Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is still a popular choice thanks to the powerful processor Mediatek Helio G90T, But even it eventually starts to slow down, and there are many reasons, from memory clogs to unoptimized firmware. In this article, we'll look at 10 proven ways to speed up a smartphone, from simple settings. MIUI radical measures such as changing firmware or upgrading iron.
It is important to understand: Redmi Note 8 Pro doesn't support official Android updates above 11-But that doesn't mean that it can't be optimized. We're going to look at the methods that work on the system. MIUI 12/13/14 (And there's custom firmware, and there's hardware tricks that few people know about, and if your phone has gotten slower after an upgrade or just over time, here's the solution.
Spoiler: Some methods require root rights or unlocking the bootloader, but most methods are available without the risk of losing the warranty. Let's start with the simplest and gradually move on to advanced techniques.
1. Cleaning the system: remove garbage and cache
The first thing to do is to free up space in memory and delete unnecessary files.The Redmi Note 8 Pro often slows down due to overcrowded storage, especially if the 64GB version is used. MIUI It has built-in cleaning tools, but they are not always effective.
Go to Settings. โ Warehouse โ Clean up and run the analysis:
- ๐๏ธ Cache of applications (especially social networks and instant messengers)
- ๐ Downloads (old) APK, images, documents)
- ๐ต Music and video in low resolution (if not needed)
- ๐ฑ Unnecessary applications (including system applications if root is available)
For deep cleaning, use third-party utilities like SD Maid or Files by Google, which will find duplicate files, residual data from deleted apps, and even Dalvik cache (if there is root). Once the Dalvik cache is cleared, it can take up to 5-10 minutes for the system to start up in the first place, which is normal.
โ ๏ธ Note: Do not delete files in folders /system, /vendor or /data/app manually without rooting permissions, which could lead to system failure.
2. MIUI optimization: disabling animations and background processes
Firmware MIUI It's known for its heavy interface, which consumes a lot of resources, and fortunately, most animations and background processes can be turned off.
First, reduce the animation time:
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings โ About Phone โ MIUI Version and tap 7 times.
- Back to Settings โ Additionally. โ For developers.
- Find the items: Window animation scale โ Disable the animation scale of the transition โ Disable the animator duration โ Disable
Next, limit the background processes:
- ๐ B Settings โ Annexes โ App management disable auto-start for unnecessary programs.
- ๐ซ B Settings โ Battery โ Select the mode setting "charge savings" (limits background activity).
- ๐ต B Settings โ Communications and networking โ Turn off the โAlways Active Mobile Internetโ (unless you use VoLTE).
These changes will make the interface more responsive immediately, and if you want to go further, install a launcher like Nova Launcher or Hyperion that runs faster than the standard one.
๐ก
To speed up the camera launch, turn off processing HDR In the camera app settings, this will reduce the opening time by 1-2 seconds.
3. Update of firmware: official and custom options
If your Redmi Note 8 Pro is running on the old version MIUI, The update could significantly improve performance: Official updates for this model stopped in 2022, but there are alternatives:
| Type of firmware | Advantages | Deficiencies | Complexity of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official. MIUI (last) | Stability, OTG support | An outdated version of Android (11) | โญ (through OTA) |
| Xiaomi.EU | No Advertising, Weekly Updates | No Google Pay, there are possible bugs | โญโญโญ (You need an unlocked bootloader) |
| Pixel Experience (Android 12/13) | Clean Android, Better Optimization | No branded features Xiaomi | โญโญโญโญ (root) |
| LineageOS | Long-term support, minimalism | Weak camera, no Game Turbo | โญโญโญโญ |
For custom firmware installation:
- Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool (you will have to wait 7-15 days).
- Install. TWRP Recovery for Redmi Note 8 Pro (version should support the MT6785).
- Make a backup through TWRP โ Backup (required!
- Sweep through firmware and GApps (if you need Google services).
โ ๏ธ Note: Custom firmware may not have data encryption (due to Mediatek restrictions), which means that when it is turned on, it is not possible to use the encryption. PIN-Solution: Turn off encryption in your settings or use a pattern lock.
How to check the compatibility of the firmware?
4. Overclocking and optimization of the processor (requires root)
Mediatek Helio G90T Redmi Note 8 Pro has hidden potential, and with root rights and KernelSU or Magisk kernels, you can use it:
- ๐ฅ Disperse CPU/GPU (before 2.05 GHz instead of standard 2.0 GHz).
- โก Optimize the task scheduler (e.g., install Perseus Kernel).
- ๐ Turn off thermal trottling (reduces lags when heated).
For acceleration:
- Install Magisk and Kernel Audiutor module.
- In the kernel settings, select governor โperformanceโ (for maximum performance) or โondemandโ (balance).
- Increase the maximum frequency CPU 50โ100 MHz (no more, otherwise overheating!).
- Turn off the thermal-engine (but watch the temperature!).
Warning: Overclocking shortens battery life and can lead to overheating.At temperatures above 65ยฐC processor will automatically reduce the frequency even if the thermal control is turned off. AIDA64 or CPU Monitor.
1. Make a data backup
2. check the temperature of the processor in simple (should be < 40ยฐC)
3.Install Magisk and Kernel Audiutor
Connect the cooling (fan or cooling stand)
5. Disable background applications-->
5. Memory optimization: increase RAM and swap
Redmi Note 8 Pro was produced with 6/8 GB of RAM, but even that may be lacking for modern gaming:
Method 1: Virtual memory (swap)
With root and Swap Enabler, you can create a swap file on internal memory or SD-The optimal size is 1-2 GB. This won't replace physical RAM, but it will help with multitasking.
Method 2: Optimizing the use of RAM
- ๐ B Settings โ Annexes โ App management disable Background Activity for unnecessary programs.
- ๐๏ธ Remove the โLightโ versions of apps (like Facebook Lite) โ they often consume more RAM due to poor optimization.
- ๐ง B Settings โ Additionally. โ For developers, limit processes in the background to โMaximum 2โ3ยป.
Method 3: Hardware upgrade (for advanced)
If you're ready to experiment, you can replace the RAM chip with a larger one (up to 12 GB), which requires soldering and is only suitable for advanced users: ~3-5 thousand rubles (with work).
โ ๏ธ Note: Use of swap on SD-grade-up A1/UHS-I It's better to use internal memory (but it will reduce the available space).
6.Cooling: Why Overheating Kills Performance
Helio G90T It's warmer than Snapdragon. It's warmer than 50.ยฐC processor starts trottling (reduced frequency), which leads to friezes:
Programmatic methods:
- โ๏ธ Install Coolify or CPU Cooler (works without root, but the effect is limited).
- ๐ฅ Turn off โPerformance Improvementโ in Settings โ Battery (this will reduce heating, but also productivity).
- ๐ฎ In games, use Balance Mode instead of Performance in Game Turbo.
Hardware methods:
- ๐ง Buy a cooling cover with a fan (such as Black Shark Cooler).
- ๐ง Replace the thermopast on the processor (requires disassembly).Best options: Arctic MX-4 Or the Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut.
- ๐ฑ Use your phone without a cover (especially when playing games).
Use the temperature checker to check the AIDA64 or ADB:
adb shell dumpsys thermalservice- 45.ยฐC: normal work.
- 45โ55ยฐC: light trottling begins.
- Above 60.ยฐC: Severe productivity decline (up to 30-40%).-->
7. Alternative launchers and lightweight firmware
If you do not want to change the firmware completely - install a lightweight launcher or a modified one. MIUI.
Best launchers for the Redmi Note 8 Pro:
- ๐ Nova Launcher (configurable, no lags)
- โก Hyperion Launcher (optimized for gaming)
- ๐ Lawnchair (Pure Android, Minimalism)
Modified firmware MIUI:
- ๐ง MIUI Mix (Bloatware removed, cache optimized)
- ๐จ MIUI Pro (additional performance settings)
- ๐ฅ MIUI Lite (simplified interface for weak devices)
For the installation of modified MIUI:
- Download the firmware from Xiaomi.eu or 4PDA.
- Flow through TWRP (without data, if the firmware is on the same database).
- Clear the Dalvik cache in TWRP post-installation.
These firmwares are often updated and devoid of unnecessary bloat (for example, Mi Video, Mi Music, GetApps).
8 Hardware upgrades: what can be improved physically
If software methods don't help, consider hardware upgrades. Redmi Note 8 Pro allows you to replace:
| Component | What can be improved | Cost (rupe) | The effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery | Replacement of 5000 mAh (original - 4500 mAh) | 1 500โ2 500 | +10-15% of the time of work |
| Storage | Replacement UFS 2.1 (original eMMC 5.1) | 3 000โ5 000 | Acceleration of reading/writing by 2-3 times |
| RAM | Adding a chip +4 GB (up to 12 GB) | 4 000โ6 000 | Best multitasking |
| 5G module | Installation of an external modem (unofficially) | 7 000โ10 000 | Support 5G, high battery consumption |
The most effective upgrade is to replace eMMC with UFS. This requires soldering, but the result is noticeable immediately: applications open faster, and the system stops โhangingโ when multitasking.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Replacing the drive or RAM cancels the warranty (if it is still valid) and requires experience in soldering BGA-Only refer to trusted craftsmen.