Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro Everything You Need to Know

Network and Connectivity

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro supports various network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, making it versatile for users globally. It has comprehensive band support with 2G bands covering GSM 850/900/1800/1900 for both SIM slots, 3G bands supporting HSDPA 850/900/1900/2100, and 4G LTE support on bands 1, 3, 5, 40, and 41. Users can expect consistent and reliable connectivity across different regions, bolstered by HSPA and LTE speeds for quick data transfer.

Release Information

The Redmi Note 5 Pro was announced on February 14, 2018, and subsequently released shortly after in the same month, making it available to consumers quickly after its announcement. This rapid release allowed Xiaomi to capitalize on the market immediately.

Design and Build

The smartphone features a sleek design with a front built from durable glass and an aluminum back and frame, providing a premium look and feel. Its dimensions are 158.6 x 75.4 x 8.1 mm, and it weighs 181 grams, making it both sturdy and moderately lightweight. It also supports hybrid dual SIM capacity, allowing users to use two Nano-SIM cards simultaneously or one SIM and a microSD card for expanded storage.

Display Quality

Utilizing an IPS LCD, the display size of 5.99 inches provides ample screen real estate for media and productivity. The screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 77.4%, ensuring a broad viewing area with minimal bezels. It features a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels with an 18:9 aspect ratio, offering a pixel density of around 403 ppi for crisp and clear visuals. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, safeguarding it against scratches and minor impacts.

Performance and Operating System

Under the hood, the Redmi Note 5 Pro is powered by the Qualcomm SDM636 Snapdragon 636 chipset with a 14 nm construction, which is both efficient and powerful enough for day-to-day operations and multitasking. The CPU is an octa-core setup with 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Gold and 4x1.6 GHz Kryo 260 Silver cores, delivering balanced performance with efficient energy consumption.

The GPU is the Adreno 509, which handles graphics-intensive tasks fairly well, including gaming at moderate settings. Initially shipped with Android 7.1.2 Nougat, Xiaomi has planned an upgrade path to Android 10 with MIUI 12, ensuring software enhancement and improved user experience over time.

Memory and Storage

Internal memory options include configurations of 64GB of storage combined with either 4GB or 6GB of RAM. This variety in RAM allows users to choose a configuration that meets their performance and multitasking needs. For users needing additional storage, the phone supports microSDXC, utilizing the shared SIM slot for expansion.

Camera Capabilities

The rear camera setup is a dual-lens array featuring a 12 MP primary sensor with f/2.2 aperture, 1/2.9" sensor size, and 1.25μm pixel size. It includes phase detection autofocus (PDAF) for quick and precise focusing. Accompanying the primary lens is a 5 MP depth sensor with f/2.0 aperture, aiding in portrait photography and depth effect.

Key features of the camera include dual-LED flash for nighttime shooting, panorama mode for wide-angle shots, and HDR for balanced images in varying light conditions. It records video at 1080p at 30fps.

The front-facing camera is a single 20 MP sensor with f/2.2 aperture and a pixel size of 0.9μm, optimized for selfies. Equipped with an LED flash, it ensures clear front-camera photos even in dim environments. It too supports video recording at 1080p at 30fps.

Audio Experience

The phone includes a loudspeaker for media playback and supports a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to users who prefer wired audio solutions. This inclusion is significant in an era where many devices are phasing out audio jacks.

Other Communication Features

Wireless connectivity is bolstered by dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct, and Bluetooth 5.0 with A2DP and LE for high-speed and flexible wireless connections. The device supports GPS, GLONASS, and BDS for enhanced location accuracy. An infrared port is included, a feature appreciated for its utility in controlling home appliances. Additionally, the presence of an FM radio allows users to enjoy live broadcasts without relying on internet streaming.

Battery and Power

The Redmi Note 5 Pro is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 4000 mAh battery, designed to deliver substantial usage time to last throughout the day. With 18W wired charging (QC2), users can rejuvenate their battery life quickly, ensuring minimal downtime.

Additional Features

A fingerprint sensor is mounted on the rear for quick and secure phone unlocking. Other sensors include an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass, all contributing to the phone's functionality and user experience.

Color Variants and Pricing

Available in a range of colors such as Black, Champagne Gold, Rose Gold, and Lake Blue, the Redmi Note 5 Pro provides users the flexibility to choose a color that best matches their style. Originally priced at approximately 180 EUR, the phone offers a compelling price-to-performance ratio, appealing to budget-conscious consumers.

Performance Tests

Performance benchmarks like AnTuTu score of 107737 (v7) and GeekBench score of 4696 (v4.4) place the Redmi Note 5 Pro in a respectable position among mid-range devices, affirming its capability to handle a wide range of tasks efficiently.