Which budget smartphone Xiaomi is better to buy in 2020

2020 was a turning point for the mobile electronics market, when Chinese giant Xiaomi finally cemented the title of king of the budget segment, during which time the company introduced a line of devices that offered flagship features at a price affordable to most users. Consumers no longer had to choose between build quality and performance, as engineering solutions allowed to fit powerful processors into affordable housings.

When looking for an answer to the question of which budget smartphone Xiaomi is best to buy in 2020, it is important to consider not only the dry numbers of the specifications, but also the relevance of the software. Models released earlier this period have already received updates to new versions of Android, which significantly extended their life cycle.

In the current realities of the secondary market and inventory balances, choosing the right gadget requires careful analysis. Redmi and Poco are the two sub-brands that most often appear on the recommendation lists, and each of them is focused on its audience: some models are designed for gamers, others for lovers of mobile photography, and others are focused on maximum autonomy.

Criteria for choosing a budget device in the current conditions

When prioritizing your purchase, you should first consider the type of display you use. In 2020, the massive shift to high-refrequency matrices began, and having a 90Hz or 120Hz screen was a major advantage even in the low-end segment, and the smoothness of the interface and animations directly affects subjective perceptions of the speed of the device.

The second critical parameter is the type of memory storage. For comfortable operation in 2026 and beyond, it is strongly recommended to look for models with UFS memory standard 2.1 or higher, abandoning the outdated eMMC 5.1. The difference in the speed of downloading applications and installing updates between these technologies can reach a double value, which is especially noticeable when working with heavy programs.

And the quality of NFC modules, which are often stripped or missing in the budget segment, is not to be discounted. If paying for your phone or pairing your smartwatch quickly, it becomes a crucial factor, and it is also important to check the support for the necessary 4G (LTE) frequencies to ensure that you receive a stable signal in your region.

Redmi Note 9 Pro: The Golden Mean for Most Users

The undisputed hit of sales and the most balanced device of the year was the Redmi Note 9 Pro. This model received an updated design with a hole in the screen and a glass back panel, which was previously the prerogative of more expensive lines. Inside hides the Snapdragon 720G processor, which is still able to pull popular games on medium graphics settings without significant heating.

The 64MP core camera module, which delivers images comparable to mid-range devices in good light, is particularly noteworthy, and the video stabilization is software-based, but it works well for the public sector, and users also note the availability of a full-fledged IR port that allows the phone to be used as a remote control for household appliances.

⚠️ Note: The global version of the Redmi Note 9 Pro does not have optical stabilization (OIS), The Chinese version of the Redmi Note 9 Pro Max, when buying from hand, specify the region of the device if you are critical to the presence of a device. OIS.

The battery is 5020 mAh, which, coupled with an energy-efficient IPS screen, gives up to two days of operation without recharging. However, it should be noted that the complete charging has a power of 30 watts, and it requires the original cable that comes with the kit to activate it, otherwise the speed will be lower.

• 📱 Great. IPS-screen with protective glass Gorilla Glass 5.
• 🔋 A huge battery with support for fast charging.
• 📸 Main camera with good dynamic range.
• 🎧 Retained 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Poco X3 NFC: The Choice for Gamers and Enthusiasts

If you're looking for the best performance for your money, the Poco X3 NFC is unrivaled in its class. Equipped with a Snapdragon 732G processor, this smartphone has become a real monster in benchmarks. Engineers have managed to implement stereo speakers with support for Hi-Res Audio, which is rare for devices of this price range and greatly improves the multimedia experience.

The main feature of the model was the screen with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, which provides incredible smooth scrolling of the social media feed and the MIUI interface. Combined with the high frequency of the 240 Hz sensor survey, the device provides a competitive advantage in shooters and dynamic games. The body received splash protection according to the IP53 standard, which adds practicality in everyday use.

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When buying Poco X3, pay attention to the memory version: for games, it is better to take the 6/128 GB modification, since 4 GB of RAM in 2026 may not be enough for multitasking.

But it also has some features that you should know about in advance: the camera, despite having optical stabilization in the main module, often makes noisy low-light shots, and the heavy weight of the device and the protruding camera block can be uncomfortable with prolonged use with one hand.

Redmi Note 9: The Budget King of Autonomy

For those who don’t care about high gaming performance but need a reliable working tool, the regular Redmi Note 9 is the perfect option. It’s based on the MediaTek Helio G80 processor, which, while inferior to Qualcomm’s graphics, is great at everyday tasks. The main advantage of this model is the price, which often makes it the most affordable-level device with NFC.

The device is designed in a strict style with a matte plastic backrest that does not collect fingerprints. The screen here is standard for the segment — IPS with FullHD+ resolution, but without high hertz. However, the color calibration and brightness margin allow you to comfortably use the smartphone even in direct sun.

⚠️ Note: The charging speed in the Redmi Note 9 is limited to 18 watts, and the kit often comes with a 22.5 watt charger. Full charging takes about 2 hours, which is much longer than the older brothers.

Importantly, this model uses a slower type of memory, which can affect the speed of opening heavy applications, but for calls, messengers and navigators in the car, this device is ideal, working consistently and predictably.

• 💰 The most affordable price among the models with NFC.
• 🔋 Excellent optimization of energy consumption.
• 📡 Reliable signal reception and the presence of an IR port.
• 🛡️ Matte shell, scratch-resistant.

Hidden gems: Xiaomi Mi 10 Lite and Poco M3

Do not ignore the Xiaomi Mi 10 Lite, which has become one of the most affordable smartphones with support for networks 5G and AMOLED-screen, presence. AMOLED-matrix provides a deep black color and high contrast, which distinguishes it from competitors with a high level of color. IPS. Snapdragon processor 765G Although not the most powerful, it has a built-in 5G-modem, which makes the device relevant with an eye for the future.

Another notable model is the Poco M3, which features a unique rear design resembling a professional camera, which hides the same Helio G80 as the Redmi Note 9, but the case has improved ergonomics and stereo speakers, often referred to as the “king of multimedia” in the lower price segment due to its high-quality sound.

When choosing between these models, you should focus on the type of screen: if you like watching video in the dark, AMOLED If you're afraid of burnout or you prefer natural color reproduction, you'd better stay on the side. IPS-panels that were used in most of the models discussed above.

What to look for when buying with hands or leftovers

When buying a 2020 device in 2026, be extremely careful: First check the battery status, as lithium-ion batteries degrade over time even without use. Ask the seller for a screenshot from the engineering menu or the Cpu-Z app to make sure that the battery capacity has not fallen below 80% of the original.

The second important thing is the bootloader unlock status and Mi Account binding, so make sure the seller logs out of their account and completes a full reset in your presence, otherwise you risk getting a brick that you can't activate without the previous owner's password.

It also makes sense to check for the original box and charger, and often scammers sell devices assembled from different parts (e.g., a screen from one model, a case from another), which can lead to problems with component compatibility and sensors.

Summary comparison and recommendations

To sum up, 2020 has given us some legendary models that remain relevant. If you want a versatile soldier with a good camera and screen, the Redmi Note 9 Pro is the best choice. Gamers and fans of smooth interface should look towards the Poco X3 NFC, despite its dimensions.

For those looking for a second phone or a baby device, the regular Redmi Note 9 or Poco M3 is great, offering basic functionality without overpaying for excess, and in any case, even after a few years, these devices can provide a comfortable experience with modern services.

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The best budget choice in 2026 among the models of 2020 remains the Redmi Note 9 Pro due to the balance of features, the availability of NFC and support for updates.

Remember that software is a living substance, even if iron allows it.