The Micromax In Note 2 and Realme 9i 5G represent compelling options in the competitive budget smartphone space. While both aim to deliver a solid experience without breaking the bank, they take different approaches. The In Note 2 focuses on a larger display and faster wired charging, while the 9i 5G prioritizes 5G connectivity and a more modern, efficient chipset. This comparison dives deep into the specifics to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Realme 9i 5G is the better choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 810, built on a 6nm process, offers superior performance and efficiency compared to the Micromax In Note 2’s Helio G95. While the In Note 2 boasts faster 30W charging, the 9i 5G’s 5G capabilities and more refined chipset make it a more future-proof and versatile device.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 5, 7, 8, 28, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 25 | 2022, August 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, January 30 | Available. Released 2022, August 24 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 74.3 x 8.3 mm (6.30 x 2.93 x 0.33 in) | 164.4 x 75.1 x 8.1 mm (6.47 x 2.96 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 205 g (7.23 oz) | 187 g (6.60 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | Panda Glass |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~409 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.43 inches, 99.8 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~85.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED, 550 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6785V/CD Helio G95 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12, upgradable to Android 13, Realme UI 4.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.1 | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 115˚ (ultrawide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
Unspecified MP, 46mm (telephoto)
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 30W wired, 50% in 25 min
Reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Oak | Soulful Blue, Rocking Black, Gold |
| Models | E7446 | RMX3612 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 180 EUR |
| SAR | 1.01 W/kg (head) 0.77 W/kg (body) | - |
Micromax In note 2
- Faster 30W wired charging
- Reverse wired charging capability
- Potentially larger display size
- Less efficient Helio G95 chipset
- No 5G connectivity
- Likely less refined software experience
Realme 9i 5G
- 5G connectivity for faster data speeds
- More efficient Dimensity 810 chipset
- Better sustained performance
- Slower 18W wired charging
- No reverse wired charging
- Potentially less vibrant display
Display Comparison
Display specifications are not provided for either device. However, given the market segment, both likely feature LCD panels. The Realme 9i 5G’s chipset may offer better display processing capabilities, potentially leading to more vibrant colors and smoother animations. Without specific data on resolution, brightness, and refresh rate, it’s difficult to definitively declare a winner, but Realme’s generally focuses on display quality.
Camera Comparison
Camera details beyond sensor count are unavailable. However, the market positioning suggests both phones will feature a multi-camera setup with a primary sensor and supporting lenses. Without knowing sensor sizes or apertures, it’s impossible to assess image quality accurately. The Realme 9i 5G’s image signal processor (ISP), integrated within the Dimensity 810, likely offers more advanced image processing capabilities, potentially resulting in better dynamic range and low-light performance. The absence of OIS on either device suggests reliance on software stabilization.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Realme 9i 5G’s Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6nm) has a clear advantage over the Micromax In Note 2’s Helio G95 (12nm). The 6nm process allows for greater transistor density and improved power efficiency, translating to better sustained performance and less thermal throttling during demanding tasks. While both CPUs feature the same Cortex-A76 and A55 core configuration, the Dimensity 810’s higher clock speeds (2.4 GHz vs 2.05 GHz) provide a noticeable performance boost. This benefits gamers and users who multitask frequently.
Battery Life
The Micromax In Note 2’s 30W wired charging is significantly faster than the Realme 9i 5G’s 18W charging. The In Note 2 claims a 50% charge in 25 minutes, a substantial advantage. However, the Dimensity 810’s superior power efficiency may offset the slower charging speed in real-world usage. The Realme 9i 5G will likely deliver longer battery life per charge, despite potentially having a smaller battery capacity (spec not provided). The In Note 2’s reverse wired charging is a useful feature for topping up accessories.
Buying Guide
Buy the Micromax In Note 2 if you prioritize maximum charging speed and a potentially larger display (spec not provided, assuming larger based on brand positioning) and are less concerned with 5G connectivity. Buy the Realme 9i 5G if you value 5G access, a more efficient processor for sustained performance, and a generally more modern smartphone experience. The 9i 5G is ideal for users who stream a lot of video or play mobile games.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme 9i 5G’s Dimensity 810 handle demanding games like PUBG Mobile smoothly?
Yes, the Dimensity 810 is capable of running PUBG Mobile at high settings. The 6nm process and higher clock speeds provide sufficient processing power for a smooth gaming experience, although sustained performance may be limited by thermal throttling. Expect playable frame rates, but don't anticipate consistently hitting maximum settings for extended periods.
❓ How much faster is the Micromax In Note 2’s 30W charging in real-world use compared to the Realme 9i 5G’s 18W charging?
The Micromax In Note 2’s 30W charging can add approximately 50% charge in 25 minutes, while the Realme 9i 5G will take considerably longer. This means a significantly reduced downtime when quickly topping up the battery. However, the Realme 9i 5G’s more efficient chipset may mean you need to charge less frequently overall.
❓ Does the Realme 9i 5G support carrier aggregation for improved 5G speeds?
While not explicitly stated, the Dimensity 810 typically supports carrier aggregation, which combines multiple 5G channels for faster data speeds. However, actual speeds will depend on your carrier’s network and coverage.
