Tag: xiaomi

Xiaomi Redmi Pad Pro 5G: Price, Reviews & Features

Verdict:

The Redmi Pad Pro offers great value for money, featuring a solid design with an aluminum build that gives it a premium feel. The display is impressive, delivering sharp, responsive visuals that are quite accurate for a mid-range tablet. Its performance is sufficient for a variety of tasks, making it suitable for general users.

While Android tablets haven’t yet made a major impact in the market, Xiaomi has been a consistent player, offering quality products at competitive prices. With the Redmi Pad Pro, Xiaomi continues this tradition, bringing a high-quality tablet to the market at an affordable price. Following the success of last year’s Xiaomi Pad 6, the Redmi Pad Pro aims to offer the same premium features at a lower cost.

In my testing, I used the Redmi Pad Pro as my work device for several days, and overall, it performed well both as a work tool and for entertainment. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

Design: The design is fairly standard but solid, with a 12.1-inch display and a front camera placed horizontally for better video call experiences. The back features an aluminum finish with dual camera cutouts (one for the LED flash), contributing to a premium feel. While it’s not the lightest tablet, its weight (571 grams for the 5G variant) is manageable, though it may become uncomfortable during extended use.

Display: The 12.1-inch IPS LCD display offers a 1.5K resolution (1600 x 2560 pixels) and a 120Hz refresh rate. Watching movies and TV shows was an enjoyable experience, with good contrast and fine detail, though dark scenes don’t look as sharp as they would on an AMOLED screen. It also offers decent brightness and color accuracy, making it a strong performer for a mid-range tablet.

Performance and Battery: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip, 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of storage, the Redmi Pad Pro handles everyday tasks smoothly. It outperforms its competitor, the OnePlus Pad Go, in benchmarks. However, the tablet tends to heat up during intensive tasks like gaming, which can be distracting. As for battery life, despite the large 10,000mAh battery, I found the performance to be underwhelming, with the tablet draining 16% after an hour of GPS use and around 6% for 30 minutes of YouTube at maximum resolution. For extensive work use, it lasts around 6-7 hours of screen time.

Despite its mediocre battery life, the Redmi Pad Pro performs admirably in most tasks. It works well as a portable work device, and the quality of the keyboard cover provided is quite good for typing, though the lack of a trackpad limits its usability for long documents.

Conclusion: In summary, the Redmi Pad Pro is a strong value-for-money offering, with a premium design, a solid display, and adequate performance for most users. While not perfect—especially in terms of battery life—it offers a great user experience at under Rs 25,000 (approximately $300 USD). With its multitasking capabilities, stylus support, and overall ease of use, the Redmi Pad Pro is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly, feature-rich tablet. Scoring 75 out of 100 in our Digit Test, this tablet delivers solid performance at a competitive price.

December 17, 2024
Xiaomi Redmi 13: Price, Reviews & Features
Verdict

The Redmi 13 5G is a strong contender in the affordable 5G smartphone category. It excels in essentials: a 120Hz high-resolution display, solid performance, long battery life, and a striking design. However, its brightness levels and low-light camera performance could be better.

Design & Display
- Design: Premium feel despite its budget nature.
  - Hawaiian Blue variant shimmers under light.
  - IP53-rated for dust and water resistance.
  - Slippery rear panel; use with a case recommended.
- Display:
  - 6.79-inch LCD with FHD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
  - Peak brightness: 550 nits (suitable indoors, struggles outdoors).
  - Gorilla Glass 3 for protection.
Competitor Comparison:
- Realme Narzo N65 (625 nits), iQOO Z9x (1000 nits), itel S24 (NA).
Cameras
- Primary: 108MP Samsung ISOCELL HM6 + 2MP depth sensor.
- Front: 13MP selfie camera.
- Performance:
  - Daylight: Punchy colors, decent sharpness. Warmer tones than competitors.
  - Low-light: Struggles with noise, softness, and details compared to Realme Narzo N65 and itel S24.
  - Selfies: Accurate skin tones but slight skin smoothing.
Performance
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 Accelerated.
- Variants: Up to 8GB RAM + 128GB storage (expandable to 1TB).
- Benchmark Results:
  - On par with Realme Narzo N65, better than itel S24, but behind iQOO Z9x.
- Gaming:
  - COD Mobile: ~50FPS (Very High settings).
  - BGMI: ~28FPS (HD graphics).
- Thermals: Notably warmer under stress compared to peers.
Software
- First device with HyperOS based on Android 14.
- Promises 2 years of OS updates + 4 years of security patches.
Battery & Charging
- Battery: 5,030mAh.
- Charging: 33W fast charging (0–100% in 86 minutes).
- Performance:
  - PCMark test: ~14 hours.
  - Real-world usage: All-day battery life.
Competitor Comparison:
- Realme Narzo N65: 15W charging (149 min).
- itel S24: 18W charging (103 min).
- iQOO Z9x: 44W charging (61 min).
Price & Variants
- India Pricing:
  - 6GB + 128GB: ₹13,999 (effective ₹12,999 with offers).
  - 8GB + 128GB: ₹15,499 (effective ₹14,499 with offers).
- USD Pricing:
  - 6GB + 128GB: ~$168 USD.
  - 8GB + 128GB: ~$186 USD.
Final Thoughts

The Redmi 13 5G balances affordability with solid features like a 120Hz display, 108MP camera, and HyperOS support. While it shines in daylight camera performance and design, its low-light photos and display brightness fall short.

Top Competitors:
- Realme Narzo N65: Comparable performance but a lower-res display.
- itel S24: Similar 108MP camera and stylish design.
- iQOO Z9x: Stronger performance, better battery life, and faster charging.
December 17, 2024

Xiaomi 14 Civi: Price and Comprehensive Review

Verdict
The Xiaomi 14 Civi stands out as a lightweight, visually stunning device with a premium design language featuring glass and vegan leather. It is one of the most attractive smartphones in the sub-Rs 50,000 segment. Alongside its appealing looks, the phone delivers a vibrant display and Leica-tuned cameras that cater to users seeking professional-level photography without breaking the bank. However, its battery life and performance throttling leave room for improvement.

xiaomi 14 civi price & reviews

Design and Display

Specifications Comparison

Feature	Xiaomi 14 Civi	Vivo V30 Pro	OnePlus 12R
Thickness	7.4mm	7.45mm	8.8mm
Weight	177 grams	188 grams	207 grams
IP Rating	IP54	IP54	IP64

The standout feature of the Xiaomi 14 Civi is its design. With a lightweight build of just 177 grams and a slim profile of 7.4mm, it’s incredibly easy to hold and carry. The quad-curved display and back panel blend seamlessly with a matte metal frame, giving it a premium look and feel. The Matcha Green variant, with its dual-tone finish of vegan leather and patterned glass, adds to the phone’s appeal. Additionally, the phone has an IP54 rating for dust and limited water resistance.

The display is equally impressive, offering a 6.55-inch AMOLED quad-curved panel with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate, 240Hz touch sampling rate, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, with a peak brightness of 3000 nits. The screen provides deep blacks and vibrant, saturated colors by default, though you can adjust to a muted color profile in settings.

Specifications Comparison

Feature	Xiaomi 14 Civi	Vivo V30 Pro	OnePlus 12R
Display Size	6.55-inch AMOLED	6.78-inch AMOLED	6.78-inch AMOLED
Peak Brightness	3000 nits	2800 nits	4500 nits

Cameras

Xiaomi continues its Leica partnership with the 14 Civi, making advanced photography more accessible. The rear camera setup includes a 50MP Light Hunter 800 sensor with OIS, a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens.

Daylight Performance: The primary sensor captures vibrant, punchy colors and handles dynamic range well. Leica Authentic and Leica Vibrant modes cater to users who prefer either natural tones or boosted colors, though both lean towards saturation. Compared to competitors like the Realme GT 6T, the Xiaomi 14 Civi delivers high-contrast, saturated results but falls slightly short in detail.
Portrait Shots: The 50MP telephoto lens excels in portrait photography with features like Leica-tuned filters (Viv, Nat, BW HC, etc.) and creative modes (35mm Documentary, 50mm Swirly Bokeh, and 90mm Soft Focus). However, minor issues like smoothing of facial features persist.
Low Light: The phone performs decently but struggles with brightness and detail in challenging conditions. The telephoto lens is less effective in low light due to the lack of OIS.
Selfies: The Xiaomi 14 Civi includes dual front cameras — a 32MP primary and a 32MP wide-angle lens. The primary camera produces sharp, well-balanced selfies, while the wide-angle lens tends to wash out colors.

xiaomi 14 civi price & reviews

Performance and Software

Powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, the Xiaomi 14 Civi strikes a balance between flagship and mid-range performance. It outperforms competitors like the OnePlus 12R and Vivo V30 Pro in benchmarks but falls short of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered Xiaomi 14.

Benchmark Comparison

Metric	Xiaomi 14 Civi (SD8s Gen 3)	OnePlus 12R (SD8 Gen 2)	Xiaomi 14 (SD8 Gen 3)
AnTuTu	14,43,011	12,40,474	19,82,613
Geekbench Single-Core	1913	1066	2191
Geekbench Multi-Core	5087	4311	6705

While the Xiaomi 14 Civi delivers smooth everyday performance, it struggles under sustained loads, throttling to 40% of its capacity during stress tests. On the software side, the phone runs Android 14 with Xiaomi’s HyperOS, which focuses on fluidity and speed. While HyperOS introduces AI features, such as a ChatGPT-style assistant, these are not yet available. Xiaomi promises three years of major software updates and four years of security patches.

Battery

The Xiaomi 14 Civi features a 4,700mAh battery, smaller than the typical 5,000mAh found in most phones. It lasts a full day under moderate usage but struggles with heavier use. In the PCMark battery test, it lasted 12 hours and 15 minutes, trailing competitors like the Vivo V30 Pro and OnePlus 12R.

The phone supports 67W fast charging, taking roughly 40 minutes to charge from 20% to 100%.

xiaomi 14 civi price & reviews

Charging Comparison

Phone	Charging Speed	Time (20-100%)
Xiaomi 14 Civi	67W	40 minutes
Vivo V30 Pro	80W	33 minutes
OnePlus 12R	100W	26 minutes

Final Verdict
Priced at Rs 42,999 (~$520 USD), the Xiaomi 14 Civi is a compelling choice for those prioritizing design and camera capabilities. Its premium aesthetics, lightweight build, and Leica-tuned photography features make it a standout in its segment. While it offers impressive portrait and video capabilities, there is room for improvement in telephoto and low-light performance.

Battery life and performance throttling may be limiting factors for heavy users, but for everyday tasks and moderate usage, the Xiaomi 14 Civi excels. If design, portraits, and videography are your priorities, this phone is a solid contender in the mid-range category.

December 15, 2024

Xiaomi Poco M6 4G: Price & Reviews

Design and Display

For those who appreciate dual-tone aesthetics, the POCO M6 5G stands out with its eye-catching design. Staying true to POCO’s signature style, the device features a black rectangular bar housing two camera rings, an LED flash, and etched branding like “AI CAM,” “50MP,” and “POCO.”

The Orion Blue color variant, reviewed here, boasts a gradient finish that shimmers under light. However, the glossy surface easily attracts fingerprints and smudges. Unfortunately, the phone lacks an IP rating, so it’s best to keep it away from water and dust. Its flat edges make it comfortable to hold, and the lightweight plastic build (195 grams) allows for extended usage without wrist strain.

The POCO M6 5G comes with a 6.74-inch LCD display offering HD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a U-shaped notch for the selfie camera. The bezels are relatively thick, resulting in an average viewing experience. However, the colors are well-balanced, and the brightness is adequate for outdoor use. Complementing the display is a mono speaker that delivers loud, if not entirely crisp, audio. Security is handled by a reliable side-mounted fingerprint scanner.

Price in USD: Starting at $126 USD for the base variant.

Cameras

The POCO M6 5G’s camera setup consists of a 50MP AI primary sensor, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 5MP front camera. While daylight photos are acceptable, they lack sharpness and detail, with colors appearing oversaturated. Low-light and indoor photography introduces noticeable noise, which is only partially mitigated by night mode—albeit at the cost of stability. Selfies also exhibit limited clarity and occasionally inaccurate skin tones. Overall, the photography experience is decent but aligns with expectations for an entry-level smartphone.

Performance and Software

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, the POCO M6 5G is paired with up to 8GB of RAM (plus 8GB of virtual RAM) and up to 256GB of expandable storage. The device runs MIUI 14 based on Android 13, offering a smooth and user-friendly experience.

The phone handles day-to-day activities like browsing, messaging, and social media scrolling effortlessly. It also supports graphically demanding games, though you might need to adjust settings for optimal performance. However, pre-installed apps and bloatware can detract slightly from the user experience.

Battery and Charging

The POCO M6 5G is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging. However, the phone comes bundled with only a 10W charger, which takes over two hours to fully charge. Using an 18W charger reduces charging time to about 90 minutes.

Once fully charged, the phone easily lasts a full day of moderate usage. In the PC Mark battery test, the handset achieved an impressive score of 9 hours and 35 minutes.

Final Verdict

The POCO M6 5G is a well-rounded device for budget-conscious users but faces stiff competition. Priced at ₹10,499 ($126 USD) for the base 4GB RAM and 64GB storage model, it is overshadowed by its sibling, the POCO M6 Pro, which costs just ₹500 ($6 USD) more and offers a better display, improved performance, enhanced selfie capabilities, and faster charging with an included 22.5W charger. Additionally, the M6 Pro features IP53 splash resistance, a significant advantage in this price range.

Another notable competitor is the iTel P55, which outperforms the POCO M6 in benchmark tests. However, it lacks the stylish dual-tone design that distinguishes the POCO device.

Conclusion
If you value design and are working within a tight budget, the POCO M6 5G is a decent choice, offering solid performance, a durable build, and reliable battery life. However, for a slightly higher investment, the POCO M6 Pro provides greater value with superior features. The introductory price of ₹9,499 (~$114 USD) for ICICI card users adds to the appeal of the POCO M6, making it a worthy consideration for entry-level smartphone buyers.

December 15, 2024
Xiaomi Redmi 13 5G: Price, Features, and Reviews

The Redmi 13 5G stands out as an excellent choice for anyone seeking an affordable 5G smartphone. It delivers on all the essentials: a vibrant 120Hz display, smooth everyday performance, long-lasting battery life, and an eye-catching design. However, it does have some shortcomings, including a display that could benefit from higher brightness and cameras that struggle in low-light conditions.

Design & Display:
Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the Redmi 13 5G exudes a premium feel. The Hawaiian Blue variant, with its shimmering wave-like rear panel, grabs attention. Although slightly broad with flat edges that may dig into the palms, its design is complemented by a metallic blue frame and a glossy back that resists fingerprints but is slippery without a case. The IP53 rating adds basic dust and water resistance.

The 6.79-inch LCD Full HD+ display (2400x1080p) impresses with a 120Hz refresh rate and excellent viewing angles, though its 550 nits brightness is adequate only indoors. Corning Gorilla Glass 3 offers scratch resistance, and the L1 Widevine certification ensures HD streaming on OTT platforms. While the display delivers a solid multimedia experience, outdoor visibility could be better.

Cameras:
The Redmi 13 5G features a 108MP Samsung ISOCELL HM6 primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, alongside a 13MP front camera. Photos taken in daylight are sharp, with punchy colors and good detail. The dedicated 108MP mode captures even finer details. However, in low light, the images lose sharpness and display graininess at the edges.

Compared to competitors like the Realme Narzo N65, iQOO Z9x, and itel S24, the Redmi 13 5G performs admirably in daylight but falls behind in low-light photography. Selfies are decent, with accurate skin tones, although some competitors capture more facial details. Macro shots are impressive, making it a good pick for close-up photography.

Performance:
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, the Redmi 13 5G offers smooth day-to-day performance. With up to 8GB LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage (expandable to 1TB), it handles multitasking with ease. Benchmark tests reveal performance on par with competitors like the Realme Narzo N65 and slightly behind the iQOO Z9x.

Gaming performance is satisfactory, with smooth gameplay on moderate settings for titles like COD: Mobile and BGMI. However, the device does heat up during extended gaming sessions, with noticeable temperature increases compared to its peers.

Software:
The Redmi 13 5G debuts Xiaomi’s HyperOS based on Android 14, offering a clean and optimized user experience. Useful features like Floating Windows, Second Space, and One-Handed Mode enhance usability. Xiaomi promises two years of major OS updates and four years of security updates, outpacing some competitors in software longevity.

Battery & Charging:
With a 5,030mAh battery and 33W fast charging, the Redmi 13 5G delivers a full day of usage for most users. It recharges from 20% to 100% in 86 minutes, faster than many competitors in its price range, except for the iQOO Z9x. The phone scored 14 hours in the PCMark battery benchmark, making it a reliable choice for heavy users.

Final Thoughts :

Priced in India at Rs. 13,999 (approximately $168 USD) for the 6GB+128GB variant (effective price Rs. 12,999 or ~$156 USD with bank offers) and Rs. 15,499 (approximately $186 USD) for the 8GB+128GB variant (effective price Rs. 14,499 or ~$174 USD), the Redmi 13 5G is a well-rounded budget 5G smartphone.

It competes strongly with rivals like the Realme Narzo N65, itel S24, and iQOO Z9x by offering excellent value, solid everyday performance, and great cameras in good lighting. While its low-light photography and brightness levels could be improved, the Redmi 13 5G’s overall feature set—including its standout display, battery life, and sleek design—makes it a compelling choice in its price range.

This phone is an excellent option for casual gamers, multimedia enthusiasts, and budget-conscious users seeking 5G connectivity without compromises.

December 14, 2024
Xiaomi Mix Fold 4: Price & Detailed Reviews
Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 Review: Features, Price, and Performance

Specifications Overview:

Inner Display: 7.98-inch OLED, 2488 x 2224 resolution

Outer Display: 6.56-inch OLED, 2520 x 1080 resolution

Refresh Rate: Adaptive 1-120Hz

Rear Cameras:

50MP wide (f/1.7)

12MP ultrawide (f/2.2)

50MP telephoto (f/2.0) with 2x optical zoom

10MP telephoto (f/2.9) with 5x optical zoom

Front Cameras: 16MP (inner), 16MP (outer)

Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

RAM/Storage Options:

12GB/256GB

16GB/512GB

16GB/1TB

Battery: 5100mAh

67W wired charging

50W wireless charging

OS: Android 14 with HyperOS

Durability: IPX8 water resistance

Dimensions:

Folded: 159.4 x 73.1 x 9.5 mm

Unfolded: 159.4 x 143.3 x 4.6 mm

Weight: 226g

Colors: Black, White, Blue, Xiaomi Composite Fiber

Price and Availability

The Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 was launched in China in July 2024, with plans for a global release. However, exact timelines and regional pricing remain unconfirmed. As with previous Xiaomi releases, a U.S. launch is unlikely.

In China, pricing is as follows:

12GB + 256GB: CNY 8,999 (~$1,280 / £955 / AU $1,885)

16GB + 512GB: CNY 9,999 (~$1,422 / £1,062 / AU $2,094)

16GB + 1TB: CNY 10,999 (~$1,564 / £1,168 / AU $2,304)

While these prices may seem competitive compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 ($1,899) or Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold ($1,799), expect regional adjustments in pricing for other markets.

Design and Display

The Mix Fold 4 features a 6.56-inch cover display with a 1080p resolution and a 21:9 aspect ratio, making it comfortable to use in folded mode. The LTPO panel supports adaptive refresh rates from 1-120Hz, HDR10, and Dolby Vision. Despite its 9.5mm folded thickness, it is slimmer than most competitors.

Unfolding the device reveals a 7.98-inch inner OLED screen, also with 1-120Hz adaptive refresh, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and an impressive peak brightness of 3,000 nits. The inner display offers excellent visual quality for watching movies or gaming, though the crease in the middle is noticeable and may disrupt smooth navigation.

Camera Performance

The Mix Fold 4 boasts six cameras:

Rear:

50MP wide (main)

50MP telephoto (2x zoom)

12MP ultrawide

10MP periscope telephoto (5x zoom)

Front: Two 16MP selfie cameras (one on each screen)

The camera system, enhanced with Leica optics, offers vivid colors and bright photos but struggles with over-processing in some scenarios. Compared to competitors like the Google Pixel 9 Pro, the Mix Fold 4 delivers mixed results:

Daylight shots: Bright with vivid colors but sometimes exaggerated.

Low light: Impressive detail and clarity, outperforming the Pixel 9 Pro in some cases.

Selfies: Disappointing, with noticeable over-smoothing and artificial effects.

Portrait mode: AI-enhanced results may appeal to some but can look overly polished.

Performance

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the Mix Fold 4 delivers excellent performance, surpassing many rivals in benchmarking tests:

Geekbench 6:

Single-core: 2,203

Multi-core: 7,020

3DMark Wild Life Extreme: 3,929 points (23.5 fps)

Gaming on the Mix Fold 4 is smooth and lag-free, with effective cooling that keeps the phone from overheating.

Battery and Charging

With a 5100mAh battery, the Mix Fold 4 offers impressive endurance. In a 3-hour YouTube video playback test (50% brightness), it lost only 14% of its charge, outperforming rivals like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Honor Magic V3.

Charging is quick with the included 67W wired charger, which takes the phone from 0-59% in 30 minutes and reaches a full charge in under an hour. Wireless charging is supported at 50W, but a compatible Xiaomi charger is required.

Software

The Mix Fold 4 runs on HyperOS, Xiaomi’s custom Android 14-based skin. The Chinese variant includes regional services, but global models will feature Google services.

Conclusion

The Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 impresses with its sleek design, top-tier performance, and strong battery life. However, the camera system, especially the selfie cameras, falls short of expectations. While pricing in China is competitive, its availability and pricing in other markets remain key factors in determining its global success.

If you’re looking for a foldable with premium specs and solid performance, the Mix Fold 4 is a worthy contender, provided its limitations align with your needs.
December 14, 2024
Xiaomi Redmi K70 Ultra: Price and Reviews

Redmi K70 Ultra: A Comprehensive Review of Design, Display, Performance, Camera, Battery, and Verdict

Design
The Redmi K70 Ultra retains the signature design of the K70 series with four cameras positioned in the upper-left corner. However, the lenses have transitioned from circular to rounded-rectangular shapes. The power button now features a non-slip finish, and the weight has slightly increased, likely due to the larger battery capacity.

The rest of the design remains largely unchanged, with a premium metal frame and glass back. It continues to offer IP68 dust and water resistance, a standout feature in this price range, further justifying its “Ultra” designation.

Display
The K70 Ultra sports an OLED panel from TCL. While there are some changes compared to the K70 Pro, the upgrades and downgrades strike a balance. The resolution has been reduced from 1440p to 1200p, consistent with last year’s K60 Ultra.

Improvements include increased brightness, with manual adjustments up to 700 nits and a peak of 1600 nits in sunlight. Additionally, the bottom bezel has been further narrowed, giving it a high-end look. Though it lacks LTPO support, this display remains competitive, especially for the price.

Performance and Gaming
At the heart of the K70 Ultra is the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+, a cost-effective yet powerful chipset. It delivers exceptional performance, surpassing many Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 devices. During gaming tests, the frame rate remained impressively stable, with low temperatures and power consumption.

The phone includes the D1 display chip, enhancing resolution and reducing frame latency, which significantly improves the gaming experience when supported by specific games. The combination of affordability, performance, and efficient power use makes the K70 Ultra a great choice for gamers.

Camera
The K70 Ultra features a triple-camera setup: a 50 MP main sensor, an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2 MP macro camera. The main camera delivers excellent results with balanced saturation, dynamic range, and clarity, comparable to Xiaomi’s sub-flagship phones.

However, the ultra-wide camera underperforms in low light, particularly around the edges. The macro camera offers little utility, with cropped images from the main sensor often proving superior. Video stabilization is average, and only the main camera supports 4K video recording.

Battery and Charging
Equipped with a 5,500mAh battery, the K70 Ultra delivers impressive battery life, even competing with phones like the OnePlus Ace 3 Pro. It supports 120W wired charging, fully replenishing the battery in about 30 minutes.

Verdict
The Redmi K70 Ultra stands out as a cost-effective yet high-performing device, balancing robust hardware with a competitive price tag starting at $429. While it faces stiff competition from models like the Realme GT6 China Edition and OnePlus Ace 3 Pro, the K70 Ultra remains a compelling option, especially for gamers and budget-conscious users seeking flagship-level features.

For those considering mid-range phones, the K70 Ultra’s unique blend of performance, design, and battery efficiency makes it a strong contender in its class.

December 12, 2024
Xiaomi Mix Flip: Comprehensive Review and Price
Xiaomi Mix Flip: Specifications, Price, and Detailed Review

Specifications
- Price: £1,099 (~$1,375 USD)
- Inner Display: 6.86-inch OLED, 2912 x 1224 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
- Outer Display: 4.01-inch OLED, 1392 x 1208 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
- Main Cameras: 50MP main (f/1.7), 50MP 2x telephoto (f/2.0)
- Inner Camera: 32MP selfie (f/2.0)
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Battery: 4,780mAh
- Charging: 67W wired
- Software: Android 14 with Xiaomi HyperOS
- Size:
  - Unfolded: 167.5mm x 74.02 x 7.8mm
  - Folded: 85.54mm x 74.02 x 15.99mm
- Weight: 192 grams
- Colors: Purple, Black
Price and Availability

The Xiaomi Mix Flip launched in the U.K. on September 26 for £1,099 (~$1,375 USD), a price comparable to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (£1,099 in the U.K. and $1,099 in the U.S.). For those in the U.S., importing the Mix Flip is an option via online retailers, but users must ensure network compatibility.

Design and Display

The Mix Flip boasts a 6.86-inch inner display paired with a 4.01-inch outer screen. While the curved edges of the outer screen add a sleek aesthetic, the hinge mechanism introduces a noticeable gap when the phone is unfolded. The bezels are minimal, comparable to competitors like Samsung and Motorola.

Though its display is vivid and offers higher resolutions, the lack of an IP water resistance rating is a disadvantage compared to the Moto Razr 50 Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip 6, which both feature water resistance.

Camera Performance

Equipped with Leica-tuned lenses, the Mix Flip houses a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP telephoto lens, complemented by a 32MP inner selfie camera. In real-world comparisons, the Mix Flip generally produces brighter and more color-accurate images, although it occasionally lags behind the Moto Razr in fine details. Portrait selfies showcase the Mix Flip’s superior dynamic range and clean edge detection.

Performance

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the Mix Flip delivers top-notch performance. Benchmark scores reveal competitive results, with minor lags in certain tasks compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 6. Additionally, the phone is WiFi 7 ready, ensuring future-proof connectivity.

Battery and Charging

The Mix Flip stands out with its 4,780mAh battery and 67W fast charging. It charges from 0% to 100% in under an hour, significantly faster than rivals. Battery endurance is solid, with minimal drain during video playback, but the difference isn’t as pronounced given its larger battery capacity.

Software and Features

Running Android 14 with Xiaomi HyperOS, the Mix Flip offers extensive customization. Xiaomi’s commitment to software updates — 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security patches — outpaces Motorola but trails behind Samsung’s 7-year promise.

While the large outer screen is a highlight, its usability is limited compared to Motorola’s and Samsung’s more polished approaches. A hover mode is available but occasionally exhibits glitches in certain apps like YouTube.

Verdict

The Xiaomi Mix Flip excels in hardware specs, offering a powerful chipset, vibrant displays, and impressive battery capabilities. However, its lack of water resistance, unoptimized software for foldable usage, and stiff competition from rivals like the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Moto Razr 50 Ultra hold it back.

For buyers focused on performance and display quality, the Mix Flip is a compelling choice. But those seeking a more refined flip foldable experience or better value for money might prefer alternatives like the Galaxy Z Flip 6 or even flagship slab phones in the same price range.
December 12, 2024
Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE 8.7 price & reviews
Design & Build

Slim Build

IP52 Rating

Available in Three Colors

The Redmi Pad SE, priced at approximately $199 USD, features a sleek aluminium alloy finish and comes in Lavender Purple, Graphite Grey, and Mint Green. I tested the Graphite Grey variant, which exudes a refined and sophisticated look. The other colors cater to those who prefer bolder aesthetics.

At 7.36 mm thick and weighing just 478 g, the tablet is slim and lightweight, making it easy to slip into bags and comfortable to hold. It’s noticeably lighter than the Galaxy Tab A8 by 30 g. While the box doesn’t include a case, the IP52 rating offers some protection against dust and water spray.

During testing, the paintwork around the charging port showed minor wear and tear, which might be worth considering for long-term use. Accessories like a case/stand and a stylus are available on Mi.com, though there’s no official keyboard. Third-party Bluetooth keyboards are compatible.

The bottom houses a USB-C charging port and a 3.5mm headphone jack, while the power button is on the top. On the right side, you’ll find the volume rocker and a microSD card slot. However, this is a Wi-Fi-only model, so it won’t support SIM cards.

There’s no fingerprint sensor, which is typical for budget tablets, but the face recognition works effectively in daylight. It struggles in low light or when wearing glasses. Alternatively, a passcode or pattern can be used for security.

Screen & Speakers

11-Inch LCD Display

90Hz Refresh Rate

400 Nits Brightness

The Redmi Pad SE is equipped with an 11-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and 207 PPI. It supports a 90Hz refresh rate, offering smooth scrolling and responsive graphics. Users can switch between 60Hz and 90Hz, or enable a balanced mode for automatic adjustments.

Indoors, the display is vibrant and clear, but 400 nits of typical brightness can make it challenging to use in bright sunlight due to glare. Despite being an LCD panel, the display performs well for streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Twitch.

The quad-speaker setup supports Dolby Atmos, delivering colorful and detailed audio. Bass tones even have a slight thump, enhancing the media experience significantly.

Specs & Performance

Snapdragon 680 Processor

4GB RAM, 128GB Storage

Expandable up to 1TB

The Redmi Pad SE runs on the Snapdragon 680 chipset, coupled with 4GB RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable up to 1TB with a microSD card. Some markets offer higher RAM options.

Performance is sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and note-taking. However, the tablet is slow to boot and occasionally lags when switching between apps. Benchmark results show it outperforms the Galaxy Tab A8 and Nokia T21 but is on par with the Oppo Pad Air.

Light games like Genshin Impact are playable, though the device defaults to low graphics settings and still experiences occasional lag and pop-ins. For smoother performance, stick to simpler games.

Cameras

8MP Rear Camera

5MP Front Camera

The cameras on the Redmi Pad SE are basic but functional, as expected in this price range. The 8MP rear camera captures clear shots in good lighting, handling greenery and indoor conditions well, though distant textures lose clarity. In low light, results are blurry, and the Night Mode doesn’t significantly improve details.

The 5MP front camera is best for video calls. It softens details and produces muted colors in selfies. Annoyingly, Xiaomi enables beautify mode by default, promoting unrealistic beauty standards.

Both cameras support 720p and 1080p video recording at 30fps, suitable for casual use.

Battery Life & Charging

8000mAh Battery

Two-Day Battery Life

10W Slow Charging

The 8000mAh battery is a standout feature, delivering up to two days of usage with the 90Hz refresh rate enabled. Power-saving modes and variable refresh rates can extend this further.

Charging, however, is a weak point. With the included 10W charger, it takes around three hours to fully charge, and only 16% charge is achieved in 30 minutes. This charging speed lags behind many competitors.

Software

Android 13 with MIUI 14

Two Years of OS Updates

The Redmi Pad SE runs MIUI 14 over Android 13, providing access to Google apps like Gmail, Drive, and Photos. Xiaomi includes some pre-installed apps, though it’s less intrusive compared to other brands.

The user interface has a split quick settings panel, reminiscent of iOS, with notifications accessed separately. However, Xiaomi only promises two years of OS updates and three years of security patches, limiting long-term software support.

Price & Availability

At around $199 USD, the Redmi Pad SE offers great value. It’s competitively priced against alternatives like the Galaxy Tab A8 and Nokia T21 while delivering a lighter design, better battery life, and superior audio. Unfortunately, it’s unavailable in the U.S., but it can be purchased via Mi.com and Amazon in supported regions.

For buyers seeking an affordable tablet with solid battery life and good media features, the Redmi Pad SE is a compelling option.
Conclusion

The Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE is an impressive budget-friendly tablet that delivers solid performance for its price. At $199 USD, it offers a sleek design, vibrant 11-inch display, Dolby Atmos quad speakers, and an exceptional battery life that easily lasts up to two days. While it’s not built for heavy multitasking or demanding gaming, it handles everyday tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and casual gaming with ease.

The inclusion of a 90Hz refresh rate, expandable storage, and lightweight build further enhance its appeal. However, slow charging, limited OS updates, and the absence of SIM support or advanced biometric features are drawbacks worth considering.

For anyone looking for an affordable tablet with great media capabilities and dependable battery life, the Redmi Pad SE is a compelling choice that outshines many competitors in its price range. Whether you’re a student, a casual user, or someone on a budget, this tablet is worth your consideration.
December 11, 2024
Xiaomi Poco Pad 5G: Price & Reviews
Design & Display

Build Comparison:

Feature POCO Pad 5G Lenovo Tab Plus Xiaomi Pad 6

Thickness 7.52mm 7.77mm (top) / 13.58mm (bottom) 6.51mm

Weight 571g 650g 490g

The POCO Pad 5G boasts a dual-tone design, featuring a metal rear panel complemented by a polycarbonate strip near the cameras, which houses the 5G antennas for uninterrupted connectivity. The back includes two circular camera rings with gold accents, adding flair to the simple design. Its matte finish resists minor smudges but benefits from the use of a case. At 7.52mm thick and 571g, the tablet is portable, although prolonged use may cause arm strain when lying down.

It includes modern essentials like a 3.5mm headphone jack, a Type-C charging port, and quad speakers, making it versatile for multimedia usage. The lack of a fingerprint scanner, however, could make unlocking less convenient.

Display Comparison:

Feature POCO Pad 5G Lenovo Tab Plus Xiaomi Pad 6

Display 12.1-inch IPS 11.5-inch IPS 11-inch IPS

Peak Brightness 600 nits 400 nits 550 nits

The 12.1-inch IPS display on the POCO Pad 5G offers 2.5K resolution (2560 x 1600), a 120Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits of peak brightness, making it vibrant and smooth. Supporting Dolby Vision with a 1500:1 contrast ratio and 12-bit color depth, the display excels in multimedia consumption. Its 16:10 aspect ratio enhances viewing for entertainment and productivity.

Performance & Software

Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, the tablet comes with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB of expandable UFS 2.2 storage (expandable up to 1.5TB). Everyday tasks are seamless, with multitasking supported through split-screen and floating windows.

Performance Benchmarks Score

AnTuTu 481,539

Geekbench (Single/Multi-Core) 1035 / 2978

CPU Throttling 76.7%

The Android 14-based HyperOS offers smooth navigation, customization, and Xiaomi ecosystem integration. It also includes optional accessories like a Bluetooth keyboard and stylus, expanding productivity potential.

Cameras

The 8MP rear camera and 8MP front camera are sufficient for casual photography and video calls. While daylight photos show good color and acceptable detail, low-light performance remains average, aligning with typical tablet standards.

5G Connectivity

The POCO Pad 5G supports dual SIM slots and delivers robust 5G performance with download speeds averaging 150Mbps. Its capability to serve as a primary device enhances its versatility.

Battery & Charging

Equipped with a 10,000mAh battery and 33W fast charging, the device offers exceptional longevity:

Video Playback: 11-12 hours

Gaming: 7 hours
Charging from 20% to 100% takes approximately 81 minutes, a quick turnaround for its battery size.

Pricing

The POCO Pad 5G is available in the following configurations:

8GB + 128GB: $270 (₹22,999)

8GB + 256GB: $295 (₹24,999)

Verdict

The POCO Pad 5G stands out with its large display, dependable performance, and 5G support, making it an ideal mid-range Android tablet for multimedia and productivity. While competitors like the Lenovo Tab Plus excel in audio, and the Xiaomi Pad 6 offers better raw performance, the POCO Pad 5G’s battery life, display size, and 5G capability make it an all-around winner in its price segment.
December 10, 2024