Price and specifications of Xiaomi Redmi Note 2 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Network

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 2 supports a variety of network technologies to ensure robust connectivity across different regions. The device is compatible with GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks. For 2G connectivity, it supports the GSM 900, 1800, and 1900 bands for both SIM 1 and SIM 2. When it comes to 3G, the device can operate on the HSDPA 850, 900, 1900, and 2100 bands. In terms of 4G connectivity, the phone is equipped to work on several bands including 1, 3, 7, 38, 39, 40, and 41, offering fairly comprehensive access to LTE services. The speed of the device on these networks reaches up to HSPA and LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, allowing for quick data upload and download rates.

Launch

Xiaomi announced the Redmi Note 2 in August 2015 and released it the same month, making it one of the most anticipated devices of the time due to its value-for-money appeal. However, it's important to note that the device has since been discontinued, which means it might be challenging to find brand-new units in the market today.

Body

The physical design of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 2 is modest yet functional. It features dimensions of 152 x 76 x 8.3 mm, making it comfortable to hold and use. The phone is relatively light at 160 grams, which contributes to its overall portability. The construction incorporates a glass front, a plastic back, and a plastic frame, providing a balance between durability and weight. The device also supports Dual SIM functionality (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by), a feature greatly beneficial for users looking to manage multiple phone numbers from a single device.

Display

On the display front, the Redmi Note 2 comes with a 5.5-inch IPS LCD screen, offering a sizable display area for an enjoyable viewing experience. The screen-to-body ratio stands at 71.5%, making it an efficient use of the front panel space. It has a full HD resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels with an impressive pixel density of approximately 403 ppi. These specifications ensure sharp, vibrant visuals that enhance video playback, gaming, and general navigation through the device.

Platform

The Redmi Note 2 originally runs on Android 5.0 (Lollipop) exacerbated by Xiaomi's custom MIUI 7 interface. This combination provides a seamless user experience with a multitude of customization options. At its core, the device is powered by a Mediatek MT6795 Helio X10 chipset built on a 28 nm architecture. It comprises an Octa-core CPU, available in two variants based on model: a 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 for the standard model and a 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 for the Redmi Note 2 Prime. Graphics rendering is managed by a PowerVR G6200 GPU, which delivers commendable performance for most applications and games available at the time.

Memory

The Redmi Note 2 features two variants concerning internal memory and storage capacities, which include 16GB ROM with 2GB RAM and 32GB ROM with 2GB RAM for the Prime version. Moreover, the device offers extendable storage via a microSDXC card slot, albeit this is limited to the Chinese version of the model. Despite the limited RAM, the phone performs efficiently for everyday tasks and moderate usage levels.

Main Camera

The photography and video capabilities of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 2 are marked by its single 13 MP main camera. The rear camera features an aperture of f/2.2 and PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus) technology that enhances focusing speed and accuracy. It supports additional features such as LED flash, HDR (High Dynamic Range), and panorama shots, which enhance the overall photographic experience. The camera is capable of recording videos at 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second, delivering clear and smooth motion capture.

Selfie Camera

The front-facing camera on the Redmi Note 2 is a 5 MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture. Although modest by today's standards, it is sufficient for decent quality selfies and video calls. It can record videos at 720p, ensuring an acceptable quality for video chat applications.

Sound

The sound features on the Redmi Note 2 include a loudspeaker with an adequate output for regular usage. For personal listening, the device retains a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to employ a range of compatible headsets and audio devices without needing an adapter.

Comms

In terms of communication features, the Redmi Note 2 is equipped with Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac capability that supports dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, and hotspot functions. Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP and LE ensures quality wireless audio streaming and data transfer capabilities. For navigation, the phone is compatible with GPS, GLONASS, and BDS systems. However, it lacks NFC support, a drawback for users who favor contactless transactions. The device also includes an Infrared port for remote control capabilities, a Stereo FM radio, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG support.

Features

The Redmi Note 2 encompasses a variety of sensors, such as an accelerometer, a gyro, proximity sensors, and a compass, all aimed at enhancing the user interaction experience through various gesture and motion-detection capabilities.

Battery

The device houses a Li-Po 3060 mAh removable battery, providing adequate power for typical daily usage. Charging is via 10W wired standards. Stand-by time is rated up to 144 hours on 3G, while talk time extends up to 11 hours and 30 minutes. Additionally, users can enjoy nearly 46 hours of music play, which is a plus for media enthusiasts.

Miscellaneous

Color variety for the Redmi Note 2 includes several options, such as white, blue, yellow, pink, and mint green, allowing users to personalize their phones to their taste. The model identifier for this series is 2015051. With a SAR rating of 0.34 W/kg on the head and 0.45 W/kg on the body, it meets the regulatory guidelines for radiation absorption. The pricing back at launch time was approximately 160 EUR, making it an affordable option for those seeking a balanced feature set without breaking the bank.

Performance and Tests

Performance testing reveals the device scores 1063 in Basemark OS II 2.0 and 8518 in Basemark X, showcasing its adequacy for its time. The display contrast ratio measures at 953 nominal and 2.166 in sunlight conditions. The audio capabilities register at 66dB for voice and noise, and 76dB for ringtones. In terms of audio quality, it achieves a noise level of -96.1dB and a crosstalk of -94.8dB. The battery endurance rating stands at 49 hours, offering a respectable lifetime against moderate usage.