Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro: how many cameras and detailed analysis of the system

The question of how many cameras there are in the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is one of the most popular among users who view the smartphone as a budget solution for mobile photography. The answer is not as simple as it may seem, because the device is equipped with a complex quadro-modular system, complemented by front-facing optics. It is the combination of the number of sensors and software that makes this device a real hit in its price segment.

Xiaomi's developers have been betting on not only the number but also the variety of features of each lens, with five cameras in total: four on the back and a fifth embedded in the screen on top, which allows you to overlap almost every scenario, from macro insects to wide-angle landscapes.

In this article, we will take a look at the specifications of each module, explain why sensors are needed, and give practical tips for setting up. Understanding the features of optics will help you unlock the potential of the device and take professional-grade images using all available tools.

The main quadro camera: composition and characteristics

The back of the smartphone is occupied by a large unit that houses four independent modules, based on Samsung’s ISOCELL Bright GW1 sensor with a resolution of 64 megapixels, the world’s first commercial sensor of such resolution, which at the time of its release was a revolutionary step for the mid-range segment.

The second most important is a 120-degree, 8-megapixel wide-angle lens, which allows you to capture much more space, ideal for shooting architecture, interiors, or large groups of people in confined spaces.

The two remaining modules have a resolution of 2 megapixels each, one designed for macro photography, allowing you to focus on objects from a distance of only 2 cm, and the second serves as a depth sensor to create a bokeh effect in portrait mode.

  • πŸ“Έ Core module: 64 MP, f/1.8, pixel size 0.8 micron, PDAF.
  • πŸŒ„ Wide-angle: 8 MP, angle of view 120Β°, f/2.2.
  • 🐞 Macro-lens: 2 MP, f/2.4, focal length 2 centimeter.
  • πŸ‘€ Depth sensor: 2 MP, f/2.4, background-blurring.

It's worth noting that despite having four cameras, software often combines data from multiple sensors to improve the quality of the final image. For example, when shooting in low light, algorithms can use information from a wide-angle module to correct the colors of the main one.

⚠️ Attention: The Macro camera has a fixed focus, which means that to get a sharp shot, you need to physically bring the phone close to the object at a distance of about a distance. 2-3 See, the zooming in this mode does not work.

Front camera and portrait mode

When asked how many cameras there are in the Redmi Note 8 Pro, the front-facing module is a 20-megapixel sensor with an aperture of f/2.0. Despite its lower resolution than the main rear unit, this module is equipped with Beautify AI technology and supports night shooting.

The front camera is capable of recording video at 1080p at 30 frames per second. For selfie enthusiasts and video bloggers, the important aspect is the presence of a portrait mode that programmatically blurs the background, simulating the work of professional optics with a large aperture.

Artificial intelligence algorithms analyze scenes and define facial boundaries to apply retouching or blurring effects without affecting hair or clothing. However, artifacts can arise when lighting or moving in complex ways, so static posture often gives the best result.

πŸ“Š What type of photography is more important to you?
Main camera (64 MP)
Front camera (Selfie)
Wide-angle survey
Macrograph

Technical details of the Samsung GW1 sensor

The centerpiece of the photo system is the GW1 sensor, a key feature of which is Quad Bayer technology, which allows you to combine 4 neighboring pixels into one large pixel measuring 1.6 microns. In standard shooting mode, you get photos with a resolution of 16 megapixels with improved light sensitivity and reduced noise.

If you want maximum detail and you shoot in good light, you can activate 64 MP in the camera settings, in which each pixel works separately, allowing you to capture the smallest textures, which can then be viewed at a strong magnification.

The sensor supports phase autofocus (PDAF), which allows for fast and accurate focusing even on moving objects, which is critical for reporting or photographing children and animals.

How does Quad Bayer technology work?
Quad Bayer's technology assumes that the array consists of groups of 4 pixels of the same color. In normal mode, the signal from them is summed up, which increases sensitivity. In high-resolution mode, each pixel is read independently, giving maximum detail, but requiring more light.

Video capabilities and stabilization

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro can record video in 4K resolution (3840Γ—2160) at 30 frames per second. However, it is worth considering that when shooting in 4K, electronic stabilization (EIS) may work less efficiently than in 1080p mode, or may not be available in some versions of the firmware.

For everyday shooting, the best mode is 1080p at 60 frames per second, which allows smooth movement of objects and allows you to slow down video during editing without loss of quality. The wide-angle camera also supports video recording, but with less resolution.

In video settings, you can activate short video, timelapse and slow motion, each of which uses different image processing algorithms and may not use all available cameras at the same time.

Recording modePermissionFootage per secondStabilization
Standard.1920Γ—108030/60EIS (Electronic)
High detail3840Γ—2160 (4K)30Limited.
Slowed down.1280Γ—720120/240No.
timelapse1920Γ—1080Varying.There is.

⚠️ Attention: Recording video in 4K It loads the processor hard and heats the case. With long, high-resolution shooting, the camera app can automatically reduce the quality or stop recording to protect the device.

Shooting settings and modes

The camera interface in the MIUI shell offers a variety of tools for creative shooting. In addition to the standard Photo mode, there is a professional Pro mode, which allows you to manually adjust ISO, shutter speed, white balance and focus.

For beginners, there is an AI Camera mode that automatically detects the scene (food, sky, plants, documents) and selects the optimal colors and contrast. There is also a Night mode that takes several images with different exposures and combines them to reduce noise.

In the settings menu, you can find the option "Grid Lines" to build a composition according to the rule of thirds, as well as the scan function. QR-codes that are activated automatically when getting stuck on the code.

β˜‘οΈ Settings for the perfect photo

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Frequent problems and their solution

Users may experience a situation where one of the cameras does not start or produces a black screen, often solved by software resetting the camera settings. Go to Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Camera β†’ Memory and select Clear Data.

Another common problem is image jitter when shooting video. Make sure that the stabilization option is enabled in the settings. If the problem persists, you may need to update your firmware to the latest version via the About Phone β†’ System Update menu.

Sometimes the camera app may not work properly due to conflict with third-party apps that have access to the camera. Check the permission list in the privacy settings and disable access for suspicious programs.

πŸ’‘

Rub the camera lenses with a soft microfiber before each shot. Fat fingerprints are the main cause of blurred images and glare on which it is impossible to remove software.

πŸ’‘

The quality of the photo depends on the purity of optics and lighting, and only 30% on the number of megapixels.

Comparison with competitors and final conclusions

At the time of the Redmi Note 8 Pro’s release, it had one of the best cameras in its class, and the 64-megapixel sensor and ultra-wide-angle module put it above many competitors who offered only dual cameras or low-resolution sensors.

The main advantage is versatility: you can shoot a landscape, a macro photo of a beetle on a flower or a portrait with a blurred background using a single device. AI-camera.

Thus, answering the main question of the article: in Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro installed 5 cameras (4 main + 1 front), and each of them performs its unique function, making the smartphone a powerful tool for mobile photography.

Why is 16 MP in the gallery if the camera is 64 MP?
By default, Quad Bayer is enabled to improve low-light quality and reduce file weight. To shoot at full resolution 64 MP, you need to manually switch mode in the camera app.
Can I shoot all 4 cameras at the same time?
No, the standard camera app allows you to use only one module at a time (or the main + TV in zoom).However, there are third-party applications that allow you to record from multiple cameras at once, but they may require root rights.
Does the quality of the photo depend on the Android version?
Yes, image processing algorithms are often updated along with MIUI and Android versions. Newer firmware versions usually contain improvements for HDR and night mode.
Is there optical stabilization (OIS)?
The Redmi Note 8 Pro does not have optical stabilization (OIS) and uses only electronic stabilization (EIS) when shooting video, which can be noticeable when walking.