Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't completely break the bank? The Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport and the Samsung Galaxy F04 are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy F04 edges out the Redmi 9i Sport thanks to its slightly faster processor, quicker charging, and generally more polished software experience. While both are budget-friendly, the F04 offers a bit more value for the money.
| 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 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 28 | 2023, January 04 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 28 | Available. Released 2023, January 12 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 77.1 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.04 x 0.35 in) | 164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| | Water-repellent coating | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10, MIUI 12 | Android 12, One UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| 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 | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 а/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Coral Green, Metallic Blue | Jade Purple, Opal Green |
| Models | - | SM-E045F, SM-E045F/DS |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.38 W/kg (head) |
Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport
- Reliable brand
- Decent battery life
- Affordable price
- Slower processor
- Slow charging
- Basic camera performance
Samsung Galaxy F04
- Faster processor
- Quick charging (15W)
- Better camera (50MP)
- Samsung's UI
- Plastic build
- HD+ display (not FHD+)
- Limited software updates
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch HD+ display, offering decent viewing angles for the price. However, Samsung's display technology often provides slightly better color accuracy and brightness, though the difference is minimal. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi 9i Sport typically features a 13MP main camera, while the Galaxy F04 often includes a 50MP main camera. While megapixels aren't everything, the F04's higher resolution sensor generally captures more detail in well-lit conditions. Both phones offer decent front-facing cameras for selfies.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy F04's Helio P35 chipset offers a noticeable performance advantage over the Redmi 9i Sport's Helio G25. Apps launch a bit faster, and multitasking feels smoother on the F04. The Redmi 9i Sport is adequate for basic tasks but may struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. However, the Galaxy F04's 15W charging support is faster than the Redmi 9i Sport's 10W charging, allowing for quicker top-ups.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport is ideal for users prioritizing a reliable, basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light social media use. The Samsung Galaxy F04 is a better choice for those who want a slightly faster experience, quicker charging, and a more recognizable brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone has better performance?
The Samsung Galaxy F04 has a slightly faster processor (Helio P35) compared to the Redmi 9i Sport (Helio G25), resulting in smoother performance.
❓ How long does the battery last on each phone?
Both phones have a 5000mAh battery and should provide all-day battery life with moderate usage. However, the Galaxy F04 charges faster.
