The Xiaomi Redmi series consistently delivers impressive value in the budget smartphone market. The Redmi 9A Sport and Redmi 10A are two contenders vying for your attention. But with seemingly identical specs, which one truly offers the better experience? Let's dive in.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi 10A edges out the 9A Sport primarily due to subtle design refinements and potentially slightly improved software support. While the core hardware is the same, the 10A offers a more polished overall package, making it the recommended choice for most buyers.
| 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, 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 | 2021, September 28 | 2022, March 29 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 28 | Available. Released 2022, March 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 77.1 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.04 x 0.35 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 | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 194 g (6.84 oz) |
| | Water-repellent coating | - |
| 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) | 6.53 inches, 102.9 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) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10, MIUI 12 | 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 |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.0µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm | 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 | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Coral Green, Metallic Blue | Charcoal Black, Sea Blue, Slate Grey |
| Models | - | 220233L2C, 220233L2G, 220233L2I |
| Price | About 100 EUR | € 60.00 / $ 66.55 |
| SAR | - | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Redmi 9A Sport
- Extremely affordable
- Long battery life
- Large display
- Expandable storage (microSD card slot)
- Basic performance
- Subpar camera
- Slow charging
- Plastic build
Xiaomi Redmi 10A
- Slightly more modern design
- Potentially better software support
- Long battery life
- Large display
- Expandable storage (microSD card slot)
- Basic performance
- Subpar camera
- Slow charging
- Plastic build
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.53-inch IPS LCD display with a 720 x 1600 resolution. While the specs are identical, the Redmi 10A may have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potential panel variations or software calibration. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi 10A typically features a 13MP main camera, while the 9A Sport often has a similar configuration. Image quality will be comparable, with decent results in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance will be underwhelming on both.
Performance
Powered by the Mediatek Helio G25, performance is expected to be similar on both devices. Don't expect blazing speeds; these phones are designed for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use. Gaming will be limited to less demanding titles.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. Charging speeds are identical at 10W wired, so expect relatively slow charging times.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Redmi 9A Sport is ideal for users on the absolute tightest budget who prioritize basic functionality and long battery life. The Redmi 10A is a better choice for those seeking a slightly more modern design, potentially better software updates, and a marginally improved user experience without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Redmi 9A Sport worth buying if I'm on a very tight budget?
Yes, the Redmi 9A Sport remains a viable option for those seeking the absolute lowest price. However, the Redmi 10A's slight improvements make it a more compelling choice if your budget allows.
❓ Can I play games on these phones?
You can play less demanding games, but don't expect high frame rates or smooth performance in graphically intensive titles. These phones are primarily designed for basic usage.
