Why is the Redmi 4A still relevant?
The Xiaomi Redmi 4A, launched in 2017, has become one of the most popular budget smartphones thanks to its combination of price and performance. Even after 7 years, the device continues to be used by millions of users - especially as a spare phone, a gadget for elderly relatives or a workhorse for calls and instant messengers.
In this article, we will discuss practical ways to improve the Redmi 4A without buying a new device, from basic system settings to deep firmware optimization. All methods are tested on current versions of MIUI and adapted to the limited specifications of the model (Snapdragon 425 processor, 2 GB of RAM, 16/32 GB of memory).
Before you start making changes, answer the question: what exactly is wrong with your phone? This will help you focus on the right sections of the article.
1. Cleaning the system: remove garbage and unnecessary applications
The first step to improvement is to free up internal memory and RAM. On the Redmi 4A, with 16GB of storage, even 5-6GB of free space can critically impact performance. Start with built-in tools:
- 🧹 Cache Clearing: Go to Settings → Warehouse → You can clean it up here. 1-2 GB temporary files (application cache, update residues).
- 🗑️ Remove duplicates: Use Files by Google (free in Play Market) to find repetitive photos, videos and documents.
- 🚫 Deactivation of system applications: through Settings → Annexes → All apps disable unnecessary services (e.g. Mi Video, Mi Music, if you don't use them).
Pay special attention to app autoload. Many instant messengers and social networks (e.g. Facebook, VK) start when you turn on your phone and consume RAM in the background. Turn off autorun for unnecessary programs in Settings → Permissions → Autorun.
Remove the cache in the storage settings|Check the “Downloads” folder for unnecessary files|Turn off autostart for 3+ applications|Remove or archive old photos/videos|Virus Checking (via Google Play Protect)-->
⚠️ Note: Do not remove system applications with superuser rights (root) without understanding the consequences. MIUI through OTA or failures of the communication module.
2. Performance optimization: settings to accelerate
Snapdragon 425 and 2 GB of RAM is a weak spot for Redmi 4A. To reduce lags, use the following techniques:
- ⚡ Enable Performance Mode: Go to Settings → Battery and performance → Performance mode and select "High Performance." This will turn off some of the background optimization.
- 🎯 Turn off animation: activate Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI (Press 7 times to enable Developer Mode, then in Settings → Additionally. → For developers, set: The scale of the window animation: 0.5x Scale of transition animation: 0.5x Duration of the animator: Off.
- 🔄 Reset to factory settings: if the phone is severely braking, reset via Settings → Additionally. → Recovery and reset. Pre-save the data!
For additional acceleration, install a lightweight launcher (like Nova Launcher or Lawnchair) and discard live wallpaper. It is also recommended to use Lite versions of applications (like Facebook Lite, Messenger Lite), which consume less resources.
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If your phone still slows down when you open your camera or games after optimizing, try turning off Miui Optimization in the developer settings, which can increase FPS in games by 10-15%.
| Parameter | Default value | Recommended value | The effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scale of animation | 1x | 0.5x or off. | Accelerate application opening by 20-30% |
| Background processes | Standard constraint | Limit to 2-3 processes | Reducing RAM consumption by 15-20% |
| GPU-acceleration | Disconnected. | Included (in the developer settings) | Smoothness of the interface in games |
| Performance mode | Balanced | High productivity | Increase in CPU clock frequency |
3. Firmware update: MIUI or caste?
Official support for the Redmi 4A ended in 2020, but the device can be upgraded to current MIUI versions or installed custom firmware.
- 🔄 Official. MIUI: last-stable — MIUI 12.5 (Android 9) Update available via Settings → System updates: Advantages: stability, support for banking applications.
- 🛠️ Custom firmware: for example, LineageOS 16 (Android 9) or HavocOS (Android 10). Requires unlocking the bootloader and installing via TWRP.
- ⚠️ Firmware from third-party developers: for example, MIUI Pro or Xiaomi.eu. may contain additional features, but the risk of bugs is higher.
To install custom firmware, follow the steps:
- Unlock the bootloader via Mi Unlock Tool (requires a Xiaomi account and wait 72 hours).
- Install TWRP Recovery for Redmi 4A (version 3.5.2+).
- Download the firmware (for example, from the 4PDA forum) and run through TWRP with a full Wipe (Wipe → Format Data).
Risks of custom firmware
⚠️ Attention: On Redmi 4A s 16 GB of memory custom firmware can take up to 4-5 GB, leaving little space for applications. Check storage requirements before installation.
4.Improving autonomy: how to extend battery life
The 3120 mAh battery on the Redmi 4A wears out in 3-4 years of active use.
- 🔋 Battery calibration: discharge the phone before turning off, then charge to 100% No interruption. 2-3 once.
- ⚡ Charging optimization: Use the original adapter (5V/1A) Avoid fast charging, which accelerates battery degradation.
- 🌙 Dark subject. + AOD: Include a dark theme in Settings → Screen. → Dark theme and turn off Always On Display if you have one.
- 📵 Background activity management: limit synchronization for unnecessary applications in Settings → Battery. → Optimizing the battery.
To diagnose the condition of the battery, use the AccuBattery application. If the capacity has fallen below 60% of the nominal (less than 1800 mAh), consider replacing the battery. The cost of the original module is about 1000-1500 rubles, replacing it takes 20-30 minutes.
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The most effective way to extend autonomy is to turn off automatic sync for email and social media, which can increase uptime by 25-30%.
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Quick discharge on standby | Background activity of applications | Disable autosynchronization in Settings → Accounts |
| The phone is turned off at 15-20% | Battery wear and tear | Calibration or battery replacement |
| Overheating during charging | Use of non-original RMS | Charge only with the original adapter |
| Fast discharge in games | High load on CPU/GPU | Reduce graphics in games or use a cooling stand |
5.Camera Optimization: How to Make a Photo Better
The main camera Redmi 4A (13 MP, f/2.2) does not show up well in low light conditions, but with the right settings, you can improve the quality of pictures:
- 📸 Use GCam: Install a modified version of Google Camera (e.g., GCam 7.3 from the Google Camera). BSG). This will add Night Sight modes and HDR+.
- ⚙️ Standard application settings: Resolution: 13 MP (4:3) HDR: Included (only in good lighting) Contrast: +10% Saturation: +5%
- 🎥 Video: Use Open Camera to stabilize with Stabilization option enabled.
For the dark:
- Use a tripod or a stop for the phone.
- In GCam, activate Night Sight and set the shutter speed of 3-5 seconds.
- Avoid digital zoom, and get closer to the object.
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Before shooting, wipe the camera lens with a dry napkin. On the Redmi 4A, it quickly gets dirty because of the protruding lens, leading to blurred images.
6. Memory expansion: flash drives and cloud storage
The 16GB of internal storage on the Redmi 4A fills up quickly, especially if you're shooting videos or installing games.
- 💾 MicroSD card: phone supports cards up to 256GB (recommended SanDisk Ultra or Samsung) EVO). Format it as internal storage in Settings → Warehouse.
- ☁️ Cloud services: Google Photos (free 15 GB), Yandex.Disk (10 GB) or Mi Cloud (5 GB.
- 🔄 Application portability: some programs (for example, messengers) can be transferred to SD-Map through Settings → Annexes → [Select an application] → Warehouse → Change.
Important: When formatting a MicroSD as internal storage, it will be encrypted and not readable on other devices, and not all applications support card transfer (especially cache games).
⚠️ Cheap MicroSD cards (especially without a class) A1 or A2) They can slow down your phone when used as internal storage.
7. Repair and upgrade: what can be replaced yourself
If the software methods don't work, consider hardware improvements. Redmi 4A can replace:
- 🔋 Battery: the original module BM47 (3120 mAh) or analogue with a capacity of up to 4000 mAh (for example, Baseus).
- 📱 Screen: a complete replacement of the display with touchscreen is worth 2000-3000 Replacement will require a hair dryer and plastic blades.
- 📶 Antenna module: If the network signal deteriorates, check the antenna contacts (a common problem after falls).
- 🔊 Microphone/Speaker: Replacement is 10-15 minute, detail's worth it. 200-500 ruble.
Use specialised screwdriver sets (e.g. iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit) to replace parts and watch for plumes that are fragile. If you are not sure about your abilities, contact the service center (the average cost of replacing the battery is 1000-1500 rubles).
How to verify the authenticity of the battery
8.Alternative ways to use Redmi 4A
If the phone is outdated for everyday tasks, it can be adapted to other needs:
- 🎮 Game console: install emulators (RetroArch, PPSSPP) And connect the gamepad to Bluetooth.
- 📺 Media player: use as a portable player with a 256 GB memory card: VLC, Kodi.
- 🏠 Smart home: turn into a control panel for Xiaomi Home or Google Home (install Home Assistant).
- 📡 Backup router: with the Portable Hotspot app, distribute the Internet to other devices.
- 📷 IP-camera: install IP Webcam and use your phone for video surveillance.
For these purposes, it is recommended to install lightweight firmware (for example, LineageOS without GApps) and disable all background processes.
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Redmi 4A is a “cheap server” because of its OTG support and low power consumption, such as deploying a Pi-hole to block ads on your home network.