The Xiaomi Poco C50 and Redmi A1 are both entry-level smartphones vying for the budget-conscious consumer. Both offer essential features at an attractive price point, but subtle differences can make a big impact. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to see which phone emerges as the winner.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones share the same core chipset and charging speed. The Redmi A1 generally offers slightly better value due to its often lower price and potentially improved software experience. However, the Poco C50 might have minor design advantages depending on regional availability and pricing.
| 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, 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 | 2023, January 03 | 2022, September 06 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, January 10 | Available. Released 2022, September 09 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 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 | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| | Dust & splash resistant | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.0 | 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 | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio, recording | 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 | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| | Virtual proximity sensing | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Country Green, Royal Blue | Light Green, Light Blue, Black |
| Models | MZB0D3DIN, 220733SPI, 220733SPH | 220733SI, 220733SG, 220733SL, 220743FI, 220733SH |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 170 EUR |
| SAR | 0.87 W/kg (head) 0.84 W/kg (body) | 1.10 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.85 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Poco C50
- Potentially more durable design
- Wider color options (region dependent)
- Slightly better software support (potentially)
- Slow charging speed
- Limited performance
- Basic camera capabilities
Xiaomi Redmi A1
- Often more affordable
- Decent battery life
- Lightweight and compact
- Slow charging speed
- Limited performance
- Basic camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Both the Poco C50 and Redmi A1 feature a 6.53-inch HD+ (1600 x 720) IPS LCD display. While the resolution is the same, slight variations in color accuracy and brightness may exist, but these are unlikely to be significant differences at this price range. Expect adequate viewing angles and decent clarity for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
The Poco C50 typically features a 13MP main camera with depth sensor, while the Redmi A1 also has a 13MP main camera. Image quality will be similar, with decent performance in good lighting conditions. Low-light photography will be grainy. Front-facing cameras are likely to be 5MP on both devices.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. Both devices are powered by the Mediatek Helio A22 chipset and a quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU. Don't expect blazing-fast speeds; these phones are designed for basic tasks like calling, texting, browsing, and light social media use. Demanding games and multitasking will be challenging.
Battery Life
Both phones are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. The 10W wired charging is a significant drawback, as it will take a considerable amount of time to fully charge the battery.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Poco C50 is ideal for users prioritizing a slightly more robust design and potentially a wider range of color options. The Xiaomi Redmi A1 is a great choice for those seeking the absolute best value for their money, especially if it's available at a lower price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones good for gaming?
No, these phones are not suitable for demanding games. The Helio A22 chipset struggles with graphically intensive titles. Basic games may be playable at low settings.
❓ What is the difference in software?
Both phones likely run a customized version of Android Go Edition. The Redmi A1 might receive slightly faster software updates, but this can vary by region.
