Xiaomi Redmi 8 32 GB / 3 GB

One of the best low-cost smartphones of the year

Somehow it so happened that not a single selection of smartphones is complete without models from Xiaomi. And they are almost always relatively inexpensive pipes that offer more than they ask for in return. This is especially true of the Redmi series, which has recently become a separate brand. However, the situation with the new Redmi 8 is not so clear: it is still an excellent low-cost-level smartphone with an interesting design and a reinforced 5000 mAh battery, but also a number of rather strange solutions.

Not without a fly in the ointment

Firstly, it is completely incomprehensible who in Xiaomi came up with the idea to use the Snapdragon 439 processor? If last year's Redmi 7 had a more performant Snapdragon 660. There was no increase in RAM either. Like last time, there is 3 GB, which, in our opinion, is enough for a low-cost smartphone. Wi-Fi 5 support has disappeared somewhere, although it was there a year ago. Well, the display resolution has decreased from 2340x1080 to 1520x720 pixels. The screen here is large (6.22"), so the graininess is quickly evident. In fairness, they ask for $ 20 – 30 less for the new product than for Redmi 7, so the deprivation is somewhat justified.

Reinforced battery and camera with Sony IMX363 sensor

If we abstract from comparisons with its predecessor, Redmi 8 turns out to be one of the most interesting smartphones in the sub-$150 category. Here you have a good supply of RAM, and separate slots for SIM and MicroSD cards, and the reinforced battery with fast charging mentioned above. And it is also a rare state employee whose camera is based on the Sony IMX363 sensor. For example, a year ago, Xiaomi used it in its Mi Mix 2s camera phone for $400. Yes, the level of photos here is by no means flagship, but many times better than low-cost smartphones a year ago.

Thoroughbred appearance

Let's highlight the design. Previous Redmis looked deliberately angular and were absolutely not shy about their origins. The new Redmi 8 is more reminiscent of the company's flagship models: the glass is slightly rounded, and the back cover shimmers beautifully under the light and looks really expensive. Especially in red. And right off the bat you won’t even understand that it’s plastic, not glass.