The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The Tecno Pop 9 and Xiaomi Redmi A1+ represent two compelling options for users prioritizing affordability. However, a significant gap in chipset architecture separates these devices, promising vastly different user experiences. This comparison dives deep into the specifics to determine which phone delivers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Tecno Pop 9 is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6300 chipset offers a substantial performance uplift over the Redmi A1+'s Helio A22, translating to smoother multitasking and a more responsive overall experience. While the Redmi A1+ is cheaper, the performance trade-off is too significant for all but the most basic users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, September 24 | 2022, September 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, October 08 | Available. Released 2022, September 23 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 165 x 77 x 8 mm (6.50 x 3.03 x 0.31 in) | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 189 g (6.67 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~82.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 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 | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 48 MP, (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Aurora Cloud, Azure Sky, Midnight Shadow | Light Green, Light Blue, Black |
| Models | KL4 | 220733SFG |
| Price | About 100 EUR | € 78.30 / £ 72.30 / ₹ 6,670 |
| SAR | - | 1.00 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.91 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) |
Tecno Pop 9
- Significantly faster processor (Dimensity 6300)
- Faster charging (18W)
- Potentially better power efficiency
- Likely higher price than Redmi A1+
- Camera performance likely similar to Redmi A1+
Xiaomi Redmi A1+
- Lower price point
- Acceptable for basic tasks
- Widely available
- Slow processor (Helio A22)
- Slow charging (10W)
- Poor multitasking performance
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the context data focuses on processing power, we can infer both likely utilize basic LCD panels. The Redmi A1+’s age suggests a potentially lower peak brightness. The absence of any mention of refresh rates or protective glass on either device indicates a focus on cost reduction. Display quality will likely be similar, with the Tecno potentially having a slight edge due to being a newer model.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, it’s difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, given the price point, both phones likely feature basic camera setups. The Redmi A1+ is known to have a dual camera system, but image quality is generally considered subpar. The Tecno Pop 9, being newer, *may* benefit from improved image processing algorithms, but the core sensor technology is likely similar. Expect acceptable results in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light.
Performance
The performance disparity is the defining factor here. The Tecno Pop 9’s Mediatek Dimensity 6300, built on a 6nm process, is a generational leap ahead of the Xiaomi Redmi A1+'s 12nm Helio A22. The Dimensity 6300’s octa-core configuration (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) provides significantly more processing power than the A22’s quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable user experience. The 6nm node also implies better power efficiency, potentially offsetting the higher clock speeds. Users will notice a dramatic difference in responsiveness when switching between apps or browsing the web.
Battery Life
The Tecno Pop 9’s 18W charging is a clear advantage over the Redmi A1+'s 10W charging. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging speed will significantly reduce the time spent tethered to a power outlet. The Dimensity 6300’s 6nm process also contributes to better power efficiency, potentially extending battery life despite the faster charging. Users who frequently use their phones throughout the day will appreciate the faster charging and potentially longer runtime of the Tecno Pop 9.
Buying Guide
Buy the Tecno Pop 9 if you need a smartphone capable of handling more than just basic tasks like calls and messaging. It's ideal for users who enjoy social media, light gaming, or occasionally need to run multiple apps simultaneously. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi A1+ if your primary needs are limited to essential communication and you prioritize the absolute lowest possible price point, accepting significant limitations in performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Pop 9 handle popular apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Mediatek Dimensity 6300 chipset in the Tecno Pop 9 is more than capable of running these apps smoothly, even with multiple apps open simultaneously. The Redmi A1+'s Helio A22 may struggle with multitasking and exhibit noticeable lag.
❓ Is the difference in charging speed between 10W and 18W really noticeable in everyday use?
Absolutely. While both will charge overnight, the 18W charging on the Tecno Pop 9 will provide a significant top-up in a short amount of time – crucial if you need a quick boost before leaving the house. Expect a 0-100% charge to be considerably faster on the Tecno.
❓ Can the Tecno Pop 9 handle light gaming, like casual puzzle games or older titles?
The Tecno Pop 9’s Dimensity 6300 offers a much better gaming experience than the Redmi A1+. While it won’t run demanding modern games at high settings, it can comfortably handle casual games and older titles with acceptable frame rates. The Helio A22 in the Redmi A1+ will struggle even with basic games.
