The sub-$100 smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Xiaomi Redmi A1+ and Infinix Smart 7 HD represent two of the most popular contenders. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an incredibly low price point, they take different approaches to achieving this. The Redmi A1+ leverages a Mediatek chipset, while the Smart 7 HD opts for an octa-core CPU. This comparison will dissect the key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing multi-tasking and responsiveness, the Infinix Smart 7 HD is the better choice. Its octa-core CPU provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Redmi A1+'s quad-core processor, making everyday tasks smoother. However, the Redmi A1+ remains a viable option for those needing a simple, reliable device.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 23 | 2023, April 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 23 | Available. Released 2023, April 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 76.8 x 9.1 mm (6.49 x 3.02 x 0.36 in) | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.7 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 196.5 g (6.95 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 500 nits |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core 1.6 GHz |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | - |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI 12 | Android 12 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 8 MP, f/2.0
0.08 MP, (depth) |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | 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 |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Light Green, Light Blue, Black | Ink Black, Silk Blue, Jade White, Green Apple |
| Models | 220733SFG | X6516 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR | 1.00 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.91 W/kg (head) 1.00 W/kg (body) | - |
Xiaomi Redmi A1+
- Established brand reputation (Xiaomi)
- Potentially better software optimization (Android Go Edition)
- Efficient processor for basic tasks
- Quad-core processor limits multitasking
- Lower overall performance compared to the Smart 7 HD
- Likely basic camera performance
Infinix Smart 7 HD
- Octa-core processor for smoother performance
- Better multitasking capabilities
- More responsive user experience
- Less established brand recognition (Infinix)
- Potential for more bloatware
- May have slightly lower battery life under heavy load
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the context data focuses on processing power, we can infer both likely utilize basic LCD panels with 720p+ resolution, typical for this price bracket. The absence of specifications regarding brightness or color gamut suggests neither will excel in outdoor visibility or color accuracy. Bezels are likely substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. The display is unlikely to be a deciding factor for most buyers in this segment.
Camera Comparison
Both devices likely feature basic camera setups, and the provided data doesn't offer much to differentiate them. It's safe to assume both will include a primary camera and potentially a secondary depth sensor. Without sensor size or aperture information, it's difficult to assess image quality. The focus should be on functionality rather than photographic excellence. Expect acceptable results in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light. The absence of OIS on either device means image stabilization will rely solely on software processing.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPU configuration. The Infinix Smart 7 HD’s octa-core 1.6 GHz processor offers a significant advantage over the Redmi A1+'s quad-core 2.0 GHz Mediatek Helio A22. While the Redmi A1+ has a higher clock speed per core, the Smart 7 HD’s eight cores allow for better parallel processing, resulting in smoother multitasking and faster app loading times. The Helio A22, while efficient, is designed for extremely basic tasks. The Smart 7 HD will handle more demanding apps and light gaming with greater ease. The 12nm process node of the Helio A22 suggests reasonable power efficiency, but the Smart 7 HD’s architecture likely provides a better balance of performance and power consumption.
Battery Life
Both phones feature 10W wired charging, indicating similar charging speeds. While battery capacity isn't specified, both are likely in the 5000mAh range, a common size for budget smartphones. The difference in CPU architecture could impact battery life; the more efficient octa-core processor in the Smart 7 HD might offer slightly longer usage times despite potentially higher power draw during intensive tasks. Expect a full charge to take around 2.5-3 hours with the included 10W charger.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi A1+ if you need a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage, and prioritize a known brand with a generally reliable software experience. Buy the Infinix Smart 7 HD if you prefer a more responsive experience for running multiple apps, browsing the web, or enjoying casual gaming, and are comfortable with Infinix's UI.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Infinix Smart 7 HD struggle with popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram?
While not a powerhouse, the octa-core processor in the Smart 7 HD should handle Facebook and Instagram without significant issues. Expect some loading times for images and videos, but the overall experience should be usable. The Redmi A1+'s quad-core processor might exhibit more noticeable lag.
❓ Is the 10W charging speed on either phone sufficient for daily use?
10W charging is slow by modern standards, but adequate for these budget devices. Both phones will require several hours to fully charge. It's best to charge them overnight to ensure they're ready for the next day. Neither phone supports fast charging technologies.
❓ Can the Infinix Smart 7 HD run PUBG Mobile, even on low settings?
PUBG Mobile is a demanding game. While the Smart 7 HD *might* be able to run it on the lowest possible settings, expect a very choppy and unstable experience. The Helio A22 in the Redmi A1+ is even less suited for gaming. These phones are not designed for gaming.
❓ Which phone is better for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
For basic communication, both phones are perfectly adequate. The Redmi A1+’s established brand and potentially cleaner software experience might be preferable for users who prioritize simplicity and reliability over performance.
