Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers impressive value, but choosing between models can be tricky. The Redmi 10C and 10A are both budget-friendly options, but cater to slightly different needs. Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison to help you pick the perfect phone.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi 10C is the clear winner, offering a significantly faster processor, better camera capabilities, and faster charging. While the 10A remains a very affordable option, the 10C provides a noticeable upgrade in performance and features for a small price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, March 21 | 2022, March 29 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, March 23 | Available. Released 2022, March 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 169.6 x 76.6 x 8.3 mm (6.68 x 3.02 x 0.33 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 |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 194 g (6.84 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1650 pixels (~268 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.71 inches, 106.5 cm2 (~82.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, MIUI 13 | Android 11, MIUI 12.5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.0µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP |
| 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 | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Graphite Gray, Ocean Blue, Mint Green | Charcoal Black, Sea Blue, Slate Grey |
| Models | 220333QAG, 220333QBI, 220333QNY, 220333QL | 220233L2C, 220233L2G, 220233L2I |
| Price | £ 99.00 / € 109.86 | € 60.00 / $ 66.55 |
| SAR | 0.96 W/kg (head) 1.02 W/kg (body) | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.57 W/kg (head) 0.96 W/kg (body) | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Redmi 10C
- Faster Processor (Snapdragon 680)
- Better Camera Performance
- Faster Charging (18W)
- Slightly Sharper Display
- More Responsive User Experience
Xiaomi Redmi 10A
- Very Affordable
- Long Battery Life (5000mAh)
- Reliable for Basic Tasks
- Slow Processor (Helio G25)
- Subpar Camera
- Slow Charging (10W)
- Can Feel Sluggish
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.53-inch display, but the Redmi 10C boasts a slightly higher resolution (1080 x 2340) compared to the 10A's (1080 x 2340). While both are LCD panels, the 10C's slightly sharper display offers a marginally better viewing experience. Brightness levels are comparable.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi 10C generally offers better camera performance. While both have a 50MP main sensor, the 10C's Snapdragon 680 chipset provides better image processing. The 10C also typically has a depth sensor, enhancing portrait mode capabilities. The 10A's camera is adequate for basic snapshots, but lacks the detail and dynamic range of the 10C.
Performance
This is where the Redmi 10C truly shines. The Snapdragon 680 is a substantial upgrade over the Helio G25. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user experience on the 10C. The 10A can feel sluggish at times, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones have a 5000mAh battery, offering excellent all-day battery life. However, the Redmi 10C's faster 18W charging significantly reduces charging times compared to the 10A's 10W charging. Expect roughly twice the charging speed on the 10C.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Redmi 10C is ideal for users who prioritize performance, camera quality, and faster charging. It's a great choice for light gaming, social media, and everyday tasks. The Redmi 10A is best suited for users on the tightest budget who primarily need a phone for basic calling, texting, and occasional browsing. It's a reliable backup phone or a first smartphone for someone.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Redmi 10C worth the extra money?
Yes, the Redmi 10C offers a significant performance boost and better camera capabilities that justify the slightly higher price, especially if you use your phone for more than just basic tasks.
❓ Can the Redmi 10A handle light gaming?
The Redmi 10A can handle very basic games at low settings, but it will struggle with more demanding titles. The Redmi 10C is a much better choice for gaming.
