Tag: Slim design

  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G

    Xiaomi positioned the Note 13 5G as the stylish entry model of its 2024 Note range, starting at Rs 16,999. The design is the main upgrade over the Note 12 5G: slimmer at under 8 mm, lighter at about 174 g, with thinner bezels around the 6.67-inch AMOLED panel. It keeps a headphone jack and IR blaster and adds IP54 dust and splash resistance.

    The Dimensity 6080 is a small step up from the outgoing Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, fine for social media, streaming and light games. The screen is the highlight, bright and smooth at 120 Hz. A 108 MP main camera takes sharp daylight photos, but low-light results are soft and the 8 MP ultrawide is average. The 5,000 mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day, recharged at 33 W.

    In early 2024 it competed with the Samsung Galaxy M34, Realme 12 5G, Lava's Agni 2 and Motorola's G54. The Moto G54 offered cleaner software and the Galaxy M34 a bigger battery, while the Note 13 5G wins on display quality and design. Gamers would be better served by the Poco X6 Neo or iQOO Z-series.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 16,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 6080
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras108 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, MIUI 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackYes
    Weight174.5 g
    ColoursArctic White, Prism Gold, Stealth Black

    What we like

    • Slim, light design with thin bezels
    • Bright 120 Hz AMOLED display
    • Headphone jack and IR blaster retained
    • IP54 protection

    What could be better

    • Average chip for gaming
    • 33 W charging only
    • Low-light photos are soft

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a light, good-looking budget phone with a quality screen for streaming and everyday apps.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme P2 Pro

    Realme's P2 Pro launched in September 2024 and moved the P-series upmarket with a curved display, a Qualcomm chipset and a larger battery. It was aimed at buyers in the 20,000 to 25,000 rupee range who were also considering the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion, Poco X6 Pro and Nothing Phone (2a). Its slim curved design gave it a more premium in-hand feel than the earlier P1.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED display at 120Hz is sharp and vivid, and the curved glass sides make the phone easy to hold. Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 delivers steady, efficient performance for everyday use and moderate gaming, though it trails the Poco X6 Pro's Dimensity 8300 Ultra in raw power. IP65 protection against water jets was a step up from the IP54 ratings common in this segment.

    The 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main camera with OIS takes balanced photos, and an 8 MP ultrawide adds flexibility. The 32 MP selfie camera is a strong point for video calls and social media. The 5,200 mAh battery with 80W charging is among the best combinations at this price. For buyers who prioritise battery, display and design over benchmark scores, it was a well-rounded option.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 21,999 (base variant)
    India launchSeptember 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP Sony LYT-600 main with OIS + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5200 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursEagle Grey, Parrot Green

    What we like

    • Curved AMOLED display feels premium
    • 5,200 mAh battery with 80W charging
    • IP65 water resistance
    • OIS main camera and 32 MP selfie camera

    What could be better

    • Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 is not a gaming chip
    • Curved edges can catch accidental touches
    • Ultrawide camera is average

    Who should buy it

    Mid-range buyers who value battery life and a slim curved design over raw performance.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (September 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.