When choosing a mid-range smartphone, consumers often face the need for in-depth analysis of specifications to make sure the device meets their needs. One of the key issues when studying the specifications of the popular Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro model is the identification of the installed processor. It is the central processing unit (CPU) that determines the overall speed of the interface, the quality of photo processing and the ability to run modern mobile games.
In this model, the manufacturer decided to install a chipset from Qualcomm, which became a kind of “golden mean” in the market when the gadget was released. Snapdragon 720G is exactly the crystal that hides under the aluminum radiator inside the case, it replaced the previous solutions of the 700 series, offering improved energy efficiency and a more advanced graphics accelerator.
Understanding the architecture of this processor allows the user to better predict the behavior of the smartphone in high load conditions. Xiaomi traditionally carefully optimizes the MIUI shell for Qualcomm chips, which in conjunction with the Snapdragon 720G gives a stable result.
Technical characteristics of the Snapdragon 720G
The heart of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro is an 8nm chipset that formally belongs to the mid-range class, but has a number of flagship features from previous generations.The processor architecture is built on 64-bit cores, which ensures compatibility with all modern applications and the Android operating system.
The first cluster, which is responsible for heavy computing tasks, consists of two powerful Kryo 465 Gold cores. They operate at frequencies up to 2.3 GHz and are activated when running games or demanding programs. The second cluster is represented by six energy-efficient Kryo 465 Silver cores operating at frequencies up to 1.8 GHz, which take over background processes and simple operations, saving battery power.
Special attention should be paid to the Adreno 618 graphics accelerator, which is integrated into the chip, which is responsible for rendering graphics in games and smooth interface animations. Unlike the basic version of the Snapdragon 720, the modification with the index "G" (Gaming) received an improved engine Elite Gaming, which supports 10-bit HDR color and improved physical processing.
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The combination of 8nm process technology and the Kryo 465 architecture provides the optimal balance between the speed and battery life of the Redmi Note 9 Pro.
Performance in Games and Benchmarks
Many users purchase Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro with an eye on mobile gaming, and Snapdragon 720G here shows itself confident. In popular network disciplines such as PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile, the device is able to produce stable 30-40 frames per second at medium and high graphics settings. the graphics engine Adreno 618 effectively copes with texture and shadows, although exorbitant FPS values are not expected.
If you look at synthetic tests, the popular benchmark AnTuTu device scores about 330,000 to 350,000 points — a worthy result for its time, allowing you to overtake many budget decisions from MediaTek and Samsung. 3D-In tests like GFXBench, it is clear that the chip is more focused on optimization than raw power.
- 🎮 PUBG Mobile: stable 30 FPS on the "Balance" settings without strong drawbacks.
- 🏎️ Asphalt 9: Legends: good detail, but possible heating of the body during a long game.
- 🔫 Call of Duty Mobile: support for high graphics settings with an update rate of up to 60 Hz in optimized modes.
It is important to note that Xiaomi’s cooling system in this model includes a graphite film and a copper tube, which helps to remove heat from the Snapdragon 720G. However, with long gaming sessions, it is possible to reduce the clock frequency (trottling) to protect components.
Comparison with competitors and analogues
To objectively assess the level of the Snapdragon 720G, you need to compare it with the closest competitors that were installed in smartphones of the same period. The main rival is often MediaTek Helio G90T, which was put in some models of Redmi. Helio G90T is more powerful in terms of net CPU performance, but it is made on a 12-nm process technology, which warms up stronger and plants the battery faster.
Another competitor is the Samsung Exynos 9611, used in the Galaxy. A51. Compared to him, Snapdragon 720G Wins in energy efficiency and signal processing quality ISP (Image Signal Processor, which directly affects the photo. Also worth mentioning is the newer Snapdragon. 732G, which is a direct evolution 720G high-frequency.
| Characteristics | Snapdragon 720G | Helio G90T | Snapdragon 730G |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technique | 8 nm | 12 nm | 8 nm |
| Graphics | Adreno 618 | Mali-G76 MC4 | Adreno 618 |
| AnTuTu (scores) | ~340 000 | ~280 000 - 300 000* | ~280 000 |
| Screen support | up to 120 Hz (FHD+) | up to 90 Hz (FHD+) | up to 90 Hz (FHD+) |
*Note: The Helio G90T results can vary due to strong trottling. As you can see from the table, the Snapdragon 720G offers a more modern process technology and better support for high refresh rates, which for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro was an important advantage.
Artificial Intelligence and Camera Capabilities
One of the strengths of the Snapdragon 720G chipset is the dedicated Hexagon 692 DSP unit, responsible for processing neural networks and artificial intelligence. In the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro, this allows you to implement complex algorithms for processing photos directly at the time of shooting. The smartphone camera is able to recognize scenes, improve detail in night mode and blur the background in portrait photography thanks to this module.
The processor supports camera sensors up to 192 MP, although this model uses a 64 MP matrix. ISP (Image Signal Processor) fourth generation is able to process data stream at high speed, providing fast focus and minimal shutter latency, which makes shooting dynamic scenes more comfortable.
How does AI affect the battery?
In addition, the Snapdragon 720G supports noise reduction technology for video recording, which allows the Redmi Note 9 Pro to shoot videos in 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. The quality of stabilization and color reproduction is also tied to the ability of the processor to interpret data from the gyroscope and accelerometer.
Energy efficiency and heating of the device
The transition to 8-nm process technology in the Snapdragon 720G was a decisive factor for the autonomy of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro. Compared with its 10nm and 12nm predecessors, the new chip consumes significantly less energy when performing the same tasks. This allows a smartphone with a battery capacity of 5020 mAh to confidently hold a day and a half to two of active use.
⚠️ Note: Despite high energy efficiency, navigation is used (GPS) combined with a bright screen and mobile internet 4G creates a peak load on the processor, which can lead to local heating of the upper part of the body.
The Quick Charge 4.0+ power management system, supported by the processor, allows for quick charge recovery. However, the chip itself controls the temperature during charging: if sensors detect overheating, the charging speed will be artificially reduced to protect the battery. This is normal behavior for modern Qualcomm devices.
In standby mode, the Kryo 465 Silver cores consume a tiny amount of power, which prevents quick discharge when the smartphone is in your pocket. Optimization of background processes in MIUI is also closely related to the drivers of this particular processor.
Networking and multimedia support
The integrated Snapdragon X15 LTE modem delivers high mobile internet speeds. In the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro, this is implemented in the form of frequency aggregation support, allowing speeds of up to 800 Mbps under ideal conditions. For users who often use a smartphone as an access point or watch high-resolution video, this is a critical parameter.
The chip’s multimedia capabilities are also enhanced, with Bluetooth audio output supported with high-resolution codecs, including aptX Adaptive, which means that when you connect compatible wireless headphones, you’ll get minimal audio latency and high-quality transmission, which is especially important for watching videos and games.
- 📶 Support for two SIM-cardboard 4G VoLTE on both sides.
- 📡 Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) for stable connection.
- 📍 Accurate geolocation with support from systems GPS, GLONASS, Beidou and Galileo.
Also worth noting is NFC support, which is coordinated by the processor, which allows you to use the Redmi Note 9 Pro for contactless payment (where it is supported software) and fast pairing with devices.
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For maximum internet speed, check if you have chosen the “Preferred 4G” or “LTE” mode, as the Snapdragon 720G processor can quickly switch between towers, but sometimes needs manual network priority.