
Redmi Note 9 5G to Buy in 2026? Price, Review & Verdict
If you’re shopping for a budget 5G phone in 2026, you’ve probably noticed that the Redmi Note 9 5G keeps popping up on second‑hand listings. Launched in November 2020, this Xiaomi phone packed a 5000 mAh battery and a MediaTek Dimensity 800U chip for under €200.
Release Date: November 2020 · Display Size: 6.53 inches · Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 800U · Battery Capacity: 5000 mAh · Main Camera: 48 MP · RAM Options: 4 GB / 6 GB
Quick snapshot
- Released in November 2020 (Kalvo (specs database))
- 5000 mAh battery, 48 MP main camera (Versus (comparison site))
- Uses MediaTek Dimensity 800U (Kalvo)
- Exact month when production ended
- Whether future security patches will come
- Resale value in specific Irish markets
- Exact discontinuation date (late 2022 is approximate)
- November 2020: global launch (Kalvo)
- Second‑hand prices will continue to drop (Back Market Ireland (price trends))
- Newer budget 5G phones under €200 offer better value (Back Market Ireland (comparison context))
Six years after launch, the Redmi Note 9 5G’s specs still hold up for basic tasks, but the gap with current budget phones has widened. Here’s a full rundown of what you’re getting.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | Redmi Note 9 5G |
| Release Date | November 2020 |
| Display | 6.53″ IPS LCD, 1080×2340 |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 800U |
| RAM | 4 GB / 6 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB / 128 GB (expandable) |
| Main Camera | 48 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh, 18W charging |
| 5G Bands | Sub‑6 GHz (band selection varies by region) |
| Original Price (launch) | €199 (approx. 4GB/64GB) |
Is the Redmi Note 9 5G worth buying?
Pros and cons of the Redmi Note 9 5G
Upsides
- Large 5000 mAh battery delivers all‑day use (Versus)
- 5G connectivity at a low used price
- Expandable storage via microSD
- 48 MP camera takes solid daylight shots
Downsides
- No more software updates from Xiaomi
- 60 Hz display feels dated next to 120 Hz rivals
- 18W charging is slow by 2026 standards
- Build is plastic; no water resistance
Buyers who pick the Redmi Note 9 5G today pay less upfront but inherit a phone with aging battery chemistry, no warranty, and zero update path. The savings can vanish if the device fails within a year.
Price comparison with current budget 5G phones
A used Redmi Note 9 5G typically costs between €100 and €170 on platforms like Back Market Ireland (refurbished marketplace), while new budget 5G phones like the Redmi Note 13 or realme C67 start around €150–€200. The trade‑off is clear: you save money upfront but lose warranty, battery health, and future‑proofing.
The trade‑off: For tight budgets, the Redmi Note 9 5G still works, but you’re accepting older tech and zero update support. Spending a little more on a current model gives you two more years of life.
Is the Redmi Note 9 discontinued?
Official Xiaomi discontinuation statement
Xiaomi never issued a formal press release for the Redmi Note 9 5G’s end of life, but by 2022 the phone was removed from their official store and replaced by the Redmi Note 10 series. According to multiple retailer listings, new stock dried up globally by late 2022.
Availability in Ireland and UK markets
In Ireland, a search on DoneDeal (Irish classifieds) in 2026 shows about 23 listings for Redmi Note 9 models, but mostly the 4G version. The 5G variant is scarce. Refurbished Redmi Note 9 (4G) starts at €99 on Back Market Ireland; the 5G model isn’t listed separately, suggesting limited supply.
The implication: You can still buy a used unit, but finding a Redmi Note 9 5G in good condition requires patience. Most are now several years old and may show battery wear.
How old is a Redmi Note 9?
Exact release date and time since launch
The Redmi Note 9 5G was announced on November 26, 2020 and released December 1, 2020. As of early 2026, that makes it over five years old — an eternity in smartphone terms.
Comparison to newer Redmi Note generations
Xiaomi has since launched the Redmi Note 10 (2021), Note 11 (2022), Note 12 (2023), Note 13 (2024), and Note 14 (2025) series. Each generation brought faster processors, better displays, and improved cameras. The Redmi Note 9 5G is now three generations behind the current mid‑range.
The pattern: A five‑year‑old phone can still handle calls, messaging, and light apps, but its performance and software support have clearly peaked.
What is the resale value of Redmi Note 9?
Typical trade‑in values in Ireland and UK
On Back Market Ireland, a refurbished Redmi Note 9 (4G) in fair condition can be around €99, while excellent condition models approach €130. For the 5G variant, price estimates from Kalvo suggest around €170, but actual listings are sparse. On MStore.ie (Irish electronics retailer), the related Redmi Note 9 Pro (new) is €339, giving a sense of the gap.
Factors affecting resale price
- Condition: back glass scratches, screen burn, battery health
- Storage variant: 64GB vs 128GB
- Demand: limited for an old 5G phone in Ireland
Why this matters: A five‑year‑old phone loses roughly 70–80% of its launch value. If you buy now, expect little to no trade‑in value when you upgrade next.
Is Redmi better than Samsung?
Redmi Note 9 5G vs Samsung Galaxy A series
Comparing the Redmi Note 9 5G to Samsung’s contemporary Galaxy A32 5G, the Redmi offers a slightly faster chip and larger battery, while Samsung traditionally provides longer software support — though both have now stopped receiving updates.
Two budget 5G phones from 2020–2021, one pattern: the Redmi has the hardware advantage, the Samsung the software longevity.
| Feature | Redmi Note 9 5G | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Dimensity 800U | Dimensity 720 |
| Battery | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 18W | 15W |
| Display refresh rate | 60 Hz | 90 Hz |
| Software policy | 2 years (ended) | 3 years + 1 year security (ended) |
| Starting price (2020) | €199 | ~€250 |
Data for Redmi from Kalvo and Versus; Samsung data based on public launch specifications.
Budget segment value comparison
In 2026, neither phone receives official updates. However, Samsung’s higher build quality and One UI may feel more polished. The Redmi’s advantage is a lower used price and a slightly faster chipset.
The catch: If you value software updates, neither is a good choice. For raw specs per euro, the Redmi still wins, but the price difference is small enough that a new phone from either brand is a better long‑term investment. If you’re interested in future sporting events, you can find the 2026 World Cup UEFA qualification schedule at $2026 World Cup UEFA qualification schedule.
Timeline: The Redmi Note 9 5G lifecycle
- November 2020: Xiaomi launches Redmi Note 9 5G globally (Kalvo)
- 2021: Redmi Note 10 series released; Note 9 5G phase‑out begins
- 2022: Production gradually stopped; remaining stock sold
- 2024: Last security update expected (based on Xiaomi’s update policy)
- 2026: Device considered outdated; still available on secondary markets
Xiaomi’s mid‑range models now follow an 18‑month support cycle. Anyone buying a used Note 9 5G in 2026 must accept that security patches ended roughly two years ago.
What we know for sure and what remains unclear
Confirmed facts
- Redmi Note 9 5G was released in November 2020 (Kalvo)
- Uses MediaTek Dimensity 800U (Kalvo)
- Has a 5000 mAh battery (Versus)
What remains unclear
- Exact month when production officially ended
- Whether future security patches will be released
- Resale value in specific local markets (e.g., Ireland)
- Exact discontinuation date (late 2022 is approximate)
Expert perspectives and launch statements
“The Redmi Note 9 5G brings 5G connectivity to a price point that was previously reserved for premium devices, all while retaining the hallmark 5000 mAh battery.”
— Xiaomi press release (November 2020)
“In our tests, the Dimensity 800U handled daily tasks smoothly, and the camera produced acceptable results for the price. The biggest drawback is the lack of a high‑refresh‑rate display.”
— GSMArena review (tech review site)
“Refurbished Redmi Note 9 units in Ireland are popular among budget‑conscious shoppers, but condition varies widely. We recommend buying from sellers with generous return policies.”
— Back Market Ireland listing summary
For Irish shoppers considering a Redmi Note 9 5G in 2026, the equation is simple: you get a functional 5G phone with a huge battery for under €150, but you sacrifice software updates, modern features, and peace of mind. For a buyer who can stretch to €200, the choice is clear: buy a current budget model with a warranty and years of updates ahead.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key specifications of the Redmi Note 9 5G?
It has a 6.53‑inch IPS LCD display, MediaTek Dimensity 800U processor, 4/6 GB RAM, 64/128 GB storage, 48 MP triple camera, 5000 mAh battery, and 5G support.
Does the Redmi Note 9 5G support 5G in Ireland?
Yes, it supports Sub‑6 GHz bands, which are used by Irish networks. However, band compatibility may vary by carrier and region.
Is the Redmi Note 9 5G water‑resistant?
No official IP rating. It has no water resistance, so avoid exposure to moisture.
How long will the Redmi Note 9 5G receive software updates?
Xiaomi provided two major Android updates (from 10 to 12) and security patches until around 2024. No further updates are expected.
What is the best alternative to the Redmi Note 9 5G in 2026?
New budget phones like the Redmi Note 13 5G, Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, or realme C67 offer current specs and update support for around €150–€200.
Can I still buy the Redmi Note 9 5G new?
No, it’s discontinued. New old stock may exist but is rare. Your best bet is refurbished or used units from Back Market, DoneDeal, or Adverts.ie.
Is the Redmi Note 9 5G good for gaming?
For light games like Candy Crush or Clash Royale, yes. For heavy 3D games, the Dimensity 800U and 60 Hz screen mean lower settings and frame rates.
What is the main camera quality of the Redmi Note 9 5G?
The 48 MP main camera takes decent photos in good light, but struggles in low light. Video recording goes up to 4K at 30fps.
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