Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers impressive value, but choosing between models can be tricky. We're pitting the Redmi 10A against the Redmi A1 to see which budget champion reigns supreme. This comparison will help you decide which phone best fits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi 10A edges out the Redmi A1 thanks to its more powerful chipset and slightly better overall performance. While both are budget-friendly options, the 10A offers a more fluid experience for everyday tasks and light gaming. However, the A1 remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing affordability.
| 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 - International | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - India |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, March 29 | 2022, September 06 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, March 31 | Available. Released 2022, September 09 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 77.1 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.04 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 | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.0% 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 (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, MIUI 12.5 | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB 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 | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.0µm, AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 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 | No | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Charcoal Black, Sea Blue, Slate Grey | Light Green, Light Blue, Black |
| Models | 220233L2C, 220233L2G, 220233L2I | 220733SI, 220733SG, 220733SL, 220743FI, 220733SH |
| Price | € 60.00 / $ 66.55 | About 170 EUR |
| SAR | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) | 1.10 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) | 0.85 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Redmi 10A
- More powerful chipset (Helio G25)
- Dual-camera system
- Slightly better performance
- Available in more storage options (potentially)
- 10W charging is slow
- Camera quality is still basic
- Design is fairly generic
Xiaomi Redmi A1
- Extremely affordable
- Decent battery life
- Lightweight and compact
- Reliable for basic tasks
- Less powerful chipset (Helio A22)
- Single camera
- Slower performance
- Limited storage options
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.53-inch HD+ (720 x 1600) IPS LCD display. While the resolution is the same, the Redmi 10A might offer slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potentially better panel calibration, though this is often subtle at this price point. Viewing angles are generally good on both.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi 10A typically features a dual-camera setup (13MP main + 2MP depth) while the Redmi A1 has a single 8MP main camera. The 10A's dual-camera system allows for depth sensing and potentially better portrait mode photos. Image quality on both is acceptable for the price, but don't expect flagship-level results. Low-light performance will be limited on both.
Performance
The Redmi 10A's Mediatek Helio G25 chipset with an Octa-core CPU provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Redmi A1's Helio A22 Quad-core CPU. The extra cores and slightly higher clock speeds on the G25 translate to smoother app loading, quicker multitasking, and better responsiveness. The A1 will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life for moderate users. Charging speeds are identical at 10W wired, meaning charging will take a considerable amount of time.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Redmi 10A is ideal for users who need a bit more processing power for basic multitasking, social media, and light gaming. It's a good choice if you want a slightly smoother experience. The Xiaomi Redmi A1 is perfect for users who primarily need a phone for calls, texts, and essential apps, and are on a very tight budget. It's a reliable and affordable option for basic communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Redmi 10A is significantly better for gaming due to its more powerful chipset. While neither phone is a gaming powerhouse, the 10A will handle basic games more smoothly.
❓ Can I expand the storage on either phone?
Yes, both phones support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage for photos, videos, and apps.
