The Realme P1 Speed has gained attention in the mid-range smartphone market with its promise of speed, sleek design, and performance-focused features. However, like any smartphone, it is not immune to common issues and bugs that can frustrate users. In this detailed article, we’ll explore the Realme P1 Speed’s most common problems, citing user feedback and reviews from real owners. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether this device is worth your investment or if better alternatives exist.
Device Overview: Realme P1 Speed
Brand: Realme
Model: P1 Speed
Release Date: Mid-2023
OS: Realme UI 4.0 based on Android 13
Price Range: Mid-range (~$300-$400)
Key Features of the Realme P1 Speed
- Display: 6.8-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 2400 x 1080 resolution
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8100
- Memory and Storage: 8GB/12GB RAM, 128GB/256GB storage
- Camera Setup: Triple rear (64MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro) and 16MP front camera
- Battery: 5000 mAh, 67W fast charging
- Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, 5G support
Common Issues and Problems with the Realme P1 Speed
1. Overheating During Heavy Use
One of the most frequently reported issues with the Realme P1 Speed is overheating, especially during intensive gaming, video recording, or prolonged 5G usage.
Symptoms:
- Device gets hot to the touch: Especially near the top section of the back panel.
- Performance throttling: Slower performance after a few minutes of intense tasks like gaming or 4K video recording.
- Battery drain: Rapid battery depletion accompanying overheating.
User Quote:
"I love the performance of the Realme P1 Speed, but during gaming sessions, the heat makes it uncomfortable to hold after 15 minutes." – Alex T., Realme forum member.
Possible Causes:
- The MediaTek Dimensity 8100, while powerful, is known to generate heat under sustained workloads.
- Insufficient thermal management: Despite being a performance-focused phone, the cooling system seems inadequate for prolonged heavy use.
Potential Fixes:
- Enable performance mode only when necessary to prevent overheating during casual use.
- Use a cooling accessory for extended gaming sessions.
- Keep the software updated; manufacturers often release patches to improve thermal management.
2. Display Flickering Issues at Low Brightness
Several users have noted that the AMOLED screen occasionally flickers when brightness levels are set to very low, particularly in dim environments or during video playback.
Symptoms:
- Flickering at lower brightness levels.
- Eye strain during nighttime usage.
User Quote:
"The screen quality is amazing, but the flickering at night is really noticeable and kind of annoying." – Priya K., Reddit user.
Possible Causes:
- PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation): The display likely uses PWM to control brightness, which can cause visible flickering at low brightness levels.
- Software bugs: Display calibration issues in Realme UI.
Potential Fixes:
- Enable DC Dimming (if available in Settings > Display).
- Increase brightness slightly or use dark mode during nighttime use.
- Check for firmware updates that address this issue.
3. Camera Performance Inconsistencies
While the 64MP primary camera performs well in daylight, users report problems with low-light photography and focusing issues.
Symptoms:
- Low-light images: Photos appear grainy or lack detail.
- Slow autofocus: The camera struggles to lock onto subjects, especially in dim environments.
- Overprocessing in AI mode: Colors look unnatural in some shots.
User Quote:
"In good lighting, the camera is fantastic, but in low light, it’s a hit or miss. It takes multiple tries to get a clear shot." – Mark J., Realme P1 Speed owner.
Possible Causes:
- ISP (Image Signal Processor) limitations: While Dimensity 8100 is efficient, it may struggle with advanced image processing in low light.
- Over-aggressive noise reduction and AI processing in Realme’s camera software.
Potential Fixes:
- Use manual mode (Pro mode) for better control over settings in low light.
- Turn off AI mode to avoid overprocessed images.
- Consider using a third-party camera app like GCam for improved results.
4. Battery Drain During Standby
Despite the 5000 mAh battery, users report faster-than-expected battery drain during idle or standby periods.
Symptoms:
- Battery percentage drops noticeably overnight.
- Apps running in the background consume more power than expected.
User Quote:
"Even when I’m not using it, I lose about 10-12% overnight. It’s not ideal for a phone with such a big battery." – Sarah W., tech enthusiast.
Possible Causes:
- Poor background app optimization in Realme UI.
- Certain apps (e.g., social media or system services) running unchecked in the background.
Potential Fixes:
- Go to Settings > Battery > App Management and restrict apps from running in the background.
- Enable Battery Saver mode before sleeping.
- Turn off Wi-Fi, mobile data, and location services when not needed.
5. Connectivity Problems (Wi-Fi, 5G, and Bluetooth)
Users have raised complaints about occasional connectivity glitches, especially with Wi-Fi stability and Bluetooth audio quality during calls or media playback.
Symptoms:
- Wi-Fi randomly disconnects, even when close to the router.
- Bluetooth audio stutters when using wireless earbuds.
- 5G signal drops more often than LTE.
User Quote:
"The 5G speeds are great when they work, but I often find myself stuck on 4G in areas where my older phone had no issues." – Liam R., Twitter feedback.
Possible Causes:
- Software bugs in network handling within Realme UI.
- Frequency band limitations: Realme P1 Speed might not support all regional 5G or Wi-Fi bands.
Potential Fixes:
- Reset network settings via Settings > System > Reset Options.
- Check if your region’s 5G frequencies are fully supported by the phone.
- Reconnect Bluetooth devices or update their firmware for improved compatibility.
6. Software Bugs in Realme UI 4.0
Realme UI 4.0, while visually appealing, is not without its quirks. Users report occasional app crashes, delayed notifications, and general UI sluggishness.
Symptoms:
- Apps randomly close or crash.
- Notifications arrive late or not at all.
- Occasional lag in animations or while swiping between screens.
User Quote:
"The phone is great overall, but I’ve had random app crashes more than once, and it’s something I didn’t expect at this price." – Jonathan P., YouTube review.
Possible Causes:
- Poor optimization of Realme UI for Dimensity 8100.
- Compatibility issues with certain apps.
Potential Fixes:
- Keep the system and apps updated to their latest versions.
- Clear cache data for problematic apps (Settings > Storage > Apps > Clear Cache).
- If persistent, consider a factory reset as a last resort.
Final Verdict: Is the Realme P1 Speed Worth Buying?
The Realme P1 Speed delivers solid performance and impressive features for its price, particularly for those who prioritize speed, display quality, and fast charging. However, its drawbacks—particularly overheating, battery drain, and software quirks—may frustrate users who demand reliability and stability.
Who Should Buy It?
- Gamers who want a powerful processor at a mid-range price.
- Users seeking a high-refresh-rate AMOLED display.
- Those who prioritize fast charging and 5G support.
Alternatives to Consider:
- Poco F5: With similar pricing, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 chipset offers better performance and thermal management.
- OnePlus Nord 3: Provides a cleaner software experience and consistent performance.
- Samsung Galaxy A54: Known for its polished One UI experience and superior battery optimization.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro+: Excellent camera system and consistent overall performance for the price.
Conclusion
The Realme P1 Speed is a compelling option for mid-range buyers, but it does come with caveats. If you can tolerate its quirks and apply some fixes, it offers a lot of value. However, for those who prefer a trouble-free, polished experience, exploring alternatives like the Poco F5 or OnePlus Nord 3 may be a better choice.