In the world of low-end electronics, the names Redmi Note 4X and Redmi 4X have become a legend, creating confusion among even power users. On the outside, the devices seem similar: a metal body, a similar color scheme and a logo on the back. However, despite the similarity of the names, they are completely different smartphones, focused on different market segments and customer needs.
Understanding the differences between these models is critical, as the price difference can be justified by features you may not be using, or vice versa β savings will lead to a lack of performance. In this article, we will take a detailed look at design features, hardware stuffing and software nuances so you can make an informed choice when buying a device in the secondary market or for collecting.
Itβs worth noting that the confusion was not accidental: Xiaomiβs marketing strategy at the time was to create a broad line of devices, where the βXβ in the title often denoted special versions or regional modifications, but in this case X points to different generations of processors and screen diagonals, which fundamentally changes the user experience.
Design and ergonomics of housings
The first thing that catches your eye when you compare it physically is the dimensions. The Redmi Note 4X belongs to the class of βphabletsβ of its time with a 5.5-inch screen, while the Redmi 4X is a compact 5-inch device. The difference in diagonal dictates the size of the body: the Note version is significantly wider and heavier, which makes controlling one hand difficult.
Both are made of metal, but the build quality and feel in the hand are different. The "younger" model has more rounded edges, and the back cover has a nice matte hue. The Note 4X version often came in limited colors, such as bright blue or gold, with glossy inserts around the cameras. Ergonomics plays a key role here: if you want a compact gadget for trips on the subway, the large Note will be clearly redundant.
β οΈ Warning: The rear covers are not interchangeable! Do not try to install the case from Redmi 4X note 4X, Since the mounting and location of the plumes of the cameras are radically different.
The location of the controls is also nuanced. The fingerprint scanner on both models is on the front, but its shape and sensitivity may vary depending on the revision of the display module. The volume and power buttons on the Redmi Note 4X have a clearer stroke, which is a consequence of using a more expensive tactile mechanism.
Screen and image quality
The display is the main element of interaction with the interface, and here the differences are fundamental. 4X fitted IPS-resolution-matrix 1920Γ1080 pixels (Full) HD). The pixel density is about 401 ppi, which provides a crystal clear picture where individual points are indistinguishable by the human eye.
In turn, Redmi. 4X got the permission matrix 1280Γ720 (HD). For 5-Inch screens, this gives density around 294 While this is a reasonable indicator for the budget segment, when you look at the text or interface in detail, the graininess will be noticeable, especially when you compare devices side by side. MIUI period.
The Note version has traditionally had better brightness and viewing angles, thanks to better panels, which is critical for using a smartphone in bright sun. 2.5D glass is used on both models, but due to the different diagonal and the presence of a physical home button on the 4X, the double-glazed window looks different.
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Check the screen for a βyellow spotβ at the bottom β this is a common disease of Xiaomi IPS-matrixes of those years, which manifests itself over time.
Energy consumption should be considered. HD-screen 4X It consumes much less energy than full energy. HD note 4X. Combined with a smaller physical size, this gives the Quad a huge advantage in autonomy despite having a smaller battery.
Performance and processor base
The heart of the Redmi Note 4X is the legendary Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 chipset. This 8-core 14nm processor is renowned for its perfect balance between performance and energy efficiency, and is still considered one of the best solutions for the budget segment, ensuring smooth interface and running most applications.
The Redmi 4X is based on the Snapdragon 435. It's also an 8-core chip, but it's a lower-end chip, it's 28 nm (in the first revisions) or 14 nm (late revisions), which makes it less efficient. The benchmark difference (AnTuTu) can reach double the value in favor of the Note 4X.
- π Redmi Note 4X: Ideal for social media, navigation, YouTube in Full HD lungs 3D-mid-size.
- π’ Redmi 4X: It can cope with instant messengers, calls and simple surfing, but heavy pages and modern applications can slow down.
- β‘ Heat: Snapdragon 625 is not warmed up, while the heat is not warm. SD435 can significantly increase the temperature of the body under load.
The Adreno 506 graphics accelerator in the Note 4X is significantly more powerful than the Adreno 505 in the regular 4X. If you plan to use your smartphone not only for calls but also for entertainment, the choice is obvious.
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The Snapdragon 625 in the Redmi Note 4X is still considered the benchmark for energy efficiency, ahead of many modern budget chips in performance stability.
Cameras: photo and video
The main camera Redmi Note 4X received a module 13 MP with phase autofocus (PDAF) and aperture f/2.0. The presence of phase autofocus allows you to take pictures almost instantly, which is important for shooting children or animals. the quality of the photo in the daytime is excellent for its class, with good detail and dynamic range.
The Redmi 4X also features a 13MP camera, but lacks phase autofocus, relying on contrasting method that runs slower. In addition, software processing in the cheaper Snapdragon 435 processor often results in noises in under-light. Both cameras write in Full HD resolution, but there is little stabilization.
| Characteristics | Redmi Note 4X | Redmi 4X |
|---|---|---|
| Main camera. | 13 MP, PDAF, f/2.0 | 13 MP, Contrast AF, f/2.0 |
| Front camera. | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Videotape | 1080p @ 30fps | 1080p @ 30fps |
| Outbreak. | Two-colored | Single |
The front cameras in both models are identical in resolution (5 MP), but the quality of selfies on the Note 4X is better due to the higher-quality module and image processing algorithms tied to the main processor.
Autonomy and working time
This is where the real drama of numbers unfolds. The Redmi Note 4X is powered by a 4100mAh battery. In conjunction with the cost-effective screen and Snapdragon 625 processor, this smartphone is capable of running for up to 2-3 days of moderate use without recharging. It is one of the longest-lived smartphones in Xiaomi history.
The Redmi 4X has a 4,000mAh battery. It would seem that the difference in 100 mAh is not significant, but given the smaller screen and less efficient processor, the real life of the 4X may be even higher in waiting scenarios, but lower with active screen use.
- π Note 4X: Around 8-9 Screen on Time (Screen on Time).
- π 4X: Around 6-7 screen-clock.
- π Charging: Both models support fast charging Quick Charge 3.0, But the complete power supplies were often common (5V/2And).
Importantly, both smartphones have non-removable batteries. Replacing the battery requires skills and tools, as the back cover is glued. Over time, capacity decreases, and if the Note 4X still holds the charge decently, then the 4X may need to replace the battery by that time.
β οΈ Warning: When buying a used device, be sure to check battery wear. Old lithium-polymer batteries can swell, which is dangerous for the case.
Memory and software
Both models came in different memory configurations. For the Redmi Note 4X, the standard was 3/32 GB and 4/64 GB. RAM type LPDDR3 provided good multitasking. Redmi 4X was more common in versions 2/16 GB and 3/32 GB. For 2026 and later, the minimum comfortable volume is 3 GB of RAM, so the 2 GB versions will run slowly.
Both phones officially stopped software-wise with the MIUI 9 or MIUI 10 version of Android 7.0 (Nougat) and have been officially discontinued, but thanks to the popularity of the Snapdragon 625 chipset, the Redmi Note 4X has developed a huge number of custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) that allows you to install Android 10, 11 and even later.
Should I put a custom firmware?
For Redmi 4X, the developer community is also large, but due to the less powerful hardware, new versions of Android are less stable on it. If you plan to use the smartphone as it is, without flashing it over, make sure that the installed version of MIUI is not overloaded with advertising and unnecessary services.
βοΈ Check before buying used Xiaomi
Summary comparison and recommendations
To sum up, the Redmi Note 4X is the undisputed leader in the pair: it offers a better screen, a much more powerful processor, a better camera, and comparable autonomy. The price difference in the secondary market is often minimal, making buying the Note 4X a much more rational investment.
The Redmi 4X should only be considered if you want the smallest and cheapest phone for calls, for a child or as a (backup) device. Its performance in 2026 is already critically short for heavy applications, but it performs basic functions properly.
If you're looking at the two legends, you need to be mindful of your multimedia needs. If you're watching videos and you're flipping through social media feeds -- just the Note 4X. If you want a phone in your jeans pocket, you can look at the 4X.
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The Redmi Note 4X remains relevant even years later thanks to the successful Snapdragon 625 processor, while the Redmi 4X is morally obsolete faster.