Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Redmi 9T vs. Samsung Galaxy A04s
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 9T | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 162.3 x 77.3 x 9.6 mm | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm | A04s is slightly taller and thinner, but both are similarly sized. Redmi 9T might feel a bit bulkier. |
| Weight | 198g | 195g | Negligible difference in weight, both feel similar in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.53" | 6.5" | Negligible difference in screen size, both provide a similar viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 720 x 1600 | Redmi 9T has a significantly sharper display, better for text clarity and image detail. |
| PPI | 395 | 270 | Redmi 9T offers noticeably crisper visuals with higher pixel density. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | PLS LCD | IPS LCD on Redmi 9T generally offers better viewing angles and color reproduction compared to PLS LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | A04s has a smoother scrolling and animation experience, though the difference might not be dramatic for all users. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is unknown for both, making it hard to comment on outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11nm) | Exynos 850 (8nm) | Redmi 9T has a more powerful chipset, providing faster app loading and smoother performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 174,500 | 117,300 | Redmi 9T has a noticeably faster real-world performance based on benchmark scores. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G52 | Redmi 9T's GPU is generally better for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 6000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi 9T has significantly larger battery capacity, likely resulting in longer battery life. |
| Charging | 18W | 15W | Redmi 9T charges slightly faster with its 18W charging and also includes the charger in the box. |
| Features | Reverse Charging, 22.5W charger inbox | None | Redmi 9T can act as a power bank for other devices and comes with a faster charger in box. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79 | 50MP, f/1.8 | A04s has slightly higher MP count, but Redmi 9T's wider aperture may perform better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Redmi 9T's front camera is better for selfies with higher MP and wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | None | Redmi 9T offers an additional wide-angle lens for capturing more in the frame. |
| Portrait/Depth | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar dedicated depth sensors for portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have similar macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, 34fps slow-mo | Both offer similar main recording but Redmi 9T has much higher slow-mo frame rate, potentially resulting in better slow-motion videos. |
| Features | 4K Video, Quad Camera, Digital Image Stabilisation, additional features | Triple Camera, Phase Detection Autofocus, basic features | Redmi 9T offers more advanced camera features such as 4K Video, digital image stabilisation, and panorama while the A04s has PDAF for faster autofocus. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 12 (upgradeable to 14) | A04s comes with a newer OS and longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Redmi 9T has Dual-band Wi-Fi for better network performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | Both offer the same Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A04s supports QZSS for improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both phones offer dual SIM capability. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 32/64/128 GB | Both have the same max storage of 128GB but A04s offers a lower 32GB variant. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 3/4 GB | Redmi 9T can have more RAM (6 GB), potentially improving multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | Redmi 9T offers superior audio quality and features stereo speakers for immersive audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Both have side-mounted fingerprint sensors. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi 9T has better screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass 3. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Proximity | Redmi 9T has a compass in addition to basic sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi 9T Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and pixel density (1080x2340 vs 720x1600, 395 PPI vs 270 PPI) result in noticeably sharper and clearer visuals.
- Better Performance: Snapdragon 662 chipset offers better performance than the Exynos 850, reflected in higher benchmark scores (174,500 vs 117,300).
- Larger Battery: Significantly larger 6000mAh battery compared to 5000mAh in the A04s, offering much better battery life.
- Faster Charging: 18W fast charging compared to 15W on the A04s; also has a 22.5W charger in the box.
- More Versatile Camera System: Includes a wide-angle lens, higher-resolution selfie camera, and 4K video recording.
- Enhanced Audio: Features Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers, providing a superior audio experience.
- Better Build Quality: Equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen protection.
- Additional features: Reverse Charging, Compass, faster slow-motion capabilities (120fps)
Samsung Galaxy A04s Advantages:
- Newer OS: Comes with Android 12 (upgradable to 14) versus Android 10 on the Redmi 9T, offering better software support and security.
- Smoother Display (Potentially): 90Hz refresh rate, which may result in smoother scrolling and animations.
- More Accurate GPS: Supports QZSS satellite system in addition to other systems, offering more accurate location tracking.
- Wider storage options: Available with 32GB of storage
- Phase Detection Autofocus: For faster focus on cameras.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Redmi 9T sacrifices a newer operating system and GPS accuracy for overall better performance, battery, and multimedia experience.
- The Galaxy A04s prioritizes software and slightly smoother display over performance and battery life.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 9T Ideal User:
- Media Consumers: Users who frequently watch videos, browse the web, and play games will benefit from the higher resolution display and stereo speakers.
- Power Users: Users needing long battery life and the ability to perform moderate tasks, benefiting from the bigger battery and stronger chipset.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value versatility in their camera, wanting wide-angle shots, higher-quality selfies, and 4K video capabilities.
- Value-Conscious Buyers: Those seeking the best performance and features at an affordable price point.
- Travelers: Who like the convenience of reverse charging
Use Cases for Redmi 9T:
- Watching movies and TV shows on the go.
- Playing graphically demanding mobile games.
- Capturing photos and videos in various scenarios, including wide landscapes and low-light conditions.
- Long days away from a power outlet.
- Listening to music
Samsung Galaxy A04s Ideal User:
- Software-Focused Users: Prioritizing a newer OS version with longer support and software updates.
- Casual Users: Users who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and browsing social media.
- Users Needing Accurate GPS: Users relying on their phone for navigation, such as drivers or hikers.
- Users Seeking Smoother Scrolling: Users who value 90Hz refresh rate for a slightly smoother experience.
- Budget-Conscious: Users seeking a very affordable phone from a reputable brand.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Everyday communication (calls, texts, emails).
- Basic web browsing and social media use.
- Navigation and location services.
- Users wanting to upgrade to new Android versions.
- Casual gaming
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality for your use? (If you watch a lot of videos, the Redmi 9T is better).
- Do you need long battery life? (The Redmi 9T is the clear winner here).
- Do you value the latest software and updates? (The A04s will be better supported).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Frequent traveler or road-tripper: Choose the Redmi 9T due to its longer battery life and versatile camera.
- Scenario 2: Budget-conscious with minimal needs: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A04s for its lower cost and newer software.
- Scenario 3: Everyday user who wants the best media experience: Choose the Redmi 9T for its sharper screen, stereo speakers and better camera system.
- Scenario 4: A user who wants to use the phone for navigation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A04s due to the additional QZSS support.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Xiaomi Redmi 9T. While the Samsung Galaxy A04s offers a slightly smoother 90Hz display and a more recent version of Android, the Redmi 9T provides a more compelling package for the vast majority of users. The significantly sharper display, superior battery life, and much better overall performance due to the stronger processor are compelling advantages that would improve the day-to-day usage experience. Additionally, the stereo speakers, much higher slow-motion frame rates and better camera make it a more rounded media consumption device which I would prioritize in a phone. The inclusion of reverse charging makes it a very good device to have on the go. The lack of expandable storage is a bummer for both phones, but its the only area where the A04s and Redmi 9T are comparable.
