If you’re hunting for a budget phone that still feels solid, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 often pops up. It’s been around a few years, but many people still ask if it can hold its own against newer models. Let’s break down the specs, performance, camera, and battery so you can decide if it’s the right pick for you.
The Redmi Note 8 sports a 6.3‑inch Full HD+ display with a 1080p resolution and a 19.5:9 aspect ratio. The screen is bright enough for indoor use and still readable under sunlight, thanks to its 403 ppi density. Design-wise, the phone uses a glass front and back with a plastic frame, giving it a premium look without the heavy feel of full‑glass phones. The rear camera module is placed in a square window on the top left, which makes it easy to recognize.
Under the hood you’ll find a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 processor paired with 3 GB or 4 GB of RAM, depending on the variant. Storage options range from 32 GB to 64 GB, and you can expand it via a microSD card up to 256 GB. For everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming, the chipset feels smooth enough. The phone runs MIUI on top of Android 9 Pie, although many users have updated to newer Android versions through custom ROMs.
When it comes to performance, the Snapdragon 665 handles most apps without hiccups. Games like PUBG Mobile run at medium settings, and you won’t notice lag on typical multitasking. The phone’s 4,000 mAh battery is its strong suit. With normal use, you can easily get a full day of screen‑on time, and the 10 W charger replenishes the battery in about two hours. Some users have reported that the battery lasts even longer when you enable the built‑in power‑saving modes.
The quad‑camera setup includes a 48 MP main sensor, an 8 MP ultra‑wide lens, a 2 MP macro lens, and a 2 MP depth sensor. Photos in good lighting look sharp, and the ultra‑wide lens captures more scenery for landscape shots. In low‑light situations, the camera does its best but you’ll see some noise; turning on the night mode helps a bit. The 13 MP front camera is decent for selfies and video calls, though it doesn’t compete with high‑end flagships.
Price is where the Redmi Note 8 shines. Even after a few years on the market, you can find it for under $150 in many regions, making it a solid budget pick. If you need a reliable phone for daily use, decent photos, and long battery life, the Note 8 still holds up. However, if you want the latest 5G connectivity or a higher refresh‑rate screen, you might look at newer models.
In short, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 offers a balanced mix of design, performance, and camera capability for its price tag. It’s a safe bet for anyone who wants a hassle‑free experience without breaking the bank.
