Should You Upgrade from the Reno8 to the Reno9?
A spec-by-spec look at what actually changes when you move from the Reno8 to the Reno9.
Yes — the Reno9 is a worthwhile upgrade
The Reno9 is newer than the Reno8, and the BeastScore rises from 81.1 to 83.5. The biggest improvements: display rated 12 points higher, 0.3" larger screen, smoother display (+30hz refresh rate). Trade-offs to know: 13w slower wired charging.
What you gain with the Reno9
- +Display rated 12 points higher
- +0.3" larger screen
- +Smoother display (+30Hz refresh rate)
- +Higher-resolution main camera (+13.400000000000006 MP)
- +5 g lighter
What you give up
- −13W slower wired charging
| Spec | Reno8 | Reno9 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| BeastScore (overall) | 81.1 | 83.5 | +2.4 (3%) |
| Performance score | 90 | 90 | No real change |
| Camera score | 84 | 84 | No real change |
| Battery score | 80 | 80 | No real change |
| Display score | 74 | 86 | +12 (16%) |
| Battery capacity | 4,500 mAh | 4,500 mAh | No real change |
| Wired charging | 80W | 67W | −13W (16%) |
| Screen size | 6.4" | 6.7" | +0.3" (4%) |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | +30Hz (33%) |
| Main camera | 50.3 MP | 63.7 MP | +13.4 MP (27%) |
| RAM | 12 GB | 12 GB | No real change |
| Weight | 179 g | 174 g | −5 g (3%) |
Upgrade if…
- Photo quality is a priority for you
- You use your phone outdoors a lot and want a brighter, smoother screen
Reno8 vs Reno9: Upgrade FAQ
Is it worth upgrading from the Reno8 to the Reno9?
Yes — the Reno9 is a worthwhile upgrade. The Reno9 is newer than the Reno8, and the BeastScore rises from 81.1 to 83.5. The biggest improvements: display rated 12 points higher, 0.3" larger screen, smoother display (+30hz refresh rate). Trade-offs to know: 13w slower wired charging.
What is the biggest difference between the Reno8 and Reno9?
Display rated 12 points higher: 74 on the Reno8 vs 86 on the Reno9.
Does the Reno9 have a bigger battery than the Reno8?
No — both have about the same battery capacity (4,500 mAh vs 4,500 mAh).
Who should upgrade to the Reno9?
Upgrade if: Photo quality is a priority for you; You use your phone outdoors a lot and want a brighter, smoother screen.