The Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 4G and Realme Narzo 30 5G represent compelling options in the sub-$200 smartphone market. While both aim for affordability, they take different approaches: the Redmi Note 9 4G prioritizes a refined 4G experience and established brand recognition, while the Narzo 30 5G aggressively pushes 5G connectivity into the budget segment. This comparison dissects their core differences to help you choose the right device.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Realme Narzo 30 5G emerges as the better choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset, built on a more efficient 7nm process, delivers noticeably improved performance and future-proofs with 5G support. While the Redmi Note 9 4G offers a stable experience, the Narzo 30 5G provides a superior value proposition.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 66 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | CDMA 800 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, November 26 | 2021, May 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2020, November 26 | Available. Released 2021, June 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 162.3 x 77.3 x 9.6 mm (6.39 x 3.04 x 0.38 in) | 162.5 x 74.8 x 8.5 mm (6.40 x 2.94 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 198 g (6.98 oz) | 185 g (6.53 oz) |
| | Water-repellent coating | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | - |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~405 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 104.7 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~83.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to Android 12, MIUI 14 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 12, Realme UI 3.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 16 MP, f/2.1, 26mm (wide) |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 16 MP, f/2.1, 26mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 6000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gray, Green, Blue, Orange | Racing Blue, Racing Silver |
| Models | M2010J19SC | RMX3242 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 110 EUR |
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 4G
- Established brand reputation
- Reliable 4G connectivity
- Potentially more software updates (Xiaomi's track record)
- Less powerful chipset
- Larger process node (11nm) leads to lower efficiency
- Lacks 5G support
Realme Narzo 30 5G
- Faster and more efficient Dimensity 700 chipset
- 5G connectivity for future-proofing
- Better value for performance
- Realme's software support can be inconsistent
- Potentially less refined software experience compared to Xiaomi
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. The key difference lies under the hood: processing power impacts UI smoothness. While specific display specs (resolution, brightness) are missing, the Narzo 30 5G’s more powerful chipset will contribute to a more responsive visual experience. Bezels are likely comparable, and color accuracy will be standard for budget phones.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, a direct comparison is difficult. However, the market segment suggests both phones will rely on primary sensors for most image quality. The Narzo 30 5G likely benefits from the improved image signal processing (ISP) capabilities integrated within the Dimensity 700 chipset, potentially leading to better dynamic range and low-light performance. Expect both phones to include standard features like portrait mode and HDR, but don't anticipate flagship-level image quality. The inclusion of a 2MP macro lens on either device is largely a marketing tactic and offers limited practical benefit.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Realme Narzo 30 5G’s Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) is a clear upgrade over the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 4G’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 (11nm). The 7nm process allows for higher transistor density and improved power efficiency, translating to better sustained performance and less thermal throttling. The Narzo 30 5G’s CPU configuration – 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 – offers a more potent combination than the Redmi Note 9’s 4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver. This means faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience on the Narzo 30 5G.
Battery Life
Both devices feature 18W wired charging, suggesting comparable charging speeds (around 2-3 hours for a full charge). The actual battery life will depend on usage patterns and the efficiency of the respective chipsets. While the exact battery capacity isn't specified, the Dimensity 700’s 7nm process should contribute to better power efficiency, potentially offsetting any capacity differences. Users who heavily utilize 5G on the Narzo 30 5G should expect slightly reduced battery life compared to 4G usage on the Redmi Note 9 4G.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 4G if you primarily need a reliable smartphone for basic tasks, prioritize a well-established ecosystem, and don't require 5G connectivity. Buy the Realme Narzo 30 5G if you want faster performance for gaming and streaming, anticipate utilizing 5G networks, and value future-proofing at an aggressive price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Realme Narzo 30 5G's battery life suffer significantly when using 5G?
Yes, utilizing 5G will consume more power than 4G. However, the Dimensity 700's 7nm process is more efficient than the Snapdragon 662's 11nm process, which helps mitigate the battery drain. Expect a noticeable, but not drastic, reduction in battery life when actively using 5G networks.
❓ Is the Snapdragon 662 in the Redmi Note 9 4G still capable of running popular games like PUBG Mobile?
Yes, the Snapdragon 662 can run PUBG Mobile, but likely at lower graphics settings and frame rates to maintain a smooth experience. Expect some frame drops during intense action sequences. The Narzo 30 5G with the Dimensity 700 will provide a significantly smoother and more consistent gaming experience.
❓ Does the Realme Narzo 30 5G support all 5G bands?
5G band support varies by region. It's crucial to check the specific model number of the Narzo 30 5G available in your country and verify compatibility with your carrier's 5G bands before purchasing. Realme typically lists supported bands on their official website.
❓ How does Realme's software update policy compare to Xiaomi's for these devices?
Xiaomi generally has a better track record for providing longer software support and more frequent updates compared to Realme. While Realme has improved, users should expect potentially fewer major Android version updates and security patches for the Narzo 30 5G over its lifespan.
