The Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 and Redmi Note 4X are two smartphones that still cause confusion among users. At first glance, they seem almost identical: the same design, similar screens, even names differ only in one letter. But under the hood hide fundamental differences that affect performance, battery life and even compatibility with modern applications.
This article will help you understand why the Redmi Note 4X is often called the “revamped version” of the Redmi Note 4, when in fact they are two different devices with unique features. We will analyze the key difference – the Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 vs. Helio X20 processors, which determine everything from speed to support for custom firmware.
1. Processors: Snapdragon 625 vs Helio X20 - Battle of Architectures
The main “iron” difference between the models lies in the chipsets. Redmi Note 4 (standard version) is equipped with a 10-nanometer MediaTek Helio X20 with ten cores (three clusters: 2×2.1 GHz + 4×1.85 GHz + 4×1.4 GHz).
- 🔥 Overheating: Helio X20 Prone to trottling (resetting frequencies) with prolonged loads, especially in games.
- 🎮 Games: Coping with PUBG Mobile only on low settings, while Snapdragon 625 keeps averages.
- 🔋 Energy efficiency: 20-nanometer Helio process technology X20 14-nanometer Snapdragon 625 in terms of energy consumption.
In turn, the Redmi Note 4X received Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 - 8-core processor with a clock speed of 2.0 GHz. Despite the smaller number of cores, it demonstrates:
- ⚡ Stability: No sharp drawdowns FPS In games, thanks to optimized architecture Cortex-A53.
- 📱 Compatibility: Best support for custom firmware (e.g. LineageOS or Pixel Experience).
- 🔄 Future: Snapdragon 625 It still receives unofficial Android updates. 12-13, whereas for Helio X20 choice is limited.
It is important to note that Redmi Note 4 helio X20 Does not support fast charging (maximum) 5V/2A), while Redmi Note 4X It can work with Quick Charge charging. 3.0 (When using a compatible adapter, this affects the time of full charge: 2.5 hour 1.5 hourly.
2.Screen and design: 99% identical, but there is a nuance
Both models received 5.5-inch IPS-resolution-screen 1920×1080 (Full HD) pixel density 401 On paper, the parameters are the same, but on closer examination, differences are found:
| Parameter | Redmi Note 4 | Redmi Note 4X |
|---|---|---|
| Brightness (max.) | 450 nits | 500 nits |
| Contrast | 1000:1 | 1200:1 |
| Support for Sunlight Display | No. | Yes (automatic adjustment under the sun) |
| Oleophobic coating | Weak (washing in 3-4 months) | Improved (lasts 1-1.5 years) |
Externally, smartphones are almost impossible to distinguish - both have a metal body with a 2.5D-With rounded glass and a fingerprint scanner on the back. 4X available in an optional color called Black Onyx (deep matte), which the standard version does not have.
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To verify the authenticity of the screen, type ##36446337## into the engineering menu and compare the serial number of the display to the box. Counterfeiting is often equipped with cheap matrixes with blurred angles.
Another hidden difference is the infrared port, which is located closer to the top edge (2mm higher) in the Redmi Note 4X, which can cause problems with some cases designed for the standard model.
3.Cameras: megapixels vs real quality
Both models feature a 13-megapixel main camera (aperture f/2.0, phase autofocus) and a 5-megapixel front module.
- 📸 Processing: Redmi Note 4X It uses processing algorithms from Qualcomm Spectra ISP, Those who are better at dealing with noise in the dark.
- 🎥 Video: Only 4X record 4K@30fps (with the heating of the body, while the standard model is limited 1080p@30fps.
- 🔦 Aviator: Redmi Note 4 noticeably "washing" when shooting against light, which is deprived of the Snapdragon-version.
Examples of real photos (made under the same conditions):
Day (HDR): Redmi Note 4X keeps more detail in the shadows, while Redmi Note 4 "bursts" dark areas.
Night: Green noise appears in the Helio X20 images, while the Snapdragon 625 gives a cooler but cleaner shot.
How to turn on manual mode in the camera?
⚠️ Attention: B 2026 In the year, both cameras are inferior even to budget smartphones for the 10 000 If photography is a priority, consider Redmi Note. 10 POCO M4 Pro 48-50 MP modules.
4. Battery and autonomy: who will live longer?
Both models are equipped with 4100 mAh batteries, but the operating time is 15-20% different due to the processors:
- 🔋 Redmi Note 4 (Helio X20): Screen: 6-7 active use of the clock, waiting mode: 3 The day: PUBG Mobile discharges battery for 3.5 hour.
- ⚡ Redmi Note 4X (Snapdragon 625): Screen: 7-8 (Thanks to Qualcomm optimization) Standby mode: up to 4 Games: same. PUBG Mobile eats away" 25-30% charge-by-charge 2 hour.
The key is battery degradation, after 3-4 years of operation:
- The Redmi Note 4 loses up to 40% of its capacity (due to the less efficient charge controller in the Helio X20).
- Redmi Note 4X – up to 25-30% (Snapdragon better manages charging cycles).
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If you plan to use a smartphone for longer than 2 years, choose the Redmi Note 4X - its battery ages more slowly.
Both devices support OTG, but the Redmi Note 4X can deliver current up to 1.5A to external devices (for example, to charge headphones), whereas the standard model is limited to 0.5A.
5.Memory and performance: benchmark tests
The official versions of both smartphones were offered with 2/3/4 GB of RAM and 16/32/64 GB of permanent memory (with microSD support up to 256 GB).
| Test | Redmi Note 4 (Helio X20) | Redmi Note 4X (Snapdragon 625) |
|---|---|---|
| AnTuTu 9 | ~75,000 points | ~95,000 points |
| Geekbench 5 (Single-Core) | 780 | 910 |
| 3DMark (Sling Shot) | 870 | 1 200 |
| Application loading (medium) | 1.2 sec | 0.8 seconds |
In practice, this means:
- 📱 Multitasking: On the Redmi Note 4X You can keep up to 12 apps in the background without rebooting, with a maximum of 8 on the standard model.
- 🎮 Call of Duty Mobile at low settings gives 30 FPS Snapdragon on Snapdragon 625 and 20-25 FPS Helio X20.
- 🔄 Updates: Redmi Note 4X Updates are being updated faster MIUI (on 30-40% Decompresses files faster).
⚠️ In 2026, both models are not officially supported. MIUI 14 and Android 13, the latest available versions — MIUI 12.5 (Android 10) for Redmi Note 4 and MIUI 13 (Android 11) for the Redmi Note 4X. New versions of the software will require custom firmware.
6. Communications and Networks: LTE, Wi-Fi and GPS
The differences are minimal, but critical for some users:
- 📶 LTE: Both models support 4G VoLTE, but Redmi Note 4X It operates in a large number of bands (Band 20 for European operators).
- 📡 Wi-Fi: Snapdragon 625 equipped with a Qualcomm module WCN3660, which is better at catching the signal at a distance. 10-15% more stable than Helio X20).
- 📍 GPS: In Redmi Note 4, frequent "jumps" coordinates when using GLONASS, while 4X signalling.
- 🔌 Bluetooth: Only 4X Supports Bluetooth 4.2 (vs 4.1 on the standard model), which is important for wireless headphones with aptX.
Internet speed test (under the same conditions):
- Redmi Note 4: 4G – up to 150 Mbit / s, Wi-Fi (5 GHz) – up to 200 Mbit / s.
- Redmi Note 4X: 4G – up to 300 Mbit / s (thanks to Snapdragon X9 LTE), Wi-Fi (5 GHz) – up to 300 Mbit / s.
☑️ Checking the network before buying
7 Prices and relevance in 2026
In the secondary market, prices vary greatly depending on the state:
| Model | "Like new" state | Good condition. | B/y (with traces of use) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 4 (3/32GB) | 5 000 — 6 500 ₽ | 3 500 — 4 500 ₽ | 2 000 — 3 000 ₽ |
| Redmi Note 4X (4/64GB) | 7 000 — 8 500 ₽ | 5 000 — 6 000 ₽ | 3 500 — 4 500 ₽ |
Should I Buy in 2026?
- ✅ Yes, if: You need a backup smartphone or a device for your child/elderly relatives, plan to use it for calls, instant messengers and easy tasks (YouTube, music) and are willing to put up with the lack of official updates.
- ❌ Not if: Modern games or photography are important. 5G or wifi 6. You plan to use it longer. 1-2 years.
Alternatives for similar money (new):
- 📱 Redmi A2+ (2023) — 8 000 ₽, Android 13, Helio G36.
- 📱 Poco C50 — 9 000 ₽, 5000 mAh, 18 watts of charging.
- 📱 Realme C30s — 7 500 ₽, Unisoc SC9863A, 5 MP camera.
Repairability and spare parts
Both models are easily repaired, but there are nuances:
- 🔧 Screen: Replacing the display costs between 2,500 and 3,500 ₽ (For the Redmi Note 4X easier to find parts.
- 🔋 Battery: New battery costs 800 - 1,200 ₽. It is important to choose a capacity not lower than 4000 mAh (original - 4100 mAh).
- 📟 Connectors: A common problem is the wear of the microUSB socket. Replacement costs 500 to 800 times ₽.
- 🔊 Speaker: In Redmi Note 4 speaker glued to the body, in 4X — It is easy to replace the slats (easier to replace).
How to check the originality of spare parts?
Cost of complete repairs (for example, after falling into the water):
- Redmi Note 4: 4 000 — 6 000 ₽ (dependant).
- Redmi Note 4X: 3 500 — 5 500 ₽ (details are cheaper and more affordable).
⚠️ Note: When replacing the battery with a non-original charge controller, the percentage of charge may not be displayed correctly. ADB: adb shell dumpsys battery reset Then fully discharge and charge the smartphone.