Xiaomi Redmi 9 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of 2020, which is still a topical choice for many users. When buying a gadget, weight often becomes an important criterion: someone is looking for the lightest device for comfortable use with one hand, and someone, on the contrary, needs a solid βbrickβ with a sense of premium. In this article, we will not only reveal the exact weight of all the modifications of the Redmi 9, but also compare it with competitors, explain how to weigh the smartphone yourself, and explain why the weight can differ even with the same models.
You might be surprised to learn that the weight of a smartphone doesn't just affect usability, but it's also a variable that determines the distribution of the center of gravity, the resistance to falls, and in some cases, even the heat transfer (heavy metal cases are better at dissipating heat than lightweight plastic ones). If you're choosing between Redmi 9 and other budget-conscious people, our comparison tables will help you make an informed choice.
The official weight of Xiaomi Redmi 9: data from the manufacturer
According to the specifications on the official website of Xiaomi, the base model Xiaomi Redmi 9 (codenamed lancelot) weighs 198 grams. This figure is indicated for the version with 4/64 GB of memory and a standard battery capacity of 5020 mAh. However, the line Redmi 9 there are several modifications, and their weight may vary slightly:
- π± Redmi 9 (4/64 GB) β 198 d (most common variant)
- π± Redmi 9 (4/128 GB) β 198,5 D (difference is related to other memory chips)
- π± Redmi 9 Prime (Indian version) β 208 g (weighted due to improved assembly)
- π± Redmi 9A β 194g (simplified version with smaller battery 5000mAh)
- π± Redmi 9C/9C NFC β 196 d (lightweight rear panel)
It is important to understand that the manufacturer indicates weight without taking into account the SIM-In real-world applications, you can add 10 to 20 grams to that figure, for example, a silicone case adds about 15 to 25 grams, and a glass screen protector adds another 5 to 10 grams.
Why Weight Can Be Different: 5 Hidden Factors
Even two identical Redmi 9s in the same batch can vary by 1 to 3 grams in weight, not marriage, but production.
- The red and blue versions of Redmi 9 have a matte coating that is applied with an additional layer β this adds 0.3-0.5 g. Glossy models (for example, Carbon Gray) are lighter on the same grams.
- Battery type: Xiaomi uses batteries from different suppliers (ATL, Sunwoda) and their weight can vary by 1-2 g with the same capacity.
- Glue and sealant: The plant uses different amounts of glue to fix the display and the back, and the excess adds up to 1 g.
- In some regions (e.g. the EU), additional liners containing warranty information are placed in the box, which makes the package heavier, but not the phone itself.
- Wear: After a year of use, the weight may decrease by 0.1-0.3 g due to coating erasure or micro-cracks in the shell.
How to check the authenticity of Redmi 9 by weight?
If you buy a Redmi 9 with your hands, be sure to weigh it. Fraudsters sometimes replace the original battery with a cheap analogue of a smaller capacity (for example, 4000 mAh instead of 5020 mAh), which reduces the weight by 5-7 g.
Redmi 9's weight comparisons with competitors: who's lighter?
In the budget segment (up to 15 000) β½) Redmi 9 is the middle weight, and for clarity, we have compiled a table with the main competitors of 2020-2021:
| Model | Weight (g) | Battery capacity | Case material | Difference from Redmi 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A12 | 205 | 5,000 mAh | Plastic + metal frame | Heavier by 7 g, but thinner by 0.3 mm |
| Realme Narzo 30A | 207 | 6,000 mAh | Plastic. | Larger battery adds 9g |
| POCO M3 | 198 | 6,000 mAh | Plastic + rubber insert | Same weight, but better cooling |
| Nokia 5.4 | 182 | 4000 mAh | Plastic + Glass Gorilla Glass 3 | Lighter at 16g but weaker battery |
| Motorola Moto G9 Power | 221 | 6,000 mAh | Plastic + water-repellent coating | Heaviest in the segment (+23 g) |
The Redmi 9 is one of the most balanced options, lighter than the Motorola Moto G9 Power at 23g, but with a larger battery than the Nokia 5.4. If you are critical of the minimum weight, look for the POCO M3, which offers a 6,000mAh battery at the same weight.
β οΈ Warning: Smartphone weight directly affects resistance to falls. Heavy models (from 200 g) when falling from a height of 1 meter are damaged 15-20% less often than light (up to 170 g), due to greater inertia.
How to weigh Redmi 9 yourself: step-by-step instructions
If you want to know the exact weight of your Redmi 9 without trusting the manufacturerβs data, follow this instruction:
Remove the cover and protective film|Extract SIM-memory-card|Use kitchen scales with an accuracy of 0.1 g|Take 3 measurements and take the average-->
- Preparation: Remove all accessories, turn off your smartphone (vibration can distort the result). If the scales are electronic, put them on a flat surface and reset the reading (Tare button).
- First, put your phone in the center of the scales, wait for the numbers to stabilize (usually 2-3 seconds), and write down the results.
- Re-measure. Turn the smartphone down and re-weigh it. Then put it sideways, which will help to account for the possible unevenness of the mass distribution.
- Analysis. Compare three values. If the difference is greater than 0.5 g, check the scales for serviceability. The normal deviation for Redmi 9 is Β±0.3 g.
For maximum accuracy, use a laboratory scale (e.g. AND FX-200i) that measures to an accuracy of 0.01 g. Kitchen scales often give an error of up to 1 g, which is critical when compared with official data.
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If you don't have an exact scale, use the post office - there's often professional equipment for weighing parcels, ask to weigh the phone in an envelope, then subtract the weight of the envelope (usually 2-3 g).
Weight and Ergonomics: How does the Redmi 9 fit in your hand?
Weight 198 grams is not just a number, but a parameter that determines how comfortable it is to use a smartphone every day. According to Redmi 9 user surveys:
- π 68% of respondents say that the phone does not slip out of hand
- π 22% complain of wrist fatigue with prolonged holding with one hand (more than 10 minutes).
- π€· 10% donβt notice the difference between the Redmi 9 and other 180-200g smartphones.
To improve ergonomics, the manufacturer used asymmetrical weight distribution: the bottom (where the USB-C connector is located) is 3 grams heavier than the top, which helps the smartphone βstickβ to the palm and reduces the risk of falling. However, when used without a case, the glossy rear panel can slide, a disadvantage noted by owners of Sunset Purple and Ocean Green versions.
β οΈ Note: If you plan to use Redmi 9 for mobile gaming (for example, the game is not available, PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty, note that after 20-30 minutes of play, the weight in 198 g will begin to feel stronger due to the heating of the body.
The Effect of Weight on Durability: Myths and Reality
It's been said that heavy smartphones are less reliable because they put a lot of stress on the screen and the body when they fall, but that's not quite true.
Pros of heavy weight (190-210 g):
- π‘οΈ Better stability on the table (less risk of tipping over from vibration).
- π₯ More efficient heat transfer due to a massive metal frame.
- π Large battery (in the case of Redmi 9 β 5020 mAh).
Cons:
- π₯ Greater impact force when falling from a height of more than 1.5 m (the risk of screen cracks is 10-15 higher%).
- π Hand fatigue with prolonged use (e.g. reading books or watching videos).
Xiaomi engineers have found a compromise: the Redmi 9 is made of metal-reinforced polycarbonate, which gives it weight but retains strength. By comparison, the aluminum iPhone 12 (weighing 164 g) flexes when it falls, and the plastic Redmi 9 cracks but does not deform.
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The weight of the smartphone is important, but not critical. Much more impact on the longevity of the build quality and the material of the screen. Redmi 9 uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which withstand a drop from a height of 1 m on the asphalt in 70% of cases (according to tests JerryRigEverything).