Xiaomi is one smartphone company that is known to disrupt the market with its efficient devices at low prices. Xiaomi did it once again with its Redmi 5, which was launched in the Indian market in December 2017 at a starting price of ₹7,999.
The unique thing about the Redmi 5 is that it is Xiaomi’s slimmest device in the Redmi series. In comparison with its predecessor, the Redmi 4, the 7.7 mm thick Redmi 5 is 11% slimmer. Another attraction of the Redmi 5 is its bezel-less display, which is again a first in the Redmi series of smartphones in India.
So far, Redmi 5 has managed to get a lot of attention from the Indian audience. Here is the Redmi 5 Review.
In this article…
Specifications
Redmi 5 is a dual SIM (GSM and GSM) smartphone that accepts Nano-SIMs in both slots. The phone features a 5.70-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 720 X 1440 pixels at 282 PPI (pixels per inch). The handset weighs 157 gm and measures 151.80 x 72.80 x 7.70 mm.
The smartphone is powered by a 1.8GHz octa-core processor, paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, which is expandable. The device runs on Android 7.1.2 and is fuelled by a 3300mAh non-removable battery.
The cameras include a 5MP front camera for selfies and a 12MP primary camera on the rear, while connectivity options include Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, USB OTG, FM, 3G, and 4G. Sensors on the Redmi 5 include a proximity sensor, ambient light sensor, accelerometer, and gyroscope.
Technical Features
Display Size: 5.70-inch touchscreen
Screen Resolution: 720X1440 pixels
Processor: 1.8GHz octa-core processor
RAM: 2/3/4GB
Storage: 32/64GB
Front camera: 5MP
Back camera: 12MP
Battery: 3300mAh
Display and Looks
The Redmi 5 features a 5.7-inch HD+ display with 720 x 1440 pixel resolution with 282 PPI pixel density and 450-nit peak brightness. In terms of looks, the device is very similar to Redmi Note 5, which was launched in 2018. Redmi 5 features a large 18:9 aspect ratio, which gives this device its much desirable taller look. Thankfully, the Chinese smartphone maker has not used plastic to fill the spaces and kept it limited to the sides, top and bottom. However, they have given prominent borders to this phone, especially on the forehead and chin, which is why we cannot technically call it bezel-less. Across most of the back of the Redmi 5, you’ll see a metal plate.
I liked the build quality of the phone, which is pretty impressive for a smartphone in this price range. The phone has a smooth finish, which makes it comfortable to hold, even for long hours. I was happy that the phone has a fingerprint sensor, which can be easily reached due to the phone’s overall proportions.
Performance and Battery
I also liked the fact that in the Redmi 5, Xiaomi has upgraded the processor and incorporated Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 under the hood. However, the Redmi Note 5 packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625, a much more powerful processor, at a similar price.
What I didn’t like in the Redmi 5 was that compared to the processor, Xiaomi has downgraded the battery capacity in this handset. The Redmi 5 is fueled by a 3300mAh battery, whereas its predecessor Redmi 4 flaunts a whopping 4100mAh battery. However, Redmi 5 did manage to stay charged for a full day when I used the handset for casual use, including video streaming, gaming, clicking pictures, and web surfing.
The phone can take up to two hours to get fully charged. No doubt, fast charging would be too much to ask for at this price range.
Also read: Redmi Y2 Review
Camera and Apps
Just like any other budget phone, the quality of the Redmi 5 camera is average. The device features a 5 MP main camera that is centered at the top of the rear. The photos taken by the camera look pretty good on the device, but they definitely lack detail and texture when seen on a larger screen. Even in daylight, the edges of the subject were rough and the images were a bit grainy. In low light, the images were even more blurred. I wasn’t impressed with the video quality either.
Just like any other Redmi device, Xiaomi has given the “Smart Beautification” mode by default for selfies. However, I experienced the same issue as with other Redmi devices, which was that the images looked over-processed and artificial. However, you’ll like the LED flash on the front, which is also present in the Redmi Note 5 and Redmi Note 5 Pro.
Redmi 5 Price
The Redmi 5 is available in three different variants in different price ranges. The base model is available at ₹7,999, while the 32GB variant with 3 GB RAM is priced at ₹8,999 and the 64GB variant with 4 GB RAM is priced at ₹10,999. The device is available in Black, Gold Rose Gold, and Lake Blue color variants. If you are looking for a unique colored handset, Redmi 5 in Lake Blue could be a good option.
Xiaomi Redmi 5 is an Amazon exclusive. So, you will only be able to buy this device on Amazon.in, MI Store and MI Home.
Also read: Redmi Note 4 review
Reasons Why I Like This Phone
- Affordable price
- Good performance
- Sleek design
Reasons Why I Hate This phone
- Low battery capacity
- Old processor
- Poor camera
At a price starting at ₹7,999, Xiaomi’s Redmi 5 will definitely get a lot of buyer attention, especially those who aren’t looking for a great selfie camera. With Redmi 5, you’ll definitely get a lot of bang for your buck. However, there are some other smartphones that boast better specs in a similar price range, which might make for a better buy.
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