Review: Xiaomi Redmi Note (India Edition)

Introduction

Redmi Note was first launched in March 2014 however it’s Indian avatar had to wait almost 9 months before it is finally ready for the launch. So how is this Indian variant different from others and is it a good value for money? Let’s go through the detailed review about this phablet which is being clubbed as "Most Affordable Android Phablet" ever.

Also read about : just a $65 phone from Redmi

Redmi Note (India Edition)

The Redmi Note, from house of Xiaomi will be available at all e-commerce sites from today, with a really competitive price of Rs. 9,999 or $165.

Redmi Note UI

Getting to know about Redmi Note (India Edition)

Redmi Note is a Octa-Core,1.7 Ghz, 5.5 inch phablet, without a stylus which you would expect from likes of Samsung Galaxy Note. Though it is slightly on the heavier side weighing at 199gms compared to Sony C3 which weighs only 150gms. Redmi Note does gives a solid feel but it surely is clumpy with the glossy plastic backing becoming slippery and oily especially after a period of extended use.

Build & Quality

Inside the hood, Redmi Note comes with a really good specification. Let’s have a quick look at them.

Processor: The phone sports an octa-core MTK 6592 1.7GHz processor from MediaTek

Display: It has a 5.5-inch HD (1280 x 720p) IPS display which delivers a more than decent visual experience, with vibrant colors and sharp images. However a word of caution - blacks on the screen tend to be too dark, and the shadows can be too harsh. Videos and Images appeared to be grainy when shot at Night.

Specs -Redmi Note

OS: Android Kitkat out of the box

Battery: 3,100 mAh lithium-polymer battery will be decent enough for a day’s use

Camera: The 13 MP rear camera, while the 5MP front facing camera should keep the selfies & video-chat lovers truly engaged

Cheat-sheet

Full specs here

General Observation & Verdict

Ups: The Xiaomi Redmi Note has a vibrant display, a sharp camera, dual-SIM capability, and an easy-to-understand interface and at the price for which it is available is a steal.

Downs: The Redmi Note will run Android Kitkat OS with no upgradability options shared, and the glossy plastic back feels oily after prolonged use. 4G LTE is also missing from this phablet.

Conclusion: The Xiaomi Redmi Note is most apt for mid-budget users looking for a great phablet under $170 or Rs. 10,000