The battle between power and prestige in 2025

The smartphone arena in 2025 is witnessing an interesting face-off between the Redmi K90 Pro Max and the latest Apple iPhone models. With Redmi offering near-flagship specifications at a fraction of the cost, the big question is whether it can genuinely stand toe-to-toe with Apple’s iconic device in performance, features, and real-world value.

At the heart of this battle lies raw power versus refined experience. The Redmi K90 Pro Max comes equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, paired with high-speed LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. This combination delivers exceptional speed and efficiency, rivalling the iPhone’s A17 Pro processor in everyday performance and gaming. For most users, the difference in speed between these two giants will be barely noticeable.

When it comes to display quality, Redmi’s approach is uncompromising. The K90 Pro Max offers a 6.9-inch OLED 2K display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring ultra-smooth visuals and vibrant colours. The iPhone, on the other hand, delivers remarkable accuracy and brightness on its smaller 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR panel. While Apple’s display remains a benchmark for colour precision, Redmi’s larger screen and higher refresh rate offer a more immersive multimedia experience.

Battery life is one area where the Redmi K90 Pro Max clearly leads. Its massive 7,560mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging means a full day of intense use with minimal downtime. The iPhone’s smaller cell and slower charging speeds cannot match Redmi’s rapid energy replenishment, making it less ideal for power users who demand endurance.

Camera performance, however, remains Apple’s stronghold. The iPhone’s 48MP sensor with deep software optimisation delivers natural colours and superior consistency across lighting conditions. Redmi’s triple 50MP setup, featuring a periscope zoom lens and a high-end main sensor, offers incredible versatility and detail. While Apple wins in computational photography and low-light balance, Redmi’s optical capabilities give it an edge in zoom and daylight detail.

Audio experience is another area where Redmi surprises. With a unique 2.1-channel speaker system, including a dedicated subwoofer, it produces a richer and deeper sound profile than most phones on the market. The iPhone’s stereo setup remains excellent but lacks the same depth and power, making Redmi’s approach a standout for entertainment lovers.

In terms of software, Apple’s iOS ecosystem still holds a commanding advantage. Its seamless integration with other Apple devices, superior long-term software updates, and unmatched security remain key reasons many users stay loyal. The Redmi K90 Pro Max runs Android with a custom MIUI interface that offers flexibility and customisation but may not deliver the same polish or longevity in software support.

When comparing build quality and design, both phones exude a premium feel. The iPhone’s titanium frame and precision engineering maintain its reputation for craftsmanship, while the Redmi K90 Pro Max’s glass-metal combination and sleek curved edges give it a bold, futuristic look. For many, the aesthetic choice will depend on personal preference rather than outright superiority.

Price remains Redmi’s most powerful weapon. The K90 Pro Max is expected to cost nearly half as much as the latest iPhone models, while still offering comparable hardware and features. For users prioritising performance, display, and battery over brand prestige, the Redmi offers tremendous value that few other devices can match.

However, for UK buyers, availability and support are key considerations. The Redmi K90 Pro Max is primarily launched in China, with no confirmed UK release. This means potential challenges such as network compatibility, lack of local warranty, and slower updates. The iPhone, by contrast, enjoys complete local support, insurance options, and trade-in programmes that make ownership more seamless.

Ultimately, the Redmi K90 Pro Max can indeed compete with Apple’s iPhone — and even surpass it in areas like charging speed, display size, and value for money. But Apple’s ecosystem, build quality, and long-term reliability continue to give it an edge for users seeking a refined, worry-free experience. For those who value performance and innovation at an accessible price, the Redmi K90 Pro Max might just be the unexpected flagship challenger of 2025.