The Xiaomi Redmi A series is known for offering incredible value in the budget smartphone market. The Redmi A1 and A1+ are the latest iterations, boasting similar specs but subtle differences. This review dives deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you determine which phone is the right fit for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi A1+ and A1 are remarkably similar, sharing the same chipset and CPU. The A1+ generally offers a slightly improved design and potentially more RAM/storage configurations, making it a marginally better choice for most users, especially if you prioritize aesthetics and storage. However, the A1 remains a compelling option if you find it at a significantly lower price.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - India |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 23 | 2022, September 06 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 23 | Available. Released 2022, September 09 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 in) | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI 12 | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | - | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Light Green, Light Blue, Black | Light Green, Light Blue, Black |
| Models | 220733SFG | 220733SI, 220733SG, 220733SL, 220743FI, 220733SH |
| Price | € 78.30 / £ 72.30 / ₹ 6,670 | About 170 EUR |
| SAR | 1.00 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | 1.10 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.91 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) | 0.85 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Redmi A1+
- Slightly improved design
- Potentially more RAM/storage options
- Good battery life
- Affordable price
- Slow charging (10W)
- Basic performance
- Limited camera capabilities
Xiaomi Redmi A1
- Extremely affordable
- Good battery life
- Decent display for the price
- Lightweight and compact
- Slow charging (10W)
- Basic performance
- Limited camera capabilities
- Less refined design compared to A1+
Display Comparison
Both the Redmi A1 and A1+ feature a 6.53-inch IPS LCD display with a 720 x 1600 resolution (HD+). While the specifications are identical, the A1+ may have a slightly improved coating or viewing angles due to subtle design differences. Expect similar visual quality on both devices – adequate for everyday use but not exceptional.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi A1 features an 8MP main camera, while the A1+ also has an 8MP main camera. Both lack a dedicated ultrawide lens. Image quality is expected to be similar, with decent performance in well-lit conditions but struggles in low light. The front-facing camera is likely a 5MP unit on both models.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. Both phones are powered by the Mediatek Helio A22 chipset and a quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU. Don't expect blazing-fast speeds; these phones are designed for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media browsing. Demanding games or multitasking will likely result in noticeable slowdowns.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with a 5000mAh battery. Battery life should be comparable, easily lasting a full day with moderate usage. The 10W wired charging is a significant drawback, as it will take a considerable amount of time to fully charge the battery.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Redmi A1+ is ideal for users seeking a slightly more refined design and potentially more storage options within a tight budget. It's a great first smartphone or a backup device. The Xiaomi Redmi A1 is perfect for those prioritizing the absolute lowest price and basic smartphone functionality. It's a solid choice for essential communication and light usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the main difference between the Redmi A1 and A1+?
The primary differences are in the design and potentially available RAM/storage configurations. The A1+ generally has a slightly more premium feel and may offer more storage options.
❓ Are these phones good for gaming?
No, these phones are not suitable for demanding games. The Helio A22 chipset is designed for basic tasks and will struggle with graphically intensive games.
