Xiaomi Redmi 2 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Explored

Design and Build Quality

The Xiaomi Redmi 2 sports a sleek design and solid build quality that was quite appealing when it was released. The device has dimensions of 134 x 67.2 x 9.4 mm, which makes it compact and easy to handle. Weighing just 133 grams, it is lightweight and comfortable to carry for long durations. The phone features a glass front protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 2, ensuring a certain level of durability against scratches and minor bumps. The back and the frame of the device are made of plastic, contributing to its lightweight nature. The dual SIM capability allows for greater flexibility, especially for users who travel frequently or need to separate work from personal communications.

Display

The Redmi 2 comes with an IPS LCD display that measures 4.7 inches, making it a reasonably sized screen for media consumption and daily use. The resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels offers a pixel density of approximately 312 ppi, which provides clear and sharp visuals. Videos and images appear vivid, and the color reproduction is commendable given the device's target market. Moreover, the inclusion of Gorilla Glass 2 offers an additional layer of protection, minimizing the risk of damage from drops or scratches.

Performance

Under the hood, the Xiaomi Redmi 2 is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8916 Snapdragon 410 chipset, coupled with a Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. This configuration provides a smooth user experience for general tasks like browsing the web, using social media, and light gaming. The Adreno 306 GPU handles graphics processing, allowing games and applications with moderate graphics demand to run efficiently. The device offers two variants for internal storage and RAM: 8GB with 1GB RAM and 16GB with 2GB RAM. The latter provides better multitasking capabilities and storage space for users who have heavier app usage or larger media files.

Camera

Xiaomi has equipped the Redmi 2 with a competent camera setup for its class. The main camera is an 8 MP shooter with a sizable f/2.2 aperture, 28mm lens, and features like autofocus and LED flash, ensuring decent quality images in various lighting conditions. The camera also supports HDR mode, further enhancing photo quality. For video recording, the rear camera can shoot 1080p videos at 30fps, which is suitable for capturing precious life moments. On the front, a 2 MP camera is available for selfies and video calls, capable of recording 720p videos.

Battery Life

The device is fueled by a removable Li-Po 2200 mAh battery, a practical choice that allows users to replace the battery if needed. The phone supports 10W wired charging for quick top-ups. With an endurance rating of 55 hours, the Redmi 2 ensures a reliable battery life that can last through a full day of moderate use. While the capacity might not be large by today's standards, it was adequate for the operational demands of apps and hardware in 2015.

Software

Launching with Android 4.4.4 KitKat, the Xiaomi Redmi 2 was equipped with MIUI 6.0, Xiaomi's custom user interface. MIUI offers several customization options and unique features not available in stock Android, enhancing the overall user experience. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, which is a fundamental attribute for attracting users new to smartphones.

Network and Connectivity

The Redmi 2 includes support for a wide range of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, providing a fast and reliable internet experience. It's capable of achieving speeds of up to 150/50 Mbps with LTE Cat4 support. The phone includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with Wi-Fi Direct and hotspot capabilities, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS with GLONASS and BDS, and a microUSB 2.0 port with OTG support. However, it lacks NFC, which might be a downside for some users who wish to engage in contactless payments or quick pairing with other NFC-enabled devices.

Additional Features

The device comes equipped with a range of sensors including an accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, which add to the functionality and user experience. The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack ensures compatibility with a vast range of headphones and audio accessories, catering to audiophiles and regular users alike. Stereo FM radio is also included, providing an additional entertainment option for users.

Price and Market Position

When released, the Xiaomi Redmi 2 was priced at approximately 130 EUR, placing it in the affordable smartphone segment. Its impressive specifications for the price point made it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a functional and reliable smartphone. The range of colors available, including black, white, yellow, pink, and green, allowed buyers to choose a style that best suited their personal taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Xiaomi Redmi 2 was a notable entry-level smartphone at the time of its release, combining a sturdy build, decent performance, adequate camera capabilities, and good battery life at a competitive price point. While it may no longer stand out against more recent offerings with better technical advancements, it served its purpose well in making smartphones accessible to a broader audience. Those looking for a straightforward device for communication and basic multimedia tasks would have found the Redmi 2 to be a worthy contender.