel Charger, Metal Pin for Ejecting SIM Card Tray, Free Grey Textured Silicone Case

realme 13 Pro 5G Price

realme 13 Pro 5G 12GB + 256 GB Official SRP in the Philippines - PHP 24,999

Promo Price via Shopee TikTok Shop until September 3, 2024 - PHP 21,999 with FREE TechLife Portable Steam Iron until stocks last

Official Launch Date - August 28, 2024 at realme FanFest Event