Why AnTuTu is important for the Redmi Note 9
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 9, launched in 2020, is still a popular choice among users who value balance of price and performance. One of the key tools to evaluate the hardware of the device is the AnTuTu benchmark, which analyzes the work of the processor, graphics, memory and other components, giving a final score. But how much does the Redmi Note 9 actually score in this test?
In this article, we'll look at not only the averages of the device, but also the factors that influence the result: from the firmware version to the temperature of the processor, you'll learn how to properly test a smartphone to get objective data, and compare it with competitors like the Realme 6 or Samsung Galaxy A31. And also - we'll reveal a few secrets to how to "overclock" points a little without risk to the device.
Spoiler: The real-life results of the Redmi Note 9 in AnTuTu range from 170,000 to 200,000 points depending on the testing conditions, but there are nuances that even YouTube reviews keep silent about.
AnTuTu Official and Real Score for Redmi Note 9
According to the manufacturer and independent tests, Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 with a processor MediaTek Helio G85 in standard conditions typed:
- 📊 180,000-190,000 points – average result on stock firmware MIUI (version 12-14).
- 🔥 195,000–205,000 points – after optimization (background cleaning, animations switching off, cooling off).
- ❄️ 165,000–175,000 points for overheating or background load (e.g. during charging).
It's important to understand that AnTuTu v9 and v10 are different because of the updated algorithms. For example, in version 9, the smartphone could show 190,000, and in the 10th it could show 175,000. It doesn't mean a drop in performance, it just changed the criteria for scoring.
| AnTuTu version | Average grade | Test conditions |
|---|---|---|
| v8 | 195 000–205 000 | Stock firmware, no load |
| v9 | 180 000–190 000 | After the MIUI 13 update |
| v10 | 170 000–180 000 | With active use of 4G/5G |
Interestingly, after upgrading to MIUI 14, some users reported a 5 to 10 percent drop in scores, which is due to energy-saving optimizations, not hardware deterioration.
⚠️ Warning: If your Redmi Note 9 consistently scores below 160,000, this could indicate processor trottling (automatic frequency reduction due to overheating) or battery problems.
How to test the Redmi Note 9 in AnTuTu
To get reliable results, follow this algorithm:
Close all background apps (especially instant messengers and games)
Turn off mobile internet and Wi-Fi
Battery charge - at least 50%
The body temperature is not higher than 30 ° C (check in Settings → Battery → Temperature)
Install the latest version of AnTuTu from Google Play-->
Run the test and wait for it to be completed (usually takes 3-5 minutes). Importantly, do not interact with the smartphone during the test, this will distort the results.
- 🧠 CPU — processor-performance.
- 🎮 GPU — graphics (important for games).
- 📥 MEM — memory-speed.
- 📁 UX — User experience (working with the interface).
Typical score distribution for Redmi Note 9:
- CPU: 65 000–70 000
- GPU: 30 000–35 000
- MEM: 35 000–40 000
- UX: 50 000–55 000
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If the smartphone is hot after the test, let it cool for 10-15 minutes before re-starting. Overheating can reduce the results by 10-15%.
Comparison with competitors: who is stronger?
In 2020, the Redmi Note 9 competed with models such as the Realme 6 (Helio G90T), Samsung Galaxy A31 (Helio P65) and Poco X3 NFC (Snapdragon 732G).
| Model | Processor | AnTuTu v9 (medium) | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 | Helio G85 | 185 000 | 5020mAh battery, NFC |
| Realme 6 | Helio G90T | 210 000 | 90Hz screen, fast charging |
| Samsung Galaxy A31 | Helio P65 | 150 000 | AMOLED-screen, One UI |
| Poco X3 NFC | Snapdragon 732G | 230 000 | 120Hz screen, stereo speakers |
As you can see, the Redmi Note 9 is inferior in raw performance, but wins in autonomy and price. For example, the Poco X3 NFC is faster by 25-30%, but its battery is 20% smaller (4160 mAh vs. 5020 mAh).
Why does the Helio G85 lose the Snapdragon 732G?
If you need a smartphone for gaming, it is better to look at the Poco X3 or Realme 6 Pro. But for everyday tasks (social networks, videos, photos), the Redmi Note 9 is more than enough.
Factors Affecting AnTuTu Scores
Test results can vary greatly on a single device, and here are the key factors:
- Processor temperature: When you heat up above 40°C, you activate trottling, which is automatic frequency reduction, for example, after 30 minutes of playing Genshin Impact, you can drop points by 20 to 30 percent.
- Firmware version: MIUI updates often optimize power consumption at the expense of performance, for example, after upgrading to MIUI 14, some users recorded a drop of 5-10%.
- Background processes. Even closed applications (like Facebook or TikTok) can take up to 15% of the CPU in the background. Before the test, clear RAM through Settings → Apps → Clean.
- Battery condition: When the battery wears more than 30% (checked in Settings → Battery → Status), the system limits performance to save energy.
Another hidden factor is the firmware region, for example, the global version of MIUI can score 3 to 5 percent lower than the Chinese version due to different optimizations.
⚠️ Note: If you use custom firmware (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience), AnTuTu results may be unstable. Some cores are not optimized for benchmarks, and scores may be overstated or understated by 15-20%.
How to increase AnTuTu scores without risk to your device
If you need to unlock the potential of the Redmi Note 9, try these safe methods:
Activate Performance Mode in Settings → Battery → Modes
Turn off adaptive brightness and set 50%
Remove the cache of system applications (Settings → Storage → Clear cache)
Restart your smartphone 10 minutes before the test-->
For more in-depth optimization:
- 🔧 Use core acceleration GPU An engineering menu (available under code ##4636##, but requires caution) can add 5 to 7 percent to the scores by increasing the frequency by 10 to 15 percent. GPU.
- ⚡ Turn off the system animations. To do this, activate the developer mode (7 times click on Settings). → The phone. → Version. MIUI), then in Settings → Additionally. → For developers install: Animation windows → 0.5x Animation of transitions → 0.5x Duration of the animator → Off.
Important: Do not use RAM cleanup applications (like Clean Master) that often kill system processes, leading to lags and lower AnTuTu scores.
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The most effective way to improve your scores is to cool the processor, and even a simple fan pointed at the back can add 5 to 10 percent to the result.
Frequent Testing Mistakes in AnTuTu
Many users get underperformances due to common errors:
- 🚫 Testing while charging: The charger loads the power controller, which reduces performance by 10-15%. Always turn off the cable before starting the benchmark.
- 📶 Active mobile network connection. Modem consumes resources CPU, Especially in low signal areas, put your smartphone in flight mode or turn off your mobile data.
- 🔄 Repeated test restarts in a row. After the first run, the processor heats up, and subsequent tests show worse results. Take a break for 15 to 20 minutes.
- 📱 Use cases: Dense silicone or metal covers degrade heat sink.
Another common problem is fake results, and some firmware (especially unofficial ones) have patches that overstate AnTuTu scores, and it's easy to check that if in real games (like PUBG Mobile), the smartphone slows down and the test shows 220,000+, you have overclocked data.