Choosing between the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 and Redmi Note 3 Pro, it’s easy to get confused – the smartphones are almost identical, but the hood hides fundamental differences. Both models released in 2016 became legends of the budget segment, but the Pro version offers noticeable improvements that make it relevant even after 8 years. In this article, we will analyze the unique technical nuances that will help determine the choice in 2026 – from the processor to support for modern firmware.
It's important to understand that despite the similar design, the Redmi Note 3 Pro was originally marketed as the "premium" version of the base model. The difference is not just the hardware: the Pro version has a different cooling approach, different camera settings, and even memory options. If you plan to use your smartphone for gaming, video shooting or multitasking, these differences will be crucial. And if you just need a "caller" with a good battery, you may not have to overpay for the Pro.
1.CPU and performance: Snapdragon vs Helio
The main difference is the chipset. The base version of the Redmi Note 3 is equipped with Mediatek Helio X10 (MT6795) with 8 Cortex-A53 cores, while the Note 3 Pro received a Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 (4 Cortex-A72 cores + 4 Cortex-A53 cores).
- 🔥 Nana 30-40% higher performance in games and heavy applications in the Pro version (AnTuTu tests show a difference in the performance of the Pro version). ~50 000 score)
- 🎮 Snapdragon 650 supports OpenGL ES 3.1 and Vulkan, which is critical for modern games such as Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile.
- 🔋 Helio X10 warms up more when loaded - the Pro version has a better cooling system with a copper tube
- 📱 Snapdragon 650 has a built-in modem X8 LTE It has VoLTE support, which Helio doesn’t have. X10
For everyday tasks (social networks, YouTube, instant messengers), there is almost no difference, but if you plan to play or edit video, the Note 3 Pro will be more relevant even in 2026 thanks to better firmware optimization for Snapdragon.
2. RAM and multitasking
Both models offer options with 2/16 GB and 3/32 GB, but there is a nuance: Redmi Note 3 Pro was also released in the version with 4/64 GB (a rare modification for the Chinese market).
| Parameter | Redmi Note 3 | Redmi Note 3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Max. RAM. | 3 GB (LPDDR3) | 4 GB (LPDDR3) |
| RAM frequency | 800 MHz | 933 MHz |
| Number of background applications | ~10-12 | ~15-18 |
| Support for swap file | No. | Yeah (on custom firmware) |
In practice, the difference is noticeable when working with 10+ tabs in the browser or using Telegram, Instagram and Google Maps at the same time. Note 3 Pro less often “kills” background processes due to more efficient memory management in Snapdragon.
⚠️ Attention: Models with 2 GB RAM in 2026 It is considered morally obsolete, even MIUI 12 borrower ~1.5 GB out of the box. For a comfortable job, look for versions with 3-4 GB.
3.Camera: megapixels vs real quality
Officially, both models have a 16 MP main camera (Sony IMX298 or OmniVision OV16880 sensor) and a 5 MP frontal, but in fact the Note 3 Pro wins due to:
- 📸 Phase autofocus (PDAF) — Focuses more quickly on moving objects (important for children/animals)
- 🌓 Better processing HDR — less overlit areas in the photo in bright sun
- 🎥 Support for video recording in 4K@30fps (the basic version is maximum 1080p@30fps)
- 🔍 Wide dynamic range in the "Professional" mode (manual settings) ISO, extraction)
Examples of differences:
Redmi Note 3 (base):
Photos at night: heavy noise at ISO > 1600
Video: Artifacts in rapid movement
Serial shooting: up to 5 frames per second
Redmi Note 3 Pro:
Photos at night: acceptable quality up to ISO 3200
Video: Stabilization works better
Serial shooting: up to 10 frames per secondHow to check the originality of the camera?
Battery and Autonomy: Myths and Reality
Both models have a 4050 mAh non-removable battery, but there are key differences in power management:
- ⚡ Note 3 Pro supports Quick Charge 2.0 (up to 18 watts), while the base version is limited to 10 watts
- 🔋 Snapdragon 650 It has a more efficient power controller, 10-15% They work longer on standby
- 📉 Note. 3 (Helio X10) The problem of "sudden shutdown" is more common. 10-15% battery-wear
- 🔄 The Pro version is better optimized for working with MIUI — less background battery consumption
Autonomousity tests (screens with the same brightness, Wi-Fi is turned on):
| Script | Redmi Note 3 | Redmi Note 3 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Video playback (1080p) | ~12 hours | ~14 hours |
| Games (PUBG Mobile, medium settings) | ~4.5 hours | ~5.5 hours |
| Standby mode (2 SIM + Wi-Fi) | ~3 days | ~4 days |
⚠️ Attention: B 2026 The original batteries of both models are likely to be worn out when purchased. b/u Check the real capacity of your smartphone with AccuBattery – if less 3000 mAh, prepare for replacement.
5. Firmware support and relevance in 2026
Official MIUI support for both models ended in 2019 (the latest version is MIUI 11 based on Android 6.0).
- 🤖 More custom firmware (for example, LineageOS) 16/17.1, Pixel Experience thanks to the popularity of Snapdragon 650
- 🔓 The ability to unlock the bootloader through the official Mi Unlock Tool (Helio) X10 frequently problems)
- 📱 Google Camera (GCam) Ports Support HDR+ and Night Sight (on Helio) X10 GCam is working with failures)
- 🔄 Best compatibility with Magisk and Rooting Modules
To install custom firmware on the Note 3 Pro you will need:
Unlock the bootloader via Mi Unlock Tool| Download TWRP for kenzo (codename model)| Make backup via adb backup| Check the MIUI version (should be global)| Charge the battery at least 60%-->
The base version of the Note 3 (hennessy) has limited support for custom firmware due to Mediatek's closed source code. Most Android 10+ ports are malfunctioning.
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Before buying, check the model codename in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. If hennessy is the base version, kenzo is Pro.
6. Design and ergonomics: what is not noticeable in the photo
Externally, the smartphones are identical (metal case, 5.5" IPS-screen), but there are nuances:
- 📏 Note 3 Pro 2 grams heavier (164g vs 162g) due to copper cooling tube
- 🎨 The Pro version has a color variant Grey Space (the base only gold, silver, dark gray)
- 🔊 Note 3 Pro speaker 10% louder (measured at 100% volume in Sound Meter)
- 📶 The antenna lines on the back of the Pro version are thinner and less noticeable.
The screen of both models – Full HD (1920×1080) densely 403 ppi, but the Note 3 Pro is better color reproduction (coverage) 95% NTSC against 85% NTSC The difference is noticeable when viewed. HDR-content.
7.Price and relevance of purchase in 2026
In the secondary market (2026) prices are about the following:
- Redmi Note 3 (2/16 GB): 3 000–4 500 ₽
- Redmi Note 3 Pro (3/32 GB): 5 000–7 000 ₽
- Redmi Note 3 Pro (4/64 GB, rarely): 8 000–10 000 ₽
Should I buy these models today?
⚠️ Both models do not support modern standards: 5G Wi-Fi 6 - Bluetooth 4.1 maximum (issues with new headphones) - No official support for Android 10+ - The cameras do not have portrait mode and night mode at the level of modern smartphones.
The best buying scenarios:
Redmi Note 3: if you need the cheapest phone for calls and instant messengers (no games or photos).
Redmi Note 3 Pro: If you need relative performance for light games (Brawl Stars, Among Us) and the ability to install custom firmware.
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In 2026, the Redmi Note 3 Pro remains a more relevant model thanks to the Snapdragon 650, which is still supported by custom firmware enthusiasts.