realme 9i review
The realme realme 9i ranks as the #600 phones globally, achieving a LibraScore of 49. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #290-ranked battery among 800 phones. Consider the realme Narzo 50 or OnePlus Nord N300 5G, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Build Quality and Design
The realme 9i features a slim, lightweight design with a 2.5D curved glass display and frameless aesthetic. Its plastic body ensures durability while keeping the device comfortable to hold, weighing just 190 grams. Available in sleek black and vibrant blue, the phone combines modern color options with a hole-punch notch for a clutter-free screen. The build emphasizes practicality, offering a sturdy yet portable form factor that balances style and functionality for everyday use. realme 9 Pro might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded design.
Battery Life
The realme 9i features a large battery with fast charging, ensuring all-day usage. Its non-removable power source supports quick recharging, ideal for extended screen time without frequent interruptions. While exact endurance varies by usage, the battery aligns with the phone’s focus on practicality and reliability for daily tasks. For an improved battery, realme 9 Pro is worth considering.
Display
The realme 9i boasts a 6.6-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and 180Hz touch sampling rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. Its 2.5D curved glass design and hole-punch notch create a modern, immersive look, while the high brightness (480 nits) and 96% NTSC color gamut deliver vibrant visuals even in sunlight. The screen’s scratch-resistant surface and frameless aesthetic enhance durability and style, making it ideal for multimedia and everyday use. With a very high pixel density (401 PPI), the display offers sharp text and detailed imagery, balancing performance and practicality for users seeking a visually engaging experience. You might want to check out realme GT Neo 3T, featuring an upgraded display for a superior experience.
Camera
The realme 9i features a versatile triple-camera system for diverse photography needs. The primary 50MP rear lens offers sharp detail, wide dynamic range via HDR, and phase detection autofocus for quick focusing. A dedicated monochrome sensor enhances contrast and texture in low-light scenes, while the macro lens captures intricate close-ups. The front 16MP camera delivers clear selfies with optimized low-light performance and skin-smoothing features. The phone supports digital zoom, panorama, and 120fps slow-motion video, though it lacks optical stabilization. LED flash and advanced settings like ISO control cater to creative users. Despite its budget focus, the camera setup balances practicality and performance for everyday snapshots, casual vlogging, and social media content. Take a look at realme 9 5G Speed Edition - its improved camera sets a new standard.
Price and Value
The realme 9i offers strong value with its triple-camera system, 90Hz display, 5000mAh battery, and fast charging in a budget-friendly package. Its practical features—like a vibrant screen, all-day battery life, and versatile photography tools—make it a compelling choice for users seeking reliable performance and modern functionality without premium pricing.
Performance
The realme 9i delivers smooth performance with its mid-range processor, 4 GB of RAM, and UFS 2.1 storage, ensuring quick app launches and multitasking. The Adreno 610 GPU handles graphics efficiently, while the 216,850 Antutu score reflects solid benchmark performance. A suite of sensors, including a side-mounted fingerprint reader, enhances usability and responsiveness for everyday tasks and media consumption. It’s worth checking out realme C55, delivering remarkable performance.
Pros
1. Long-lasting 5000mAh battery with 33W fast charging for all-day use.
2. 90Hz LCD display with 401 PPI for smooth visuals and vibrant colors.
3. Triple-lens rear camera system featuring a 50MP main sensor and macro lens.
4. Budget-friendly pricing with strong value for features like 90Hz display and fast charging.
5. Durable plastic build with 2.5D curved glass and sleek color options.
6. Expandable storage (via SD card) and 128GB variant for added flexibility.
Cons
1. Lacks 5G support, limiting future-proofing in evolving markets.
2. LCD screen lacks the contrast and black levels of OLED displays.
3. 4GB RAM may struggle with heavy multitasking or gaming.
4. Front camera's skin-smoothing features may over-process selfies.
5. Plastic body feels less premium compared to glass or metal alternatives.
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