Redmi Note 9 Pro or POCO X3: Which Xiaomi smartphone to choose in 2026?

Introduction: two flagships of the budget segment under the same brand

Choosing between the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro and the POCO X3 is a classic dilemma for buyers looking for a powerful smartphone for reasonable money. Both models were released in 2020, but still remain relevant due to balanced specs and stable updates. At first glance, they seem almost identical: the same Snapdragon 720G processor, similar screens with a frequency of 120 Hz, and even the design has common features. However, under the hood there are key differences that can dramatically affect the experience of use.

The main paradox is that the POCO X3, marketed as a gaming smartphone, often loses the Redmi Note 9 Pro in everyday tasks due to software features. At the same time, its superiority in multimedia and autonomy makes the choice less obvious. In this article, we will discuss 10 critical aspects, from performance to durability, so that you can make an informed decision without marketing slogans and subjective feedback.

We will focus on real battery tests in 2026 (after 3-4 years after release), as this parameter is often the “weak link” in budget smartphones, and analyze how things are with the updates of MIUI and POCO Launcher, and whether to buy these models today or better consider their successors.

1.Performance: Snapdragon 720G vs Snapdragon 732G

Both models are based on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, but with an important caveat: the Redmi Note 9 Pro is equipped with a Snapdragon 720G (8 nm), and the POCO X3 is an improved version of the Snapdragon 732G (also 8 nm). On paper, the difference in core frequencies (up to 2.3 GHz vs. 2.2 GHz) seems insignificant, but in practice this gives the POCO X3 an advantage in:

• 🎮 Games: in PUBG Mobile at maximum settings FPS steady-state 5-7 Genshin Impact has fewer drawdowns when loading the open world.
• 📊 Multitasking: Simultaneously Starting 10+ applications (including messengers and social networks) POCO X3 less often kills background processes.
• 🔄 Heat generation: thanks to optimized cooling system (copper tube) + graphite-layer) POCO X3 basking 3-5°C less under prolonged loads.

However, there is a caveat: Redmi Note 9 Pro runs on “clean” MIUI firmware, while POCO X3 uses the POCO Launcher shell with aggressive optimization of background processes.

⚠️ Note: If you are actively using Telegram, WhatsApp or Viber, on POCO X3 notifications may be delayed until 2-3 It's just a few minutes because of energy-saving algorithms. 9 Pro, there's no problem.

2.Screen: 120Hz vs 120Hz - why are they different?

Both models boast screens with refresh rates of 120Hz, but that's where the similarities end.Redmi Note 9 Pro got a boost IPS-Samsung-supported matrix HDR10, while POCO X3 It has a more budget-friendly display from BOE. The difference is noticeable with the naked eye:

• 🌈 Color rendering: Redmi Note 9 Pro has coverage DCIP3 15% wider, which is important for viewing videos and editing photos.
• ☀️ Brightness: maximum brightness of the POCO X3 — 450 nits, Redmi 500 nits. The difference is critical in the sun.
• 🔍 Protection: y POCO X3 Gorilla Glass 5, Redmi Note 9 Pro – Gorilla Glass 5+ (scratch-resistant).

But the POCO X3 has a trump card, an adaptive refresh rate. Unlike the Redmi Note 9 Pro, where 120Hz is running all the time (which eats charge), here the frequency dynamically adjusts to the content: 30Hz for reading, 60Hz for video, 120Hz for gaming, which extends battery life by 10-15%.

Another important thing is the touch response, which in games like Call of Duty: Mobile, the POCO X3 has 8 ms less latency (65 ms versus 73 ms for Redmi), which can be a crucial factor for professional gamers.

3. Camera: 64 MP vs 64 MP - who takes better pictures?

On paper, the cameras on both models are identical: the 64 MP core module (Samsung GW1), the ultra-wide 8 MP, macro 5 MP and the 2 MP depth sensor. But in practice, the results are very different due to software processing. Redmi Note 9 Pro uses the MIUI Camera algorithms, and POCO X3 is a simplified version without some features.

Let's look at the key scenarios:

• 📸 Daytime shots: Redmi Note 9 Pro gives more saturated colors and better detail due to the fact that the HDR+. POCO X3 lights up frequently.
• 🌃 Night Mode 2.0 Redmi is better at shooting with less noise and more natural shadows. POCO X3 adds excess sharpness.
• 🎥 Video: Both filming 4K@30fps, but POCO X3 smoother stabilization thanks to optimization for gaming.
• 🔍 Macro: Redmi Note 9 Pro has a minimum focal length of 4 cm, POCO X3 — 5 cm The difference is noticeable when shooting small objects.

The main disadvantage of both smartphones is autofocus, which is slower than current models in 2026, especially in low light conditions. If photography is critical for you, consider the Redmi Note 10 Pro or the POCO X5 Pro with 108 MP sensors.

4. Battery and charging: who will live to see the evening?

Both models have 5020 mAh batteries, but the actual autonomy is 15-20% different due to software optimization and hardware features. In 2026, after 3-4 years of operation, the difference becomes even more noticeable:

Reasons for this gap:

1. The adaptive screen frequency in the POCO X3 saves up to 15% of charge.

⚠️ Warning: If you are buying a used model, be sure to check the battery status through the engineering menu (#4636## → "Battery information. Capacity below 4000 mAh – a reason to bargain or refuse to buy.

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The POCO X3 benefits from its adaptive screen and the more gentle optimization of MIUI for POCO. The difference is particularly noticeable in gaming and in active use.

5. Design and ergonomics: plastic vs plastic, but not quite

Both models are made of plastic, but the design approach is radically different. Redmi Note 9 Pro follows the classic philosophy of Xiaomi: minimalism, rounded edges and a matte coating that does not collect prints. POCO X3 is made "game-style":

• 🎨 Colors: Bright gradients (Cobalt Blue, Shadow Gray) with a glossy insert that shines in the light.
• 📏 Dimensions: POCO X3 thicker by 0.5 mm (10.1 mm vs 9.6 mm) and heavier by 10 g (215 g vs 205 g).
• 🔊 Dynamics: y POCO X3 stereo speakers (upper) + Redmi Note 9 Pro has only the lower one.

In terms of practicality, the Redmi Note 9 Pro is more convenient:

• 👆 Easy to hold with one hand.
• 🔇 Less chance to close the top speaker with your finger.
• 🛡️ The matte body scratches less.

But the POCO X3 is winning in multimedia: stereo improves the movie and streaming experience, and it also has a Z.5mm audio jack that the Redmi Note 9 Pro doesn’t have (you’ll have to use an adapter).

6 Updates and Support: MIUI vs POCO Launcher

At the time of release, both models received Android 10 with the promise of upgrading to Android 12. In 2026, the situation is as follows:

• 📱 Redmi Note 9 Pro: The latest version — MIUI 14 based on Android 12. Security updates come out every 3 months.
• 🎮 POCO X3: last — MIUI 14 for POCO Android 12 based, but with stripped down features (no themes, limited gesture settings).

Key issues:

• ⚠️ V POCO X3 There is no Ultra Battery Saver mode available in the Redmi Note 9 Pro.
• ⚠️ Nana POCO X3 You can not disable advertising in system applications through settings (only through ADB).
• ⚠️ Both models won’t get Android 13 – official support is over.

If you’re looking for updates, consider the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ or POCO X5 Pro, which will get Android 15. For the Redmi Note 9 Pro and POCO X3, the only way to extend life is custom firmware like LineageOS or Pixel Experience.

Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool|Make a data backup (TWRP)|Download the firmware for your model|Check compatibility with modem (IMS VoLTE)|Install Magisk for root rights (optional)-->

7.Price and relevance in 2026

In 2026, both models are sold primarily on the secondary market.Average prices (according to Avito and Yula):

• 💰 Redmi Note 9 Pro (b/y) good condition: 12,000 - 15,000 ₽
• 💰 POCO X3 (b/y, good condition: 13,000 - 16,000 ₽

Should you buy these smartphones today? The answer depends on your tasks:

If the budget allows, it is better to consider newer models:

- Redmi Note 13 Pro (from 22,000) ₽) — 200 MP camera, AMOLED 120 Hz.

- POCO X6 Pro (from 25,000) ₽) — Dimensity 8300-Ultra, 67W charging.

⚠️ Warning: When buying a used smartphone, be sure to check: Battery status (#4636##.) All cameras (especially macro and wide-angle) 4G) — Without him, there will be communication problems.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Redmi Note 9 Pro and POCO X3