Xiaomi Redmi 8 and Redmi 8 Pro: what are the differences between the models and which one to choose?

Choosing between the Xiaomi Redmi 8 and Redmi 8 Pro in 2026 may seem trivial — both models are long gone, but they are still in demand in the secondary market. The main question is whether to overpay for the Pro version, or the basic model covers all needs. In this article, we will analyze the unique technical differences that directly affect the experience of use, not just dry numbers from the specifications.

Both models were released in 2019 as budget-friendly solutions with a focus on battery life and acceptable performance. However, the Redmi 8 Pro (also known as the Redmi Note 8 Pro in some regions) was positioned as an “improved” version with more powerful stuffing. But are these improvements critical 5 years after release? Let’s compare them on key parameters – from the processor to software chips, which are often overlooked.

1. Processor and performance: Snapdragon vs Helio G90T

The most fundamental difference is the chipset. Redmi 8 is equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon 439 (12 nm), while Redmi 8 Pro received Mediatek Helio G90T (12 nm).

• 📊 AnTuTu Benchmark: ~90,000 for Redmi 8 vs. ~280,000 for the Redmi 8 Pro (3 times faster!)
• 🎮 Games: Snapdragon 439 barely pulls PUBG Mobile is on low settings, and Helio G90T Can handle Call of Duty: Mobile on the medium.
• 🔄 Multitasking: Redmi 8 apps are often rebooted, Pro versions stay in the background longer.

But there's a caveat: the Helio G90T warms up more, especially when you're not a gamer, and the difference may not be noticeable -- both processors can handle social media, instant messengers, and YouTube. But for those who plan to play or edit video, the Redmi 8 Pro is a clear choice.

2. Screen: Size, resolution and image quality

Both models have IPS-matrix with a cutout for the front camera ("drop"), but there are differences:

The difference in resolution is noticeable to the naked eye: on Redmi 8, the text in the browser looks "grainy", and the application icons are less clear. Redmi 8 Pro offers more saturated colors and better viewing angles. However, there is almost no difference for watching 720p video (for example, in TikTok).

⚠️ Attention: On Redmi 8 At maximum brightness, the screen dims through 2-3 It's a little bit energy-efficient. 8 Pro, there's no problem.

3.Cameras: number ≠ quality

Here's a marketing ploy: Redmi 8 has a dual camera (12 MP + 2 MP for background blur), and Redmi 8 Pro - a quadruple (64 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP).

• 📸 The 64MP Pro version gives more detailed images in good light, but in the dark, both smartphones show weak results.
• 🌃 Night shooting: Redmi 8 Pro better copes with noise thanks to software processing, but do not expect miracles – it is not a flagship.
• 🎥 Video: Both models are shooting videos in 1080p@30fps, But the Pro version has fewer artifacts when moving.

If you're not a photographer, the difference will only be noticeable when you zoom in on your Instagram or your avito photos, both smartphones will work the same way.

4. Battery and charging: who lives longer?

Both models are equipped with 5,000 mAh batteries, but battery life is different:

• ⚡ Redmi 8: Up to 2 days with moderate use (Snapdragon 439 more energy efficient).
• ⚡ Redmi 8 Pro: 1.5 days due to voracious Helio G90T and brighter screen.
• ⚡ Fast charging: Both models support 18W, but the charger is complete only 10W (You'll have to buy it separately).

Paradoxically, the less efficient Redmi 8 keeps the charge longer. If you are critical to autonomy (like traveling frequently), the base model may be more profitable.

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To extend the battery life on the Redmi 8 Pro, turn off the “Autolight” and set a charge limit of up to 80% in the MIUI settings (Settings → Battery → Battery Settings).

5. Design and Ergonomics: Plastic vs Glass

The models are similar, but the materials are fundamentally different:

• 📱 Redmi 8: plastic back panel with texture "under glass", does not slide in the hand, but looks cheap.
• 📱 Redmi 8 Pro: Glass back (Gorilla Glass 5) with a gradient color, but collects prints and can break.
• 🔊 Speakers: Pro version of stereo speakers (bottom) + conversational, the basic - mono.

The glass case of the Redmi 8 Pro looks more premium, but requires a case. Plastic Redmi 8 is more practical – it can be dropped without consequences.

Memory and extension: eMMC vs UFS 2.1

This is one of the most underrated differences: Redmi 8 uses outdated eMMC 5.1 memory, and Redmi 8 Pro uses faster UFS 2.1.

• 📁 Download speed: Applications on the Pro version open to the 20-30% faster.
• 🖼️ File Transfer: Copying 1 GB of data takes ~20 seconds on the Pro and ~40 seconds on the base model.
• 💾 Card slot: Both models support microSD up to 512GB, but there is a hybrid slot (or second one) in the Redmi 8 Pro SIM, memory-card).

If you store a lot of files or you throw data around a lot, UFS 2.1 in the Pro version will save you time.

7.Software: MIUI and Updates

Both models originally ran on MIUI 10 (based on Android 9), but the update history is different:

• 🤖 Redmi 8: The latest official Android 10 (MIUI 12).
• 🤖 Redmi 8 Pro: Android 11 received (MIUI 12.5) and longer maintained.
• 🔄 Brush firmware: Both models can be flashed on LineageOS or Pixel Experience, but there are more options for the Pro version.

If you care about fresh Android features (such as split notifications or improved app permissions), the Redmi 8 Pro is a more future-proof solution, but both phones no longer receive official security updates.

⚠️ Note: Redmi 8 when installing custom firmware often breaks module NFC. The Redmi 8 Pro is not a problem.

8.Price on the secondary market in 2026

The cost of used models varies depending on the condition, but the average prices are as follows:

The price difference between the base version and the Pro version is ~30-40%. Should you overpay?

You need performance for games or video editing

You take pictures often and want 64 MPs.

You prefer Full. HD-screen

You are willing to accept less autonomy.

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If the answer is yes to 2 points, the Redmi 8 Pro is justified. Otherwise, the Redmi 8 offers the best price/quality ratio.

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In 2026, the Redmi 8 Pro makes sense to buy only for games or photography. For all other tasks, the base model is cheaper and more practical.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Redmi 8 redmi 8 Pro