realme C11 vs Redmi 9A – Which to buy for less than 10k?

Update: I’ve updated the article after learning that the Redmi 9A also uses a micro USB port.

Xiaomi has for long dominated my lists of best devices under KES. 10,000. I’m never bothered to know which new device is launching because I always sort of know the Redmi A-series will top my 10k list. But for the first time, with the announcement of the realme C11, I’ve felt like there’s finally a worthy competitor – something I could tell people to consider over the Redmi 9A.

With a recommended retail price of KES. 9,999, the realme C11 brings great competition to the Redmi 9A. The only issue is the MicroUSB Port. And for me, that’s a big issue. But everything else is really good.

They have the same displays in terms of resolution, and size. They have the same amount of RAM and Storage. They also have the same batteries, with the Redmi 9A having just 20mAh more. They both support 10W charging.

They also have the same 5MP front camera, and have the same main 13MP rear sensor. But here, the realme C11 features an extra 2MP camera for depth information.

In terms of processors, the realme C11 outsmarts the Redmi 9A with a Helio G35 compared to the latter’s Helio G25.

From these specs, the realme C11 is obviously slightly more compelling. And I will for the first time be having a different device as my best under 10k. My only issue is that both devices use Micro-USB ports. It makes no sense in 2020, and I’m especially disappointed by Xiaomi’s decision since they had type-C with the previous Redmi 8A.

What are your thoughts? Check the table below for a more visual comparison.

realme C11 vs Xiaomi Redmi 9A: