Why is the Redmi 9T 128GB still in demand?
Xiaomi Redmi 9T, with 128GB of storage, was released in January 2021, but is still one of the most popular budget devices on the market. The reason is simple: balanced specs, a reliable battery at 6000mAh and an affordable price make it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable phone without overpaying for the brand.
In this article, we will understand how much the Redmi 9T 128 GB really costs in 2026, where it is more profitable to buy (including AliExpress, Wildberries, Yandex Market and offline stores), and also give tips on how not to run into a fake or overpay for an outdated equipment.
Official prices Xiaomi Redmi 9T 128 GB at the start of sales vs. 2026
When the Redmi 9T was released in 2021 in the 4/128 GB version, it cost about 15,000-17,000 rubles in official stores in Russia, but over three years the price has changed significantly:
- ๐ New device cost reduction: Today, the new Redmi 9T 128GB in the box can be found for 10,000-13,000 rubles (depending on the stock and region).
- ๐ Used-use market: Prices for devices in good condition range from 6000 to 9000 rubles, but here there is a high risk of running into a worn-out battery or an unoriginal configuration.
- ๐ Imports from China/Europe: On AliExpress or through dealers, the model can be bought for 8,000-11,000 rubles, but with the risk of customs duties and long-term delivery.
Interestingly, despite the release of newer models (Redmi 10, 12, Note 13), Redmi 9T still holds the position due to its reliability. For example, according to GSMArena, this smartphone is in the top -10 of the longest state employees in terms of battery life.
Price comparison in popular stores (updated June 2026)
To avoid overpayment, you should monitor prices in different sources: Below is the current table as of June 2026 (prices may vary depending on the dollar and stocks):
| Shop/Plaza | Price (new), โฝ | Price (b/y), โฝ | Guarantee | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official Xiaomi Store | 12 990 | โ | 12 months | Original firmware, but often not available |
| Wildberries | 10 490โ11 990 | 7 500โ9 200 | From the seller (often 6 months) | Frequent discounts, but the risk of "gray" supplies |
| Yandex Market | 11 200โ12 500 | 6 800โ8 500 | Depends on the seller. | Convenient filter for battery condition |
| AliExpress (direct sellers) | 8 500โ10 500 | โ | No, or 3, 6 months. | Customs risk + long delivery (2-4 weeks) |
| Avito/Yula (private sellers) | โ | 5 000โ8 000 | No. | High risk of fraud or hidden defects |
Important: AliExpress prices are often not included in the customs fees (15-30% of the cost) that can be added when shipping to Russia. Also note the firmware version - Chinese devices may not support Google Play out of the box.
โ ๏ธ Warning: When buying on Wildberries or Ozon, check the seller's reviews! Some stores sell "gray" Redmi 9T with firmware for India or China, which can cause problems with updates and the operation of Google services.
How to avoid a fake or a โgrayโ Redmi 9T?
Xiaomiโs budget smartphones are often faked or sold in unofficial trim levels, and here are the key signs to look out for:
- ๐ Packaging: The original box must be hologram, fonts clear, no typos, and the sticker with IMEI on the box and under the battery must match.
- ๐ฑ Firmware: In settings (Settings โ About Phone), check the MIUI version. The official global firmware starts with V12.x.x.x (e.g., V12.5.3.0.RJQMIXM). Chinese versions (V12.x.x.x.RJQCNXM) may not support Google Play.
- ๐ Battery: Run the test in ##4636## (engineering menu) and check the battery status. If your health is below 85%, you better drop the purchase.
- ๐ ๏ธ Component: The original kit must include a 22.5W charger, a USB-C cable, a tray clip SIM and documentation.
If you buy from hand, ask the seller:
- Take a screenshot of the Settings menu โ About the phone with IMEI and the MIUI version.
- Show the work of all sensors (gyroscope, compass, NFC - if any).
- Connect to charging and show the charging speed (must be at least 18W).
โ๏ธ Redmi check-up 9T pre-purchase
Should you buy a Redmi 9T 128GB in 2026?
Despite its age, the Redmi 9T remains a viable choice for certain categories of users, including its strengths and weaknesses.
โ Pluses:
- ๐ 6000 mAh battery: Easy holds 2 days of active use (up to 10 hours of screen time).
- ๐ธ 48 MP: For budget, shooting in the afternoon is decent, there's night mode.
- ๐ฎ Performance: The Snapdragon 662 and 4GB of RAM handle everyday tasks and light gaming (PUBG Mobile on medium settings).
- ๐ง Water Protection: Certification IP53 (splash protection).
โ Cons:
- ๐ข MIUI on Android 10/11: There will be no updates to new versions of Android (the latest is MIUI 13).
- ๐ฑ Screen 720p: The 1600ร720 resolution at 6.53" does not look very clear.
- ๐ Mono speaker: The sound is weak, especially at maximum volume.
- โก Charging 18W: Despite support for 22.5W, the power supply on 18W is included.
Who will the Redmi 9T 128 GB fit for in 2026?
- ๐ต Elderly people: Simple interface, long work without recharging.
- ๐ Schoolchildren/students: Reliable housing, good autonomy for study.
- ๐ Second phone: For calls, instant messengers and photos.
- ๐ผ Business trips: Two slots for SIM + microSD, support for 4G in all bands.
โ ๏ธ Warning: If youโre interested in modern chips like the 5G, 90Hz screen or Android 13+, consider newer models like the Redmi 12 or POCO M6 Pro.
๐ก
Before buying, check if your carrier supports the 4G frequency that Redmi 9T has (Bands 1/3/5/7/8/20/28/38/40/41). For example, Tele2 in some regions only works on the B20 that this phone has.
Where is it better to buy: online vs. offline?
The choice between online and offline purchases depends on your priorities:
๐ Buying online:
- โ Prices are 10-20% lower (especially on AliExpress or during Wildberries sales).
- โ A large selection of colors (Carbon Gray, Twilight Blue, Sunrise Orange, Ocean Green).
- โ Risk of counterfeiting (especially in obscure locations).
- โ Long delivery (up to 3-4 weeks with AliExpress)
๐ฌ Offline purchase:
- โ You can check before buying (screen, battery, cameras).
- โ Warranty from the store (usually 12 months).
- โ The price is higher by 1,000โ2,000 rubles due to margins.
- โ There is a limited range (not always all colors).
If you choose online, you should prefer trusted sellers with ratings above 4.8 and a lot of reviews, such as the โXiaomi Shopโ or โSvyaznoyโ stores on Wildberries.
How to identify a fake Xiaomi store?
Redmi 9T 128GB alternatives: Which is the best time to buy in 2026?
If the Redmi 9T doesnโt fit you in terms of performance or design, consider these counterparts in the same price range (10,000โ15,000 โฝ):
| Model | Price, โฝ | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 12 4/128GB | 13 990 | 90 Hz screen, Android 13, NFC | Battery 5000 mAh (vs. 6000 mAh in 9T) |
| POCO M6 Pro 4/128GB | 12 990 | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, fast charging 33W | No 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Samsung Galaxy A14 4/128GB | 14 990 | AMOLED-screen, 4 years of updates | Weak Exynos 850 processor |
| Realme Narzo 50 4/128GB | 11 990 | 120 Hz screen, fast charging 33W | Weak autonomy (5000 mAh) |
If you want maximum battery life, the Redmi 9T is still one of the leaders, but if you want a modern screen, NFC or long-term update support, you should look at the Redmi 12 or the POCO M6 Pro.
๐ก
The Redmi 9T 128GB in 2026 is only worth buying if you are critically interested in autonomy (6000 mAh) and a budget limited to 12,000 โฝ. In all other cases, it is better to consider newer models.