The Samsung Galaxy M02 and Xiaomi Redmi 10A represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at a minimal cost, but they approach this goal with different hardware. The M02, an older model, relies on the Mediatek MT6739W, while the Redmi 10A features the newer, though still entry-level, Mediatek Helio G25. This comparison dissects these differences to determine which phone offers the best value for budget-conscious consumers.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Xiaomi Redmi 10A is the better choice. Its Helio G25 chipset, built on a more efficient 12nm process, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the M02’s older 28nm MT6739W. While neither phone excels in any single area, the Redmi 10A offers a more responsive experience for everyday tasks.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, February 02 | 2022, March 29 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, February 09 | Available. Released 2022, March 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 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 | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 206 g (7.27 oz) | 194 g (6.84 oz) |
| 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 (~81.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739W (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10, One UI 2.0 | Android 11, MIUI 12.5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro) | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.0µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | 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 | Unspecified | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Gray, Blue, Red | Charcoal Black, Sea Blue, Slate Grey |
| Models | SM-M022F, SM-M022F/DS, SM-M022G, SM-M022G/DS | 220233L2C, 220233L2G, 220233L2I |
| Price | About 80 EUR | € 60.00 / $ 66.55 |
| SAR | - | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.65 W/kg (head) 1.71 W/kg (body) | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy M02
- Potentially lower price point (depending on retailer)
- Simple and straightforward user interface
- Reliable brand reputation (Samsung)
- Outdated and less powerful chipset
- Less efficient 28nm manufacturing process
- Slower app loading and multitasking
Xiaomi Redmi 10A
- More powerful and efficient Mediatek Helio G25 chipset
- Octa-core CPU for improved multitasking
- 12nm manufacturing process for better battery life
- 10W charging is relatively slow
- Camera quality is likely similar to the M02
- Xiaomi’s MIUI software can be resource-intensive
Display Comparison
Neither Samsung nor Xiaomi provide detailed display specifications for these models. Given their price points, both likely utilize LCD panels with modest resolutions (likely 720p+). The Redmi 10A’s advantage isn’t likely to be in display quality, but rather in the chipset’s ability to drive the display more efficiently. Expect similar viewing angles and color accuracy on both devices, with neither offering particularly vibrant or sharp visuals.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic camera setups focused on affordability. Detailed sensor information is scarce, but it’s safe to assume both rely on primary sensors with modest resolutions. The Redmi 10A may benefit from slightly improved image processing capabilities due to its newer chipset, but don’t expect dramatic differences in image quality. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on the Redmi 10A is largely a marketing gimmick and offers limited practical benefit. The M02's camera performance will likely be adequate for basic snapshots in good lighting conditions.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Xiaomi Redmi 10A’s Mediatek Helio G25 (MT6762G) is a significant upgrade over the Samsung Galaxy M02’s Mediatek MT6739W. The G25 boasts an octa-core configuration (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) compared to the M02’s quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53. Crucially, the G25 is fabricated on a 12nm process, offering improved power efficiency and thermal performance compared to the M02’s 28nm process. This translates to less throttling under sustained load and a more consistent user experience. While neither chipset is a powerhouse, the Redmi 10A will handle multitasking and app loading times noticeably faster.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device in the provided data. However, given their market segment, both likely house batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range. The Redmi 10A’s 10W wired charging is a standard offering for this price point. The more efficient 12nm Helio G25 chipset in the Redmi 10A will likely contribute to longer battery life compared to the M02, despite potentially similar battery capacities, due to reduced power consumption.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy M02 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and are primarily using the phone for very basic tasks like calls and messaging. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 10A if you prioritize a smoother user experience, even for light multitasking, and appreciate the benefits of a more modern chipset, even if it's still entry-level. The Redmi 10A is also the better choice for anyone hoping to run slightly more demanding apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Redmi 10A handle popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly?
Yes, the Redmi 10A’s Helio G25 chipset is sufficiently capable of running popular social media apps like WhatsApp and Facebook without significant lag. The octa-core CPU and improved efficiency of the 12nm process contribute to a smoother experience compared to the Galaxy M02.
❓ Is the Redmi 10A a good choice for mobile gaming?
The Redmi 10A is not designed for demanding mobile games. While it can handle very basic games, you’ll likely experience low frame rates and graphical compromises in more intensive titles. The Helio G25 is an entry-level chipset and lacks the graphical power for a smooth gaming experience. The M02 would perform similarly, if not worse.
❓ Does the Xiaomi Redmi 10A support software updates?
Xiaomi typically provides software updates for its devices, but the frequency and duration of support for the Redmi 10A may be limited given its budget positioning. Expect at least security updates for a reasonable period, but major Android version upgrades are less certain.
❓ What kind of storage options are available on the Redmi 10A?
The Redmi 10A typically comes with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card. This is standard for phones in this price range. Consider the 64GB option if you plan to store a significant number of photos, videos, or apps.
