The iQOO Z9x is the stronger phone on paper, with a newer 5G chipset, a sharper 120Hz display, more base storage and a battery rated at twice the S42’s capacity. But the price figures are from different eras: ₹8,499 was the Itel S42’s India launch price in March 2018, while iQOO’s India store lists Z9x MRPs from ₹17,999 to ₹19,999. They do not establish a current price difference between the two phones.
At a glance: how the specifications compare
| Specification | Itel S42 | iQOO Z9x 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Generation and India launch timing | Launched March 2018 | Launch dated May 2024 by 91mobiles |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 |
| RAM and storage | 3GB RAM, 16GB storage | 4GB, 6GB or 8GB RAM; 128GB storage |
| Display | 5.65-inch IPS, 720 × 1440 | 6.72-inch LCD, 2408 × 1080, up to 120Hz |
| Rear cameras | 13MP | 50MP + 2MP |
| Front camera | 13MP | 8MP |
| Battery and charging | 3,000mAh | 6,000mAh typical, 44W charging |
| Software at launch / listed specification | Android 8.0 at launch | Android 14-based Funtouch OS 14 |
The S42 specifications and launch details come from The Indian Express’s 2018 launch coverage. The Z9x specifications are listed by iQOO India; the May 2024 launch date is reported by 91mobiles.
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Which phone has better performance, memory and network capability?
Processor and memory
The Z9x’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is a much newer platform than the S42’s Snapdragon 425. Its listed configurations also start at 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, compared with the S42’s 3GB RAM and 16GB storage. That makes the Z9x the more capable choice by specification, especially for modern apps and keeping more files on the phone. These figures do not establish a benchmark score or a measured speed advantage.
Network generation
The Z9x is a 5G model. The S42 belongs to an earlier generation of entry-level phones; its launch coverage does not identify it as a 5G device. A 5G-capable phone still requires compatible carrier service and coverage to use 5G.
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How different are the displays?
The Z9x has a 6.72-inch display with 2408 × 1080 resolution and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The S42’s 5.65-inch IPS screen is 720 × 1440. On listed specifications, the Z9x offers more screen area, a higher resolution and a faster maximum refresh rate. The smaller S42 may suit someone who prefers a more compact handset, but its specifications are substantially older.
What do the camera specifications tell you?
The Z9x lists a 50MP main rear camera and a 2MP secondary rear camera, plus an 8MP front camera. The S42 lists a single 13MP rear camera and a 13MP front camera. Therefore, the S42 has the higher stated selfie-camera resolution, while the Z9x has higher stated resolution for its main rear camera. Megapixel counts alone do not show which phone takes better photos; the available specifications do not establish comparative image quality.
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How do battery capacity and charging compare?
iQOO rates the Z9x battery at 6,000mAh typical and lists 44W charging. The S42 was specified with a 3,000mAh battery. The Z9x therefore has twice the stated battery capacity and supports faster charging on paper. Capacity and charging figures do not establish how long either phone lasts in real-world use.
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The S42’s ₹8,499 figure was its India launch price in March 2018, reported by The Indian Express—not a verified current selling price. iQOO’s official India store lists these Z9x MRPs by memory variant:
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
| iQOO Z9x variant | Official India store MRP | Availability shown |
|---|---|---|
| 4GB RAM / 128GB storage | ₹17,999 | Varied by variant; check the live listing |
| 6GB RAM / 128GB storage | ₹18,999 | Varied by variant; check the live listing |
| 8GB RAM / 128GB storage | ₹19,999 | Varied by variant; check the live listing |
These official-store MRPs were checked on 7 October 2026, and listed stock varied. See the iQOO India Store for current variant, price and availability. Because the S42 figure is a 2018 launch price and no current S42 price was established, subtracting it from a Z9x MRP would not produce a meaningful current price gap. Current secondhand or refurbished S42 value is also not established here.
Which phone makes sense for you?
Choose the iQOO Z9x if
- You want a much newer phone with 5G capability.
- You need substantially more listed storage and a newer processor.
- You prefer a larger, sharper screen with a high refresh-rate option.
- You value a larger rated battery and 44W charging support.
Consider the Itel S42 only if
- You already own one and are weighing whether its basic specifications still meet your needs.
- You specifically want a smaller display and accept an older Android generation and limited built-in storage.
- You can verify the device’s present condition, software suitability and actual asking price before buying; its 2018 launch price is not a guide to today’s value.
Software and support caveat
The S42 launched with Android 8.0, while the Z9x is specified with Android 14-based Funtouch OS 14. That is a substantial difference in software generation, but the available information does not establish how long the Z9x will receive operating-system or security updates. Check the manufacturer’s current support information if update duration is important to your purchase.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Carrier: This phone is locked to Tracfone, which means this device can only be used on the Tracfone wireless network. Activating is easy, just 3 steps.
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- CAMERA SYSTEM: 50MP Quad Pixel camera. Capture sharper, more vibrant photos day or night with 4x the light sensitivity.
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- 64GB built-in storage. Get plenty of room for photos, movies, songs, and apps. Made for US
Rank #4
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
