The Redmi A4 5G is probably one of the cheapest phones available with 5G support in India. It uses Snapdragon 4th Gen chipset and has been in the news since its launch due to its features and price. However, there is one thing that potential buyers need to know – this phone will not work with Airtel’s 5G network.

The Redmi A4 5G is built to support only SA (standalone) 5G networks, but Airtel uses NSA (non-standalone) 5G technology for its services. This means that if you are an Airtel user, you will not be able to enjoy 5G speeds on this device. Instead, you will be limited to using Airtel’s 4G network.

But there is a good news for Jio users. Jio’s 5G network works on SA architecture, so Redmi A4 5G works perfectly with Jio 5G. This difference in network compatibility is the main reason why Airtel users will not get 5G support on this phone.

the technology behind it

The Redmi A4 5G is powered by the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 chipset and is designed for affordable 5G connectivity. However, its focus on SA 5G compatibility limits its ability to connect to networks like Airtel, which rely on NSA technology. NSA 5G combines existing 4G infrastructure with 5G, making it a hybrid solution. On the other hand, SA 5G is a more advanced and independent system, which is why Jio 5G works well with Redmi A4 5G.

What else does Redmi A4 5G offer?

Price only Rs. Rs 8,499 for the 4GB RAM + 64GB storage variant. Priced at Rs 9,499 for the 128GB variant, the Redmi A4 5G is a budget-friendly option for smartphone buyers.

It features a 6.88-inch HD+ LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, which promises smooth visuals. The phone runs on Android 14-based HyperOS and features a 50-megapixel dual rear camera, as well as a 5-megapixel selfie camera. With a 5,160mAh battery and 18W charging support, it is built to last for long periods of use.

However, the lack of NSA 5G support may make it less attractive for Airtel users. If you’re a Jio customer or live in areas with a SA-based network, the Redmi A4 5G can still be a solid choice for its price and features.

The phone is scheduled to go on sale on November 27, so Airtel users may want to consider other options for a seamless 5G experience.