Alright, let’s dive into this comparison of the Realme 9i and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. Both phones occupy a similar space in the market, but there are some key differences that will likely sway your decision one way or the other. I'm going to break this down in a way that is both technical and practical, so you'll know exactly what you're getting.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specs, with a focus on what they mean for you in real life:
| Feature | Realme 9i | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.7 x 8.4mm | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9mm | The Poco M4 5G is slightly thicker and heavier, which might make the Realme 9i feel a bit more comfortable for some in daily use. |
| Weight | 190g | 200g | A 10g difference might seem minor, but it is noticeable over extended use. The Realme 9i will be slightly more comfortable to hold. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.58" | Virtually identical. You won’t notice a difference in screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2412 | 1080x2408 | Both offer a sharp, crisp display, suitable for reading, watching videos, and browsing the web. |
| PPI | 400 | 401 | Pixel density is nearly identical; the visual experience will be indistinguishable. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Same display technology, so expect similar color accuracy and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations; a definite plus for a more fluid user interface. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones seem to have their brightness info unavailable |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 680 4G | Dimensity 700 | The Dimensity 700 in the Poco M4 5G is significantly more powerful, leading to better performance in apps and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 216,850 | 381,300 | The Poco M4 5G's higher score reflects faster app loading and a smoother experience, especially in demanding tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G57 MC2 | The Mali-G57 MC2 is the more capable GPU here. The Poco M4 5G will handle games better. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer good battery endurance for a full day of use, but actual battery life can vary based on usage patterns. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | The Realme 9i charges much faster, meaning less time tethered to a power outlet. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | The Poco M4 5G offers reverse charging, which could be handy if you need to share a charge with another device. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera | 50MP (f/1.8) | 13MP (f/2.2) | The Realme 9i has a much higher resolution sensor and wider aperture for better details and low-light performance. |
| Front Camera | 16MP (f/2.1) | 5MP (f/2.2) | The Realme 9i offers significantly higher front camera resolution and a wider aperture for clearer and brighter selfies. |
| Portrait Mode | No | 2MP (f/2.4) | The Poco M4 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots. The Realme 9i will rely on software for this. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | No | The Realme 9i has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. The Poco M4 5G will not capture macro images |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | No | The Realme 9i has a dedicated black and white lens for more creative shots. The Poco M4 5G will not capture black and white images |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both record in 1080p, adequate for social media. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Digital Image Stabilization | The Poco M4 5G offers video digital image stabilization for smooth video capture. |
| Slow Motion | 120fps | No | Realme 9i can record video in slow motion |
| Features | Triple camera, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Panorama, Digital zoom, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | Dual camera, Digital zoom, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, 4K Video, Night Mode, Digital Image Stabilization | Realme 9i has more camera modes, while the Poco M4 5G offers video digital image stabilization and night mode. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | The Poco M4 5G comes with a newer version of Android, which can give you more features and improved security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 | Similar Wi-Fi capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | Xiaomi's newer version might offer marginal improvements in speed and battery efficiency. |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Same GPS capabilities on both devices. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support two SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 64GB/128GB | Same internal storage options. Choose based on your media and app needs. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 4GB/6GB | Both have the same RAM options, for moderate multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Both do not support external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | The Realme 9i offers a better audio experience, with high-res audio and stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer the same biometric unlocking features. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Poco M4 5G offers better scratch resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Proximity, Gyroscope | The Poco M4 5G has more sensors for a better user experience for gaming or VR |
2. Key Insights
Performance Powerhouse (Poco M4 5G): The Poco M4 5G, with its Dimensity 700 chipset, is a clear winner when it comes to raw performance. It’ll handle multitasking and gaming far better than the Realme 9i.
Camera Superiority (Realme 9i): Realme 9i's 50MP main camera and 16MP front camera and additional 2MP Macro Lens and 2MP B&W lens make a much more versatile photography tool compared to the Poco M4 5G's 13MP camera.
Charging Speed (Realme 9i): The Realme 9i's 33W charging is a game-changer. If you’re someone who hates waiting for a phone to charge, this is a major plus.
Audio Quality (Realme 9i): The Hi-Res audio and stereo speakers of the Realme 9i offer a better immersive audio experience.
Display Parity: Both phones offer a similar display experience with the same size, resolution and refresh rate, but the Poco M4 5G has a better screen protection.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
The Gamer/Multitasker (Poco M4 5G): If you prioritize performance for gaming or running resource-intensive apps, the Poco M4 5G is the obvious choice. The more powerful processor and GPU will make a big difference.
The Photography Enthusiast (Realme 9i): If you’re someone who loves taking photos, the Realme 9i’s better camera setup, especially the higher resolution front-facing camera, will serve you much better. You also get additional macro and black & white lenses.
The Battery-Conscious (Realme 9i): If you're more inclined to focus on fast charging and prefer to spend less time tethered to a power outlet, Realme 9i has a significant edge.
The Audiophile (Realme 9i): If good audio quality is essential, the Realme 9i has better audio playback, better audio separation and immersion.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is raw performance to you? If you want the smoothest experience with games and apps, the Poco M4 5G is the way to go. If you are a light user, both are good options.
- What do you prioritize when taking pictures? If you like to take pictures and selfies, you'd get better photos with the Realme 9i.
- How much do you value faster charging? If you really care about fast charging speed, Realme 9i's 33W will provide much shorter charging time.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: On-the-Go Productivity: If you need a phone that can keep up with your demanding routine, the Poco M4 5G, would be good, though the camera is not as good.
- Scenario 2: Media Consumption & Photography: If you watch videos or take pictures a lot and you want better audio quality, then the Realme 9i is a great option.
- Scenario 3: Casual User: If you only require basic phone functions, social media browsing and streaming, and camera usage, the Realme 9i offers a better camera, faster charging and better audio.
My Choice
If I were to pick between these two, I'd lean towards the Realme 9i. My rationale is simple: despite the allure of the Poco M4 5G's performance edge, the overall experience on the Realme 9i seems more well-rounded for my everyday needs. I value a good camera for everyday photography, and the Realme 9i provides a much more versatile photography tool, especially with the 16MP front camera and its other additional camera lenses. Additionally, fast charging is a significant convenience I appreciate. While the Poco M4 5G has superior gaming performance, the Realme 9i checks more of my must-have boxes.
That being said, this is my preference. Both of these phones will serve you well, but your personal needs should be the main driver.
