Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X: all the differences between the Redmi Note 4 and other smartphones in the series

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X — One of the most popular models of budget smartphones from Xiaomi, which is still in demand in the secondary market, but many buyers confuse it with the Redmi Note 4, Redmi Note 4 Pro or even Redmi Note 3. 4X It differs from other versions, what it has "chips" and what to look for when buying.

This model was released in early 2017 as an updated version of the Redmi Note 4, but with a number of key improvements: the main differences lie in the processor, memory, body colors and even firmware, if you plan to buy a used device or compare it with other Xiaomi smartphones, this article will help avoid mistakes and make an informed choice.

1 The main differences between the Redmi Note 4X and the Redmi Note 4

The most common question is, "What's the difference between the Redmi Note 4X and the Redmi Note 4?" At first glance, the smartphones look the same, but they're different on the inside.

• 🔹 Redmi Note 4 (Indian/global version) – Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 (8 cores, 2.0 GHz)
• 🔹 Redmi Note 4X (Chinese/International version: Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 or MediaTek Helio X20 (10 cores, 2.1 GHz)

The second key difference is the amount of RAM. The Note 4X has modifications with 3 GB and 4 GB of RAM, while the Note 4 has a maximum option of 3 GB. Also, the Note 4X received additional body colors: black, gold, rose gold and matte black (the latter is exclusive to this model).

Another important difference is the firmware. 4X originally supplied with MIUI 8 based on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, but later received an update to MIUI 11 (Android 7.0 Nougat).While the Redmi Note 4 (Indian version) was frequently upgraded to MIUI 12 and even Android 7.1.1.

2.Comparison with Redmi Note 4 Pro and other models of the series

Many people confuse the Redmi Note 4X with the Redmi Note 4 Pro, but they are actually different devices. Note 4 Pro is an improved version of the Note 4 with a more powerful Snapdragon 636 processor (in some regions) and a better camera. However, in Russia and the CIS, under the name "Note 4 Pro", it was often sold Note 4X with Helio X20 - a marketing ploy that misled many buyers.

For clarity, compare the key characteristics:

Also Redmi Note 4X differs from Redmi Note 3 Pro (predecessor) more modern design, metal body without plastic inserts and support for fast charging (although the adapter in the kit is normal, on 5V/2A).

⚠️ Note: There are often fakes under the Redmi Note on the market 4X MediaTek-based MT6755 (Helio P10) Helio X20. Check the processor model in settings (Settings) → The phone. → Kernel version) or through the appendix CPU-Z.

3 How to distinguish the Redmi Note 4X from other models when buying

If you’re buying a smartphone with your hands, it’s important to make sure you’re being sold the Redmi Note 4X, not a re-labeled Note 4 or a fake.

• 📱 Look at the sticker under the battery (if the phone is collapsible). 4X should be written MDG5 (for the Snapdragon 625 version, or MDG6 (for Helio X20).
• 🔍 Go to Settings. → The phone. → Model. The Note. 4X It will be indicated by Redmi Note. 4X or mido (code name).
• 🎨 Pay attention to the color of the case. 4X There is an exclusive matte black color, which the Note 4 does not have.
• 🔋 Check the battery capacity in AIDA64 Or AccuBattery. 4X 4100 mAh battery, while some counterfeits have 3000-3500 mAh.

You can also check the IMEI on Xiaomi's official website (link) if the phone doesn't pass the check, there's a high risk that it's a fake or a grey import.

If a seller refuses to show settings or disassemble a phone, it’s a good idea to be wary, and pay attention to the price: the Redmi Note 4X in good condition usually costs 10-15% more than the Redmi Note 4, due to the more powerful processor (in the case of the Helio X20) or more memory.

4.Pros and cons of Redmi Note 4X: Should you buy in 2026?

Although the Redmi Note 4X was released in 2017, it still remains relevant for the budget segment.

✅ Pluses:

• 🔋 Long operating time thanks to the battery 4100 mAh.
• 📱 Strong metal case (unlike plastic state employees).
• 🎯 Good 13MP main camera with phase autofocus.
• 🔄 Support for custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience, etc.).
• 💰 Low price in the secondary market (from 3000 to 6000 rubles depending on the state).

❌ Cons:

• 🐢 Micro-USB is outdated instead of USB-C.
• 📶 No support. 5G and some modern standards 4G (For example, Band 20).
• 🔄 Official updates MIUI Long since discontinued (last version — MIUI 11).
• 🎮 Weak Helio processor X20 In some modifications (problems with heating).

If you want a smartphone for calls, social media, and low-end games (Clash of Clans, Brawl Stars), the Redmi Note 4X is a great option for its money, but for modern games (Genshin Impact, Call of Duty Mobile), it is no longer enough power.

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If you plan to buy the Redmi Note 4X for gaming, choose the version with the Snapdragon 625 – it is more stable and less warm than the Helio X20.

5. Custom firmware and unlocking the loader

One of the main advantages of the Redmi Note 4X is the active community of custom firmware developers.

• 🤖 LineageOS (Pure Android without a free Android) MIUI)
• 📱 Pixel Experience (like the Google Pixel interface)
• ⚡ Havoc-OS or Resurrection Remix (maximum customization)
• 🔄 MIUI EU (European MIUI softwareless)

However, custom firmware installation requires unlocking the bootloader, an official procedure from Xiaomi, but it has a few nuances:

1. You need to link your Mi Account to your phone.
2. Wait 72–168 hours (3–7 days) after filing an application for unlocking.
3. Use the official Mi Unlock Tool software.

⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader resets the phone to factory settings, and after this procedure, some features (such as Mi Pay or Find Device) may stop working.

If you're not confident, you should trust the firmware to the professionals, and doing the wrong thing can lead to a phone "brick" (completely inoperable).

Accessories and compatibility

Because of the popularity of the Redmi Note 4X, it has a lot of accessories, but not all of them are universal.

• 🔌 Chargers: Any adapter with Quick Charge is suitable 2.0/3.0 (maximum capacity — 18W). The original block from Note 4X — 5V/2A (10W).
• 🎧 Headphones: 3.5mm connector standard, but some models with type-C require an adapter.
• 🛡️ Cases and glass: Suitable from the Redmi Note 4, but not from the Note 3 (different camera sizes).
• 🔋 Batteries: The original has a code MDY05DM or MDY05DL. Fakes often have a smaller capacity.

Also Redmi Note 4X supports OTG, but to connect flash drives or mouse requires a micro-USB → USB-A adapter. Some users complain about the slow operation of the OTG due to the limitations of the processor.

If you plan to use wireless charging, you will have to buy a special adapter, since the phone does not have built-in support for Qi.

7. Frequent problems and how to solve them

Like any budget smartphone, the Redmi Note 4X has a number of common problems, and here are the most common ways to fix them:

If the phone is slowing down, it will help to reset to factory settings or install a light firmware (for example, MIUI Lite). It is also recommended to turn off animation in the developer menu (Settings → About phone → MIUI version – tap 7 times, then Settings → Additional → For developers → Animation).

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If the Redmi Note 4X suddenly turns off at 20 to 30 percent charge, it's likely that the battery will be worn out.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions