Xiaomi’s Budget-Friendly Phones In Early 2024 Review: Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G & Redmi Note 13 Pro

Each year witnesses a massive online and in-store rush as millions eagerly seek to acquire the latest Redmi Note smartphones. Anticipated to follow suit this year are the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G and Redmi Note 13 Pro, poised to maintain their reputation as one of the most cost-effective phones in the market. Xiaomi, in its characteristic fashion, has introduced a series that may seem confusing and overpopulated, featuring non-Pro 4G and 5G versions, as well as Pro 5G and 4G models.

Image Source: www.mi.com

The Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G brings substantial improvements over its predecessor, the Redmi Note 12 Pro. Notable enhancements include an upgraded display with higher resolution, increased brightness, and a broader color spectrum. The device is equipped with a faster Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, offering varied storage options and up to 12GB RAM. The primary camera now boasts a 200MP Samsung sensor with OIS, promising enhanced photo and video quality. Featuring an impressive 6.67-inch OLED display with 1220p resolution, 12-bit color depth, and a 120Hz refresh rate, the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G ensures a top-notch visual experience. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, coupled with up to 12GB RAM and up to 512GB storage, manages the device’s performance. The 200MP primary camera with OIS, along with unchanged 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro, and 16MP selfie cameras, contributes to the device’s imaging capabilities. The device introduces an under-display fingerprint scanner, a departure from the traditional placement on the power/lock key. Additional features include Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, a 5,100mAh battery with 67W fast charging, and the pre-installed Android 13 with MIUI 14, with future support for HyperOS. Despite lacking an IP68-rated design, the Redmi Note 13 Pro’s IP54 rating ensures adequate protection against water exposure. The retail package includes the phone, a 67W power adapter, a 6A-rated USB-A-to-C cable, and a protective case. The device arrives with a thin film on its screen, offering protection against scratches at the cost of being prone to smudges.

Image Source: www.mi.com

In contrast, the Redmi Note 13 Pro, a sibling in the series, mirrors the Poco M6 Pro, featuring a 200MP main camera. Xiaomi continues its trend of offering both 5G and 4G models within the Redmi Note series. The 4G variant differs significantly, featuring a lower-resolution screen, a less powerful chipset, and limited video-capturing capabilities. However, it retains an attractive design, Dolby Vision-capable OLED, a large 200MP primary camera, and 67W fast charging. Powered by the Helio G99 Ultra chip, the Redmi Note 13 Pro excels in daily tasks with its impressive processor and graphics. The camera setup includes a 200MP primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, a 2MP macro camera, and a 16MP selfie camera. The device supports up to 67W fast charging for its 5,000mAh battery and includes stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and runs on MIUI 14 atop Android 13. With a competitive pricing strategy, the Redmi Note 13 Pro aims to serve as a compelling alternative to the standard Redmi Note 13 models and a more budget-friendly option compared to the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G. The retail package mirrors that of its counterpart, featuring the phone, a 67W power adapter, a 6A-rated USB-A-to-C cable, and a protective case, along with a thin film for screen protection. The overall packaging is modest, lacking extravagant elements but effectively securing the device within the cardboard inserts.

In-Depth Technical Details Of Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G

Image Source: www.mi.com
FeatureSpecification
Body161.2×74.2×8.0mm, 187g; Gorilla Glass Victus front, glass back, plastic frame; IP54, dust and splash resistant.
Network2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G.
Display6.67″ AMOLED, 68B colors, 120Hz, Dolby Vision, 500nits (typ), 1200nits (HBM), 1800nits (peak), 1220x2712px resolution, 20.01:9 aspect ratio, 446ppi.
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4nm).
Memory128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM; UFS 2.2.
OSAndroid 13, MIUI 14 (1st Release).
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
Bluetoothv5.2.
Rear cameraWide (main): 200MP; Ultra-wide: 8MP; Macro: 2MP.
Front camera16MP.
Battery5100mAh; 67W wired.
OthersFingerprint reader (under display); NFC; stereo speakers; Infrared port.

In-Depth Technical Details Of Redmi Note 13 Pro

Image Source: www.mi.com
FeatureSpecification
Body161.1×75.0x8.0mm, 188g; plastic frame; IP54, dust and splash resistant.
Network2G, 3G, and 4G.
Display6.67″ AMOLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 500nits (typ), 1000nits (HBM), 1300nits (peak), 1080x2400px resolution, 20:9 aspect ratio, 395ppi.
ChipsetMediatek Helio G99 Ultra (6nm).
Memory256GB 8GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM; UFS 2.2; microSDXC.
OSAndroid 13, MIUI 14 (1st Release).
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
Bluetoothv5.2.
Rear cameraWide (main): 200MP; Ultra-wide: 8MP; Macro: 2MP.
Front camera16MP.
Battery5000mAh; 67W wired.
OthersFingerprint reader (under display); NFC; Infrared port; 3.5mm jack.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G stands as a commendable upgrade, offering enhanced features without an exorbitant price hike. With a remarkable display, strong performance, unmatched main camera, and competitive fast charging coupled with impressive battery life, it’s a well-rounded choice. However, we acknowledge the room for improvement in the ultra-wide camera and a hardware proximity sensor, as the virtual ones prove subpar. Approval is granted, but for those not in immediate need, holding off might reveal better options in the coming months. Nonetheless, the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G is anticipated to maintain competitiveness in 2024, especially with an expected price drop. On the other hand, the Redmi Note 13 Pro presents itself as a comprehensive budget device with no outright shortcomings. While a superior chipset is a potential enhancement, the Helio G99 Ultra, though not lacking in power, has limitations like 4G connectivity and 1080p video capture. Xiaomi strategically caters to the need for a 4G device in its lineup, evident with the Poco M6 Pro sharing similar specifications and restrictions. Contrary to the Poco, the Redmi Note 13 Pro’s main camera surpasses mediocrity with its impressive 200MP snapper, offering versatility with excellent zoom capabilities while maintaining quality. The 120Hz AMOLED display, bright for a budget device, and Xiaomi’s adept software refresh rate handling are commendable. The hybrid stereo speaker setup and inclusion of a 3.5mm audio jack and IR blaster add value. Although niche, the onboard FM receiver is appreciated. With solid battery life and swift charging, the Redmi Note 13 Pro outshines its Poco counterpart, delivering a well-rounded product for its price. While not claiming the top value proposition, potential buyers can expect satisfaction with their purchase.

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