1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2021-01-18 | 2021-12-16 | Motorola is nearly a year newer, potentially offering better long-term software support. |
| Dimensions | 161.2 × 77.3 × 9.1 mm | 170.5 × 76.5 × 9.1 mm | Motorola is taller, which might be less comfortable for smaller hands, while both have similar width and thickness. |
| Weight | 199g | 208g | Xiaomi is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended periods. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.53" | 6.8" | Motorola has a larger screen for more immersive media consumption, gaming, or multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2400 | Both offer similar sharpness and detail. The difference in resolution is minor and mostly negligible in real-world use. |
| PPI | 395 | 387 | Both offer similar pixel density, which results in equally sharp images and text. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Similar color accuracy and viewing angles. Neither offers deep blacks of an OLED screen, which will affect contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Motorola provides smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experiences; a noticeable difference in visual fluidity. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is unknown for both, so outdoor visibility is hard to predict. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM4350-AC Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8 nm) | Different processors that perform similarly, but Snapdragon is known for better power efficiency for some tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 381,000 | Motorola has slightly better performance in benchmarks which translates to smoother experience in some games and apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 (ARM Mali-G57 MC3) | Adreno 619 (Qualcomm Adreno 619) | Different GPUs with the Adreno 619 generally considered to be better for gaming. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP f/1.79, 1/2", 0.8µm, Samsung S5KGM2 | 50MP f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm, Samsung S5KJN1 | Motorola's slightly higher resolution main sensor, but Xiaomi has a larger sensor and wider aperture, which could result in better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP f/2.25, 1/3.1", 1.12µm, Samsung S5K3L6 | 13MP f/2.2, 1.12µm | Motorola has slightly wider aperture and likely slightly better low light performance. |
| Wide Angle lens | N/A | 8MP, 1.12µm | Motorola offers a wide angle option for more flexible landscape and group shots. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm, Hynix HI-259 | N/A | Xiaomi has a dedicated depth sensor which may result in better portrait shots. |
| Macro lens | 2MP f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm, Hynix HI-259 | 2MP, 1.75µm | Both have similar macro capabilities. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps, Slow-motion: 120 fps | 1080p@30/60/240fps, Slow-motion: 240 fps | Xiaomi supports higher resolution (4k), while Motorola offers higher slow-motion frame rate. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Digital Image Stabilization, Manual Focus | Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), RAW | Xiaomi offers 4k while Motorola has better autofocus and RAW output for more post processing. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Motorola Moto G51 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 10W fast charging, Li-Ion | Xiaomi charges faster. |
| Features | 22.5W charger inbox, Non-removable | Non-removable | Xiaomi comes with a faster charger in the box for quicker charging. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 18W charging vs. 10W significantly reduces charging time.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio and Stereo Speakers offer a richer media experience.
- Main Camera Sensor: Larger sensor can result in slightly better performance in low light.
- 4K Video Recording: Offers more video resolution which can be more desirable for vlogging, etc.
- Gorilla Glass 5: Provides better screen protection.
- Additional sensors: Has additional sensors such as a compass and ultrasonic proximity virtual.
- Bluetooth audio codecs: Support for higher quality audio codecs like LDAC and AAC
- In-box charger: Comes with a faster 22.5W charger in the box.
Motorola Moto G51 5G Advantages:
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate leads to a more fluid and responsive user experience.
- Marginally better performance: Slightly higher benchmark score indicating better overall performance in some tasks
- Wide Angle Lens: Provides more flexibility in photography.
- More Satellite Systems for GPS: Potentially better location accuracy.
- Later Android version: Offers newer Android version out-of-the box and guaranteed update to Android 12, which may provide new features, security updates.
- Better video capture: Offers higher slow motion video frame rate.
- Better autofocus: Phase detection autofocus (PDAF) and Laser autofocus (LAF)
Significant Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi prioritizes faster charging, and better audio while the Motorola focuses on a smoother display and more versatile camera system.
- Xiaomi's older OS vs the Motorola which launched with Android 11, but is guaranteed to update to Android 12.
- The Motorola is a larger, heavier phone.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T - Ideal Users:
- Multimedia Consumers: Those who watch a lot of videos and listen to music and prefer better audio quality.
- Users Prioritizing Charging Speed: Those who need their phones to charge quickly and be ready to go.
- Users looking for screen protection: Gorilla Glass 5 provides better protection from scratches and drops.
Use Cases:
- Watching movies and shows on the go.
- Listening to music with headphones or the onboard speakers.
- Casual gaming that does not require high graphic settings.
- Everyday usage requiring quick charge cycles.
Motorola Moto G51 5G - Ideal Users:
- Mobile Gamers/Social Media Users: Those who want the smoothest possible scrolling and transitions for gaming and social feeds.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who need a wide-angle lens and advanced camera features.
- Users Prioritizing Software Support: Those who want a newer device that is more likely to get software updates.
Use Cases:
- Playing fast-paced mobile games.
- Capturing landscape shots and group photos.
- Everyday use that benefits from a smoother user interface.
- Users that need accurate location services.
- Users that intend to do a lot of post processing on images.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Both phones target the budget/mid-range market.
- The price-to-value ratio depends on individual needs, but the Moto G51 offers a more modern experience with 120Hz display, if that is something that is more desirable to you.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is a smooth display? (Motorola wins on the 120hz vs 60hz display)
- Do you prioritize fast charging and better audio, or a more versatile camera and smoother display?
- How important is the latest software version and longevity? (Motorola has a slightly newer android version and guaranteed update)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Casual User, Media Consumption, Limited gaming: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T for its better audio quality, and fast charging.
Scenario 2: Social Media User, Mobile Gamer: Choose the Motorola Moto G51 5G for its smoother display, and more versatile camera setup.
Scenario 3: Photo Enthusiast, Post Processing: Choose the Motorola Moto G51 5G for its wide angle lens, advanced camera features and RAW support.
My Choice
Given my preferences, I would choose the Motorola Moto G51 5G. While the faster charging on the Xiaomi is appealing, the 120Hz display on the Motorola is a significant advantage for my daily usage. The smoothness provided by the higher refresh rate makes browsing, social media, and casual gaming much more enjoyable. Additionally, the wide-angle lens provides more flexibility in photography. I also appreciate the slightly better benchmark performance and better slow motion video recording. Lastly, the fact that it is guaranteed to update to Android 12 ensures more longevity of the device. Even though the Xiaomi has superior audio quality, and is equipped with a larger main camera sensor, I would trade that for the 120hz and better camera features in the Motorola.
