Introduction of Redmi Note 9 Pro
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro launched in 2020 and quickly became popular for offering a large 5020 mAh battery, a bright 6.67-inch FHD+ display and a capable Snapdragon 720G chipset at a friendly price. Four years on, buyers in the UAE are asking whether the Redmi Note 9 Pro still makes sense compared with refurbished older flagships, current entry-level 5G phones, or new budget releases. This guide looks at real specs, current UAE pricing, practical user experience in 2025, and who should still consider the phone — or avoid it.
What the Redmi Note 9 Pro offers (key specs & why they mattered)
The core selling points of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro were its Snapdragon 720G processor, a large 5020 mAh battery with relatively fast charging, a 6.67-inch FHD+ IPS display, and a multi-camera setup led by a 64MP sensor in many global variants. These features made the Redmi Note 9 Pro attractive to users seeking long battery life, smooth mid-range gaming, and versatile daylight photography without spending a premium.
Current pricing in the UAE — reality check
If you shop today in the UAE, you can still find Redmi Note 9 Pro units on marketplaces and in refurbished channels at heavily discounted prices compared with launch. Typical listings show the phone available in the AED ~700–900 range for new or refurbished units, making it one of the cheapest ways to get a big battery and a large FHD+ screen. That bargain price is the main reason many buyers still consider the Redmi Note 9 Pro in 2025.
Performance and day-to-day use in 2025
The Snapdragon 720G in the Redmi Note 9 Pro remains serviceable for everyday use: social apps, web browsing, video streaming, and light-to-moderate gaming. Expect smooth UI navigation for routine tasks and playable frame rates on medium settings for many titles. However, compared to modern chips and recent budget 5G SoCs, the Redmi Note 9 Pro is slower in heavy multitasking and prolonged gaming sessions — and it lacks 5G connectivity. If you need future-proof speed or 5G, the Redmi Note 9 Pro is no longer optimal.
Battery life and charging — still a strong point
One of the Redmi Note 9 Pro’s best lasting advantages is its 5020 mAh battery. Even after a few years of battery wear, many users report a full day (often more) of mixed use — web, calls, streaming and light gaming. If long battery life is your top priority and you find a clean unit at a good price, the Redmi Note 9 Pro still shines in this area.
Camera quality — decent but dated
The quad-camera array (including a 64MP/main sensor on many variants) is capable of producing detailed shots in good light, but image processing, night photography and dynamic range lag behind newer budget phones with improved AI processing and night modes. If camera performance in low light or fast, computational photography features matter to you, a newer budget phone will likely deliver better results than the Redmi Note 9 Pro.
Software updates and security — important caution
Software support is a crucial consideration in 2025. Xiaomi’s major UI/OS rollouts (HyperOS and newer Android bases) are prioritising recent devices, and several older Redmi/POCO models have been excluded from the latest major updates. That means the Redmi Note 9 Pro may not receive the newest OS features and could be nearing the end of major update support; security patch frequency also slows with age. If you want multi-year OS updates or the newest MIUI/HyperOS features, the Redmi Note 9 Pro is less attractive.
Build quality and design — still acceptable
The Redmi Note 9 Pro uses a modern (for 2020) design with a large display and Gorilla Glass protection on some variants. While its weight and size are on the larger side, many users appreciate the solid build and ergonomic feel. Unless you want a compact, bezel-less flagship look, the phone’s build still holds up for daily use.
Should you buy new, used, or skip it?
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Buy if: you find a sealed/new or certified refurbished Redmi Note 9 Pro at a low price AED 700–900(approx.), you priorities battery life and value, and you don’t need 5G or latest OS features. The value proposition is the core reason to buy the Redmi Note 9 Pro in 2025.
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Consider used/refurbished if: you want top battery life on a budget and accept a shorter software support future. Check battery health, display condition, and that all cameras/sensors work.
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Skip it if: you need 5G, long OS support, advanced night photography, or the best CPU/GPU for heavy gaming. New budget models or recent used flagships give better future-proofing.
Alternatives available in the UAE (what to compare)
When comparing the Redmi Note 9 Pro to alternatives in the UAE, look at:
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Current entry-level 5G phones (better future connectivity).
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New budget releases with newer chipsets and improved camera processing.
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Refurbished higher-tier phones (older flagships) which might offer better cameras and longevity for a slightly higher price.
Because the Redmi Note 9 Pro lacks 5G and the latest processing features, many buyers trade a bit more money for a newer 4G/5G phone with stronger long-term value.
Practical buying checklist for the UAE shopper
If you decide to buy a Redmi Note 9 Pro in the UAE, check:
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Price vs condition — new vs certified refurbished vs used. Compare AED listings across marketplaces.
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Battery health (for used units) — prefer >80% capacity.
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Software level & security patches — confirm current Android/MIUI version and last patch date.
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Network compatibility — confirm LTE bands for your UAE carrier (Etisalat/du).
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Return policy & warranty — buy from sellers who offer short returns or warranty on refurbished units.
Verdict — who should buy the Redmi Note 9 Pro in 2025?
The Redmi Note 9 Pro remains worth buying in the UAE for buyers who want the best battery life and large display for the lowest possible price, and who don’t care about 5G or long software updates. It’s a practical secondary phone or a budget primary phone for casual users. However, if you priorities future software support, 5G connectivity, low-light photography, or top gaming performance, spend a bit more on a modern budget/entry 5G phone — you’ll get better long-term value.
Conclusion of Redmi Note 9 Pro
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro is still a value-packed option in the UAE only if you prioritise battery life, a big screen and low upfront cost. Current AED prices and refurbished availability make it attractive as a budget pick, but hardware age, limited future OS support and absence of 5G limit its longevity as a long-term purchase. For buyers who want future-proofing, stronger camera results and 5G, newer entry-level models are the smarter choice. For bargain hunters who need solid daily performance and excellent battery endurance, the Redmi Note 9 Pro remains a defensible pick.
FAQs of Redmi Note 9 Pro
Q.1. Is the Redmi Note 9 Pro 5G?
No. The original Redmi Note 9 Pro uses a 4G Snapdragon 720G platform and does not support 5G.
Q.2. What is the expected battery life today?
Expect all-day use for typical users; the 5020 mAh battery still delivers strong endurance, though real runtime depends on battery health and usage.
Q.3. Will it receive major Xiaomi OS upgrades?
As of 2025, many older Redmi models are not included in the newest HyperOS/Android 16 upgrade lists, so major feature updates are unlikely. Security patch frequency may also slow.
Q.4. Is it a good camera phone in 2025?
It’s decent in daylight thanks to a high-resolution main sensor, but low-light and advanced computational camera results trail modern budget models.
Q.5. Should I buy new or refurbished in the UAE?
If budget is tight, a certified refurbished unit with warranty is a sensible option. For longer peace of mind, buy new if you can find one at a competitive price from a reliable seller. Compare AED prices across marketplaces before deciding.
