"Real buttons" refers to physical buttons that can be pressed or touched on a device, as opposed to virtual or touch-sensitive buttons on a touchscreen. Full definition
Those with larger fingers might also find they are forever hitting the call button rather than the menu button, but that's good reason for having real buttons here rather than touch buttons. (pocket-lint.com)
I would put real buttons so that when batteries run out you can still access your door or something. (macrumors.com)
A radio with real buttons, ones that respond instantly to tactile sensations? (Autoweek.com)