The LG K41S and Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport represent the fiercely competitive entry-level smartphone market. Both devices aim to deliver essential functionality at an accessible price point, but they differ in their core processing power. This comparison dissects the nuances between the Mediatek Helio P22 in the K41S and the Helio G25 in the Redmi 9i Sport, revealing which phone offers the better experience for everyday tasks and light gaming.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance, the Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport emerges as the better choice. While both phones utilize a 12nm process, the Helio G25’s octa-core configuration with a mix of Cortex-A53 speeds provides a noticeable advantage in multitasking and app responsiveness compared to the K41S’s homogenous Cortex-A53 setup.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 38 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, February 18. Released 2020, April 27 | 2021, September 28 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, September 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.8 x 76.5 x 8.3 mm (6.53 x 3.01 x 0.33 in) | 164.9 x 77.1 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.04 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 191.7 g (6.77 oz) | 194 g (6.84 oz) |
| | MIL-STD-810G compliant*
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions | Water-repellent coating |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.55 inches, 103.6 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 10, MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Quad | 13 MP, f/2.0, 28mm (wide), PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 115˚, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA | Wi-Fi 802.11 а/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Titanium, Black, White | Carbon Black, Coral Green, Metallic Blue |
| Models | LMK410EMW, LM-K410EMW, LM-K410 | - |
| Price | About 220 EUR | About 100 EUR |
LG K41S
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Reliable for basic tasks
- Potentially lower price point (depending on market)
- Less powerful processor compared to the Redmi 9i Sport
- Unknown charging speed, potentially slower
- Limited multitasking capabilities
Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport
- More powerful Helio G25 chipset
- 10W wired charging included
- Better suited for light gaming and multitasking
- May be slightly more expensive than the LG K41S
- Still an entry-level device with limitations
- Camera performance likely similar to K41S
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. Detailed specifications regarding brightness (nits) and color accuracy are unavailable, but we can assume both offer adequate, but not exceptional, viewing experiences. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within their respective budgets. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like LTPO is expected.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar, relying heavily on software processing. Both phones likely feature a primary camera alongside auxiliary lenses (details unavailable). Without sensor size or aperture information, it’s difficult to assess image quality. However, the emphasis on computational photography in modern smartphones means software optimization will play a larger role than raw hardware. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is likely more for marketing than practical use, offering limited improvements over the main sensor.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The LG K41S’s Mediatek Helio P22 utilizes an octa-core configuration of Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. The Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport, however, features the Helio G25, also an octa-core processor, but with a heterogeneous setup: four cores at 2.0 GHz and four at 1.5 GHz. This split allows the G25 to balance power and efficiency more effectively. While both are based on the same 12nm process, the G25’s architecture provides a performance edge, particularly in sustained workloads. The Redmi 9i Sport’s inclusion of 10W charging, while slow, is a feature absent from readily available information regarding the K41S, suggesting slower charging times on the LG device.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, given their target market, we can expect capacities around 4000-5000 mAh. The Redmi 9i Sport’s 10W charging is a significant factor; while not fast, it provides a defined charging speed. The LG K41S’s charging speed is unknown, potentially resulting in longer charge times. Real-world battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but the more efficient Helio G25 in the Redmi 9i Sport may contribute to slightly longer runtimes.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG K41S if you prioritize a simple, straightforward experience and are primarily focused on basic communication and light social media use. Its consistent, if slower, performance is adequate for these tasks. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport if you need a phone capable of handling slightly more demanding applications, occasional gaming, and smoother multitasking. The G25 chipset offers a tangible performance boost for a minimal price increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Redmi 9i Sport handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
The Helio G25 in the Redmi 9i Sport can run PUBG Mobile, but expect to play at lower graphics settings and frame rates to maintain a stable experience. It's not a gaming powerhouse, but it's capable of casual gaming sessions. The K41S with the Helio P22 will struggle more with demanding titles.
❓ Is the difference in performance between the Helio P22 and G25 noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the difference is noticeable, particularly when multitasking or opening multiple apps. The Redmi 9i Sport with the Helio G25 will feel snappier and more responsive than the LG K41S with the Helio P22. This is due to the G25’s more efficient core configuration.
❓ Does the Redmi 9i Sport support fast charging?
No, the Redmi 9i Sport supports only 10W wired charging. While not fast charging, it's a defined charging speed, unlike the LG K41S where charging speed is unknown. Expect a full charge to take several hours.
❓ Which phone is better for someone who primarily uses WhatsApp and makes calls?
Both phones are perfectly adequate for basic communication tasks like WhatsApp and phone calls. However, the Redmi 9i Sport’s slightly more powerful processor will ensure a smoother experience even with multiple apps running in the background.