The sub-₹10,000 smartphone segment is fiercely competitive. Both the Xiaomi Redmi 9i and the Realme C15 Qualcomm Edition aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an accessible price. However, they take different approaches – the Redmi 9i relies on MediaTek’s Helio G25, while the Realme C15 opts for Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 460. This comparison dives deep into the architectural differences and real-world implications of these choices.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance and faster charging, the Realme C15 Qualcomm Edition is the better choice. Its Snapdragon 460, built on an 11nm process, offers a more efficient and responsive experience than the Redmi 9i’s Helio G25, despite the similar core counts. The 18W charging is a significant advantage over the Redmi 9i’s 10W.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 15. Released 2020, September 18 | 2020, October 28. Released 2020, October 29 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 77.1 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.04 x 0.35 in) | 164.5 x 75.9 x 9.8 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 194 g (6.84 oz) | 209 g (7.37 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass |
| 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 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 270 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x1.8 GHz Kryo 240 & 4x1.6 GHz Kryo 240) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) | Qualcomm SM4250 Snapdragon 460 (11 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 610 |
| OS | Android 10, MIUI 12 | Android 10, upgradable to Android 11, Realme UI 2.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
8 MP, f/2.3, 119˚ (ultrawide)
2 MP B/W, f/2.4
2 MP, f/2.4 |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1.0µm, PDAF | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| 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, aptX HD |
| 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 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Black, Sea Blue, Nature Green | Power Silver, Power Blue |
| Models | M2006C3LII | RMX2195 |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.54 W/kg (head) 0.62 W/kg (body) |
| Pricing |
|---|
| 64GB 4GB RAM | ₹ 8,200 | - |
Xiaomi Redmi 9i
- Potentially lower price point.
- Adequate for basic smartphone tasks.
- MediaTek’s power efficiency optimizations.
- Helio G25 may struggle with demanding apps.
- Slower 10W charging.
- Less efficient 12nm process.
Realme C15 Qualcomm Edition
- More efficient Snapdragon 460 chipset.
- Faster 18W wired charging.
- Potentially better image processing.
- Slightly higher price.
- Kryo 240 cores clocked slightly lower than Helio G25.
- May not offer a significantly better camera experience.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but on efficiency. Without specific display specs, we can assume both prioritize battery life over brightness or color accuracy. Bezels are likely comparable, reflecting the cost-conscious design.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a primary camera alongside supplementary lenses, but detailed sensor information is missing. Given the price point, image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing. Without knowing sensor sizes or apertures, it’s difficult to declare a clear winner. However, Qualcomm’s image signal processor (ISP) within the Snapdragon 460 generally offers more advanced image processing capabilities, potentially leading to better dynamic range and noise reduction in the Realme C15. The presence of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing gimmick and shouldn't be a deciding factor.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipset. The Realme C15’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 460 (11nm) benefits from a more modern fabrication process compared to the Redmi 9i’s MediaTek Helio G25 (12nm). While both are octa-core CPUs, the Snapdragon 460’s Kryo 240 cores, though clocked slightly lower (1.8GHz vs 2.0GHz), generally exhibit better single-core performance and efficiency. This translates to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The 11nm process also contributes to better thermal management, reducing the likelihood of performance throttling during sustained use. The Helio G25, while adequate for basic tasks, will likely struggle more with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both devices will likely offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. The Realme C15’s 18W wired charging is a significant advantage over the Redmi 9i’s 10W. This faster charging speed will drastically reduce the time spent tethered to a power outlet, a crucial benefit for users on the go. While battery capacity isn't specified, the Snapdragon 460’s improved efficiency may offset any potential capacity difference, resulting in comparable real-world battery performance despite the faster charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 9i if you primarily need a phone for basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media – and value a slightly lower upfront cost. Buy the Realme C15 Qualcomm Edition if you prefer a smoother multitasking experience, occasionally play mobile games, and appreciate the convenience of faster charging, even if it means a small price premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 460 in the Realme C15 handle PUBG Mobile smoothly?
The Snapdragon 460 can run PUBG Mobile, but expect to play at lower graphics settings (Balanced or Low) to maintain a stable frame rate. It's not a gaming powerhouse, but it's capable of providing a playable experience, unlike the Helio G25 which may struggle even at the lowest settings.
❓ How much faster is the 18W charging on the Realme C15 compared to the Redmi 9i’s 10W charging?
The 18W charging on the Realme C15 will significantly reduce charging times. While exact 0-100% times aren't available, expect a difference of at least 30-60 minutes, making it much more convenient for users who need to quickly top up their battery.
❓ Is the difference between the 12nm and 11nm process nodes noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the 11nm process node of the Snapdragon 460 contributes to better power efficiency. This translates to longer battery life and less heat generation during sustained use, resulting in a smoother and more consistent user experience compared to the Redmi 9i’s 12nm Helio G25.
