
Xiaomi has officially launched the Redmi 17 5G and Redmi 17 4G, bringing larger batteries, 120Hz displays and upgraded connectivity to its affordable Redmi lineup. Both models share the same design and several core specifications, while their processors and storage technologies set them apart.
The new Redmi 17 series follows last year’s Redmi 15 family and targets buyers looking for long battery life without moving into premium pricing. The 5G model adds Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset and faster UFS 2.2 storage, while the 4G version uses MediaTek hardware and eMMC storage.
Redmi 17 5G vs Redmi 17 4G: Key Differences
| Feature | Redmi 17 4G | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.9-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz | |
| Resolution | 1600 × 720 | |
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G91-Ultra | |
| RAM | 4GB / 6GB LPDDR4X | |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB eMMC 5.1 | |
| Main Camera | 50MP | |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP | |
| Battery | 7,500mAh | |
| Wired Charging | 45W | |
| Reverse Charging | 22.5W | |
| Protection | IP64 | |
| NFC | Yes | |
| Headphone Jack | 3.5mm | |
| Starting Price | MYR 669 (~$163) |
Redmi 17 Series Keeps the Same Overall Design
At first glance, the Redmi 17 5G and Redmi 17 4G are almost identical. Xiaomi has used the same overall design language across both phones, making the differences between the two models less obvious from the outside.
Both devices feature large displays, a rear camera setup and a programmable RGB light that adds a distinctive touch to the design.
The RGB light can display incoming notifications and different system status alerts, giving the Redmi 17 series a feature that is uncommon in this price segment.
6.9-Inch Display Gets a Major Resolution Change
Both Redmi 17 models feature a 6.9-inch IPS LCD with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The high refresh rate should make scrolling through menus, social media feeds and supported games feel noticeably smoother.
However, there is an interesting change compared with the previous generation.
Redmi 17 Uses a 1600 × 720 Resolution Panel
Unlike their predecessors, the new phones use a 1600 × 720-pixel resolution instead of the Full HD panels found on the previous models.
The lower resolution may help Xiaomi balance power consumption and performance, particularly when combined with the massive battery. However, buyers who prioritize display sharpness may notice the difference compared with Full HD competitors.
7,500mAh Battery Is the Big Highlight
Battery life is arguably the biggest attraction of the Redmi 17 lineup. Both phones pack a massive 7,500mAh battery, giving them considerably more capacity than many mainstream smartphones.
Charging is also reasonably fast for this class, with support for 45W wired charging.
22.5W Reverse Charging Adds More Flexibility
The phones also support 22.5W reverse wired charging. This allows the Redmi 17 to act as a power source for compatible accessories or another phone when needed.
For users who spend long hours away from a charger, the combination of a 7,500mAh battery and reverse charging could be one of the series’ strongest selling points.
Redmi 17 4G vs Redmi 17 5G: Performance
The biggest hardware difference between the two versions is inside the phone.
The Redmi 17 4G is powered by MediaTek’s Helio G91-Ultra, while the Redmi 17 5G gets Qualcomm’s newer Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset.
This gives the 5G version a clear advantage for buyers who want next-generation cellular connectivity and a more modern platform.
RAM and Storage Options
Both models are offered with 4GB or 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM, alongside 128GB or 256GB of internal storage.
However, the storage technology differs significantly.
The Redmi 17 4G uses eMMC 5.1 storage, while the Redmi 17 5G upgrades to UFS 2.2.
UFS 2.2 is considerably more modern than eMMC 5.1, so the 5G model should provide faster app loading, file transfers and general storage performance.
50MP Main Camera and 8MP Selfie Camera
Camera hardware is shared between the two Redmi 17 variants.
Both phones feature a 50MP primary rear camera, which should handle everyday photography, social media shots and outdoor scenes.
On the front, Xiaomi has equipped both models with an 8MP selfie camera.
The camera setup is not positioned as a flagship-grade system, but the 50MP main sensor gives the Redmi 17 series a competitive specification for its affordable segment.
IP64 Protection and Headphone Jack
Xiaomi has also included several practical features that remain useful for everyday users.
Both Redmi 17 models carry an IP64 rating, offering protection against dust and water splashes. They also include NFC, which can be useful for supported contactless functions and accessories.
A side-mounted fingerprint scanner provides biometric security, while the classic 3.5mm headphone jack is still present.
That headphone jack could make the phones particularly appealing to users who prefer wired earphones without adapters.
Redmi 17 4G Colors and Price
The Redmi 17 4G comes in four color options:
- Black
- Deep Blue
- Lotus Purple
- Oak Green
In Malaysia, the phone starts at MYR 669, which is approximately $163.
That pricing places the Redmi 17 4G firmly in the affordable smartphone category, where battery capacity and everyday usability are likely to matter more than premium camera hardware.
Redmi 17 5G Colors and Price
The Redmi 17 5G is available in three finishes:
- Black
- Deep Blue
- Vivid Orange
Its starting price in Malaysia is MYR 769, equivalent to roughly $188.
The relatively small price gap over the 4G model makes the 5G version particularly interesting. Buyers get Snapdragon 4 Gen 5, 5G connectivity and faster UFS 2.2 storage for the additional cost.
Is the Redmi 17 5G the Better Buy?
For buyers who only need basic connectivity and want to spend as little as possible, the Redmi 17 4G remains an attractive option.
However, the Redmi 17 5G looks like the more compelling package. For a relatively modest price increase, it adds 5G connectivity, a Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 processor and substantially faster UFS 2.2 storage.
The 5G model therefore makes more sense for buyers planning to keep their phone for several years.
The Redmi 17 series takes a straightforward approach: huge battery capacity, smooth 120Hz displays, practical features and affordable pricing. The 7,500mAh battery is the headline feature, while the Redmi 17 5G separates itself with newer Qualcomm hardware and faster storage.
With the Redmi 17 5G starting at around $188 in Malaysia, Xiaomi has created an interesting option for budget-conscious buyers. Would you choose the cheaper 4G model or spend extra for the Redmi 17 5G?

Zawar Alam is a passionate technology and mobile phone content writer with years of experience covering the latest smartphones, gadgets, apps, and tech trends. He specializes in delivering accurate news, detailed specifications, feature comparisons, and helpful buying guides. His goal is to provide readers with clear, reliable, and up-to-date information to help them make informed technology decisions. Through his work, he stays committed to tracking the fast-changing world of mobile technology and consumer electronics.


























