Xiaomi has released another model for its Redmi Note 10 series — the Redmi Note 10 5G. This is something you’d definitely want to get your hands on if you want faster and more stable connectivity. On top of this, Xiaomi still retains its affordability and performance-to-price value with a starting price of just PHP9,990. Keep reading on to know more about this entry-level smartphone.
Design and build
Similar to its siblings, this 5G variant comes with a sleek look and premium feel even with its polycarbonate build. On its right side features a power button with a fingerprint scanner and volume rocker. On the left is its SIM card tray for two nano-SIM cards and a microSD. On the top you’ll find a 3.5mm headphone jack and an IR blaster. Lastly, on the bottom you’ll find its USB-C port, speaker grille and microphone.
In terms of its speaker it can reach a surprisingly loud level but I still wouldn’t put it on maximum volume as it can affect the overall sound quality.
Up front the Redmi Note 10 5G sports a 6.5-inch IPS DotDisplay with a FHD+ resolution of 2400×1080. The IPS display came as a surprise compared to its siblings that featured an AMOLED display. Although, I had hoped the brightness would’ve been better because it’s difficult to see the screen when under direct light but it is enough when indoors. The display supports a smooth 90Hz AdaptiveSync refresh rate option and is protected with Corning Gorilla Glass 3.
Camera
On the top of the Redmi Note 10 5G’s screen is an 8MP (f/2.0) front camera that also functions as the AI facial recognition. Its main triple camera on the back features a 48MP (f/1.79) wide-angle lens, 2MP (f/2.4) macro lens, and 2MP (f/2.4) depth lens.
As most cameras go, they excel with the best light setting — just as this device struggles a bit indoors or in the dark. Night mode shooting is serviceable and clear albeit a bit noisy. Highlights look much better however if the brightness is balanced. The Redmi Note 10 5G’s 48MP main camera (literally) shines more in lighter settings, although too bright or sunny backgrounds can blow out skin colors on human subjects for instance. Also of note is the phone’s portrait mode, which captures and accentuates human details like eye color or skin tint.
Performance
The Redmi Note 10 5G is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 700 octa-core processor. It is not the fastest processor (due to the modest 4GB of RAM it is working with), but the Dimensity 700 will nonetheless run daily apps and even technically-demanding games like PUBG at standard settings. Buyers can choose to upgrade to the 8GB RAM model if they want a speedier and smoother app-running and switching experience. In terms of battery life, the Redmi Note 10 5G’s large 5,000mAh battery is really impressive. The phone can easily handle 8 hours of regular screen time and app usage. This number goes down for those who play video games, but for the average user who just uses their phone for everyday browsing and social media, it could easily last for up to two days without charging.
Tech Specs
- OS MIUI 12
- 4GB RAM + 128GB or 8GB RAM + 128GB
- 5,000mAh battery that supports 18W wired charging
- 22.5W charger
- 5G
Verdict
The Redmi Note 10 5G is priced at PHP9,990 for the 4GB RAM and 128GB storage model, while the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage model retails for PHP11,490. A host of features we wish it had were sacrificed to be able to get this price point while also achieving 5G connectivity (which is still yet to improve in the Philippines due to 5G connectivity infancy). Overall, it’s a great phone to consider if you’re after an affordable yet classy-looking device with excellent battery life and decent gaming capabilities. Consider it even more if you’re a user looking for a bargain on 5G or are looking to future-proof your smartphone.
