realme 9i 5G review
The realme realme 9i 5G ranks as the #627 phones globally, achieving a LibraScore of 47. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #639-ranked battery among 800 phones. Consider the OnePlus Nord N30 SE or Motorola Moto G53, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Build Quality and Design
The realme 9i 5G combines a compact, ergonomic build with a premium aesthetic, featuring a 8.1 mm slim frame and 187 g lightweight design for effortless handling. Its plastic body houses a gradient-finish back panel, available in striking Black, Gold, and Cyan variants, while a 2.5D curved glass screen adds a polished, modern touch. The waterdrop notch ensures an immersive 85% screen-to-body ratio, complemented by a 90 Hz refresh rate for smooth interactions. Despite its budget-friendly positioning, the device lacks IP certification for water/dust resistance, but its sturdy construction and Panda Glass protection offer practical durability. The absence of a punch-hole design and inclusion of a 3.5 mm headphone jack cater to traditionalists, making it a well-balanced blend of style and functionality. For an improved design, realme 10 Pro is worth considering.
Battery Life
The realme 9i 5G features a 5000 mAh lithium battery, ensuring all-day endurance for moderate use. With 18W fast charging, it quickly replenishes power, though it lacks wireless charging. The non-removable battery balances capacity with efficient power management, supporting the 90 Hz display and 5G connectivity without significant drain. While not optimized for heavy gaming or multitasking, it delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks, making it a practical choice for users prioritizing longevity and convenience in a budget-friendly device. You might want to check out Motorola Moto G50 5G, featuring an upgraded battery for a superior experience.
Display
The realme 9i 5G’s 6.6-inch FHD+ display delivers sharp visuals with a 400 PPI resolution and 90 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. Its 2.5D curved glass and waterdrop notch enhance the modern aesthetic while maximizing the 85% screen-to-body ratio for an immersive viewing experience. With a peak brightness of 600 cd/m², it remains visible in sunlight, while the IPS LCD technology ensures vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. The screen’s scratch-resistant surface and high pixel density make it ideal for multimedia, gaming, and everyday use, balancing performance with budget-friendly practicality. Take a look at realme C55 - its improved display sets a new standard.
Camera
The realme 9i 5G offers a versatile camera setup with a 50 MP primary lens for detailed photos, aided by AI scene detection and HDR for enhanced lighting. A 2 MP macro and 2 MP depth sensor support creative close-ups and bokeh effects, while the 8 MP front camera delivers clear selfies and video calls. Features like digital zoom, panic shutter, and night mode expand usability in low-light and dynamic scenarios. The LED flash ensures better visibility in darker settings. However, the absence of a telephoto or ultra-wide lens limits versatility for advanced photography. Despite these constraints, the camera system balances budget-friendly practicality with essential features, making it suitable for everyday snapshots and casual use. If you're after top-notch camera, consider Motorola Moto E30.
Price and Value
The realme 9i 5G delivers strong value with its budget-friendly pricing, offering 5G connectivity, a 90Hz display, and a 5000 mAh battery in a sleek design. Its 50 MP primary camera and essential features cater to everyday needs without compromising on durability or performance, making it an ideal choice for users seeking reliable, no-frills functionality at an accessible cost.
Performance
The realme 9i 5G delivers smooth performance with its MediaTek Dimensity 810 chipset, a 6 nm processor optimized for efficiency and 5G connectivity. Paired with 4 GB RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, it handles multitasking and app launches swiftly, though heavy gaming may feel constrained. The Mali-G57 GPU supports casual gaming and media playback, while the 90 Hz refresh rate enhances responsiveness. With an Antutu score of ~385,000, it outperforms 65% of devices in its class, balancing power and practicality. However, its 4 GB RAM and lack of advanced cooling limit peak performance for resource-intensive tasks, making it ideal for everyday use over heavy workloads. Give Motorola Moto G60S a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled performance.
Pros
1. Long-lasting 5000 mAh battery with 18W fast charging for all-day use.
2. 90 Hz refresh rate display with 85% screen-to-body ratio for smooth visuals.
3. Sleek design with 2.5D curved glass and multiple color options (Black, Gold, Cyan).
4. 50 MP primary camera with AI enhancements and HDR for clear, detailed photos.
5. Budget-friendly pricing with 5G connectivity and UFS 2.2 storage for responsive performance.
6. Includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack and dual SIM support for practical versatility.
Cons
1. Plastic body and lack of IP rating limit durability and premium feel.
2. Camera setup lacks telephoto or ultra-wide lenses, restricting photography versatility.
3. 4 GB RAM and Mali-G57 GPU may struggle with heavy gaming or multitasking.
4. No wireless charging, NFC, or advanced cooling features for modern expectations.
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