The decision when buying a new mobile is complicated when we are looking for a high-end or mid-range mobile, but it can even become more complicated when reaching the entry-level or low-mid-range, a situation in which we do not enter. In the choice between the Realme 7i or the Redmi 9 we have many doubts and questions, when we find similarities and differences that will be key to getting the purchase right.
To ensure that the model is a success for you, we are going to face each and every one of the aspects, giving it the value that each one of them deserves. Despite being mobile that do not exceed the barrier of 180 euros, it has a lot to offer us. In the aesthetic section, let’s see some relevant changes, as well as in the interior when talking about its hardware and with special attention to the cameras.
Face to face design and displays
Although their screens may appear the same due to the design based on the drop-shaped notch and share the same screen dimensions with 6.5 inches, the resolution is the key and the first difference that we find. The Realme 7i conforms to an HD + resolution, while Xiaomi‘s Redmi 9 offers us a Full HD + resolution with a higher density of pixels per inch.
Although, on the contrary, the Realme 7i bets on a higher refresh rate , which grows up to 120 Hz and that makes the difference, exceeding in many aspects the relevance of the resolution. They are two models that share plastic material and where the fingerprint reader is located on the back of both. In weight they are very similar, although somewhat higher than the weight of the Realme 7i with 208 grams compared to the 198 grams of the Redmi 9.
MediaTek processors with changes
With a very similar AnTuTu score, a clock frequency reaches 2 Ghz in both models and many similar ones in terms of performance, the one with the best processor for very little is the Realme 7i. The Realme 7i model manages to improve results thanks to its layer with the MediaTek Helio G85 processor, before which the MediaTek Helio G80 of the Redmi 9 lags behind in load times and other compromised situations.
Two models where we will find the Realme 7i with 4G of RAM and 64 GB of memory, but expanding through MicroSD in case of need. On the contrary, Redmi offers us more variety, with 3 + 32 GB or 4 + 64 GB, also with the possibility of using a MicroSD.
Camera showdown between Realme 7i against Redmi 9
We have before us two of the entry-level models that offer the best results in cameras, but as you can see for yourself in the comparison we have made on the YouTube channel of our site, there are key points in which the Realme 7i passes above the Redmi 9 without any problem.
The first lens of both is one of the keys, seeing how the Realme 7i and its 48 Mpx offer us great detail in the most complicated situations, although Xiaomi’s 13 Mpx behave well if we do not demand too much of it. In the second of their lenses we will find the great place, where they share 8 Mpx and perhaps we will see a minor difference than in other aspects. The third lens is the one intended for macro, 2 Mpx for Realme and 5 Mpx for Redmi, with practically the same results. Selfie cameras are both 8 Mpx and here it happens again as in the others, artificial intelligence is key.
Realme 7i (left) vs Redmi 9 (right)
In addition, the Redmi 9 adds an extra 2 Mpx lens to perform portrait mode with more depth information, but the Realme 7i has shown us that it does not need it, because its artificial intelligence works at unsuspected levels. In the portrait mode tests you will see how the result is identical and even better in some cases for Realme. The naturalness of the tones and the results at night, ends up leaving the Realme 7i as the photographic winner in almost all situations.
Battery and connectivity
Another aspect that is becoming more important and valuable is the battery, where the Realme 7i passes over the Redmi 9 in autonomy , mainly due to the fact that its capacity is 6,000 mAh and the Redmi 9 remains at 5,020 mAh. The fast charge on the other hand is in the two of 18W. In connectivity there is a key point that differentiates them because the Redmi 9 has NFC and the Realme does not, therefore if we want to pay with it we will have it more difficult. We do have an audio jack on both, Bluetooth 5.0 LE and 4G connection.
Realme UI vs MIUI
The customization layers of both models are among the most interesting, Realme UI 2.0 will arrive on the phone in the coming months with Android 11 and on the contrary, the Redmi 9 already has MIUI 12 with Android 10 . We will have performances assured in March for quite some time and we will only have to choose if we prefer one style or another, with a good optimization in March and a little more customization in MIUI, although sometimes it can even be overwhelming.
Prices and purchase recommendation
When knowing their prices we focus on the version of 4 and 64 GB of memory that both offer, so we will be on equal terms. Starting with Realme, we find it for only 149 euros in the main stores in Spain and the Redmi 9 for 163 euros. What leaves us a small but relevant difference when dealing with economic models that think in the pocket.
In our opinion the Realme 7i is the best possible purchase , going above in performance, cameras and for a lower price, although we do not have NFC not all users use it and it is an addition that we must value. The screen with a higher refresh rate and a slightly better processor, finish convincing us.