Xiaomi launches the Redmi Note 9S, available in Malaysia on 27 March

• Quad-cam smartphone prices as low as US$180 for the 4GB+64GB configuration
• Features Redmi Note’s first dot-camera display, Snapdragon 720G processor

Xiaomi has launched the latest iteration of their mid-range Redmi Note series, the Redmi Note 9S. The device, which features a quad-camera setup alongside the series’ first ever dot camera screen design, will be available in Malaysia via Lazada and Shopee on 27 March 2020.

The device will come in two variations: a 4GB RAM + 64GB storage configuration and a more expensive 6GB RAM + 128GB version. In Malaysia, the device prices at US$180 (RM799) and US$202 (RM899) respectively (Xiaomi lists the global price at US$249 and US$279 for both variants, available 7 April via AliExpress).

A couple of notable things on the device. Firstly, it features the Redmi Note series’ first ever DotDisplay, where instead of a notch, users get a tiny dot housing the 16MP front-facing camera. The dot is situated at the top of a 6.67-inch display, which features a 91% screen-to-body ratio at a 20:9 aspect ratio (meant to be more cinematic).

The screen is also TÜV Rheinland-certified for low blue light protection that is meant to be easier on the users’ eyes.

The Redmi Note 9S comes in three colour variants: Aurora Blue, Glacier White and Interstellar Grey. Regardless of which you get, the phone sports Gorilla Glass 5 for both front and back, and comes with spill and splash resistance. This is all wrapped up with a deliberately symmetrical design that is quite striking, in this writer’s opinion. 

Rather than fit the fingerprint sensor in the screen or at the back of the device, the Redmi Note 9S instead places it on the power button at the side (reminiscent of the Huawei Y9s, which we’ve reviewed).

Power for gamers

The Redmi Note 9S is touted as a device for gamers. For one, it’s powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G processor, a chipset that promises smoother graphics and HDR gaming on top of select Snapdragon Elite Gaming features. It boasts a 278,324 AnTuTu score.

Users can opt for the 128GB variant for more storage, though the space can be expanded further up to 512GB via microSD.

Keeping all of this running is a massive 5,020mAh battery, which Xiaomi claims can provide up to two days of use (depending on usage, of course). It features 18W fast charging with a 22.5W fast charger included in the box. Despite the huge battery, the phone somehow maintains an 8.8mm thickness.

Users will find that it has a 3.5mm jack, and interfaces with the charger and computers via a USB Type-C port. There’s also an IR remote sensor included, if that matters.

Rounding it all up is a quad-camera setup that comprises of a 48MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide shooter, a 5M macro cam as well as a 2MP depth sensor.

Malaysians will be able to get both Redmi Note 9S variants from 27 March onwards. That said, you’ll be able to get the 4GB+64GB version for a slightly lower price of US$157 (RM699).

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