Redmi Note 14 vs iQOO Z9 – Which is the Best Gaming Phone Under ₹15,000

When it comes to gaming smartphones under ₹15,000, two names dominate the conversation in 2025 — Redmi Note 14 and iQOO Z9. Both offer high-refresh-rate AMOLED displays, fast processors, and strong batteries, but they take different routes in how they deliver performance.

Redmi Note 14 features a MediaTek Dimensity 7025 processor based on 6nm architecture. It comes with RAM options of 6GB and 8GB and storage up to 256GB. The phone boasts a bright 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and impressive brightness that remains clear under sunlight. It is powered by a 5110mAh battery and supports 45W fast charging. The device includes a 50MP Sony main camera with optical image stabilization and an additional ultra-wide and macro sensor. On the front, there's a 20MP camera for selfies and video calls. The phone runs HyperOS based on Android 14 and is guaranteed to receive two years of OS updates and four years of security patches. It also has an IR blaster, NFC support, and IP64-rated protection.

iQOO Z9, on the other hand, takes a more performance-focused approach. It runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 chipset built on 4nm technology, which gives it an edge in power efficiency and gaming smoothness. It has 8GB of physical RAM and also supports extended virtual RAM, useful for multitasking. The display is a 6.67-inch AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate and slightly lower peak brightness than the Redmi, but still very good for indoor and outdoor viewing. The battery capacity is 5000mAh and it supports 44W fast charging. The camera setup includes a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor with OIS and a 16MP front camera. It runs on Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14 and promises two years of Android updates along with three years of security patches. The phone has stereo speakers but lacks a headphone jack and IR blaster.

In real-world gaming performance, the iQOO Z9 performs better due to its newer chipset. Games like BGMI, Free Fire, and Call of Duty run at high settings with stable frame rates. The extended RAM helps with smoother multitasking while gaming. It manages heat well and delivers consistent performance even in longer gaming sessions. The Redmi Note 14 is not far behind, but the Dimensity 7025 is slightly older and may struggle a bit with the most demanding games at ultra settings. However, for casual and moderate gaming, it still performs admirably.

Display quality is excellent on both phones. Redmi Note 14 has higher peak brightness, which is especially useful for gaming or watching content in daylight. iQOO Z9’s display is also vivid and responsive, with excellent touch sensitivity. If you play games outdoors or in well-lit areas, Redmi might feel slightly better in terms of visibility.

Battery life is solid on both devices. Redmi offers slightly higher capacity and faster charging on paper. In practice, both phones easily last a full day with mixed usage, including gaming. Charging from 0 to 100 percent takes just over an hour on both.

On the camera front, both phones offer similar primary sensors with OIS, which helps in stable photography and video recording. Redmi Note 14 provides more versatility with additional lenses, while iQOO focuses on better software optimization and clarity in its main shooter. For gaming users, the camera may not be the highest priority, but both phones perform well enough in day-to-day shots.

In terms of software, Redmi’s HyperOS is a clean, fast interface with a few useful features. iQOO’s Funtouch OS is more performance-oriented but might include extra apps preinstalled. Both are based on Android 14 and are expected to receive major updates and long-term security support.

For users who want a phone that excels in pure gaming performance, the iQOO Z9 stands out thanks to its more powerful processor and performance-tuned software. It handles demanding titles better and is designed with gamers in mind.

However, if you’re looking for a balanced phone that performs well in gaming but also offers a brighter display, more utility features like NFC, a headphone jack, and longer update support, the Redmi Note 14 is a better overall package.

Both phones offer great value for money. The final choice depends on your personal preferences. If your top priority is top-tier mobile gaming under ₹15,000, iQOO Z9 is hard to beat. But if you want a more well-rounded experience with excellent features and software support, Redmi Note 14 deserves your attention.