You're choosing between the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9S and the Redmi Note 9 Pro, but you can't figure out whether you should pay too much for the Pro version? Both models came out in 2020, but they're still relevant because of the balanced specs and the affordable price. At first glance, the differences are minimal: the same design, similar screens, even identical batteries, but there are key differences under the hood that can dramatically affect the experience of use.
This article will help you figure out which model is right for you, and we've analyzed performance, cameras, autonomy and other criteria based on real-world tests and user feedback. Spoiler: if you like taking pictures at night or playing hard games, the choice is obvious. And if you want a reliable smartphone for calls and social networks, you can save money.
1. Design and ergonomics: who is more comfortable in the hand?
Both models are Xiaomi-style with a plastic back and glass screen. The case of the Note 9S and Note 9 Pro is identical: the same dimensions (165.8 × 76.7 × 8.8 mm), weight (209 g) and even the location of the buttons. The difference is only in the color options: the Pro version has an exclusive shade of “Tropical Green” (tropical green), which is missing from the Note 9S.
The fingerprint scanner on both models is placed on the side, in the power button. This is convenient, but some users have complained about the speed of recognition. And here the splash protection is only IP53 (dust and moisture protection at the basic level), so you should not check the smartphone for strength in the rain.
- 📏 Sizes: 165.8 × 76.7 × 8.8 mm (same size)
- ⚖️ Weight: 209g (doesn't feel heavy)
- 🎨 Colors: Note's 9S — Grey, white, blue; Note 9 Pro + green
- 🔒 Biometrics: side-scanner fingerprints + face-recognition
⚠️ Attention: Plastic case is prone to scratches. If you plan to use a smartphone without a case, be prepared for microsplints on a glossy surface through the 2-3 month.
2. Screen: AMOLED vs IPS - which is brighter and clearer?
Here is the first significant difference: Redmi Note 9 Pro is equipped AMOLED-screen-in-screen HDR10, Note 9S standardized IPS-The resolution is the same. HD+ (2400 × 1080), But the technology is different:
AMOLED in the Pro version gives more juicy colors, deep black and better contrast. However, the IPS in the Note 9S wins in maximum brightness (450 nits vs. 400 nits in AMOLED) and suffers less burnout during prolonged use. If you watch videos or play often, AMOLED will be preferable. For reading texts and working with IPS documents, even more convenient - eyes are less tired.
| Parameter | Redmi Note 9S (IPS) | Redmi Note 9 Pro (AMOLED) |
|---|---|---|
| Type of matrix | IPS LCD | AMOLED |
| Permission | 2400 × 1080 | 2400 × 1080 |
| Frequency of update | 60 Hz | 60Hz (120Hz in settings, but only works in games) |
| Max. brightness. | 450 nits | 400 nits |
| Support for HDR | No. | HDR10 |
Important for gamers: The Note 9 Pro has a 120Hz mode, but it only works on supported games (like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile).
3. Performance: Snapdragon 720G vs 732G - is the difference worth it?
The main “iron” difference is processors. Redmi Note 9S runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G, and Note 9 Pro received a more advanced Snapdragon 732G. On paper, the difference in clock speed (2.3 GHz vs 2.2 GHz) and graphics accelerator (Adreno 618 vs 618, but with optimizations).
In real-life tests:
- 🎮 Games: Note 9 Pro gives out 10-15% more FPS in Genshin Impact and PUBG But both smartphones are warmed up after the maximum settings. 30-40 gameplay minutes.
- 📱 Multitasking: 6 GB RAM in the basic configuration of both models is enough for 10-15 But the Pro version is less likely to kill the background processes.
- 🔋 Energy efficiency: Snapdragon 732G A little more voracious, but the difference in autonomy is minimal (see section on battery).
💡
Unless you play heavy games, there's little difference between 720G and 732G in everyday tasks, and it's only for gamers to overpay for a Pro for a CPU.
For objectivity, we will give the results of benchmarks (average values):
| Test | Redmi Note 9S | Redmi Note 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| AnTuTu 9 | ~275 000 | ~300 000 |
| Geekbench 5 (Single-Core) | ~560 | ~580 |
| 3DMark Wild Life | ~1 800 | ~2 100 |
⚠️ Warning: Both smartphones suffer from trottling (decreased performance when overheated). 20 max-minute FPS fall 20-30%. Only a cooling case or a decrease in graphics solves the problem.
4. Cameras: 48 MP vs 64 MP - who takes better pictures?
On paper, the Redmi Note 9 Pro won with a 64 MP core module (versus the Note 9S's 48 MP), but the actual quality of the photos doesn't just depend on the megapixels.
Main camera:
- 📸 Note 9S: 48 MP (Sony) IMX586), diaphragm f/1.79. It works well during the day, but the pictures make noise at night.
- 📸 Note 9 Pro: 64 MP (Samsung) GW1), diaphragm f/1.89. More details, but night mode only works better with manual settings.
Additional modules:
- 🌃 Wide-angle: 8 MP (119)°) Both, but the Pro has less distortion at the edges.
- 🔍 Macro: 5 MP - equally mediocre (blurring when approaching).
- 👁️ Depth: 2 MP - only for portrait mode, there is no real benefit.
Both models shoot in 4K@30fps or 1080p@60fps, but the stabilization of the Note 9 Pro works a little smoother.
Examples of photos from cameras (day/night)
⚠️ Warning: The front camera on both smartphones is 16 MP, but the Note 9 Pro has a Beauty 5.0 mode with improved retouching.
5. Battery and charging: who lives longer without an outlet?
Both models are equipped with a battery on 5020 The mAh is one of the most capacious in its class, and in everyday use (social media, instant messengers, calls), both smartphones are held together. 1.5-2 It's a single charge of the day, but there's a nuance:
Redmi Note 9 Pro supports fast charging of 33 watts (the corresponding adapter is included), while Note 9S is limited to 18 watts.
- ⚡ Note 9 Pro: 0% → 100% in 65 minutes.
- ⚡ Note 9S: 0% → 100% in 100 minutes.
Both smartphones support reverse wireless charging (you can charge headphones or smartwatches), but the power is meager – about 2.5 watts.
💡
If you travel frequently, bring the Note 9 Pro with you, which saves time by charging fast.
| Parameter | Redmi Note 9S | Redmi Note 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 5020 mAh | 5020 mAh |
| Fast charging. | 18 W. | 33 Watts |
| Full charge time. | ~100 minutes | ~65 minutes |
| Reverse charging | Yes (2.5 watts) | Yes (2.5 watts) |
6. Software and updates
Both models came with Android 10 and the MIUI 11 shell. At the time of writing (2026), official support for updates is complete, but informal firmware (such as LineageOS) allows you to upgrade to Android 12-13.
Key points:
- 📱 MIUI: There are a lot of ads in the latest versions, but you can turn it off through Settings. → The phone. → Version. MIUI (tap 5 times) → Additional settings → Turn off the adverts.
- 🔄 Security updates: The latest patch for both models is June 2023.Vulnerabilities remain, but for most users it's uncritical.
- 🎯 Note 9 Pro supports Always-On Display (thanks to) AMOLED), note 9S This function is not.
☑️ How to extend the life of a smartphone after the updates
⚠️ Note: If you plan to install custom firmware, note that on Note 9S The module may not work NFC (Check compatibility before firmware!
7.Price and relevance in 2026
In the secondary market (2026), model prices vary greatly depending on the state of:
- 💰 Redmi Note 9S (b/y, good condition: 8,000 - 12,000 ₽
- 💰 Redmi Note 9 Pro (b/y) - 12 000 - 16 000 ₽
Should I buy in 2026?
Both smartphones are outdated, but remain relevant for:
- 📞 Basic tasks (calls, social networks, YouTube).
- 🎮 The Light Games (Brawl Stars, Clash Royale).
- 📸 Photos in the daytime (but not for professionals).
If the budget allows, it is better to look at the newer models:
- 🆕 Redmi Note 12 (AMOLED 120Hz, Snapdragon 4 Gen 1).
- 🆕 POCO X5 Pro (Snapdragon 778G, 108 MP camera).
💡
Overpay for Note 9 Pro in 2026 The only way to make sense is if you find it cheaper. 12 000 ₽. In other cases, it is better to pay extra and take something from the line of Redmi Note. 11/12.