Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Realme 9i and the ZTE Blade A75 4G. These two phones occupy a similar space in the market, but as we’ll see, they each have distinct strengths. I'll break down the specs, provide some real-world context, and help you figure out which one might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the specs, focusing on what they actually mean for you, the user:
| Feature | Realme 9i | ZTE Blade A75 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 × 75.7 × 8.4 mm, 190g | 164.1 × 75.8 × 8.6 mm, 189g | Virtually identical size and weight. Both feel similar in hand. The ZTE is negligibly thicker and lighter. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Both phones offer the same screen size, comfortable for media consumption and browsing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2412 | 720x1612 | Realme 9i has a sharper, clearer display with 124.4% more pixels, better for detailed viewing and sharper text. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 267 | The Realme 9i's display will look noticeably crisper. This impacts text clarity and image detail. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use standard LCD technology; similar color accuracy and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both devices; enhances the overall user experience. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | The Snapdragon 680 is more efficient and generally better for gaming and demanding tasks due to its 6nm process |
| AnTuTu Score | 216,850 | 240,000 | The ZTE Blade A75 4G has a slightly higher benchmark score, suggesting marginally better performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G57 MP1 | The Adreno 610 in the Realme 9i will provide better graphics performance for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor, 0.64µm pixels | 50MP, f/1.8 | Both have similar primary camera specs. Realme 9i has detailed sensor information. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.1, 1/3.13" sensor, 1.0µm pixels | 8MP | Realme 9i takes much higher-resolution selfies due to its 16MP camera. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Realme 9i offers the flexibility of macro photography for close-up shots. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | The Realme 9i can take monochrome photos with its B&W lens. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps; Slow-motion 120fps | 1080p@30fps; Slow-motion 30fps | Similar video recording capabilities. Realme 9i has better slow motion capabilities. |
| Camera Features | Triple camera, PDAF, HDR, etc. | Dual camera, PDAF, HDR, Digital image stabilization | Realme 9i offers a third lens but ZTE Blade A75 has Digital image stabilization |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones offer all-day battery life for typical use. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 22.5W fast charging | Realme 9i charges faster than the ZTE. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Minor difference, both offer similar non-removable features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 | ZTE Blade A75 4G comes with a newer version of Android, with security and functionality updates from the get go. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac, Dual-band | 802.11ac, Dual-band | Similar Wi-Fi performance for fast and reliable internet connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, AptX, SBC, AAC | 5.0 LE | Realme 9i supports higher-quality audio codecs. ZTE has lower power usage. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | The ZTE Blade A75 4G has a larger storage option. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 4GB/8GB | ZTE A75 has a higher RAM option, good for better multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | DTS / DTS X | Realme 9i has higher quality audio, better audio separation and immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer a fast, reliable fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Accelerometer, Compass, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | The Realme 9i has compass, while the ZTE Blade A75 has Gyroscope. |
2. Key Insights
Realme 9i: Strengths
- Sharper Display: The Full HD+ display on the Realme 9i is a clear winner, offering a superior viewing experience.
- Better Selfies: A 16MP front camera is significantly better for selfie lovers.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging will get you powered up more quickly.
- Triple Camera Versatility: Dedicated macro and B&W lenses add more creative options.
- High Audio Quality: Hi-Res audio and stereo speakers give a better audio experience.
- Better chipset: The Snapdragon 680 offers more efficient performance for gaming and other demanding tasks.
ZTE Blade A75 4G: Strengths
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 13 out of the box.
- Larger Storage Option: 256GB internal storage is great for those who need more space.
- Slightly Better Benchmark Score: Offers a marginally better performance based on AnTuTu.
- Higher RAM Option: The 8GB RAM option allows for smoother multitasking.
- Digital Image Stabilization: Ensures smoother footage during video recording
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Realme 9i: Lower internal storage options and older operating system, no expandable storage.
- ZTE Blade A75 4G: Lower resolution screen, inferior selfie camera, and slower charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme 9i:
- Media Consumers: Ideal for users who watch videos and browse a lot, due to its sharper display and better audio.
- Photography Enthusiasts: A better selfie camera and triple lens setup are beneficial for casual photographers.
- Gamers: The better chipset helps to run demanding games more smoothly
- Users who prefer faster charging 33W charging will be much better for busy users.
ZTE Blade A75 4G:
- Storage Seekers: Great for users who need a lot of space for files, media, and apps.
- Multitaskers: More RAM can handle a lot of apps running at the same time.
- Users who prefer the newest OS: The newer Android 13 OS will give a more modern and up to date user experience.
- Users who prioritize slightly better benchmark performance The AnTuTu score suggests slightly better performance.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your choice:
- Display Quality: How important is screen clarity and detail to your daily use? (If this is key, go for the Realme 9i).
- Storage Needs: Do you require ample space for media and apps without needing to delete constantly? (If so, the 256 GB variant of the ZTE Blade A75 is better).
- Camera Priorities: Are selfies and versatile photography essential for you? (If so, the Realme 9i is the better choice).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Frequent Traveler: The Realme 9i would be better due to its better camera and immersive display.
- Social Media Power User: If you use your phone mostly for social media and watching videos, the ZTE with the 8 GB of RAM may be better.
- Budget-Conscious Consumer: Both phones offer a great value proposition, but the Realme 9i gives you a much better screen for a similar price.
Which One Would I Choose?
If I were choosing, I'd personally go for the Realme 9i. While the ZTE Blade A75 4G is a capable phone with its own advantages like the larger storage option, the significantly sharper display on the Realme 9i is just too compelling. As someone who consumes a lot of media and cares about image clarity, the difference in the display is a game changer for me. The better selfie camera and faster charging are also huge benefits that edge out the ZTE Blade A75 4G. While I appreciate having the newest OS and 8 GB of RAM, the practical benefits of a crisper display for everyday use are what matter most to me.
Ultimately, the "best" phone depends on your specific needs, but hopefully this analysis has given you a clear understanding of the strengths and trade-offs of each device. Let me know if you have any other questions!
