The budget smartphone market is fiercely competitive, offering incredible value for money. Two contenders vying for your attention are the Realme Narzo 50i and the Xiaomi Redmi A1. But which one delivers the best experience for your hard-earned cash? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi A1 edges out the Narzo 50i thanks to its slightly more powerful processor and more modern chipset. While both are budget options, the A1 offers a bit more performance for everyday tasks. However, the Narzo 50i's reverse charging is a unique feature.
| 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, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - India |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 24 | 2022, September 06 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2022, September 09 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| | Splash-resistant design | - |
| 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 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Mint Green | Light Green, Light Blue, Black |
| Models | RMX3235 | 220733SI, 220733SG, 220733SL, 220743FI, 220733SH |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 170 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.10 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.85 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) |
Realme Narzo 50i
- Reverse wired charging
- Simple and user-friendly interface
- Decent battery life
- Less powerful processor
- Basic camera performance
- Potentially less RAM
Xiaomi Redmi A1
- More efficient chipset
- Slightly better performance
- Good value for money
- Basic camera performance
- Limited storage options
- No NFC (likely)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with a resolution around 720 x 1600 pixels (HD+). Expect similar viewing experiences – adequate for media consumption but not exceptional. Panel technology is likely IPS LCD for both, offering decent color accuracy and viewing angles. The Narzo 50i might have a slightly brighter display, but this is difficult to confirm without specific testing.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are generally modest on both devices. The Redmi A1 likely features a 13MP main camera, while the Narzo 50i probably has an 8MP main camera. Image quality will be similar – acceptable in good lighting conditions but lacking detail and dynamic range in low light. Front-facing cameras are likely 5MP on both. Don't expect flagship-level photography from either phone.
Performance
Here's where the Redmi A1 takes a slight lead. The Redmi A1's Mediatek Helio A22 chipset (12nm) with a quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU generally outperforms the Narzo 50i's Octa-core 1.6 GHz processor. While both are entry-level, the A1's chipset is newer and more efficient. Expect smoother app loading and slightly better multitasking on the Redmi A1. The Narzo 50i's processor is adequate for basic tasks but may struggle with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. The Redmi A1's more efficient chipset might give it a slight edge in battery endurance. The Narzo 50i's unique reverse charging feature allows it to charge other devices, which can be a useful bonus.
Buying Guide
The Realme Narzo 50i is ideal for users prioritizing reverse charging and a simple, straightforward experience. The Xiaomi Redmi A1 is a better choice for those needing a bit more processing power for basic multitasking and apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone has more RAM?
RAM configurations vary by region, but the Redmi A1 typically offers 3GB or 4GB, while the Narzo 50i often comes with 4GB. Check the specific model available in your area.
❓ Does either phone support 4G LTE?
Yes, both the Realme Narzo 50i and the Xiaomi Redmi A1 support 4G LTE connectivity.
