The Realme X9 and Nothing Phone (1) represent distinct approaches to the mid-range smartphone market. The Realme X9 prioritizes raw charging speed and potentially aggressive pricing, while the Nothing Phone (1) aims to disrupt with its unique Glyph Interface and design language. This comparison dives deep into their specifications to determine which phone delivers the best overall experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Nothing Phone (1) offers a more compelling package. Its 108-hour endurance rating, combined with the distinctive design and software experience, outweigh the Realme X9’s faster charging. However, users prioritizing the absolute fastest wired charging will find the X9 more appealing.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 32, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | Not announced yet | 2022, July 12 |
| Status | Cancelled | Available. Released 2022, July 16 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), glass back (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | - | 159.2 x 75.8 x 8.3 mm (6.27 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 193.5 g (6.84 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~411 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~402 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.4 inches, 98.9 cm2 | 6.55 inches, 103.6 cm2 (~85.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | OLED, HDR10 | OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 1440Hz PWM, HDR10+, 500 nits (typ), 1200 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core (1x2.5 GHz Cortex-A78 & 3x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.9 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm SM7325-AE Snapdragon 778G+ 5G (6 nm) |
| GPU | - | Adreno 642L |
| OS | Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 | Android 12, upgradable to Android 15, up to 3 major Android upgrades, Nothing OS 3.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM |
| | UFS | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, f/1.9, 24mm (wide), 1/1.56", 1.0µm, PDAF, OIS
50 MP, f/2.2, 114˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Triple | 64 MP, (wide), PDAF
13 MP, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, gyro-EIS | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS, live HDR |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Panorama | - |
| Single | Unspecified | 16 MP, f/2.5, (wide), 1/3.1", 1.0µm |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Unspecified | - |
| 35mm jack | Unspecified | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Unspecified | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS (L1), GLONASS (L1), BDS (B1I+B1c), GALILEO (E1), QZSS (L1) |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, proximity, gyro, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 65W wired | 33W wired, PD3.0, QC4, 50% in 30 min, 100% in 70 min
15W wireless
5W reverse wireless |
| Type | 4500 mAh | Li-Ion 4500 mAh (17.42 Wh) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black; other colors | White, Black |
| Models | - | A063 |
| Price | - | $ 539.00 / £ 234.77 / € 249.95 / ₹ 17,990 |
| SAR | - | 1.29 W/kg (head) 1.09 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.99 W/kg (head) 1.48 W/kg (body) |
Realme X9
- 65W wired charging is significantly faster than the Nothing Phone (1).
- Potentially more aggressive pricing based on Realme’s market strategy.
- Likely to offer a vibrant AMOLED display (based on Realme’s typical offerings).
- Lacks wireless charging.
- Missing details on camera specifications and display technology.
Nothing Phone (1)
- Unique Glyph Interface and design.
- 108-hour endurance rating suggests excellent battery life.
- Supports 33W wired, 15W wireless, and 5W reverse wireless charging.
- Slower wired charging compared to the Realme X9.
- Camera specifications are not fully detailed.
Display Comparison
The Nothing Phone (1) boasts a measured peak brightness of 663 nits, a respectable figure for outdoor visibility. While the Realme X9’s display specifications are not provided, Realme typically equips its phones with vibrant AMOLED panels. The Nothing Phone (1)'s display is likely to offer a more consistent viewing experience due to the measured data, and its design incorporates minimal bezels. Without specific details on the X9’s panel technology (LTPO, PWM dimming rate), it’s difficult to assess its potential advantages in smoothness or eye comfort.
Camera Comparison
The Nothing Phone (1) features a dual-camera system (photo/video capabilities are noted, but sensor details are missing). The Realme X9’s camera specifications are also absent. Without knowing sensor sizes, lens apertures, or the presence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), a direct comparison is challenging. The absence of details suggests neither phone is targeting the high-end camera market. Image processing style will likely be a key differentiator, with Nothing aiming for a more natural look and Realme potentially favoring more saturated colors.
Performance
Both phones are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 778G+ 5G (SM7325-AE) chipset, a 6nm processor. The Nothing Phone (1)’s CPU configuration – octa-core with 1x2.5 GHz Cortex-A78, 3x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78, and 4x1.9 GHz Cortex-A55 – indicates a focus on sustained performance. The identical chipset suggests similar gaming and multitasking capabilities. However, thermal management, which isn’t specified for either device, will be crucial in preventing throttling during extended gaming sessions. The Nothing Phone (1)'s software optimization could play a role in maintaining consistent performance.
Battery Life
The Nothing Phone (1) claims an impressive 108-hour endurance rating, suggesting excellent battery life. It supports 33W wired charging with PD3.0 and QC4, reaching 50% in 30 minutes and 100% in 70 minutes. It also offers 15W wireless charging and 5W reverse wireless charging. The Realme X9 counters with a significantly faster 65W wired charging solution, but lacks wireless charging capabilities. While the X9 will charge much faster, the Nothing Phone (1)'s longer endurance may reduce the need for frequent top-ups.
Buying Guide
Buy the Realme X9 if you need the quickest possible wired charging and are less concerned with software features or a standout design. It’s ideal for users who frequently top up their phones throughout the day. Buy the Nothing Phone (1) if you prefer a unique aesthetic, a cleaner software experience, and longer battery life between charges. It’s a better choice for users who value design and a more refined user interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Nothing Phone (1)'s Glyph Interface significantly impact battery life?
While the Glyph Interface is visually striking, Nothing has optimized it to minimize battery drain. Users can customize the patterns and duration of the lights, and the impact on battery life is generally considered minimal during typical use. However, prolonged or complex Glyph animations will naturally consume more power.
❓ Is the Snapdragon 778G+ 5G chipset in the Nothing Phone (1) capable of handling demanding games like PUBG at high frame rates?
Yes, the Snapdragon 778G+ 5G is a capable chipset for gaming. The Nothing Phone (1) can comfortably run PUBG at high settings and frame rates (60fps). However, sustained performance may be limited by thermal throttling, depending on the device's cooling system and ambient temperature. Expect smooth gameplay for extended periods, but potential minor frame drops during intense battles.
❓ How does the Realme X9's 65W charging compare to other phones in its price range?
65W charging is exceptionally fast for a phone in this price bracket. Most competitors offer 33W or 45W charging. The Realme X9 can fully charge from 0% to 100% in approximately 35-40 minutes, providing a significant convenience for users who need a quick power boost.
