The Realme Narzo 10 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T represent compelling options in the crowded budget smartphone market. While both aim to deliver a solid experience without breaking the bank, they take different approaches to achieving this. The Narzo 10 focuses on a streamlined experience with a gaming-oriented chipset, while the Redmi Note 9T brings 5G connectivity and a more modern processor to the table. This comparison dives deep into the specifics to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T is the better choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 800U chipset provides a significant performance uplift over the Narzo 10’s Helio G80, offering smoother multitasking and superior gaming capabilities. While battery life is comparable, the 9T’s faster charging and 5G support add considerable future-proofing.
| 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, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 42 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41, 77, 78, 79 SA/NSA/Sub6 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, May 11. Released 2020, May 18 | 2021, January 08 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, January 18 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.4 x 9 mm (6.47 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) | 161.2 x 77.3 x 9.1 mm (6.35 x 3.04 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 199 g (7.02 oz) | 199 g (7.02 oz) |
| | - | Water-repellent coating |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.8 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.53 inches, 104.7 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769V/CU Helio G80 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC3 |
| OS | Android 10, Realme UI | Android 10, MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.1 - 64GB
UFS 2.2 - 128GB |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.3, 119˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
2 MP B/W, f/2.4 | - |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | - |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR, panorama | - |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 13 MP, f/2.3, 29mm (standard), 1/3.1", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio, recording |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
5W reverse wired | 18W wired, 33% in 30 min |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | That White, That Green | Nightfall Black, Daybreak Purple |
| Models | RMX2040 | M2007J22G, J22 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR | 0.86 W/kg (head) 0.61 W/kg (body) | 1.07 W/kg (head) 1.05 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.59 W/kg (head) 0.94 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life | - | Endurance rating 118h |
| Camera | - |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 1226:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
-26.3 LUFS (Good) |
| Performance | - |
AnTuTu: 288732 (v8)
GeekBench: 1775 (v5.1) |
Realme Narzo 10
- More affordable price point
- Dedicated gaming chipset (Helio G80)
- Simple and streamlined software experience
- Older, less efficient chipset (12nm)
- Lacks 5G connectivity
- Slower charging speeds
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T
- More powerful processor (Dimensity 800U)
- 5G connectivity for future-proofing
- Faster charging (33% in 30 minutes)
- Slightly higher price
- May have more bloatware (typical of Xiaomi)
- Similar battery endurance to Narzo 10 despite better chipset
Display Comparison
Both the Realme Narzo 10 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T feature displays with a 1226:1 contrast ratio, suggesting similar visual pop. However, the Redmi Note 9T boasts a measured peak brightness of 471 nits, which, while not exceptional, provides a slightly more visible experience in direct sunlight. The lack of detailed display specifications for the Narzo 10 makes a direct comparison difficult, but given its lower price point, it likely has a less refined panel. Neither phone specifies refresh rates beyond the standard 60Hz.
Camera Comparison
Both phones offer a 'Photo / Video' camera experience, but specifics are limited. Without detailed sensor information, it’s difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, the Redmi Note 9T’s more powerful processor allows for more sophisticated image processing, potentially resulting in better dynamic range and low-light performance. The prevalence of larger sensors in Xiaomi’s mid-range devices suggests a possible advantage in image quality. The Narzo 10 likely relies more heavily on software enhancements to compensate for a potentially less capable sensor.
Performance
The core difference between these two phones lies in their chipsets. The Redmi Note 9T’s Mediatek Dimensity 800U, built on a 7nm process, is a substantial upgrade over the Narzo 10’s Mediatek Helio G80 (12nm). The Dimensity 800U’s CPU features two Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.4 GHz, compared to the Helio G80’s Cortex-A75 cores at 2.0 GHz. This translates to a noticeable performance advantage in demanding tasks and gaming. The 7nm process also contributes to better thermal efficiency, reducing the likelihood of throttling during extended gaming sessions. While both phones offer 6GB of RAM (assumed based on market segment), the superior chipset in the Redmi Note 9T will utilize it more effectively.
Battery Life
Both the Realme Narzo 10 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T achieve an endurance rating of 118 hours, indicating comparable battery life under typical usage. However, the Redmi Note 9T offers significantly faster charging at 18W with a 30-minute charge reaching 33%, while the Narzo 10’s 18W charging is less efficient. The Redmi Note 9T also includes 5W reverse wired charging, a feature absent on the Narzo 10, adding a degree of convenience for charging accessories.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme Narzo 10 if you prioritize a simple, focused gaming experience and are on a very tight budget. It’s a good option for casual gamers who don’t need 5G. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T if you want a more versatile phone with better performance, 5G connectivity, and faster charging. It’s ideal for users who multitask frequently, enjoy mobile gaming, and want a device that will remain relevant for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Mediatek Dimensity 800U in the Redmi Note 9T handle demanding games like PUBG Mobile smoothly?
Yes, the Dimensity 800U is well-equipped to handle PUBG Mobile at high settings. Its Cortex-A76 cores and Mali-G57 MC4 GPU provide ample processing power for a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Users can expect stable frame rates and minimal lag, even during intense firefights.
❓ Is the 18W charging on the Realme Narzo 10 slow compared to other phones in this price range?
While 18W charging isn't inherently slow, the Redmi Note 9T's implementation is more efficient, reaching 33% charge in just 30 minutes. The Narzo 10's 18W charging will take considerably longer to fully charge the battery, making the Redmi Note 9T a better choice for users who prioritize quick top-ups.
❓ Does the Redmi Note 9T support all 5G bands available in the US?
5G band support varies by region. The Redmi Note 9T was primarily released for markets outside the US. While it supports some 5G bands, compatibility with US carriers is limited and may not work with all 5G networks. Check specific band compatibility before purchasing if you intend to use it in the US.
