The Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 series offers a compelling blend of affordability and features. While both the Redmi Note 9 4G and the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G target budget-conscious consumers, they diverge significantly in their core processing power and connectivity options. This comparison dissects these differences, focusing on the implications of the Snapdragon 662 versus the Snapdragon 750G, and the impact of 18W versus 33W charging.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing future-proofing and faster performance, the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G is the clear winner. Its Snapdragon 750G chipset delivers a noticeable performance uplift, and the 33W charging significantly reduces downtime. However, the Redmi Note 9 4G remains a viable option for those on a tighter budget who don't require 5G connectivity.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 41, 78, 79 SA/NSA/Sub6 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G |
| | CDMA 800 | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, November 26 | 2020, November 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2020, November 26 | Available. Released 2020, December 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), glass back (Gorilla Glass 5) |
| Dimensions | 162.3 x 77.3 x 9.6 mm (6.39 x 3.04 x 0.38 in) | 165.4 x 76.8 x 9 mm (6.51 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 198 g (6.98 oz) | 215 g (7.58 oz) |
| | Water-repellent coating | IP53, dust and splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 104.7 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, HDR10, 120Hz, 450 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Adreno 619 |
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to Android 12, MIUI 14 | Android 10, MIUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | - | 108 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/1.52", 0.7µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 118˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| 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 | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 16 MP, f/2.5, (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (G1), BDS (B1I+B2a), GALILEO (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1+L5) |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| 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, compass |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired | 33W wired, 100% in 58 min |
| Type | Li-Po 6000 mAh | Li-Po 4820 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gray, Green, Blue, Orange | Gray, Blue, Red/Mint |
| Models | M2010J19SC | M2007J17C |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 370 EUR |
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 4G
- More affordable price point
- Slightly better power efficiency due to the 11nm process
- Reliable performance for basic tasks
- Significantly slower performance compared to the Pro 5G
- Slower 18W charging
- Lacks 5G connectivity
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G
- Faster Snapdragon 750G chipset for smoother performance
- 33W fast charging for quicker top-ups
- 5G connectivity for future-proofing
- Higher price tag
- Potentially slightly lower battery life due to more powerful processor
Display Comparison
While both devices likely feature similar LCD panels in terms of resolution and refresh rate (data not provided), the core difference lies in the processing power driving them. The display experience will be more fluid on the Pro 5G due to the faster chipset's ability to render graphics more efficiently. Bezels and color accuracy are likely comparable given their market positioning.
Camera Comparison
Without specific camera sensor details, it's difficult to make a definitive comparison. However, the more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Snapdragon 750G of the Pro 5G will likely result in better image processing, particularly in low-light conditions. The Pro 5G's chipset can handle more complex computational photography algorithms, leading to improved dynamic range and detail. The Redmi Note 9 4G will still produce acceptable images, but the Pro 5G offers a clear advantage in image quality.
Performance
The heart of the difference is the chipset. The Redmi Note 9 4G utilizes the Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662, built on an 11nm process. This is a capable chip for everyday tasks, but it's outmatched by the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G's Snapdragon 750G (8nm). The 750G boasts faster Kryo 570 cores (2x2.2 GHz vs 4x2.0 GHz on the 662), resulting in a significant performance advantage in demanding applications and gaming. The 8nm process also contributes to better thermal efficiency, potentially reducing throttling during extended use. The Pro 5G's architecture is a generation ahead, offering improved AI capabilities and overall responsiveness.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have similar battery capacities (data not provided), but the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G's 33W charging is a game-changer. Xiaomi claims a 100% charge in just 58 minutes, significantly reducing downtime compared to the Redmi Note 9 4G's 18W charging. While the 662 is more power-efficient, the faster charging of the 750G model offsets any potential battery life disadvantage, making it more convenient for users who frequently need to top up their devices.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 4G if you need a reliable, affordable smartphone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming, and 5G connectivity isn't a priority. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G if you prefer a smoother, more responsive experience, faster app loading times, and the ability to take advantage of 5G networks, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 750G in the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G handle demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty Mobile smoothly?
Yes, the Snapdragon 750G is a capable gaming chipset. While it won't deliver flagship-level performance, it can comfortably run PUBG and Call of Duty Mobile at medium to high settings with stable frame rates. The 8nm process also helps to mitigate thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions.
❓ Is the 5G connectivity on the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G worth the extra cost if 5G isn't widely available in my area yet?
That depends on your future plans. Investing in a 5G phone like the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G future-proofs your device for when 5G networks become more prevalent. Even if 5G isn't available now, you'll be ready to take advantage of faster speeds when it is. The 750G also offers improved 4G performance compared to the 662.
❓ How much faster is the 33W charging on the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G compared to the 18W charging on the Redmi Note 9 4G in real-world use?
Xiaomi claims a full charge in 58 minutes for the Pro 5G. The Redmi Note 9 4G will likely take over 2 hours to reach 100%. This means you can quickly top up the Pro 5G during short breaks, making it ideal for users who are always on the go.
