Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers affordable smartphones, and the 9i Sport and 9A Sport are no exception. Both offer compelling features for budget-conscious buyers, but subtle differences can make a big impact. This review dives deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you choose the right one.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi 9i Sport edges out the 9A Sport due to likely slightly improved build quality and potentially a more refined design. However, the differences are minimal, and both offer excellent value for their price point. The choice largely depends on your specific needs and budget.
| 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 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 28 | 2021, September 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, September 28 | Available. Released 2021, September 28 |
| 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 | 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 10, MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm |
| 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 | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 а/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Coral Green, Metallic Blue | Carbon Black, Coral Green, Metallic Blue |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 100 EUR |
Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport
- Potentially improved build quality
- Likely slightly better camera performance
- Slightly more refined design
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Slightly higher price than 9A Sport
- 10W charging is slow
Xiaomi Redmi 9A Sport
- Extremely affordable
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Decent performance for basic tasks
- Lightweight and portable
- Basic build quality
- Slower charging
- Limited camera features
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a 6.53-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 (HD+). While the specifications are identical, the Redmi 9i Sport might have a slightly better coating or improved viewing angles due to potentially different panel sourcing. Expect similar color accuracy and brightness levels.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi 9i Sport likely features a slightly more advanced camera setup, potentially including a depth sensor in addition to the main camera and front camera. While both will offer decent image quality in good lighting conditions, the 9i Sport may offer slightly better portrait mode capabilities and overall image processing. Expect a 13MP main camera on both, and an 8MP front camera.
Performance
Powered by the same Mediatek Helio G25 chipset, performance will be virtually identical. Expect smooth navigation and basic app usage, but don't expect to play demanding games at high settings. Both phones will handle everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and video streaming without issue.
Battery Life
Both devices are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. Charging speeds are identical at 10W wired, so expect similar charging times.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Redmi 9i Sport is ideal for users who want a slightly more premium feel and potentially a more durable build. The Redmi 9A Sport is perfect for those prioritizing the absolute lowest price and basic smartphone functionality. Both are great for first-time smartphone users or those needing a secondary device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Redmi 9i Sport and Redmi 9A Sport?
The main differences are likely in the build quality and camera features, with the 9i Sport potentially offering a slightly more premium feel and better camera performance. Both share the same chipset and battery.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
Neither phone is ideal for demanding games. Both will handle basic games, but performance will be limited due to the Helio G25 chipset.
❓ How long does the battery last on these phones?
Both phones offer excellent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate usage thanks to their 5000mAh batteries.
