Xiaomi Redmi 4: Comparison of all modifications – which is better and why

Xiaomi Redmi 4 β€” One of the most popular budget smartphone lines 2016-2017 But what few people know is that there are five different versions of this name that are very different in terms of stuffing, design and capabilities. 4 Standard HD-screen-to-redmi 4 Prime Full HD and glass back panel - the difference is so great that an uninformed buyer can easily overpay for unnecessary functions or, conversely, buy a stripped-down version.

In this article, we will take a look at all versions of Redmi 4 in detail, compare them by key parameters: processor, camera, battery, body materials and supported communication standards. You will learn which models are compatible with 4G in Russia, which have a removable battery and which are not, and why the Redmi 4 Pro is still considered the best choice among budget smartphones Xiaomi over 5 years old.

Review of all Redmi 4 modifications: a brief summary

Xiaomi Redmi 4 includes five official versions, Released between August 2016 and May 2017, all built on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, but differ in performance, design and even supported LTE frequencies.

  • πŸ“± Redmi 4 Standard (markw) - basic version HD-screen-and-shell.
  • πŸ“± Redmi 4 Prime (prada) - top modification with Full HD, glass back panel and the most powerful processor.
  • πŸ“± Redmi 4 Pro (prada) – same as Prime, but with a different name for some markets.
  • πŸ“± Redmi 4A (rolex) – ultra-budget version without fingerprint scanner and with a plastic case.
  • πŸ“± Redmi 4X (Santoni - Updated version 4A with improved camera and metal body.

It's important to understand that the Redmi 4 Prime and Redmi 4 Pro are the same smartphone, but with different names for different regions, but the Redmi 4 Standard, despite the similar name, is much weaker in specs. We'll go through each model in more detail next.

πŸ“Š What Redmi 4 Modifications Are You Considering To Buy?
Redmi 4 Standard
Redmi 4 Prime/Pro
Redmi 4A
Redmi 4X
I haven't decided yet.

External differences: how to distinguish models by design

The easiest way to identify a Redmi 4 modification is to look at the body material and the arrangement of the elements.

ModelCase materialFingerprint scannerHeadphone jackColors.
Redmi 4 StandardMetalAye (on the back panel)3.5 mm (upper end)Grey, gold, silver
Redmi 4 Prime/ProGlass + metalAye (on the back panel)3.5 mm (upper end)Black, gold, rose gold
Redmi 4APlastic.No.3.5 mm (lower end)Grey, gold, rose gold
Redmi 4XMetalAye (on the back panel)3.5 mm (upper end)Black, gold, rose gold

The critical difference: Redmi 4A The headphone jack is on the bottom end, whereas all other models have the top end. Prime/Pro has a glass back panel with 2.5D-It's rounded, which makes it the most premium in the lineup, but it's more fragile, which is something to consider when buying.

⚠️ Attention: In the secondary market, Redmi 4 Standard is often given out as Redmi 4 Pro, citing "minor differences." Always check the model in the settings along the Settings path β†’ The phone. β†’ Model or by application CPU-Z.

3. Technical characteristics: comparison of "iron"

The main differences between the modifications are in the processor, RAM, screen and battery, and below is a detailed comparison of the key components:

  • πŸ”§ Processor: Redmi 4 Standard/4X β€” Snapdragon 430 (8 nuclei, 1.4 GHz! Redmi! 4 Prime/Pro β€” Snapdragon 625 (8 nuclei, 2.0 GHz! Redmi! 4A β€” Snapdragon 425 (4 nucleus, 1.4 GHz)
  • πŸ–₯️ Screen: Standard/4A/4X β€” 5" HD (1280Γ—720) Prime/Pro β€” 5" Full HD (1920Γ—1080)
  • πŸ“Έ Camera: Standard/Prime/Pro β€” 13 MPP (f/2.0) + 5 MP frontal 4A β€” 13 MPP (f/2.2) + 5 MP frontal 4X β€” 13 MPP (f/2.0) phase-autofocus + 5 MP frontal

The most powerful processor is the Redmi 4 Prime/Pro (Snapdragon 625), which still copes with everyday tasks better than the Snapdragon 430 in Standard/4X. However, the difference in performance between the Standard and 4X is minimal - the main advantage of the 4X in a metal body and a more modern design.

Why is the Snapdragon 625 better than the Snapdragon 430?
The Snapdragon 625 is built on a 14nm process (vs. 28nm to 430), which provides better energy efficiency and performance. It also supports faster LPDDR3 memory and has a more powerful Adreno 506 graphics accelerator (vs. the Adreno 505 to 430).

4. Battery and autonomy: which models hold longer

All versions of Redmi 4 are equipped with non-removable batteries, but their capacity and real time are different:

  • πŸ”‹ Redmi 4 Standard/Prime/Pro/4X β€” 4100 mAhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
  • πŸ”‹ Redmi 4A β€” 3120 mAh

Despite the same capacity in most models, the actual autonomy depends on the processor and screen:

- Redmi 4 Prime/Pro Snapdragon 625 full HD-screen-holds the charge 15-20% longer than Standard S HD-screen and Snapdragon 430, Thanks to a more energy-efficient chipset.

Redmi 4A loses to everyone in capacity, but due to a weak processor and HD-screen can work almost as much as the Standard, if you do not load it.

⚠️ Note: If you are buying a Redmi 4 hand, be sure to check the status of the battery through the application AccuBattery. 5+ In the years of operation, the real capacity may fall to 60-70% from nominal, which will greatly reduce the time of work.

β˜‘οΈ How to check the status of the battery before buying

Done: 0 / 4

Support for 4G networks and compatibility with Russian operators

One of the most important differences is support. LTE-Not all Redmi 4 variants work equally well with Russian operators:

Model4G (LTE) supportRanges (Band)Compatibility with the Russian Federation
Redmi 4 StandardYes.B1, B3, B5, B7, B8, B38, B39, B40, B41Complete (including B20 for Tele2)
Redmi 4 Prime/ProYes.B1, B3, B5, B7, B8, B38, B39, B40, B41Complete.
Redmi 4AYes.B1, B3, B5, B7, B8, B38, B39, B40, B41Partial (no B20)
Redmi 4XYes.B1, B3, B5, B7, B8, B20, B38, B39, B40, B41Full (best compatibility)

The key point is that only the Redmi 4X supports the B20 (800 MHz) band that Tele2 is actively using and partly MegaFon/Beeline is using in the regions. If you live in the country or travel frequently, the 4X is the best choice. The Redmi 4A loses because it doesn't catch the B20.

πŸ’‘

To check the supported ranges on your smartphone, type in the engineering menu command ##4636##, then go to Phone Information β†’ Network settings.

6.What Redmi 4 Modification Should You Choose in 2026?

If you’re considering Redmi 4 as a budget option, here are our tips for choosing:

  • πŸ’° For maximum savings: Redmi 4A β€” It's the cheapest model, but it's plastic, it's a weak processor, and it's good for calls and easy tasks.
  • πŸ”„ For the balance of price and quality: Redmi 4 Standard or 4X. The latter is preferred because of the metal body and better support. 4G.
  • πŸš€ For better performance: Redmi 4 Prime/Pro β€” The only model with Full HD-screen and Snapdragon 625. Ideal if you need a smartphone for many yearsΒ».

However, it is worth considering that in 2026, even the Redmi 4 Prime will not receive security updates (the last one was released in 2020). 9A POCO C31.

πŸ’‘

If you choose between the Redmi 4 Standard and 4X, go for the 4X, which has a better camera, a more modern design and full 4G support in Russia.

7.Frequent problems and disadvantages of Redmi 4

Despite its reliability, the Redmi 4 has a few common issues to be aware of before buying:

  • πŸ”Œ Problems with charging: Redmi 4A and 4X MicroUSB connector often fails due to weak soldering, signs: the phone only charges at a certain position of the cable.
  • πŸ“Ά Weak signal. GPS: All models of the line suffer from a long search for satellites, especially in urban conditions.
  • πŸ”Š Quiet speaker: Redmi has 4 Standard/Prime one monodynamic on the lower end, which is easily drowned out by the hand.
  • πŸ”‹ Battery bloating: through 3-4 The battery may swell during the year of operation, which leads to detachment of the screen.

⚠️ Note: If you are buying a Redmi 4 Prime/Pro You can have a glass back, check it for cracks and chips, and replace it for almost half the cost of a smartphone in the secondary market.

πŸ”Ή Can I put custom firmware on Redmi 4?
Yes, all Redmi 4 models support custom firmware installation (e.g. LineageOS or Pixel Experience). However, for Redmi 4A, firmware selection is limited due to a weak processor. Be sure to unlock the bootloader through Xiaomi's official website before you run the firmware.
πŸ”Ή Does Redmi 4 support fast charging?
No, none of the modifications support Quick Charge or other fast charging standards. Maximum charging power is 10 watts (5V/2A). A full 4100 mAh battery charge takes about 3 hours.
πŸ”Ή How to distinguish the original Redmi 4 from a fake?
The original Redmi 4 can be identified by: Designed by Xiaomi labels on the back (except 4A), the serial number in the settings (Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ Serial Number), which must match the number on the box. MIUI branded firmware with pre-installed Xiaomi services. Counterfeits often have a plastic case even on models that should have metal, as well as a simplified camera.
πŸ”Ή Can I replace the battery in Redmi 4 on my own?
Theoretically, yes, but it requires care. The battery is glued to the body, and it is easy to damage the plumes when replaced. We recommend using special glue (for example, B-7000) and plastic blades. The cost of the original battery is about 1000-1500 rubles (2026).
πŸ”Ή Should I Buy Redmi 4 in 2026?
Depends on your needs: βœ… Worth it: if you need the most budget smartphone for calls, instant messengers and easy tasks (social networks, YouTube). ❌ Don't: If you need modern games, multitasking or long security updates, consider Redmi. 9A POCO C31 (They are cheaper than new, but more powerful).