Have you ever bought a phone that looks good on paper but fails in real life? Like, the spec sheet says 120Hz, but your screen still lags when you’re doomscrolling on Instagram? Or the battery says 5200mAh, but you’re still walking around with a power bank like it’s your second phone?
The issue with phones like the Redmi A5 is that they sound better than they actually perform. In 2025, people don’t have the time or money for devices that don’t deliver on their promises. This is why the Itel CT100 is not only surprising users but also outshining more expensive phones that claim to offer more but fall short. Quietly, this underdog has become the preferred choice for genuine users—those who buy phones to use, not just to show off. Let’s break it down.
Build & Durability: Don’t Let Aesthetics Fool You
Redmi has stuck to its usual design, but there’s one important thing to note: there is no water resistance. A careless drop into a puddle could mean the end of your phone. In contrast, the Itel CT100 features genuine dust and splash resistance. This isn’t just marketing hype; it’s real durability. If your phone will be spending time in your jeans pocket, a backpack, on crowded bus rides, or the kitchen counter near the sink, this level of protection is crucial.
Additionally, let’s put aside the idea of a “premium glass feel.” We’ve moved beyond that misconception. Real users want phones that can withstand accidental drops rather than ones that shatter easily.
Display: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
While the Redmi A5 features a slightly larger screen, the Itel actually offers a brighter display, which is important when you’re outdoors. No one wants to squint in the sun just to reply to a DM or scan a delivery code.
Now, let’s discuss the refresh rate. The Redmi A5 advertises a refresh rate of 120Hz, but in reality, it can drop to 60Hz depending on the application being used. In contrast, the Itel maintains a solid 90Hz refresh rate consistently, providing a smooth, reliable, and honest user experience.
Performance: Same Engine, Different Results
Both phones use the same processor, so theoretically, they should perform similarly. However, real-world usage tells a different story. The key difference lies in their storage technology. The CT100 features UFS 2.2, which is faster, smoother, and more responsive. This means quicker app launches and easier file transfers.
In comparison, the Redmi A5 uses eMMC 5.1, which is significantly slower, like comparing a tricycle to a motorcycle with wings. Additionally, the Itel CT100 offers more AI camera tools for capturing scenes, selfies, and applying filters. These features are not just marketing buzzwords; they provide tangible benefits for people creating content on the go.
Battery: Same Size, Different Story
Both devices come with 5200mAh batteries, but only one charges faster—this is the CT100. Having a fast-charging phone can make a significant difference when you’re stuck in Lagos traffic or working a 12-hour day without reliable power. Many users agree, stating comments such as, “I never expected it… this phone is too good for the price.”
Value: What’s the Point of a Name?
Let’s be honest: Redmi has brand recognition. But in 2025, that’s not enough. People don’t just want popular—they want practical. So, if you’re getting a phone for someone—your younger sibling who just got an admission, your cousin who wants to start content creation, or that friend whose phone battery dies quickly — don’t just buy what’s familiar. Buy what works. The CT100 is the smarter choice, and it doesn’t play to the crowd.
Specs are loud. Marketing is louder. But in this economy, silence is golden—and so is a phone that just works. The Itel CT100 proves that a budget phone can be more than a backup. It can be a daily driver. A reliable partner. A quiet flex. So when the choice is between a name and a need, go with what meets the need. Let the Redmi A5 rest.
Looking For Something Even More Affordable?
If your budget is closer to ₦88k and you still want a phone that gets the job done without excuses, check out my review of the Poco C71. It’s not flashy, but it delivers where it counts — big screen, strong battery, stable performance. For students, side hustlers, or anyone tired of overpriced phones that underperform, the Poco C71 is proof that cheap doesn’t have to mean compromised. [Read it here Poco C71 Is More Than Just Cheap — It’s the Smartest ₦88k You’ll Spend in 2025]
