Infinix has consistently delivered smartphones that balance performance and affordability. The Infinix Smart 9, released in October 2024, continues this tradition by offering a blend of modern features tailored for budget-conscious consumers.
Design and Build Quality
The Infinix Smart 9 boasts a sleek design with dimensions of 165.7 x 77.1 x 8.4 mm and a weight of 188 grams, ensuring a comfortable grip. Its construction features a glass front, plastic back, and plastic frame, maintaining durability without compromising on aesthetics. The device is IP54 rated, providing dust and splash resistance, which adds to its resilience in various environments.
Display Features
Equipped with a 6.7-inch IPS LCD display, the Smart 9 offers a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 262 ppi. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and an enhanced viewing experience, while the peak brightness of 500 nits allows for decent visibility under direct sunlight. The always-on display feature adds convenience by allowing users to check notifications without fully waking the device.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Smart 9 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 chipset, featuring an octa-core processor with two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.7 GHz. This configuration ensures efficient performance for daily tasks and moderate multitasking. The device runs on Android 14 (Go edition) with Infinix’s XOS 14 skin, offering a user-friendly interface optimized for smooth operation on entry-level hardware.
Memory and Storage Options
The Smart 9 comes in multiple configurations to cater to varying user needs:
- 64GB storage with 3GB RAM
- 64GB storage with 4GB RAM
- 128GB storage with 3GB RAM
- 128GB storage with 4GB RAM
Additionally, the device supports storage expansion via a dedicated microSDXC slot, providing flexibility for users requiring additional space for apps, photos, and media.
Camera Capabilities
Rear Camera
The Infinix Smart 9 is equipped with a 13 MP rear camera featuring an f/1.9 aperture and autofocus capabilities. This setup allows for decent photography in well-lit conditions. Additional features include LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes, enhancing the versatility of the camera. The rear camera supports video recording at 1080p@30fps, suitable for capturing everyday moments.
Front Camera
For selfies and video calls, the device offers an 8 MP front-facing camera with an f/2.0 aperture. While it may not compete with higher-end smartphone cameras, it provides satisfactory performance for casual photography and communication needs.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the standout features of the Smart 9 is its robust 5000 mAh battery, ensuring extended usage without frequent recharging. The device supports 10W wired charging and reverse wired charging, allowing it to function as a power source for other devices in emergencies. This substantial battery capacity caters to users who require long-lasting performance, making it ideal for daily activities and media consumption.
Connectivity and Additional Features
The Infinix Smart 9 offers a comprehensive suite of connectivity options:
- Wi-Fi: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band
- Bluetooth: Available for wireless peripherals
- GPS: Included for navigation
- FM Radio: Provides access to local radio stations
- USB: Features USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG support
The device also includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, enhancing user experience and security. However, it lacks NFC support, which may be a consideration for users who utilize contactless payment systems.
Color Variants
To cater to diverse aesthetic preferences, the Smart 9 is available in four color options:
- Metallic Black
- Neo Titanium
- Mint Green
- Sandstone Gold
These choices allow users to select a device that best matches their personal style.
Pricing and Availability
At launch, the Infinix Smart 9 was priced at approximately €70, translating to around ₹6,500 in India. This competitive pricing positions it as an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a smartphone with a balanced mix of features and performance.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Affordable Pricing: Offers a range of features at a budget-friendly price point.
- High Refresh Rate Display: The 120Hz screen enhances the visual experience.
- Long Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery ensures extended usage.
- Expandable Storage: Dedicated microSDXC slot allows for additional storage.
- Durable Design: IP54 rating provides dust and splash resistance.
Disadvantages
- Limited Camera Capabilities: The 13 MP rear camera and 8 MP front camera offer basic photography features but may not satisfy users seeking high-quality imaging.
- Lack of Fast Charging: The 10W charging speed is relatively slow compared to competitors in the same price range.
- No NFC Support: The absence of NFC means users cannot take advantage of contactless payments.
- 720p Display Resolution: While the display is smooth with a 120Hz refresh rate, the resolution is limited to 720p, which may not be ideal for users who prefer sharper visuals.
- Basic Processor: The MediaTek Helio G81 chipset is sufficient for everyday tasks but may struggle with demanding applications and gaming.
Comparison with Competitors
To provide a clearer perspective, here is a comparison between the Infinix Smart 9 and two of its closest competitors in the budget smartphone segment:
| Feature | Infinix Smart 9 | Redmi A2+ | Samsung Galaxy A04 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7″ IPS LCD, 120Hz | 6.52″ IPS LCD | 6.5″ PLS LCD |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels | 720 x 1600 pixels | 720 x 1600 pixels |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G81 | MediaTek Helio G36 | Exynos 850 |
| Rear Camera | 13 MP | 8 MP | 50 MP |
| Front Camera | 8 MP | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired | 15W wired |
| OS | Android 14 (Go Edition) | Android 12 (Go Edition) | Android 12 |
| Price |
This table highlights that while the Infinix Smart 9 offers a high refresh rate display and a decent processor, competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A04 provide a much better camera experience and faster charging at a slightly higher price.
Who Should Buy the Infinix Smart 9?
The Infinix Smart 9 is an excellent choice for:
- Students and first-time smartphone users looking for an affordable yet modern device.
- Casual users who need a phone for social media, browsing, and calling.
- Users who prioritize battery life and want a phone that lasts all day.
- People on a budget who need essential smartphone features without unnecessary extras.
However, if you require a better camera, faster charging, or higher resolution, it may be worth exploring alternatives.
Final Verdict
The Infinix Smart 9 is a solid entry-level smartphone with a few standout features, such as a 120Hz display, large battery, and expandable storage. However, it lacks a strong camera setup and fast charging, which are common trade-offs in the budget segment.
Overall, for users who need an affordable, reliable phone for everyday tasks, the Smart 9 is a worthy contender in the under-₹7,000 price range. If camera quality and performance are more critical, alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy A04 or a slightly higher-end Redmi device may be better choices.