Unveiling the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Network and Connectivity

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 supports a range of network technologies including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, making it versatile for users across different regions. Its compatibility with 2G, 3G, and 4G bands enhances its connectivity capabilities, allowing users to stay connected and enjoy high-speed internet browsing and streaming. The device boasts fast network speeds with HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE (4CA) Cat12 600/50 Mbps, ensuring seamless performance for everyday use.

Launch and Availability

The Redmi Note 8 was officially announced on August 29, 2019, and was subsequently released on October 16, 2019. Since its release, it has been readily available in the market, making it a popular choice among users looking for a budget-friendly yet feature-rich smartphone.

Design and Build Quality

The smartphone features dimensions of 158.3 x 75.3 x 8.4 mm and weighs 190 grams. Designed with a Glass front and back, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, and a plastic frame, the Redmi Note 8 offers a sturdy yet elegant build. It's available with a Dual SIM capability, allowing users the flexibility to manage two phone numbers simultaneously, which is a plus for many professional and personal needs.

Display

The Redmi Note 8 sports a 6.3-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, resulting in a high pixel density of approximately 409 ppi. This ensures sharp and vibrant visuals, making it excellent for media consumption and gaming. The screen-to-body ratio is an impressive ~81.7%, providing an expansive view while maintaining a comfortable form factor.

Platform and Performance

Equipped with the Qualcomm SDM665 Snapdragon 665 chipset built on 11 nm technology, the Redmi Note 8 delivers efficient and powerful performance. Its Octa-core CPU (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) and Adreno 610 GPU cater effectively to multitasking and graphic-intensive tasks. Initially running on Android 9.0 (Pie), the device is upgradable to Android 11 with the MIUI 12.5 interface, bringing in enhancements and new features.

Memory and Storage Options

The device offers versatile memory configurations to suit different user requirements. With options of 32GB/3GB RAM, 64GB/4GB RAM, 64GB/6GB RAM, 128GB/4GB RAM, and 128GB/6GB RAM, users can select based on their storage and multitasking needs. Additionally, the dedicated microSDXC card slot allows for the expansion of storage capacity, ensuring ample space for apps, media, and documents.

Camera Capabilities

Main Camera

The Redmi Note 8 features a quad-camera setup with a 48 MP primary sensor, ensuring high-resolution images. Complementing this are an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, a 2 MP macro lens for close-up shots, and a 2 MP depth sensor for enhancing portrait mode photography. The camera system supports 4K video recording at 30fps and various other frame rates at 1080p, paired with gyro-EIS for stability.

Selfie Camera

The 13 MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture supports HDR and panorama features, capturing detailed selfies with a wide field of view. Videos can be recorded in 1080p at 30fps, perfect for vlogs and video calls.

Audio and Sound

For audio, the Redmi Note 8 provides a clear and loud experience through its loudspeaker system. The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a significant advantage, allowing users to connect wired headphones or accessories without needing adapters.

Communication Features

Connectivity options in the Redmi Note 8 include Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band and Wi-Fi Direct support for seamless wireless networking. Bluetooth 4.2 offers efficient wireless device connections, while GPS, GLONASS, and BDS support ensure precise location services. Despite lacking NFC, the phone supports FM radio and Infrared, providing versatile utility. The USB Type-C 2.0 port with OTG support allows easy data transfer and accessory connections.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Redmi Note 8 is equipped with a range of sensors such as a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors enhance the functionality of the device, providing secure unlocking, orientation detection, and much more.

Battery Life and Charging

This smartphone is powered by a non-removable 4000 mAh Li-Po battery, known for long-lasting endurance, meeting the demands of an active lifestyle. The device supports 18W wired charging, allowing for swift battery recharge and minimal downtime.

Color Variants

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 is available in five stylish color options, namely Neptune Blue, Moonlight White, Space Black, Nebula Purple, and Cosmic Purple. This variety caters to a range of aesthetic preferences, allowing users to select a device that truly represents their style.

Price and Market Positioning

Priced at approximately 220 EUR, the Redmi Note 8 offers excellent value for money given its robust feature set and performance capabilities. It's positioned as a mid-range device, appealing to tech-savvy consumers seeking a reliable and feature-rich smartphone without breaking the bank.

Performance Benchmarks

The device's performance benchmarks reflect its strong capabilities, scoring 161572 in AnTuTu (v8), and 1339 in GeekBench (v5.1), demonstrating its competent processing power. With favorable GFXBench scores, the device handles graphics tasks with ease.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 stands out as a compelling choice in the mid-range smartphone category. With its attractive design, robust performance, versatile camera system, and extensive connectivity options, it caters well to a wide array of user needs and preferences. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its balanced offering of features, performance, and affordability.