Samsung A50 Vs Redmi Note 7 Pro Is The Redmi Still Worth It

When the Samsung Galaxy A50 and Redmi Note 7 Pro launched in 2019, they were two of the most talked-about mid-range smartphones. Both offered strong specs at competitive prices, appealing to budget-conscious buyers who didn’t want to compromise on core features. Nearly five years later, the question remains: does the Redmi Note 7 Pro still hold up against its once-rival, especially when both can now be found at steep discounts or in the secondhand market?

This isn't just about nostalgia—it’s about practical value. For someone looking for an affordable smartphone today, whether new or refurbished, understanding how these devices compare across real-world metrics like performance, camera quality, software support, and longevity is essential.

Design and Build Quality

The Galaxy A50 stood out with its premium glass-like back (though actually plastic), gradient color options, and sleek in-display fingerprint sensor. It felt more refined in hand compared to many budget phones of its time. The Redmi Note 7 Pro, by contrast, used a glossy polycarbonate shell with a dual-camera bump that gave it a bolder, more utilitarian look.

Both feature 6.4-inch displays, but the A50 uses a Super AMOLED panel, which delivers deeper blacks and better contrast than the IPS LCD on the Redmi. This difference is noticeable during media consumption and in low-light environments. However, the Redmi holds its own with solid build rigidity and IP52 splash resistance—a rarity in its price range at launch.

Tip: If screen quality matters for streaming or reading, the A50’s AMOLED display gives a tangible advantage even years later.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

Under the hood, the differences become more pronounced. The Redmi Note 7 Pro was powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 675—a capable chip for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking in 2019. It came with up to 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, configurations that were generous for its segment.

The Galaxy A50, however, used Samsung’s Exynos 9610 processor. While not as widely benchmarked as Snapdragon chips, it performed comparably in daily use but lagged slightly in sustained gaming performance. Where the A50 pulled ahead was in future-proofing: Samsung provided longer software updates, including Android 11 and three years of security patches.

Today, neither device runs the latest Android versions natively, but the A50 generally receives better optimization from third-party custom ROMs due to broader developer support.

Key Hardware Specs at Launch

Feature	Samsung Galaxy A50	Redmi Note 7 Pro
Display	6.4\" FHD+ Super AMOLED	6.3\" FHD+ IPS LCD
Processor	Exynos 9610	Snapdragon 675
RAM / Storage	4/6GB + 64/128GB	4/6GB + 64/128GB
Rear Camera	25MP + 8MP + 5MP	48MP + 5MP
Front Camera	25MP	13MP
Battery	4000mAh	4000mAh
Charging	15W Fast Charging	18W Fast Charging
Software Update Support	Up to Android 11	Up to Android 10

Camera Performance: Then vs Now

In 2019, the Redmi Note 7 Pro made headlines with its 48MP Sony IMX586 main sensor—top-tier hardware for a phone under $250. In good lighting, it captured sharp, detailed photos with accurate colors. However, image processing was inconsistent, especially in low light where noise reduction often smudged fine details.

The A50’s 25MP main shooter relied more on software enhancement. While lower in megapixels, it produced more balanced exposures and natural skin tones. Its ultra-wide and depth sensors added versatility, allowing for better landscape shots and improved portrait mode effects.

Today, both cameras struggle with dynamic range and night photography by modern standards. But if you're choosing between them purely for photo quality, the A50 offers more consistent results across different conditions, thanks to Samsung’s superior tuning.

“Hardware matters, but software processing defines real-world output. The A50 may have had fewer megapixels, but its AI scene optimizer and color science gave it an edge.” — Arjun Patel, Mobile Imaging Analyst

Battery Life and Long-Term Usability

Both phones pack 4000mAh batteries, and in their prime, delivered all-day battery life with moderate use. The Redmi had a slight edge with 18W charging versus the A50’s 15W, though the difference amounted to only 15–20 minutes faster full charge.

Now, after years of usage cycles, battery degradation is a real concern. Users report faster drain on both models, but replacement batteries are readily available and affordable for either device. That said, the A50’s power-efficient AMOLED panel helps conserve energy when displaying dark content—something the Redmi’s LCD cannot match.

For long-term usability, software stability plays a bigger role. The A50 received more frequent updates and smoother transitions between Android versions. As of 2024, finding a well-maintained A50 with near-stock performance is more likely than with a Redmi Note 7 Pro, many of which suffer from MIUI bloatware slowdowns over time.

Mini Case Study: Priya’s Upgrade Dilemma

Priya, a college student in Chennai, inherited her brother’s old Redmi Note 7 Pro in 2021. At first, she was thrilled—the phone booted quickly, took decent selfies, and handled WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram without issue. But by late 2022, apps began crashing, the camera shutter lag increased, and the battery wouldn’t last half a day.

She considered buying another budget phone but instead found a used Galaxy A50 online for ₹6,500. After switching, she noticed immediate improvements: smoother animations, brighter screen visibility outdoors, and noticeably better selfie quality. Even though both phones were aging, the A50’s ecosystem support and display quality made a tangible difference in her daily experience.

Is the Redmi Note 7 Pro Still Worth It in 2024?

On paper, yes—if you find one in excellent condition at a very low price (under ₹5,000). The Snapdragon 675 remains competent for basic tasks, and the 48MP camera can still capture usable daylight photos. However, several factors limit its appeal:

• No official update path beyond Android 10
• Increasing app compatibility issues with newer OS requirements
• Limited developer interest in custom ROMs compared to Samsung devices
• IPS screen appears dull next to modern displays

Meanwhile, the Galaxy A50 benefits from stronger post-launch support, better resale value, and wider availability of repair parts. Its AMOLED screen and more polished software experience continue to deliver satisfaction even in 2024 for light users.

Tip: Always check battery health before purchasing any used phone. A degraded battery can ruin even the best-performing device.

Checklist: What to Evaluate Before Buying Either Phone Today

1. Inspect physical condition (scratches, cracks, water damage)
2. Test touchscreen responsiveness and fingerprint sensor
3. Verify battery health (use diagnostic apps like AccuBattery)
4. Check installed Android version and update history
5. Ensure Google services work properly (Play Store, Gmail, etc.)
6. Test rear and front cameras in multiple lighting conditions
7. Confirm fast charging functionality

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Redmi Note 7 Pro run WhatsApp in 2024?

Yes, but with caveats. WhatsApp requires Android 5.0 or higher, which the Redmi supports. However, performance may degrade if other background apps are running. Clear cache regularly and avoid heavy multitasking.

Which phone has better resale value now?

The Galaxy A50 holds slightly better resale value due to brand perception, display quality, and perceived durability. On secondhand platforms, A50 units typically sell for 10–15% more than equivalent-condition Redmi Note 7 Pros.

Is either phone suitable as a backup device?

Absolutely. Both can serve reliably as secondary phones for calls, messaging, or media playback. Just ensure the battery is healthy and consider installing a lightweight launcher to extend usability.

Final Verdict: Making the Smart Choice

The Redmi Note 7 Pro was a standout value champion in 2019. But time has not been kind to its long-term viability. While it still functions, the combination of outdated software support, subpar display technology, and diminishing community development makes it a riskier pick today.

The Galaxy A50, despite launching at a slightly higher price, proves to be the smarter long-term investment—even in 2024. Its superior screen, more consistent camera processing, and extended software lifecycle give it lasting relevance for users who prioritize reliability over raw specs.

If you’re shopping secondhand or helping someone set up an entry-level phone, lean toward the A50 unless the Redmi comes at an unbeatable price and passes all functionality tests.

💬 Have experience with either phone today? Share your thoughts below—your insights could help others decide what really lasts in the world of budget smartphones.