The difference between xiaomi phones. What smartphone do you need? Stores in Russia selling Xiaomi with fast delivery
In an effort to win as large a market share as possible and satisfy the needs of as many customers as possible, top manufacturers release some new smartphone model almost every month. As a result, over time there are so many devices that it becomes very difficult for an untrained person to figure out how one phone differs from another. Xiaomi company in 2017-18 released such models as Xiaomi Redmi 5A, Redmi 5, Redmi Note 5, Redmi Note 5A, Redmi S2, Mi 8, Mi 8 SE, Mi 8 Lite, Mi Max 3, Mi Mix 2S, Mi A2, Mi A2 Lite (and there's more to come full list). As you can see, the names of the devices are not too different from each other. However, in reality these are completely different phones, with different appearance and different technical capabilities.
How can a person choosing a new phone understand all this diversity? We will try to help you with this. And if you take a closer look at Xiaomi smartphones, it turns out that understanding them is not so difficult. If only because the manufacturer has only two main lines: Mi and Redmi. And back in 2018, the Pocophone sub-brand appeared. Now let's talk about everything in order.
Xiaomi Mi smartphone line
Smartphones of the Mi line are flagship-level devices, in the development of which the manufacturer used the most modern technologies. These are quite expensive, beautiful and powerful devices, which, in addition to everything, are also equipped with a high-quality camera.
There are several sub-series within the Mi line. The very first of them is a series that can conventionally be called “simply Mi”. Its ancestor is the very first smartphone released by the company back in 2011. This is Xiaomi Mi 1. Direct successors to this model, relevant in currently time, are the eighth generation Mi devices.
Xiaomi Mi phones
We'll start our story about Xiaomi models with the company's flagship 2018 Xiaomi Mi 8. This innovative device has a large frameless screen with a diagonal of 6.21 inches. The trendiness of the smartphone is emphasized by the glass body, the modern display aspect ratio of 18.7:9 and the presence of a fashionable “monobrow” at the top of the screen. With these external features, Mi 8 seems to hint at its identity with the prestigious iPhone X.
Among the advanced technical innovations, the latest Xiaomi flagship received:
- the latest Snapdragon 845 chip (which gave it the opportunity to show a record 301,000 points in AnTuTu);
- Surer AMOLED display matrix (and this allows us to call this phone the best Xiaomi smartphone in terms of display brightness and contrast in the entire history of this company);
- top-end camera (12 +12 megapixels, with f1.8 main module aperture; optical stabilization and double optical zoom). Now photos from the Xiaomi flagship are almost in no way inferior to photos from the iPhone X and OnePlus 6;
- face unlock feature. Moreover, the phone is equipped with an innovative infrared sensor that can “recognize the owner” even in complete darkness.
The Mi 8's 6 GB RAM capacity is more than enough to run many necessary applications simultaneously. The phone does not have the ability to increase the built-in memory by installing a flash card. But the manufacturer offers us device options with 64 and 128 GB of internal memory. And if you add to all these characteristics a 3,400 mAh battery, which is enough for a full day of using the device, then it becomes clear why Xiaomi Mi 8 claims to be the company’s next hit. And the cost of such a smartphone with advanced flagship characteristics for the 128 GB ROM version on AliExpress is only 26 900 rubles
Xiaomi's eighth flagship has a younger brother. It's called . It can be called a youth version of the flagship smartphone. And if the premium design of Mi 8 was borrowed by Xiaomi from the iPhone X, then the design of Mi 8 Lite was copied by them from the Honor line. Most likely, Xiaomi management deliberately pursues such a policy: to release quality phones with advanced hardware low prices and with a design like other famous brands.
Mi 8 Lite has a glass body (you can choose blue, gold or black colors). Moreover, the body of this attractive phone is not monochromatic, but has a gradient (a smooth flow of one tone into another). And also back panel smartphone can easily replace a mirror (all objects are perfectly reflected in it).
The case diagonal of the younger version of the flagship is even larger than that of the older one (6.26 inches). The design of the phone is almost frameless (there are narrow side frames, a unibrow at the top like the Mi 8 and iPhone X, and a small chin at the bottom). The phone's screen matrix is not Super AMOLED, but IPS. The device’s processor is also a little simpler (not the 845th Snapdragon, but the 660th). However, it can handle all the heaviest games without any problems. The lightweight gadget also has less RAM - 4 GB instead of 6 (although there is a version with 6 GB of RAM).
The two-module camera unit on the phone is also not premium, but mid-budget: 12 + 5 megapixels. Daytime photos from this phone are close in quality to photos from flagship devices, but night photos have blurriness and noise. But the price of this semi-flagship with a bright design, a huge frameless screen and quite acceptable technical parameters quite “youthful” - 14 500 rubles for the 4/64 GB version.
Xiaomi Mi Mix Series
Not all Xiaomi flagships are iPhone-like. For example, in the Mi Mix series, the company produces smartphones with a distinctive frameless design. The absence (or, rather, the presence reduced to a minimum) of frames around the screen is the main difference between the devices of this series. Today, the most current offer is the second generation of Mi Mix phones.
Has a 5.99-inch display. The screen takes up almost the entire
the front surface of the phone, with the exception of a narrow strip at the bottom of the gadget. Xiaomi engineers decided not to give the monitor a record resolution. It is slightly larger than the classic Full HD - 2160 x 1080 pixels. They also did not develop facial recognition technology for the new product. The phone is unlocked using the “good old” fingerprint scanner, which is located on the back panel of the gadget.
The frameless Xiaomi with a large screen is beautiful and attracts people's views. The back panel of the phone is made of glass. Xiaomi equipped its most modern frameless phone with the top-end Snapdragon 835 processor (the same as on the Mi 6). In addition, the gadget received extra-large RAM - 6 GB. A size hard drive phone varies from 64 to 256 (!) GB. Other innovative features of the phone include the fact that it shoots video in 4K resolution (2048 x 1152 pixels). In addition, the phone's camera has a four-axis optical stabilizer, so the video image is reliably protected from jitter.
In Russia Mi Mix 2 with built-in memory 64 GB 21 840 rubles
In 2018, Xiaomi released the “second and a half” generation of its frameless phone - . This smartphone is equipped with the same hardware as the manufacturer’s latest flagship Mi 8. It has the same Snapdragon 845 with its record performance, and the same camera with the ability to take pictures at the level of the iPhone X. So buyers now have a choice - to purchase whether the “iPhone-like” flagship from Xiaomi Mi 8, or the same premium device, but with a distinctive design, Mi Mix 2S. The frameless new product with a memory capacity of 6/64 GB is worth it 28 000 rubles price from (AliExpress).
Xiaomi Mi A
As you know, Xiaomi's flagship and sub-flagships run on the proprietary MIUI firmware, which is an add-on to classic Android. The MIUI operating system offers users advanced options for customizing and personalizing their phone. Xiaomi Mi 8 already has the 10th version of this well-known and popular firmware.
However, not all Xiaomi users like MIUI. And in the “Mi” series of this manufacturer there are devices that run on pure stock Android. These phones are released under Google's Android One program. The main feature of these gadgets is that they run stock Android without any impurities. Currently, the second generation of Xiaomi smartphones running pure Android is relevant.
A smartphone running stock Android belongs to the mid-price segment devices. Its body is made not of tempered glass, but of metal. The diagonal size of the phone's screen is 5.99 inches. The monitor's aspect ratio is modern - 18:9. The gadget has a Snapdragon 660 on board (the same as on the Mi 8 Lite). RAM options are 4 and 6 GB. The user will not have the opportunity to increase the built-in memory by installing a flash card. He will only be able to choose one of the three proposed options - 32, 64 or 128 GB of internal memory.
In addition to having “pure Android”, the Xiaomi Mi A2 has another important feature - a top-end camera. The main rear camera module of the smartphone has a resolution of 20 megapixels, and the secondary one has a resolution of 12 megapixels. And this phone produces pictures of the same quality as devices twice its price. Mi A2 on pure Android costs only 13 390 rubles (this is for the version with 4/32 GB memory).
The Xiaomi phone with pure Android on board also has its own lightweight version. It is called . This device has a slightly smaller screen (5.84 inches). The aluminum body of the phone is complemented with plastic inserts on the bottom and top. The phone has an older processor - Snapdragon 625 (the same one was installed on the Xiaomi Mi A1). The camera on this device is not top-end, but ordinary for a budget-level device (two modules 12 and 5 megapixels). Photos on this device are of high quality only during the day. Poor lighting reduces photo quality.
But Mi A2 Lite also has some advantages over its older brother. The simplified version supports installation of an additional memory card. The device has a 3.5 mm headphone jack (on Mi A2, headphones are connected to the charging port using a special adapter). And the battery capacity of the simplified version turned out to be greater (4,000 mAh versus 3,010 mAh for classic version). And the cost of Mi A2 Lite with pure Android in the configuration of 3 GB RAM, 32 GB ROM in China from 9 800 rubles
Xiaomi Mi Max Series
In the Mi Max series, Xiaomi produces devices - “shovel phones” with a diagonal of more than 6 inches. Today, Mi Max of the second and third generations are on sale.
For example, the diagonal of the device is 6.44 inches, the display resolution is 1920 x 1080 pixels. On such a monitor it is convenient to watch a movie and surf the Internet. True, the manufacturer equips its phablets with a huge diagonal not with top-end processors, but with chips from the middle price category. The Mi Max 2 has a Snapdragon 625, which scores only 62,000 points in AnTuTu performance tests. But the “maximum” in this phone is not only the diagonal size, but also the battery capacity. Xiaomi installed its most powerful battery on this smartphone. Its capacity is 5,300 mAh. At maximum screen brightness, Xiaomi Mi Max 2 is capable of playing video for 15 hours. And if you set the display brightness to 50%, the time of non-stop video viewing will increase to 26 (!) hours. There is a phablet with a large diagonal and powerful battery 10 800 rubles (version with memory 4/64 GB).
In 2018, Xiaomi released the third generation of its superphablets - Mi Max 3. The dimensions of the new smartphone have hardly increased compared to the size of its predecessor, but the size of the screen diagonal has grown significantly. The diagonal of the Mi Max 3 monitor is 6.9 inches (!). How did the manufacturer manage to achieve this? He simply changed the aspect ratio of the display (it is now 18:9). On the front panel of the phone, the upper and lower frames have noticeably decreased and the on-screen control keys have disappeared. Now the smartphone can be controlled using on-screen buttons or using gestures.
Instead of Snapdragon 625, the Mi Max 3 was equipped with a more modern and more productive Snapdragon 636. The gadget’s battery capacity has increased even more (it has now become 5,500 mAh). And despite the fact that the phone’s monitor has become larger (and brighter), the smartphone lasts two days without problems in active use mode. The buyer can choose a version of the phablet with 4/64 or 6/128 GB memory. The cost of the junior version starts from 15 800 rubles
Pocophone smartphones
In 2018, a significant event occurred at Xiaomi. For the first time in its history, a manufacturer released a smartphone not already famous brand"Xiaomi", and under the new sub-brand "Pocophone". The new device has become . The main feature of the gadget is the presence of the latest high-performance Snapdragon 845 chip (the same as on the super-flagship Xiaomi Mi 8). Moreover, the device became the cheapest smartphone on the market equipped with this super-powerful board. If you compare the Pocophone F1 with the flagship Xiaomi model, you will immediately notice that for significantly less money you will get a device with exactly the same performance, the same (in diagonal size) display, the ability to expand the memory by installing a flash drive, a connector for 3.5 mm headphones, stereo speakers and a more capacious battery (4,000 mAh versus 3,400).
Xiaomi Mi 8 will have more premium body materials (Pocophone F1 is simply plastic), a higher quality screen matrix (Super AMOLED) and a more advanced camera. The Mi 8 camera has optical stabilization, a lower focal number allowing you to take better pictures in the dark, and higher resolution auxiliary (second) module of the main camera.
The cost of Pocophone F1 version 6/64 GB is 19 100 rubles A Xiaomi Mi 8 model with similar characteristics costs 26,700 rubles.
Xiaomi Redmi smartphone lines
In addition to flagship devices, Xiaomi produces phones with budget prices. Inexpensive affordable gadgets are coming out as part of the second line, which is called Redmi. Redmi smartphones are equipped with not top-end (but not the weakest) hardware. And their main feature is the ratio of technical characteristics and price that is attractive to buyers. And if in the segment of flagship devices Xiaomi fights with its competitors “on an equal footing,” then in budget segment she is the undisputed leader. By the number of orders in the known Chinese store AliExpress Xiaomi Redmi smartphones are far ahead of not only products from manufacturers from the so-called “third tier” (Doogee, Leagoo, Homtom, Oukitel), but also their closest competitors - devices produced by Meizu and Huawei.
Xiaomi Redmi Series
Now let's take a closer look at what the Redmi series smartphones are. Today, Xiaomi fans have access to devices from the fifth and sixth generations of its public sector phones.
The most affordable financially are the ultra-budget Xiaomi Redmi models, which have the letter “A” in their name. These devices are intended for those who do not want (or cannot) overpay when purchasing regular smartphone. Such phones, of course, may have problems when working simultaneously with a bunch of open applications or when playing with demanding toys. These phones cope with ordinary user tasks (calls, sending SMS, surfing the Internet, communicating in instant messengers, watching videos, listening to music, working with a standard set of useful non-game applications). Xiaomi state employees are honest state employees. They are cheap not because something was left out of them, but because they were left with only the essentials.
In the summer of 2018, Xiaomi presented the sixth generation of its budget smartphones. The company's newest ultra-budget employee ( Redmi 6A) received a screen with an aspect ratio of 18:9 and a diagonal of 5.45 inches.
Unlike inexpensive models of smartphones of previous generations (4th and 5th), Xiaomi installed MediaTek, rather than Snapdragon boards on the new budget phones. On Redmi 6A it costs MediaTek Helio A22. And this is a good processor for a budget employee. It has four cores clocked at 2.0 GHz and scores 63,000 points in AnTuTu. The board was manufactured using 12nm technology. Redmi 6A is the most powerful device in its price category. Users will be able to purchase a version of the phone with 2/16 and 2/32GB memory.
The gadget's battery capacity is 3,000 mAh. This battery lasts a smartphone for a full day of use under average load. Among other interesting features, we note the possibility of unlocking the device by face and the gesture control function. Worth the most cheap smartphone Xiaomi 6th generation from 5 800 rubles
Redmi 6A is especially popular on TMall - the Aliexpress platform for Russian users. There, during promotions and sales, this device costs the same 5 800 rubles, but with fast delivery and a one-year guarantee. Over the past six months, this device has been purchased on TMall by more than 100 000 Human.
Modern classic company budget car (Xiaomi Redmi 6) has exactly the same 5.45-inch screen as its younger brother. The processor of the device is also Mediatek, but it is already eight-core (this is Helio P22). Unlike the simpler 6A, Redmi 6 has additional image features in the form of a fingerprint scanner and a dual-module camera capable of taking portrait photos with background blur. Possible options The smartphone's memory capacity is also more advanced - 3/32 and 4/64 GB. The phone's face unlock and gesture control features, of course, remain.
The manufacturer installed a 3,000 mAh battery on Redmi 6. Prices for the budget model start at 7 650 rubles
In Chinese online stores you can still find the previous (fifth) generation Xiaomi budget phone -. In some respects, this device looks even better than the newer model. The body of the phone is not plastic, but metal (there are only 2 small plastic inserts at the top and bottom of the back panel to facilitate radio signal reception). The screen of this phone is also larger - 5.99 inches (display resolution - Full HD+).
The device is powered by Snapdragon 625 (the same board is used on Xiaomi Mi A2 Lite). In AnTuTu, the device scores 62,000 points. In the maximum version, the smartphone is equipped with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB ROM. The Redmi 5 Plus camera with a resolution of 12 megapixels and an f2.2 aperture produces budget-quality images - not bad in good lighting and with “noise” at night. The battery capacity of Redmi 5 Plus is 4,000 mAh. This allows it to work without recharging for up to 2 days.
Neither externally nor in its hardware does the Redmi 5 Plus give the impression of an inexpensive device in the “under 10,000 rubles” segment. It looks more expensive. However, you can buy it for 9 100 rubles
Xiaomi Redmi Note Series
Available in budget line Xiaomi and the special Note series. Initially, the manufacturer produced in it inexpensive smartphones with an increased screen diagonal (5.5 inches). Currently, models of the fifth and sixth generations of laptops are relevant. But now there is no longer a clear division in screen size between “just Redmi” and “Redmi Note”. The fact is that Redmi Note 5 has exactly the same display as Redmi 5 Plus - 5.99 inches and with an aspect ratio of 18:9. And, in our opinion, now it would be correct to consider devices from the Redmi Note series not as budget phones with a large diagonal, but as budget phones with advanced functionality.
In addition to a large display with a fashionable aspect ratio Redmi Note 5 received a more advanced processor and a dual main camera module. With its Snapdragon 636, this device scores 108,700 points in the AnTuTu benchmark. For a budget employee, the result is excellent! In “Tanks” you can set settings higher than “medium” on it.
The dual camera module is located on the Redmi Note 5 “as beautifully” as on the prestigious iPone X. And in terms of its capabilities, the camera on the fifth-generation Xiaomi phablet is much better than that of its closest budget competitors. Pictures from this phone are clear and detailed not only in good lighting, but also in dark time days. You can also take photos with the bokeh effect (beautiful blurring of the background).
Redmi Note 5 with a large screen, metal body, powerful processor, powerful 4,000 mAh battery, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB ROM and a price of 11 150 rubles became a real hit on AliExpress . Over the past six months, this “state employee” with non-budget characteristics has been purchased by more than 16 000 Human.
Along with the 5th generation of “budget laptops,” Xiaomi is already selling the sixth. Representative of the line - Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro. This device, to be honest, is not much different from the previous one. The phone took another step towards framelessness, acquired a display with a larger diagonal (6.26 inches) and an iPhone-like bang. The selfie camera on the smartphone has become two-module (20 + 2 megapixels). But that's where the changes ended
Advanced Redmi Note 6 Pro is on sale at a price from 13 250 rubles
Xiaomi Redmi S phones
In 2018, Xiaomi expanded the Redmi line by adding a device called Redmi S2(the company did not release the S1 phone). Who is this model intended for?
To answer this question, let’s compare this gadget with the Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus smartphone. Both of these phones feature a 5.99-inch display, a Snapdragon 625 processor, and are priced almost the same. How are these smartphones different?
Redmi 5 Plus will have many advantages on its side. It has a better screen with Full HD+ resolution (not HD+) and a clearer picture. Its battery capacity is 4,000 mAh (not 3,080), and it can work in autonomous mode from 1.5 to 2 days. Redmi S2 only lasts for a day.
The main feature of Redmi S2 is that it has a 16-megapixel front camera. This model is purchased for those who need clear and high-quality selfies. Redmi S2 also has a three-section tray for 2 SIM cards and one memory card (Redmi 5 Plus has a two-section tray. You can put a memory card on it only by sacrificing one of the SIM cards). Also, the gadget from the new series has a two-module main camera. In practice, however, pictures from both devices have the same quality. Unless Redmi S2 can take photos with background blur. And this phone is also equipped with digital stabilization when shooting video.
It's worth a budget smartphone for high-quality selfies with the ability to install dual SIM cards and one flash drive from 9 350 rubles
Let us finish listing the lines and series of Xiaomi smartphones here. We hope that after reading this article you have a clearer understanding of how one Xiaomi phone differs from another. And now you can choose the model that best suits your needs.
The Xiaomi brand is the “brainchild” of the Chinese industry and one of the most dynamically developing brands of portable electronics. Xiaomi smartphones are distinguished from other popular models by the following indicators:
- Adaptability. The developer has provided smartphones with a unique MIUI shell, which provides stable work majority mobile applications and software;
- Stylish design of Xiaomi phones. Each Xiaomi model is unique in its appearance. Even the most picky user smartphone will be found among Xiaomi lines model to your liking;
- Ease of use. Most representatives model range Xiaomi leaves only pleasant sensations after using it. Weight, dimensions, ergonomic parameters, controls - all this is implemented at a qualitatively new level and gives its owner comfort of use;
- Use of advanced innovative technologies. A powerful Snapdragon processor, a large amount of RAM and internal memory, a fingerprint sensor - this is just a small list of the phone’s high performance parameters and innovative solutions;
- Quality and reliability. The Xiaomi brand is famous for its high-quality case materials and components. It doesn’t matter at all what price category this or that model is in, one thing is obvious - the build quality is implemented at a fairly high level.
Ease of use, technical characteristics, multimedia, the presence of a good built-in camera, reasonable price - this is just a small list of key parameters that are a priority when choosing a smartphone. Xiaomi is no exception to the rule. Therefore, in order to make a truly correct choice that will suit you according to all criteria, you need to carefully study each model, highlight the best and worst aspects, build a rating...
The best inexpensive Xiaomi phones: budget up to 10,000 rubles
3 Xiaomi Redmi 4A
Best price
Country: China
Average price: 6,710 RUR
Rating (2018): 4.6
Xiaomi Redmi 4A – best option according to the criterion “cost of the device – reliability of operation”. This is not to say that the device is replete with many functions, but basic light, proximity, compass and gyroscope sensors are present in the phone. The manufacturer also took the trouble to equip the phone with a built-in 13 MP camera.
Another undeniable advantage of the Xiaomi Redmi 4A is its large battery capacity (3120 mAh). This is quite enough for long-term use of the smartphone without recharging (more than 48 hours). 16 GB of internal memory and 2 GB of RAM are more than enough to store a variety of multimedia files and applications. The build quality of the Xiaomi Redmi 4A, despite the plastic body, is very good: the back panel fits tightly and does not flex; when squeezed, the phone does not creak or crunch.
The manufacturer produces this device in two colors: golden and pink. Small overall dimensions (139*70*8.5 mm) and low weight (just over 130 g) make this device almost the most attractive of the entire model range.
Advantages:
- small overall dimensions;
- loyal price;
- good build quality.
Flaws:
- temperature rise when watching video.
2 Xiaomi Redmi 4X
Better autonomy
Country: China
Average price: 10,330 RUR
Rating (2018): 4.7
The Redmi 4X model has become one of the most popular in the manufacturer’s line on this moment. This is the company's first smartphone, also available in black. And believe me, the dark metal body looks chic. The 5-inch screen does not have a high resolution - only 1280x720 pixels are standard for this price range - but it can boast very high brightness and high-quality images. Also worth noting is the gigantic 4100 mAh battery. Even with very hard use, the smartphone will last a full daylight hours, and with moderate use it will last a couple of days without a power outlet.
Redmi 4X surprised us with its performance a year ago when it entered the market. Now the characteristics are good, but no more. The processor used is Qualcomm – Snapdragon 435. RAM 3 GB, built-in 32 GB. Both are sufficient for most undemanding users. The issue with communication modules is controversial. On the one hand, there is 4G LTE, Bluetooth 4.2 and a standard Xiaomi infrared port. On the other hand, there is no support for WiFi 802.11ac and NFC.
Advantages:
- Capacious battery
- Great display
- Nice building
- Good filling
Flaws:
- No NFC
1 Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X
The most affordable phablet
Country: China
Average price: 9,890 RUR
Rating (2018): 4.8
The appearance of the Redmi Note 4X is practically no different from that of the 4X discussed above. The only difference is the location of the main camera and flash - they have moved to the fingerprint scanner. Unless, of course, you take into account the significantly larger display. A 5.5’ IPS matrix with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels is installed here. The picture quality, like that of the younger model, does not cause any complaints. The only caveat is that the contrast drops with a strong deviation; color rendition does not suffer.
The filling is a higher level. The Snapdragon 625 processor is used, which is enough for the fast operation of the interface and for most games. RAM can be 3 or 4 GB (in versions with 32 and 64 GB of internal memory, respectively), but only the junior model fits into our budget. For the top version you will have to pay an additional 1.5-2 thousand rubles. The battery is the same 4100 mAh, but due to the use of more powerful hardware and a large display, the autonomy is somewhat lower. With communication modules, everything is the same as with Redmi 4X - with the same pros and cons.
Advantages:
- The largest display at an affordable price
- Productive hardware
The best Xiaomi phones with a good camera
3 Xiaomi Mi5 64GB
High-performance smartphone with a good camera
Country: China
Average price: 15,750 RUR
Rating (2018): 4.6
In the most complete configuration this model Xiaomi is equipped with 4 GB of RAM (DDR4 series), 128 GB of internal memory, a quad-core processor with a frequency of 2.15 GHz, a 16 MP camera with LED flash and a built-in 3000 mAh battery. Even a couple of years after the official announcement, these characteristics do not seem outdated, and can easily compete with most competitors for the same price.
The phone body can be made of either ceramic or regular white 3D glass. There are only four color options: white, lilac, gold and black. The device looks great.
It is noteworthy that the device is supplied with, in addition to the charger, USB Type-C cable and documentation, includes a needle for removing the SIM card.
Advantages:
- comfortable and stylish body;
- high-performance RAM (DDR4 series);
- excellent 16 MP camera;
- very large amount of internal memory.
Flaws:
- poor display design.
2 Xiaomi Mi Note 3
Phablet with a great camera
Country: China
Average price: 21,000 ₽
Rating (2018): 4.7
Downgrades in the world of smartphones are quite rare. Usually, manufacturers try to make the new generation more powerful, bigger and cooler, but in the case of Mi Note 3 the system failed. The newcomer has simplified itself in two basic details: the screen and the processor. The display has become 5.5-inch, flat, maintaining FullHD resolution. Mid-level processor – Snapdragon 660, 6 GB RAM. More than enough for comfortable use and even mobile gaming. There are absolutely no complaints about the communication modules: there are Bluetooth 5.0 and the latest WiFi standards and 4G LTE, and even an NFC module that is atypical for Xiaomi! Let's just pick at the small 3500 mAh battery. This is not enough for such a large camera phone.
Now about the main thing - the cameras. The main module, in accordance with modern trends, is double: the first has optical stabilization and an f/1.8 aperture, the second has a 2x optical zoom (f/2.6). When there is sufficient lighting, the pictures almost always come out good. At night, the quality is somewhat below the industry’s flagships, but there’s nothing much to complain about. Portrait mode there is, but when using it, the “beautification” of the face is always turned on. Front camera 16 MP. The quality is also excellent.
Advantages:
- Great cameras. 2x optical zoom
- Productive hardware, modern communication modules
- Affordable cost
1 Xiaomi Mi6
Best camera and top performance
Country: China
Average price: RUB 25,290
Rating (2018): 4.8
At the time of writing, Mi6 is Xiaomi’s flagship. The device looks great. Glass surfaces ( Gorilla Glass 5) and the metal frame do their job. But due to the abundance of glass, the phone tends to slip out of your hands - we advise you to immediately put the handsome man in the included case, for his own safety. The performance is excellent - you wouldn’t expect anything else from the combination of Snapdragon 835, Adreno 540 graphics core and 6 GB of RAM. Communication modules are modern. The battery is not a record - 3350 mAh, but lasts about a day under very heavy load. Yes, and there is support for Qualcomm QuickCharge 3.0.
The main camera, as in the case of Mi Note 3, is dual. Both modules are 12 megapixels, but one has greater aperture and optical stabilization, and the second is designed for 2x zoom. The quality is slightly better than that of the models discussed above, but it still falls short of the leaders among camera phones. Let's note the quality of portrait shots - mistakes with background blur occasionally happen, but in most situations the portraits turn out excellent.
Advantages:
- Top Performance
- Great cameras
- Stylish appearance
Flaws:
- Slippery body
- There is no water protection, like the flagships of other companies
The best Xiaomi phones with a large screen
4 Xiaomi Mi Mix 2
The most unusual design. Frameless display
Country: China
Average price: RUB 30,767
Rating (2018): 4.7
A couple of years ago, Xiaomi released the first generation of Mi Mix, which set the trend for frameless smartphones. Now the second generation is on display on store shelves, having gotten rid of most of the shortcomings of its predecessor.
Design. Simply magnificent. On the front you will see only a giant 6-inch display with a resolution of 2160x1080 pixels (ratio 18:9) and a narrow strip at the bottom where the front camera is located. The back is ceramic. The device feels comfortable in your hands, but it collects fingerprints a lot and tends to slip out of your hands. The dimensions of the case, despite such a display, are comparable to most 5.5’ models. Let's say "thank you" to the minimal framework. The hardware (processor, communication modules, battery) is completely similar to the Mi6. It's a pity the cameras didn't move from there. The 5-megapixel front-facing camera takes great photos, but is located under the screen, which means you have to turn the phone upside down when taking a selfie. Main camera 12 MP. It takes good pictures, but clearly does not correspond to the cost of the device.
Advantages:
- Great design
- Large, high-quality design with minimal dimensions
- Top Performance
Flaws:
- Mediocre main camera
- Slippery and easily soiled body
3 Xiaomi Mi Note 2
OLED display. Performance processor
Country: China
Average price: 23,990 ₽
Rating (2018): 4.7
Mi Note 2 is undoubtedly one of the manufacturer's most beautiful smartphones of all time. A thin metal frame, curved front and back glass surfaces – it looks and feels great in your hands. If you hold it tightly and regularly wipe it from fingerprints, otherwise it will be a disaster. Screen diagonal 5.7 inches, FullHD resolution. The matrix is atypical for the company - a curved OLED panel is used. The image quality is good.
Performance is excellent. The flagship processor of 2016 is used - Snapdragon 821. RAM 4 GB, built-in 64 GB. All this is enough to this day. Even mobile gamers will be satisfied. The communication modules are quite modern - there will definitely be no inconvenience when using the device. The camera deserves special attention. In the phablet class, Mi Note 2, perhaps, has best quality pictures. “Thank you” will say to the 22 megapixel main module with electronic stabilization. Let's just pick at the focusing speed - I would like it to be faster. Battery 4070 mAh. More than enough.
Advantages:
- Nice curved OLED display
- Great design
- High performance filling
- High quality camera
Flaws:
- Stainless and slippery body
2 Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus
Best price
Country: China
Average price: 12,990 ₽
Rating (2018): 4.7
The company's most affordable phablet is also its most affordable. No joke, that's enough powerful smartphone with a modern 6-inch display with an aspect ratio of 18:9 they ask for an average of only 13 thousand rubles! Due to the elongated screen, the device does not seem large and fits perfectly in the hand. Also, unlike the aforementioned brothers in the shop, the phone does not slip, thanks to the use of aluminum. The corners of the screen are rounded. It hides useful information in some applications, but looks great. Note the ability to hide system buttons and customize gesture controls - an interesting, aesthetic and convenient solution.
Medium filling. Snapdragon 625 processor, 4/64 GB memory. The communication modules are quite recent, however NFC module no - sad. But we can praise the battery – the 4000 mAh capacity is enough for a couple of days of moderate use.
Advantages:
- Modern 18:9 aspect ratio display with rounded corners
- Nice building
- Not a bad filling
- Nice price tag
1 Xiaomi Mi Max 2
Largest display
Country: China
Average price: 14,800 ₽
Rating (2018): 4.7
Finally, let's consider the most big smartphone not only in the Xiaomi line, but in the market in general. The display has a diagonal of 6.44 inches! A giant smartphone or a compact tablet is a moot point. Resolution 1920x1080, color rendering and oleophobic coating are not satisfactory, but I would like a little more high brightness– the screen fades in the sun. Also, the use of such a display leaves a certain imprint on ease of use - you can only use it with two hands; to use the fingerprint scanner on the rear surface, you will sometimes have to intercept the device.
Performance has decreased slightly compared to its predecessor. It uses a mid-range Qualcomm processor - Snapdragon 625. But it is damn energy efficient, which, coupled with a 5300 mAh battery, is guaranteed to provide a couple of days of battery life. At the same time, you can play quietly on Mi Max 2. For example, in WoT at maximum settings, the smartphone produces 25-40 fps. The cameras don't capture the stars from the sky, but they take excellent photos for their price.
Advantages:
- Giant display
- Excellent autonomy
- Good performance
- Good cameras
Flaws:
- Device dimensions
Xiaomi has managed to quickly gain a large customer base by introducing smartphones to the market. High Quality at a reasonable price. But initially, Xiaomi’s lineup was not as diverse as that of its main competitors, and it was obvious that in the foreseeable future the Chinese manufacturer would be developing new phone models.
Today, the Xiaomi lineup has become very diverse, but at the same time, you can easily understand the features of a particular branch of smartphones, unlike, say, competitors such as Meizu or Samsung.
To make it more convenient for you to choose the right Xiaomi phone for yourself, we suggest comparing all the models released by the company at the moment, finding similarities and differences in them, and thus determining the competitive advantages of each.
If we want to compare Xiaomi based on all known models of the company’s gadgets, then we can distinguish three main lines: 
- Mi. Phones in this line have flagship hardware and are suitable for the most demanding customers. There is a large power reserve and extended system capabilities. Qualcomm series processors provide high level productivity. Excellent build quality and the use of metal cases guarantee the durability of the gadgets. Here too best cameras Xiaomi, characterized by optical stabilization, the ability to shoot in manual mode, and, of course, a large number of megapixels. The most frequent firmware updates are organized specifically for models of the Mi line.
- Redmi. The best get here budget options smartphones. Since 2013, they have been equipped with MediaTek processors, and now some models receive Snapdragon, which, however, does not increase their cost. All Xiaomi Redmi phones will be an excellent choice for those who want to get a reliable gadget without making excessive demands on it. The device will not be able to handle games with extreme graphics, but in business and everyday life Xiaomi Redmi will become simply irreplaceable. The use of simpler components compared to the Mi line allows you to significantly reduce the price of Xiaomi Redmi gadgets and make them closer to the mass consumer. The design is also a little simpler than that of its flagship brother, but the body is also metal. Every year, the technical characteristics of devices in this line are improving, and therefore it is no wonder that Xiaomi Redmi is currently considered the most popular on the market.
- MiPad. Comparing Xiaomi fully means remembering also the line of tablets from this company. At the moment, 3 tablets have been released in the line, and the real breakthrough was created by the appearance of the MiPad2 model - it was seriously compared to the iPad! The technical indicators are indeed competitive, and we’ll talk about the advantages of each model further.
For convenience, each of the lines can be divided into several more categories, which is what we propose to do now in order to fully compare Xiaomi across all models on the market.
Features of the Mi line
In general, we recommend considering the Mi line in three main branches. We compare them in a table to make it easier to understand.
| Branch name | List of models | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi |
|
There is only the best hardware and a 5-inch diagonal screen with slight upward deviations in some models. Models from Xiaomi Mi 1 to Xiaomi Mi 3 are no longer relevant, although it was with them that this Chinese company began conquering the market. For the summer of 2011, when the first model in this line appeared, an 8 MP camera, a dual-core processor and 1.5 GB RAM were impressive indicators. Today, models starting from “four” and higher are relevant. Mi 4 with a 5-inch diagonal, a 13 MP camera and 3 GB of RAM was a discovery in 2014, and its technical characteristics are still relevant today. The developers realized that the model was becoming more and more popular, and therefore released three more “fours” with minimal differences, but only the Mi 4 version was successful. In 2016, the Mi 5 model was finally released, qualitatively superior to all the “fours”. It had a 16 MP camera, a powerful Snapdragon 820 processor and a convenient and attractive design. Later, the S version of the “five” was released with even greater battery capacity and processor clock speed. The newest Mi model at the moment is the “six”. Everything is even cooler here: 6 gigabytes of RAM, two excellent cameras (even the front one is 8 megapixels) and the Snapdragon 835 processor is the best among all from Xiaomi. The original Mi Max model was also released in 2016, the highlight of which was a huge 6.44-inch screen with competitive hardware specifications. |
| Mi Note |
|
The difference between the Note models is the large screen diagonal. Xiaomi Mi Note is, in fact, the twin of Xiaomi Mi 4, but with a 5.7-inch screen. Mi Note 2 is not much different from its predecessor, but has a slightly larger diagonal and various additional bells and whistles like a fingerprint scanner. |
| Mi Max |
|
The similarity with Mi Mix is noticeable to the naked eye - the screen diagonal of 6.44 inches allows us to call this branch a classic “shovel”. The performance under the hood is far from flagship, so you should only choose this option if you really like a larger monitor size. |
Features of the Xiaomi Redmi line
We also propose to conduct a comparative analysis of the “state employee” based on the table:
| Branch name | List of models | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Redmi |
|
These smartphones are the most compact among all with a screen diagonal of up to 5 inches. Initially, a polycarbonate body was used, but starting from the “troika” a metal body is installed and a fingerprint scanner is present. All Xiaomi smartphones from the Redmi series that came out later have improved in quality, and, looking at their characteristics, you can’t even say that these are “state products.” |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note |
|
As with Mi, the addition of Note to the name indicates a larger screen. Starting with Redmi Note 3, Xiaomi phones come in a premium style, have an aluminum body and have a fingerprint scanner. |
Features of the MiPad line
It’s easier to make comparisons between tablets - there are only three models here. The Xiaomi Mi Pad was a trial version to see if the tablet would be as popular as smartphones. It turned out that everything was in perfect order, and therefore the Chinese launched Xiaomi Mi Pad 2, starting with which they firmly established themselves in this niche in the market.
The differences between the first and second models are noticeable to the naked eye. The body of the “two” is made of metal, not polycarbonate, the RAM is already 2 GB, and you can choose between Android and Windows 10 as an operating system.
Xiaomi Mi Pad 3 has gone even further - here you can already choose between two main configurations, differing in the volume of built-in and operating memory: 3 GB RAM with 64 GB built-in or 4 GB RAM with 128 GB built-in. The chipset has also been improved in comparison with the more budget “two” - instead of the Intel Atom X5-Z8500, the Intel Atom X7-Z8700 appeared.
Xiaomi Redmi S phones
In 2018, Xiaomi expanded the Redmi line by adding a device called Redmi S2 to the Xiaomi Redmi S2 (the company did not release the S1 phone). Who is this phone for? To get the answer to this question, it is best to compare this gadget with some other device in the Redmi series. And it will be more convenient to compare it with Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus. After all, both of these phones are equipped with a 5.99-inch display, a Snapdragon 625 processor, and have almost the same price. How are these smartphones different? Redmi 5 Plus has a higher quality screen, the resolution of which is Full HD+ (not HD+), and which produces a clearer picture. Another significant advantage of this device is that its battery capacity is 4,000 (and not 3,080 mAh), and it can work in autonomous mode from 1.5 to 2 days (Redmi S2 can only last a day) . 
What then are the features of the S series phone? The first feature is that the gadget has a two-module camera. In practice, however, images from both devices have the same quality, comparable to each other. Unless Redmi S2 can take photos with background blur. The real differences between the phones are that the S2 has a 16-megapixel front-facing camera, and selfies from this device are sharper. This phone is also equipped with a digital stabilization function when shooting video, and also has a three-section tray for 2 SIM cards and one memory card. A budget smartphone for selfies with the ability to install dual SIM cards and a flash drive costs from 15,990 rubles in Russian retail.
Pocophone smartphones
In 2018, a significant event occurred at Xiaomi. For the first time in its history, the manufacturer released a smartphone not under the already well-known brand “Xiaomi”, but under the new sub-brand “Pocophone”. The new device is Pocophone F1. Pocophone F1The main feature of the gadget is the presence of the latest high-performance Snapdragon 845 chip (the same as on the super-flagship Xiapmi Mi8). Moreover, the device became the cheapest smartphone on the market equipped with this board. If you compare the Pocophone F1 with the flagship Xiaomi model, you will immediately notice that for less money you will get a device with exactly the same performance, the same (in diagonal size) display, the ability to expand the memory by installing a flash drive, and a headphone jack 3.5 mm, stereo speakers and a more capacious battery (4,000 mAh versus 3,080). 
Xiaomi Mi8 will have more premium body materials (Pocophone F1 is simply plastic), a higher quality screen matrix (Super AMOLED) and a more advanced camera. The Mi8 camera has optical stabilization, a lower focal number that allows you to take better pictures in the dark, and a higher resolution of the auxiliary (second) module of the main camera.
The cost of Pocophone F1 version 6/64 GB during the premiere sales on TMAll is 20,900 rubles. The Xiaomi Mi8 model, similar in characteristics, costs 29,600 rubles.
What to give preference to?
Before choosing one or another Xiaomi smartphone model, decide why you need the phone. If you plan to use it at home or for business, then you can safely choose one of the “state employees,” saving money and getting a very high-quality product for your investment. If you want to follow the latest fashion trends, trying out every game that has just been released, then it is better to immediately consider one of the flagship Mi smartphones.
In addition to price, one of the parameters for assessing whether Xiaomi meets your expectations will be the screen size. There is plenty to choose from - from small and stylish business models to “shovels” with a huge monitor. If it’s “shovels” that attract you, then finding them is very easy - find a name that contains Note, Mix or Max, and after that all that remains is to decide on the preferred technical characteristics of the device.
SHARES
Today's review will be global, since within its framework we will consider not specific model smartphone, and a whole series of budget devices - Redmi 4 from the famous Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi. Note that these gadgets were officially presented last fall. Within its framework, 3 phone models were announced.
The most affordable prices Chinese online stores boast: Aliexpress, Banggood, Gearbest. And if you use CASHBACK SERVICE, then you can further save up to 18% .
Verified stores selling Xiaomi on Aliexpress
It is best to purchase smartphones and phones from the company from trusted sellers widely represented on Aliexpress:
- http://ru.aliexpress.com/store/609089 (Store: FANTACY TECHNOLOGY);
- http://ru.aliexpress.com/store/311331 (Store: Hong Kong Goldway);
- http://ru.aliexpress.com/store/527978 (Store: Topmall China).
Stores in Russia selling Xiaomi with fast delivery
- GoTop Smartphone— Xiaomi, Meizu and others
- SHENZHEN OKQI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. — Xiaomi, Meizu and others
- Dreami Store — various accessories for smartphones
- MI Zealkeys Russian Store - only everything related to Xiaomi, including phones
- Xiaomi Product Oversea Store– various Xiaomi accessories
The most affordable model was the Redmi 4A. It is notable not only for its affordability, but also for the fact that it is the most budget smartphone from Xiaomi. Objectively speaking, this is a complete copy of the fairly popular Redmi 3S model, presented in the summer of 2016. Redmi 4 boasts a refined design and a simplified camera.
Redmi 4 Pro in terms of design is similar to the “four”, but in terms of hardware it is many times superior to the original: the performance is very high, the display is of higher quality, the camera is better.
Let’s decide on the purpose of today’s review material. Identifying the worst and determining the worst is a thankless task, and there is no point in such a comparison. You don’t need to be a psychic to state that Redmi 4 Pro is the flagship in this line, and the Redmi 4A model is the simplest in functionality and affordable.
For their prices, the phones turned out to be simply wonderful. Today we will focus on the main differences between smartphones, taking into account which you can more competently decide on the choice in favor of one or another gadget. Thanks to this approach, you will be able to direct the available money in the right direction.
Design component
Visually, Redmi 4 and Redmi 4 Pro are almost completely identical. Externally, the differences lie only in the location of the flash, located on opposite sides of the camera lenses. The advanced model also boasts a dual flash.
Phones were taken for review different colors. Both the first and second phones have a metal body with a small plastic insert at the top. The base of the body is monolithic. The smartphone display is covered with protective glass made using 2.5D technology. The side edges are decorated with chamfers, visually cut off. The effect looks simply wonderful.
Redmi 4A with its more technologically advanced brothers looks a little dull. It is encased in a plastic case, the glass is absolutely smooth. As for the design, it is standard. 4A also features a non-separable body, weighing 131 g, which is 30 g less when compared with more advanced modifications. The color of the device turned out to be non-standard: the body is covered with a gold or pink tint, but the front surface in all variants is absolutely white.
Three devices are equipped with combination trays. They don't have backlighting touch buttons. Above the main part of the screen on Redmi 4 and Redmi 4 Pro there is an LED event indicator. As for the Redmi 4A model, here it is built into the “Home” button. The speaker is located on the bottom end of the older modifications, and on the bottom on the rear of the younger ones.
Screens
Devices 4A and 4 are equipped with modern screens that display images in HD resolution. But the older model 4 PRO received a higher quality FullHD display. All smartphones have a screen diagonal of 5 inches. To be fair, it is worth noting that Xiaomi equips its gadgets with different matrices, therefore, when comparing, we can count on a strictly individual case, nothing more.
Objectively speaking, in everyday use it is not possible to detect the difference between HD and FullHD, except perhaps if you look at the fonts and icons.
Paradoxically, the display of the Redmi 4A model turned out to be the most realistic in terms of color reproduction, where the white color almost completely matches the real one. As for the PRO model, it has a pronounced predisposition to a yellow tint. The Redmi 4 model loses in this regard to its brothers.
As for viewing angles, all smartphones have proven themselves with positive side– there is no hint of an air gap on the screens, viewing angles are almost maximum. It was not possible to identify any obvious highlights. In terms of contrast, Redmi 4 Pro turned out to be unrivaled, but the weakest link is Redmi 4A, however, it has plenty of reserve for everyday tasks.
One more thing you need to pay attention to important nuance. The Redmi 4 and 4 Pro models have black frames around the perimeter of the display, even in those versions where the front part of the surface is completely white. In the younger model it is white. The surface of all displays has a good oleophobic coating. Full multi-touch, 10 points. The displays turned out to be quite good, regardless of the model.
Performance and hardware
In terms of performance and hardware, everything turned out to be predictable. The younger model is equipped with a budget Snapdragon 425 processor, which is equipped with 4 cores, while their clock frequency does not exceed 1.4 GHz. They are developed using a 28 nm process technology. It’s hard to call him “weak,” but if you compare him with his older brothers, the conclusions suggest themselves.
Redmi 4 is powered by an 8-core Snapdragon 430 processor, its clock frequency does not exceed 1.4 GHz. The crystal was made using the same technological process.
The most powerful processor is equipped with the PRO model – the 8-core Snapdragon 625, the clock speed of which can reach 2 GHz. It is made using the new 16nm technological processor, resulting in high energy efficiency. As for graphics, the 4A model has an Adreno 308 graphics accelerator.
The Redmi 4 model is equipped with Adreno 505 graphics. The older model is Adreno 506. In terms of memory, the situation is as follows:
- Redmi 4A – 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of non-volatile memory;
- Redmi 4 – 2 GB RAM and 16 GB ROM;
- Redmi 4A Pro – 3 GB RAM and 32 GB storage.
Each model is equipped with a slot for memory cards.
If you run the synthetic AnTuTu test, the differences in hardware will become obvious.
Below are the final data from the GeekBench 4 benchmark. Please note that the top number is testing in single-core mode, and the bottom is testing in multi-core mode.
The following screenshot shows tests with Epic Citadel. Its results indicate that Redmi 4 scored more FPS than in the PRO modification. There is a very obvious explanation for this - the PRO device is equipped with a modern screen with FullHD resolution, and even with more modern hardware, it is inferior in performance to the younger model.
During everyday use, working with phones is quite comfortable. Nothing slows down, commands are processed as quickly as possible. Naturally, the 4 PRO model, equipped with a solid supply of RAM, is in a clearly advantageous position. Yes, and 32 GB of ROM is more than enough for many users and the need to install a card microSD memory simply no.
We will talk about gaming performance based on the values obtained when playing tanks. At minimum graphic settings You can enjoy the game even on the Redmi 4A model. If you turn up the settings to medium, you may experience serious problems with FPS dropping on most cards.
Redmi 4 turned out to be more advanced in terms of gaming capabilities - it allows you to participate in tank battles with medium settings and at the level of 40-50 frames. But with maximum graphics its power will not be enough. An almost identical picture is observed in the case of the Redmi 4 Pro model. Despite the most advanced hardware, it is not enough to support such a high screen resolution. But you can play WOT BLITZ quite comfortably. There are no problems with throttling.
Software component
New smartphones are presented in retail stores without official multilingual firmware. Xiaomi has confirmed that Redmi 4A will receive a global firmware version this 2017. But regarding Redmi 4 and 4 Pro, there are no official comments from the manufacturer. On Aliexpress, these models are sold with Vietnamese firmware, which has limited functionality in terms of over-the-air updates, but they are multilingual. No obvious bugs were found during the testing period.
The tested devices can boast the latest software MIUI shell 8, based on Android 6 OS.
Cameras and photo capabilities
Each smartphone is equipped with 13 MP optics. But the sensors turned out to be completely different. Redmi 4A has an OV13850 sensor. As for the “four”, it is equipped with a higher quality OV13853 sensor. The older model boasts an S5K3L8 sensor from Samsung. The aperture of all smartphones is f/2.2. The PRO is equipped with a two-color flash, while the younger models have a single flash.
Let's move on to a direct comparison of the photo capabilities of the devices. Below is a photo of the same stump. The lighting level is quite high. And here it is necessary to pay attention to the pictures of comparable quality in the Redmi 4A and Redmi 4 Pro models, but the Redmi 4 model goes into a pronounced yellowness.
What about the detailing? Let's study crops. Model 4A is significantly inferior in this context, since the level of detail is the lowest. As for the crops from redmi 4 and 4 PRO, they are actually comparable in detail and image clarity, but in the PRO version the colors look much more realistic.
All 3 cameras support video recording in FullHD quality at a speed of 30 fps. The lack of electronic image stabilization was somewhat disappointing, so we strongly recommend avoiding shaking during shooting.
All devices have 5 MP front cameras. Their results are largely similar. The Redmi 4A model has slightly less detail, global differences not observed at all.
Other functionality
Smartphones provide impeccable communication quality in 4th generation networks. The devices are also similar in terms of sensors: compass, gyroscope, proximity, light. Support for OTG connection has been implemented. The phones can pick up GPS and GLONASS satellites without any problems.
The volume reserve and sound quality of the external speaker were similar for all phones; there are no complaints here. The speakers are the same. In fact they are quite similar. But if you put on headphones, there is a difference. The Redmi 4 Pro model turned out to be the loudest and with pronounced bass. Redmi 4 also sounds quite good, but the level is somewhat quieter. The Redmi 4A model has the simplest sound.
Autonomy
4 and the PRO version of the gadget received batteries with a capacity of 4100 mAh. But 4A can only boast a 3125 mAh battery. In simple terms, the level of autonomy of the devices is quite decent. It is enough to provide a good headroom even with a high-resolution screen.
In the process of testing the autonomy mode when watching videos in HD quality from Youtube via fi-wi, the following values were obtained6
- Redmi 4A – lost about 9.6% per hour;
- Redmi 4 – about 8.5% per hour;
- Redmi 4 Pro – about 7.3% per hour.
Xiaomi Redmi phone line - summing up
For the money, the smartphones turned out to be quite good. But let’s put them in terms of consumer attractiveness in domestic realities. The most controversial is Xiaomi Redmi 4. If we take it separately from other devices, then it has a right to exist. If it were present in the market on its own, it would directly compete with the Redmi 3S.
Redmi 4A, given its low cost, could claim to be an absolute hit on the market. This process would be facilitated by the release of global international firmware. And if we are talking about an undemanding user, then this device would be just a wonderful option. Its main disadvantages include only the frankly boring design and conflicting colors of the cases. You can correct the situation with the help of a variety of covers.
Well, Xiaomi Redmi 4 Pro is the undisputed leader in all aspects. Today, this is one of the best smartphones available on the domestic market. For little money you can get a balanced device, with a capacious battery, productive hardware and in a metallic appearance.
» we talked about the disadvantages mobile devices this manufacturer, forcing users to choose other brands.
Today Lifehacker will reveal another one big problem Xiaomi smartphones, because of which I had to write a whole guide. We are talking about the model range and naming.
Life is easy for apple farmers. When they want to upgrade their mobile phone, they choose between three iPhones: regular, large Plus and compact SE. We counted about 30 more or less current smartphone models from Xiaomi. This does not take into account versions with different amounts of RAM and storage.
And now another person who has read about the advantages of Xiaomi goes into some online store, sees dozens of different, but at the same time very similar smartphones in front of him and immediately falls into a deep stupor. Sound familiar? That is why Lifehacker created this guide.
Now we will quickly make you a true expert on the Xiaomi smartphone range. Go!
Xiaomi classification
Despite the apparent diversity, Xiaomi has only two lines of smartphones:
- Xiaomi Mi are mostly flagship smartphones. As a rule, they are more expensive, powerful, high quality, with excellent cameras and excellent build quality. The latest Xiaomi Mi competes with the top models of the world's A-brands.
- Xiaomi Redmi are mainly budget smartphones, mid-range ones, some of which, however, claim to be flagship status. Redmi is able to satisfy the needs of the vast majority of users and is much more affordable.
What are Xiaomi Mi?
Xiaomi Mi is divided into four series: simply Mi, Mi Note, Mi Max and Mi Mix.
Mi
Classic top-end smartphones with a standard screen size of 5.15 inches. The best filling best displays, better cameras, discreet conservative design and construction without any obvious features. The Mi series can be considered the standard, basis and face of the senior range of Xiaomi smartphones.
The most recent at the time of writing is the smartphone.
- 8-core Snapdragon 835 processor.
- 6 GB RAM.
- 5.15-inch Full HD IPS display covering 71.4% of the front panel.
- 64 or 128 GB storage.
- Availability of a version with a ceramic case.
The previous generation Mi, number 5, is still relevant and will be in great demand for a long time. This is because the flagships get the best stuffing with a huge reserve for the future.
The Mi5 generation is represented by five models:
- - basic model based on Snapdragon 820 with Full HD screen. The body is made of glass and metal.
- Mi5 Pro is the older version of the classic Mi5 with increased memory. The model is available in an incredibly beautiful and stylish ceramic case.
- Mi5S is an updated version of Mi5 based on Snapdragon 821 in a metal case.
- is a version of Mi5S with a 5.7-inch screen and a dual main camera. Due to the increased display size, it can be considered as an alternative to the Mi Note series, which will be discussed below.
- Mi5c is a not very successful attempt by the company to release a smartphone with a processor of its own production.
Mi Note
Mi Note is a series of Xiaomi flagship phablets with a screen diagonal of 5.7 inches.
A phablet is a smartphone with a large display, that is, a hybrid of a smartphone and a tablet.
Obviously, due to their increased dimensions, such devices are not suitable for everyone, since they often simply do not fit in a pocket.
The strength of phablets is the large screen, which is more convenient for surfing, watching videos and playing games.
The latest at the time of writing is the phablet.
- Quad-core Snapdragon 821 processor.
- 4 or 6 GB RAM.
- 5.7-inch Full HD AMOLED display.
- 64 or 128 GB storage.
The first generation of phablets, represented by the standard Mi Note model and the advanced version Mi Note Pro with increased memory and a higher resolution screen, cannot boast of the latest hardware, but is significantly cheaper than Mi Note 2.
Please note: in addition to the Mi Note series, the Mi5S Plus, equipped with a 5.7-inch screen, can quite rightly be included in the Xiaomi line of phablets.
Mi Max
If you think that the 5.7-inch screens of Mi Note phablets are too much, then just take a look at the Mi Max series with a 6.44-inch display! Obviously, it makes more sense to consider such large devices primarily as a tablet with a dialer rather than as a smartphone.
The latest at the time of writing is the Mi Max 2 phablet.
- 8-core Snapdragon 625 processor.
- 4 GB RAM.
- 6.44-inch Full HD IPS display.
- Battery 5,300 mAh.
- Camera like Mi6.
Please note: it is equipped with a Snapdragon 650 processor, which is slightly inferior to the 625 in overall performance, but wins in graphics.
Mi Mix
This is innovation in its purest form. Frameless design, giant screen, good hardware, clever sound transmission technology, ceramic body and an appropriate price.
- 8-core Snapdragon 821 processor.
- 4 or 6 GB RAM.
- 6.4-inch 2K IPS display covering 91.3% of the front panel.
- Storage 128 or 256 GB.
What are Xiaomi Redmi?
Xiaomi Redmi is divided into three series: simply Redmi, Redmi Note and Redmi Pro.
Redmi
Classic smartphones with a standard screen size of 5 inches. Unlike the flagship Mi, the Redmi line is more diverse. Here you will find how frankly cheap devices made of plastic and with an entry-level processor, as well as very productive mid-rangers with claims to flagship status.
At the moment, the fourth generation of Redmi is relevant, represented by four models:
- Redmi 4 is the base model based on Snapdragon 430 with an HD screen. The body is made of metal.
- Redmi 4 Pro is the older version of Redmi 4 with more powerful processor Snapdragon 625, Full HD screen and increased memory.
- Redmi 4X is an intermediate option between the basic and older models based on Snapdragon 435. The processor is slightly better than that of Redmi 4, the screen is the same. Versions are available with a memory capacity identical to both the basic and older Redmi 4 models.
- Redmi 4A is an ultra-budget smartphone based on Snapdragon 425 in a polycarbonate body. The ideal entry-level smartphone.
Redmi Note
Redmi Note is a series of 5.5-inch (Full HD, IPS) Xiaomi smartphones. is a series of 5.5-inch (Full HD, AMOLED) Xiaomi smartphones based on MediaTek Helio X20 and X25 with a front-mounted fingerprint sensor and a dual main camera.
Did this classification help you? Do you have a clear understanding of the Xiaomi smartphone lineup in your head? If not, then it's okay. There are really so many Xiaomi smartphones that it is no longer possible to organize them.
We are in no way saying that all manufacturers should follow Apple's example, that is, release one or two smartphones, telling everyone that this is how it should be. Freedom of choice is important, but everything is good in moderation.
We hope that in the near future Xiaomi will restore order and make sure that everything is clear to everyone.
Here you will find a detailed guide to Meizu smartphones.