Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers value, but navigating the options can be tricky. The Redmi A4 and Redmi 10A represent distinct approaches to the ultra-budget segment. The A4 leverages a newer, more efficient Qualcomm chipset, while the 10A relies on MediaTek's Helio G25. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which phone offers the best experience for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Xiaomi Redmi A4 is the superior choice. Its Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 chipset, built on a 4nm process, provides a noticeable performance advantage and improved power efficiency over the Redmi 10A's Helio G25. While the 10A offers slightly slower charging, the A4's overall responsiveness and future-proofing make it the better investment.
| 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 | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - International |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 78 SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, October 16 | 2022, March 29 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, November 27 | Available. Released 2022, March 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, glass back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 171.9 x 77.8 x 8.2 mm (6.77 x 3.06 x 0.32 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 | 212.4 g (7.51 oz) | 194 g (6.84 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~260 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.88 inches, 112.4 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 450 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM4635 Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 (4 nm) | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 14, up to 2 major Android upgrades, HyperOS | Android 11, MIUI 12.5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 50 MP, f/1.8, (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, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted) | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5160 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sparkle Purple, Starry Black | Charcoal Black, Sea Blue, Slate Grey |
| Models | 24116RNC1I | 220233L2C, 220233L2G, 220233L2I |
| Price | ₹ 7,989 | € 60.00 / $ 66.55 |
| SAR | 0.81 W/kg (head) 0.71 W/kg (body) | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Redmi A4
- Superior performance with Snapdragon 4s Gen 2
- More efficient 4nm process for better battery life
- Faster 18W charging
- Potentially better camera image processing
- May be slightly more expensive than the Redmi 10A
- Specific battery capacity not specified
Xiaomi Redmi 10A
- Lower price point
- Likely similar battery capacity to the A4
- Widely available
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Significantly weaker performance with Helio G25
- Slower 10W charging
- Less efficient 12nm process
- Potential for noticeable lag and slowdowns
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. However, details like resolution and peak brightness are missing. The focus here is on internal components, not display fidelity. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a budget.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic camera setups. Without specific sensor details, it's difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, the Redmi 10A's camera is likely to be limited by the Helio G25's image signal processor (ISP). The A4's Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 offers a more capable ISP, potentially resulting in better image quality and faster processing. Expect both to struggle in low-light conditions. The inclusion of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing gimmick and offers minimal practical benefit.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Redmi A4’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 (4nm) is a clear winner. Its octa-core configuration, featuring 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A78 and 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, provides a significantly more powerful and efficient architecture than the Redmi 10A’s MediaTek Helio G25 (12nm). The Helio G25’s 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 cores are older and less capable. The 4nm fabrication process of the Snapdragon translates to lower power consumption and reduced thermal throttling, meaning sustained performance is higher. This impacts everything from app launch times to web browsing smoothness.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified, but both phones likely feature around 5000mAh batteries, standard for this segment. The Redmi A4 supports 18W wired charging, while the Redmi 10A is limited to 10W. This translates to significantly faster charging times for the A4. While the 10A might offer slightly longer screen-on time due to the less powerful chipset, the A4’s faster charging mitigates this advantage, allowing for quicker top-ups.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi A4 if you prioritize smooth multitasking, occasional gaming, and long-term performance. The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 offers a significant upgrade in processing power. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 10A if your needs are extremely basic – primarily calls, texts, and light social media – and you're looking for the absolute lowest price point. Be prepared for noticeable slowdowns with demanding apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Redmi A4 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 is a capable chip, don't expect flagship-level gaming performance. PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty will likely be playable at lower settings and frame rates. The A4 will offer a smoother experience than the Redmi 10A, but demanding titles may still exhibit lag or stuttering.
❓ Is the difference in charging speed between 10W and 18W really noticeable?
Yes, the difference is significant. 18W charging on the Redmi A4 will substantially reduce charging times compared to the 10W charging on the Redmi 10A. You'll spend less time tethered to a wall outlet, which is a major convenience factor.
❓ Does the Redmi 10A overheat during prolonged use?
The MediaTek Helio G25, built on a 12nm process, is more prone to thermal throttling than the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2. While it won't likely get dangerously hot, you may experience performance slowdowns during extended gaming sessions or heavy multitasking.
❓ Which phone is better for someone who primarily uses WhatsApp and Facebook?
For basic social media use, both phones are adequate. However, the Redmi A4's smoother performance will provide a more responsive and enjoyable experience, even with these apps. The 10A may exhibit occasional lag when switching between apps.
