The Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro was a significant release in Xiaomi’s lineup, particularly in markets like India where it gained immense popularity. It was known for offering high-end specifications at a mid-range price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro:
Overview:
Launched in early 2018, the Redmi Note 5 Pro aimed to build on the success of its predecessors in the Redmi Note series. It combined a modern design, powerful internals, and a competitive price, making it a favorite among budget-conscious consumers.
Features:
- Operating System: Shipped with Android 7.1.2 Nougat with Xiaomi’s MIUI 9, later upgradeable.
- Display: 5.99-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels.
- Processor: Qualcomm SDM636 Snapdragon 636 Octa-core.
- Memory: Options of 4/6 GB RAM with 64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD.
- Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor and 5 MP depth sensor. A 20 MP front camera with LED flash.
- Battery: 4000 mAh non-removable battery.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS.
- Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, infrared port, and a microUSB port.
Pros:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 636 chipset, combined with ample RAM, ensured smooth multitasking and gaming performance.
- Camera Capabilities: The dual-camera setup, especially the high-resolution front camera with flash, was a highlight, offering good photos in various lighting conditions.
- Battery Life: The 4000 mAh battery ensured the phone lasted through a full day of heavy usage.
- Value for Money: The device provided a balanced set of features for its price point, making it a compelling option in the mid-range segment.
Cons:
- MIUI Ads: Xiaomi’s MIUI, while feature-rich, started showing ads in various native apps, which was a point of contention for many users.
- MicroUSB Port: At a time when many devices were moving to USB Type-C, the Redmi Note 5 Pro still used the older microUSB standard.
- Design: While the build was solid, the design was considered derivative, with many likening it to the iPhone X, especially due to the camera placement.
Comparisons to Other Technologies:
In 2018, the Redmi Note 5 Pro faced stiff competition in the mid-range segment:
- Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1: Offering a massive battery, stock Android experience, and similar Snapdragon 636 chipset.
- Nokia 6.1: With its robust build, clean Android One experience, and reliable performance.
- Motorola Moto G6: Offering a glass design, clean software, and focus on camera capabilities.
Launch Date:
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro was announced in February 2018 and released shortly after.
Common Issues/Problems:
- Flash Sale Model: The device was initially sold via flash sales, making it hard for many consumers to purchase due to high demand.
- Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches in MIUI, especially related to notifications.
- Heating Issues: Some users experienced heating, especially during prolonged gaming or camera usage.
Conclusion:
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro was a testament to Xiaomi’s strategy of offering feature-packed devices at competitive prices. It combined a decent design, powerful internals, and a good camera setup, making it a favorite in the mid-range segment. While it had its challenges, especially in terms of software and the flash sale model, the overall value proposition of the Redmi Note 5 Pro made it a significant success for Xiaomi, further cementing its position in key markets.
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