Xiaomi Redmi 8 – Beast in the Mid-range category
It will be difficult for some people to understand why Redmi has Snapdragon 439 running the latest Xiaomi Redmi 8, while the predecessor, Redmi 7, runs Snapdragon 632. Seeing the number would get most smartphone users confused as to what to go for, but practically, the Xiaomi Redmi 8 is what most users would opt to buy.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon SoC, which runs Xiaomi Redmi 8 is built on a 12nm process, making it a more efficient processor when compared to the Snapdragon 632, running the Xiaomi Redmi 7. The Snapdragon 439, has 2 Kryo Gold cores clocking almost at 2.0GHz and 6 efficient cores at 1.45GHz, while SD 632 has all the 8 cores clocked at 1.85GHz. Both Chipset is equipped with 505 and 506 Adreno GPU, meaning their performance will likely be on the same level.
Overtime on both phones, Xiaomi Redmi 8 users will experience an improved battery life rather than a fast performance, while the Xiaomi Redmi 7 users will experience fast CPU performance but only decent battery life. The former will deliver seamless multitasking, as it offers up to 4GB of RAM. However, it won’t play the best games for you, because it wasn’t built basically for that purpose.
Meanwhile, the device ships with MIUI 10 on top Android 9 ( Android Pie). According to Xiaomi, during the official unveiling, and the MIUI 11 road map, the global version of the device will start receiving the MIUI 11 UI from November, while the Chinese version will likely receive the update sooner. The MIUI 11 adds lots of cool features; revamped visual display, new fonts, Dark mode, ultra battery saver, and more which you can find here.
There’s no doubt that most people consider the processor when buying a new phone, but that number cannot surpass those who look at the battery capacity. And adding flavor this time, Xiaomi Redmi 8 comes with a massive 5000mAh battery. Again it supports 18W Quick Charge via USB-C port, something which the latest iPhones can’t boast of. However, the package comes with a 10W adapter, which means you need to spend a few extra bucks to get a Quicker Charger.
Meanwhile, with the efficient processor and coupled with massive battery capacity, Xiaomi Redmi 8 is the new powerhouse. The device will go days on standby and will last up to 12hours under heavy use. A chance for decent gamers to keep the fun alive for a long time without reaching for their charger, and even when they have to do so, it takes only a maximum of 120minutes to get a full charge.
Slowly, everyone is now turning into a photographer using their phone, which is quite relatable. The Xiaomi Redmi 8 will not offer the best camera performance, but its there with every other phone in that category (mid-range). At the back is a 12MP f/1.8 aperture ( 1 /2.55″ sensor size, 1.4um pixel size), Dual Pixel PDAF lens, accompanied by a 2MP depth sensor. Some features of the sensor include LED flash, panorama, HDR, and can record videos at 1080p@30fps. The selfie camera is secured in the front notch and is an 8MP f/2.0 sensor with HDR.
Below are some of the shots taken with the Xiaomi Redmi 8.
Most people also see the design as a deciding factor in their choice of a smartphone, and Xiaomi Redmi 8 comes on top with a unique design. The device has a great resemblance with the Redmi Note 8 Pro, with the camera strip aligned at the center, including the fingerprint reader. It has a narrow bezel except for the thick bottom, which has REDMI boldly written on it. The design also incorporates a P2i rating that makes the device splash-proof with a tight opening seals.
Xiaomi Redmi 8 even with the massive battery, weighs just 188kg (6.63oz) and will be offered in Onyx Black, Sapphire Blue, and Ruby Red.
The display isn’t bad but could have been better. A 6.22-inch tall screen with 720 x 1520p resolution, won’t deliver the best details and is something that needs to be addressed in Xiaomi Redmi 9. However, it will still deliver a decent detail while extra protection has been giving to it with a Corning Gorilla Glass 5. According to Xiaomi, the glass is unbreakable and requires a lot of pressure for it to break, with recent reviews proving that to be true.
Interesting again is the wireless FM Radio. Now, headphones are no longer a prerequisite for getting the radio working. Also, the Xiaomi Redmi 8 features IR Blaster, which allows you to manage your electronics gadgets remotely. Aside from that, you’ll enjoy a quick and secured biometric authentication, fast internet and Wi-Fi connection, Bluetooth and Infrared port.
With all these great specs, Xiaomi Redmi 8 official pricing starts from $100 for the base (3/32GB) variant. The 4GB RAM variant starts from $112 and both options are available for purchase. In India, you’ll be able to get the device on Flipkart starting from INR 7,999, while in China, it starts from CYN 800.
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 8 here
