The Meizu Note 9 and 16Xs present a curious case: both are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, yet target slightly different segments. This comparison dissects the nuances – primarily the charging speed and potential build quality differences – to determine which device delivers the best experience for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing faster charging and potentially a more refined build, the Meizu 16Xs is the better choice. However, the Note 9 remains a compelling option for those on a tighter budget where the 18W charging is an acceptable trade-off.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA 800 & TD-SCDMA | CDMA 800 & TD-SCDMA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, March. Released 2019, March | 2019, May. Released 2019, June |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 153.1 x 74.4 x 8.7 mm (6.03 x 2.93 x 0.34 in) | 152 x 74.4 x 8.3 mm (5.98 x 2.93 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 170 g (6.00 oz) | 165 g (5.82 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2244 pixels, 18.7:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) | 1080 x 2232 pixels, 18.5:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.2 inches, 96.4 cm2 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.2 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~84.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | Super AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 460 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 460 Silver) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 460 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 460 Silver) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM675 Snapdragon 675 (11 nm) | Qualcomm SDM675 Snapdragon 675 (11 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 612 | Adreno 612 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), Flyme 7.2 | Android 9.0 (Pie), Flyme |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 48 MP, f/1.7, (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, f/1.7, 13mm (ultrawide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps (gyro-EIS) |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 20 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/2.8", 1.0µm | 16 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm |
| 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 | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 а/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 24W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White, Starlight Blue | Carbon Black, Pearl White, Phantom Blue |
| Price | About 200 EUR | About 220 EUR |
Meizu Note 9
- More affordable price point
- Capable Snapdragon 675 performance
- Sufficient for everyday tasks
- Slower 18W charging
- Potentially lower build quality
- Likely less refined camera experience
Meizu 16Xs
- Faster 24W charging
- Potentially better build quality
- Slightly more premium feel
- Higher price compared to the Note 9
- Same Snapdragon 675 chipset as the Note 9
- May not offer a dramatically improved camera
Display Comparison
Both devices likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price point and chipset. Specifics like resolution and color gamut are missing, but the focus here isn't display quality. The key difference lies in potential panel calibration and manufacturing quality, where the 16Xs, being a slightly higher-tier model, *may* offer marginally better color accuracy and viewing angles. However, without direct testing, this remains speculative.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the sensor sizes and lens apertures are unknown. The image processing algorithms will likely be similar, tuned for vibrant colors and decent dynamic range. The presence of a dedicated night mode is probable on both, leveraging the Snapdragon 675's ISP. It's reasonable to assume the 16Xs *could* have a slightly better primary sensor, but this is purely speculative without concrete data.
Performance
The core performance is identical: both the Note 9 and 16Xs utilize the Qualcomm Snapdragon 675 (11 nm) with an octa-core CPU configuration (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 460 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 460 Silver). This means app launch times, multitasking, and general responsiveness will be virtually indistinguishable. The Snapdragon 675 is a capable mid-range chip, handling most Android applications and even some moderately demanding games. Thermal throttling, however, could become a factor during extended gaming sessions, and the 16Xs *might* benefit from slightly better heat dissipation due to potential build material differences, but this is unconfirmed.
Battery Life
While battery capacity isn't specified, the most significant difference is charging speed. The Meizu Note 9 supports 18W wired charging, while the 16Xs boasts 24W wired charging. This translates to noticeably faster charging times for the 16Xs. A full 0-100% charge on the Note 9 could take around 2-2.5 hours, whereas the 16Xs could achieve the same in approximately 1.5-2 hours. This difference is particularly beneficial for users who frequently need to top up their battery quickly.
Buying Guide
Buy the Meizu Note 9 if you need a highly affordable smartphone with a capable processor for everyday tasks and light gaming, and aren't overly concerned with rapid charging. Buy the Meizu 16Xs if you prefer a potentially more premium feel, faster 24W charging for quicker top-ups, and are willing to spend a bit more for those benefits. Both phones offer the same core performance, making the decision about convenience and build quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 675 in either phone struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
The Snapdragon 675 is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but you'll likely need to use medium graphics settings for a smooth experience. Expect some frame drops during intense firefights. Both phones will perform similarly in gaming due to the identical chipset.
❓ Is the difference in charging speed between 18W and 24W really noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the 24W charging on the 16Xs provides a tangible benefit. It can shave off 30-60 minutes from a full charge, which is particularly useful if you frequently find yourself needing to quickly top up your battery throughout the day.
❓ Are there any known issues with software updates or long-term support for either the Meizu Note 9 or 16Xs?
Meizu's software update track record has been inconsistent. Historically, they haven't been as prompt with updates as some other brands. It's advisable to research current user reports regarding software support before making a purchase, as long-term software maintenance is a concern.
