Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers impressive value in the budget phone market. The Redmi A1 and Redmi 10A are two contenders vying for the title of best affordable smartphone. But which one offers the better experience for your money?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi 10A edges out the A1 thanks to its octa-core processor and slightly improved camera capabilities. While both are budget options, the 10A provides a more responsive and feature-rich experience, making it the better overall choice for most users.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - India | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 06 | 2022, March 29 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 09 | Available. Released 2022, March 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 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 | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 194 g (6.84 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) | 6.53 inches, 102.9 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 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition), 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 |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.08 MP (depth) | - |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.0µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 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, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Light Green, Light Blue, Black | Charcoal Black, Sea Blue, Slate Grey |
| Models | 220733SI, 220733SG, 220733SL, 220743FI, 220733SH | 220233L2C, 220233L2G, 220233L2I |
| Price | About 170 EUR | € 60.00 / $ 66.55 |
| SAR | 1.10 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.85 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Redmi A1
- Very affordable
- Large display
- Decent battery life
- Slow performance
- Basic camera
- Limited features
Xiaomi Redmi 10A
- Improved performance
- Slightly better camera
- More responsive UI
- FM Radio
- Still a budget phone
- Slow charging
- Plastic build
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.53-inch HD+ (1600 x 720) IPS LCD display. While the resolution is the same, the Redmi 10A often has slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to panel variations. Viewing angles are acceptable on both.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi 10A typically features a 13MP main camera with depth sensor, while the Redmi A1 has a 13MP main camera. While megapixels aren't everything, the G25 chipset in the 10A allows for better image processing, resulting in slightly better photos, especially in low light. Both offer basic camera functionality.
Performance
This is where the Redmi 10A shines. Its Mediatek Helio G25 octa-core processor offers a noticeable performance boost over the A1's Helio A22 quad-core. Expect smoother multitasking and better responsiveness on the 10A. Gaming performance is also improved, though still limited by the budget hardware.
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 around 2-3 hours to fully charge from empty.
Buying Guide
The Redmi A1 is ideal for users needing a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and very light app usage. The Redmi 10A is a better fit for those who want a smoother experience, occasional gaming, and a slightly better camera for capturing memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Redmi A1 good for gaming?
The Redmi A1 is not ideal for gaming. Its processor struggles with demanding games, resulting in lag and low frame rates. Casual games may be playable at low settings.
❓ Does the Redmi 10A have a fingerprint sensor?
Yes, the Redmi 10A features a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for added security.
