The Xiaomi Redmi 9 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of 2020, and is still the right choice for those looking for a reliable device at an affordable price. Its appearance combines minimalist design, practical materials and several unexpected solutions for its price segment. In this article, we will take a detailed look at what the Redmi 9 looks like: from the texture of the rear panel to the location of the connectors, compare it with other models of the series and reveal the nuances that are important to know before buying.
The smartphone was released in June 2020, but its design still attracts interest – especially against the background of newer models, where the manufacturer often sacrifices uniqueness for the sake of unification. Redmi 9 became a transitional model between the classic plastic body and modern trends (for example, the camera in a square module, like flagships), while retaining the key features of the brand: conciseness, functionality and the recognizable Mi logo on the rear.
Design and materials of the case: plastic vs. glass
The main material of the Xiaomi Redmi 9 body is plastic, not the usual glossy, but with a matte texture that mimics glass. This solution has reduced the price while maintaining a presentable appearance. The rear panel has a slight gradient color transition (depending on the color option), which gives depth to the image. It is important to note that the visual similarity to glass, the body does not slide despite the hands and is less prone to scratches.
The side faces of the smartphone are also made of plastic, but with a glossy finish, which contrasts with the matte back panel, which not only improves aesthetics, but also makes the device more convenient to hold with one hand. Power and volume buttons are located on the right side, their stroke is clear, without backlashes, which is typical for Xiaomi even in the budget segment.
- 🔹 Advantages of plastic case: lightness (198 g), resistance to falls, lack of heating.
- 🔹 Disadvantages: less premium appearance compared to glass models, over time can lose gloss.
- 🔹 Color options: Carbon Gray (gray), Sunset Purple (purple), Ocean Green (green), Pebble Grey (dark grey).
⚠️ Warning: In some Redmi 9 batches (especially early releases), the back plastic may turn yellow over time under UV light. To avoid this, it is recommended to use a case or keep the phone away from direct sunlight.
Size and ergonomics: Is it comfortable to hold in one hand?
Xiaomi Redmi 9 is a compact smartphone with a screen diagonal of 6.53.” Its dimensions are 163.3 × 77 × 9.1 mm, and weight is 198 grams, which makes it lighter even compared to more modern models. For example, the Redmi Note 10 weighs 178 g, but due to the metal frame seems heavier.
With rounded corners and thin bezels around the screen, the smartphone sits comfortably in the hand, but because of its glossy side faces, it can slip, so users with small palms should consider buying a slip-resistant cover. The buttons are optimally positioned: the thumb easily reaches the lock key, and the index finger - to the volume regulators.
| Parameter | Xiaomi Redmi 9 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 | Xiaomi Redmi 9A |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen diagonal | 6.53" | 6.53" | 6.53" |
| Weight. | 198 | 209 | 196 |
| Thickness | 9.1 mm | 8.9 mm | 9.0 mm |
| Case material | Plastic (matte) | Glass + plastic | Plastic (glossy) |
Front panel: screen, frame and cutout under the camera
The Redmi 9 screen occupies 83.2% of the front panel, which was a good indicator in the budget segment for 2020. the display is made using IPS LCD technology with a resolution of 2340 × 1080 (Full HD+) and a pixel density of 395 ppi. The upper frame is slightly wider than the side ones - here is the drop-shaped cutout for the 8 MP front camera.
The bottom bezel (the chin) is also visible, but not critical: it hides the LED notification indicator (a rarity in modern smartphones) and the microphone. The build quality of the front panel is high: the joints between the screen and the body are minimal, and the oleophobic coating protects against fingerprints. However, over time it can wear off — especially if you use a phone often without glasses.
- 📱 Screen type: IPS LCD, Support for 400 nits of brightness (maximum).
- 🔍 Protection: Bitter glass (without official Gorilla Glass certification).
- 🎨 Color rendering: Saturated colors, but with a slight cold hue "out of the box».
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To return the factory color rendering of the screen, go to Settings → Display → Color Mode and select the Standard option instead of Saturated.
Back panel: camera module and logo
The most memorable design detail of the Redmi 9 is the square module of the main camera, located in the upper left corner of the rear panel. It protrudes from the body by about 1-1.5 mm, so when you place the phone on the table, the smartphone sways slightly.
- 📷 Main camera. 13 MP (wide-angle, f/2.2).
- 📷 Macro lens 5 MP (for shooting from a distance of 4 cm).
- 📷 Depth Sensor 2 MP (for portrait mode).
- 💡 Outbreak. LED.
Next to the module is the Redmi logo (without backlighting), and at the bottom of the back is the inscription Designed by Xiaomi. Interestingly, in some regions (for example, in India) sold a version called Redmi 9 Prime with a similar design, but with a different logo.
⚠️ Warning: Due to the protruding camera module, it is not recommended to place the smartphone screen down on hard surfaces (for example, a table or window sill).This can cause scratches on the camera glass or even damage it under high pressure.
Sockets and buttons: where is it?
The layout of the elements on the Redmi 9 body is standard for Xiaomi, but there are a few nuances:
- 🔌 USB-Type C: Located at the bottom (center), supports USB 2.0 (no quick charge).
- 🔊 Speaker and microphone: speaker grille to the right of the connector, second microphone on the top edge.
- 📶 Tray for SIM-Maps: Left, supports 2 nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid slot).
- 🔋 3.5mm audio jack: Located on the top edge - convenient for wired headphones.
No infrared port (unlike the Redmi Note 9) but saved FM-A radio that works without an internet connection (you need wired headphones as an antenna) and the Google Assistant button is programmable, and you can reassign it to another action through settings.
Pollution in Type-C connector|Scratches on SIM-tray|Performance of 3.5mm audio|Cleanliness of microphone holes-->
Comparison with other models: Redmi 9 vs. Redmi Note 9 vs. Redmi 9A
The Redmi 9 is often confused with the Redmi Note 9 and Redmi 9A, but there are key differences in the look and feel of the two models.
| Characteristics | Redmi 9 | Redmi Note 9 | Redmi 9A |
|---|---|---|---|
| Back panel material | Plastic (matte) | Glass (glossy) | Plastic (glossy) |
| Camera module | Square (3 cameras) | Rectangular (4 cameras) | Single cell |
| Screen protection | Oleophobic coating | Gorilla Glass 5 | No defense. |
| Color options | 4 (including gradient) | 3 (monochrome) | 3 (pastels) |
The Redmi Note 9 looks more premium due to the glass back and metal frame, but it is heavier and less resistant to falls. The Redmi 9A, by contrast, is as simple as possible: it has glossy plastic, a single camera and thicker screen frames. If your priority is design and build quality, the Redmi 9 occupies the middle ground between these models.
Why do Redmi 9 and Redmi Note 9 have the same screen size but different weights?
Covers and accessories: what is right for the Redmi 9?
Thanks to the popularity of the model, Redmi 9 has a huge number of accessories. Original cases from Xiaomi come in several types:
- 🛡️ Silicone: Protects against scratches, but can get dirty quickly.
- 🧤 Tissue: pleasant to the touch, but do not save from blows.
- 💼 Book: With screen protection and pocket for cards (suitable for business style).
- 🔋 Battery: Additional 3000-50,000 mAh (e.g. Mi Power Bank Case model).
When choosing a case, pay attention to the notch under the camera - it must match the module exactly, otherwise the photos will be obtained with glare. It is also worth checking compatibility with wireless charging (if you plan to use it in the future). To protect the screen, 9H-coated glasses will be suitable - they prevent scratches from keys or coins in your pocket.
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Not all Redmi 9 cases fit the Redmi 9A or Redmi 9C, they have different dimensions and camera layouts. Always check compatibility before buying!