Price and specifications of Xiaomi Redmi 4 Prime advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Network

The Xiaomi Redmi 4 Prime supports a wide range of network technologies, making it a versatile device in terms of connectivity. It can operate on GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE networks. This makes the device compatible with most network providers across the globe. It supports 2G bands (GSM 850/900/1800/1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2), 3G bands (HSDPA 850/900/1900/2100), and a variety of 4G LTE bands including 1, 3, 7, 38, 39, 40, and 41. The network speeds supported are HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps, allowing for fast browsing and download capabilities.

Launch

Released in November 2016, the Xiaomi Redmi 4 Prime was introduced to the market as a feature-rich budget smartphone. Despite being discontinued, it remains a memorable device for its affordability and performance. The device was announced and released in November 2016, marking Xiaomi's continued commitment to providing high-quality devices at competitive prices.

Body

The device boasts a compact and robust build. It has dimensions of 141.3 x 69.6 x 8.9 mm, weighing in at 156 g. The body is constructed with a glass front, aluminum back, and an aluminum frame, lending the device a premium feel typical of higher-end smartphones. It accommodates a Hybrid Dual SIM configuration, allowing users to either use two SIM cards or one SIM card with a microSD card for expandable storage.

Display

The Redmi 4 Prime features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This results in an impressive pixel density of approximately 441 ppi, ensuring crisp graphics and sharp text. The display's screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 70.1%, providing a good balance between screen size and handling comfort. The IPS technology offers wide viewing angles and good color reproduction, making it ideal for media consumption.

Platform

Running on Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) with Xiaomi's MIUI 8 skin, the device offers a user-friendly interface with additional customization options. The hardware platform is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8953 Snapdragon 625 chipset, which is built on the 14 nm process. This is complemented by an octa-core Cortex-A53 CPU clocked at 2.0 GHz and an Adreno 506 GPU, providing robust performance for day-to-day tasks and moderate gaming.

Memory

The Redmi 4 Prime comes with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. The hybrid SIM slot enables storage expansion via a microSDXC card, though users will need to forgo the second SIM option to avail of this. The ample RAM in conjunction with the octa-core processor ensures smooth multitasking capabilities.

Main Camera

The primary camera is a 13 MP shooter with an aperture of f/2.2, which supports Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) for faster focusing speeds. It includes features like dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, and panorama for versatile photo-taking options. Video recording is supported at 1080p at 30fps, allowing for high-quality video capture.

Selfie Camera

The front camera is a 5 MP sensor also with an f/2.2 aperture. It supports 1080p video recording, making it suitable for clear video calls and selfies in decent lighting conditions.

Sound

The device features a loudspeaker which offers clear audio output. Additionally, it retains the 3.5mm audio jack, a feature appreciated by many users for connecting headphones without the need for adapters.

Comms

For wireless connectivity, the device supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band and Wi-Fi Direct functionality. Bluetooth 4.2 ensures reliable wireless transmission for peripherals. It also includes GPS, GLONASS, and BDS for accurate positioning. However, NFC is not available. An infrared port allows the phone to be used as a remote control for various electronics, while an FM radio provides entertainment on the go. The microUSB 2.0 port supports USB OTG capabilities.

Features

Utility features include a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure and fast unlocking of the device. Additional sensors are the accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, enhancing user interaction and usability through various applications.

Battery

With a substantial 4100 mAh Li-Po non-removable battery, the Redmi 4 Prime offers solid battery life. It supports 10W wired charging. The endurance rating is a notable 91 hours, ensuring the device can easily last through a full day of heavy usage without requiring frequent recharges.

Miscellaneous

The Redmi 4 Prime is available in three color options: Gold, Dark Gray, and Silver, catering to different aesthetic preferences. The initial launch price was approximately 160 EUR, highlighting its status as a competitive option in the budget smartphone category.

Tests

Camera performance tests indicated that the device produced satisfactory photo and video results for its price range. Battery tests underscored the device's strong battery performance, emphasizing its suitability for users who prioritize longevity without compromising on essential features.