(Image Source: Realme)
Realme is launching the 16 Pro series in India on January 6, 2026. Two phones are coming—the standard 16 Pro 5G and the 16 Pro+ 5G. Both focus on camera performance, battery size, and processing speed. Here’s what each model will cost and what features they pack.
Launch Date and Where to Get It
When Does It Launch?
The phones launch in India on January 6, 2026. You can buy them from Flipkart and Realme’s official website starting that day. Pre-orders will likely open around the launch announcement.
Realme 16 Pro 5G: How Much Does It Cost?
Pricing for Different Storage Versions
The 16 Pro 5G comes in three versions:
– 8GB RAM with 128GB storage: Rs 31,999
– 8GB RAM with 256GB storage: Rs 33,999
– 12GB RAM with 256GB storage: Rs 36,999
Starting under Rs 32,000, the base model is affordable if you want to upgrade your phone without spending big money.
Realme 16 Pro+ 5G: Pricing
What You Pay for the Upgraded Model
The Pro+ version has higher prices:
– 8GB RAM with 128GB storage: Rs 39,999
– 8GB RAM with 256GB storage: Rs 41,999
– 12GB RAM with 256GB storage: Rs 44,999
The Pro+ starts around Rs 40,000. You pay extra for a faster processor and better performance.
Realme 16 Pro 5G: Specifications
Screen Details
The phone has a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen that refreshes at 144 times per second. That means scrolling feels smooth when you’re browsing or playing games. The screen is bright enough to use in sunlight. Gorilla Glass covers it, and the phone has IP68 rating so it handles water and dust without issues.
Processor and Performance
The processor handles multitasking without slowing down. Apps open quickly and games run smoothly. You won’t notice lag when switching between different tasks on the phone.
Camera Setup
The phone has a 200MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and depth sensors. The main camera captures detailed photos even when light is low. The front camera is 50MP and works well for selfies and video calls.
You can shoot video at high frame rates, which matters if you record videos regularly using your phone.
Battery Size
The 7000mAh battery gets you through a full day under normal usage. Heavy users might need to plug in by evening. Fast charging at 80W tops it up in roughly 45 minutes from zero.
Software
The phone runs Android with Realme’s custom interface. It includes camera tools, display settings, and performance tweaks. The fingerprint sensor unlocks the phone.
Realme 16 Pro+ 5G: What’s Different
Processor Upgrade
The Pro+ has a faster processor than the base Pro. If you play demanding games or run heavy apps, the Pro+ handles them better.
Same Screen and Battery
Both Pro versions share the same 6.78-inch 144Hz AMOLED screen and 7000mAh battery. You don’t get a bigger screen or quicker charging with the Pro+.
Camera Stays the Same
The cameras work the same way on both Pro models. Both have the 200MP main sensor and 8MP ultra-wide. Camera quality is similar between the two phones.
Extra Storage Space
The Pro+ offers up to 512GB storage on the highest tier if you need room for lots of apps and files.
Which Phone Should You Buy?
Go for the 16 Pro 5G If
You want to save cash but get a solid phone. The base Pro does what most people need—gaming, photography, video calls. The processor is quick enough for daily work.
Go for the 16 Pro+ 5G If
You play heavy games a lot or run demanding work apps. The better processor makes a noticeable difference if you use your phone intensively. It costs Rs 8,000-10,000 more, which is worth it if performance matters to you.
Quick Side-by-Side Look
| Feature | 16 Pro 5G | 16 Pro+ 5G |
| Starting Price | Rs 31,999 | Rs 39,999 |
| Screen Size | 6.78 inches AMOLED 144Hz | 6.78 inches AMOLED 144Hz |
| Processor | Standard flagship | More powerful |
| RAM Choices | Up to 12GB | Up to 12GB |
| Main Camera | 200MP | 200MP |
| Battery Capacity | 7000mAh | 7000mAh |
| Charging Speed | 80W | 80W |
Final Thoughts
The Realme 16 Pro series offers decent specs at prices that don’t hurt your wallet. When shopping for a new phone in January, both are solid choices. The Realme 16 Pro gives you good value if you want a capable device without overspending. The Pro+ makes sense if you want more processing power and can spend the extra money.
With the January 6 launch, you can check them out in person and decide which one fits your needs and budget. Overall, if you’re looking for the best Realme phone under 40000, the 16 Pro series is definitely worth considering.
