The Motorola G Pure and Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport represent the absolute entry point into the smartphone market. Both devices target users prioritizing affordability above all else, relying on the Mediatek Helio G25 chipset to deliver basic functionality. This comparison dissects their similarities and differences to determine which offers the best value for the price-conscious consumer.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport is the slightly better choice. While both phones share identical core hardware, Xiaomi’s wider availability and potentially more refined software experience give it a slight edge. However, the G Pure may appeal to those specifically seeking a Motorola device.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 25, 26, 38, 40, 41, 66, 71 | 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 | 2021, October 07 | 2021, September 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 14 | Available. Released 2021, September 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | - |
| Dimensions | 167.4 x 75.6 x 8.8 mm (6.59 x 2.98 x 0.35 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 |
| Weight | 188 g (6.63 oz) | 194 g (6.84 oz) |
| | Water-repellent design | Water-repellent coating |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.6% 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 (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 10, MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm, AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | 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 | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 а/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted) | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Deep Indigo | Carbon Black, Coral Green, Metallic Blue |
| Models | XT-2163-4, XT2163-4, XT2163-6, XT2163-1, XT2163-2 | - |
| Price | $ 63.99 / C$ 123.00 | About 100 EUR |
Motorola G Pure
- Clean Motorola Android experience
- Potentially better software updates (depending on region)
- Familiar Motorola brand
- Limited availability in some markets
- Slow 10W charging
Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport
- Wider availability globally
- Potentially more robust software support
- Competitive pricing
- Xiaomi’s MIUI software can be resource-intensive
- Slow 10W charging
Display Comparison
Both the Motorola G Pure and Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport lack detailed display specifications in the provided data. Given their price point, it’s safe to assume both utilize LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. Expect similar color accuracy and viewing angles. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced features like LTPO is standard for this segment. The user experience will likely be comparable, focusing on basic readability rather than immersive visuals.
Camera Comparison
Camera details are sparse. Both phones likely feature a primary camera and potentially a secondary depth sensor. Without sensor size or aperture information, it’s difficult to assess image quality. Expect adequate performance in well-lit conditions, but struggles in low light. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera (common in this segment) is unlikely to provide significant value due to its low resolution and limited detail. Image processing will likely be basic, prioritizing speed over advanced features.
Performance
The core of both devices is the Mediatek Helio G25 (MT6762G) chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU configuration with 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. This means performance will be virtually identical in day-to-day tasks like browsing, social media, and light messaging. The 12nm process node suggests moderate thermal efficiency, but sustained heavy workloads will likely result in throttling. RAM configurations are not specified, but both will likely offer sufficient RAM for their intended use case. Gaming will be limited to less demanding titles at lower settings.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with 10W wired charging. This is a slow charging standard, meaning a full charge from 0-100% will take a considerable amount of time – likely exceeding 3 hours. Battery capacity is not specified, but given the focus on affordability, expect a capacity in the 4000-5000 mAh range. Real-world battery life will depend on usage patterns, but both should comfortably last a full day with moderate use. The slow charging speed is a significant drawback for users accustomed to faster charging technologies.
Buying Guide
Buy the Motorola G Pure if you specifically prefer the Motorola software experience and value a clean Android interface, or if it's significantly cheaper in your region. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport if you prioritize wider availability, potentially better software support, and a slightly more established brand presence in certain markets. Both are ideal for first-time smartphone users or those needing a reliable backup device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio G25 chipset struggle with popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
Yes, the Mediatek Helio G25 is an entry-level chipset. While it can run PUBG Mobile, you’ll need to use the lowest graphics settings and expect frame rate drops, especially during intense action. Call of Duty Mobile will likely be even more challenging to run smoothly.
❓ Is the software on the Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport heavily customized with bloatware?
Xiaomi’s MIUI software is known for its customization options, but it also comes pre-installed with a number of Xiaomi apps and services. While some of these can be uninstalled, it’s a common complaint among users. The Motorola G Pure offers a cleaner, closer-to-stock Android experience.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge either phone from 0%?
With only 10W charging, expect a full charge to take over 3 hours, potentially closer to 4. This is a significant limitation compared to phones with faster charging capabilities. It's best to charge overnight.