Xiaomi Redmi 5 has become an iconic model for the budget segment, marking the manufacturer’s transition to the 18:9 screen format. Many users are looking for information about how this device looks to distinguish it from newer versions or see if a particular case will suit it. Visually, the device looks modern even after years, maintaining strict lines and a minimalist approach to the design of the rear panel.
The look of the gadget is highly dependent on the chosen color, as different shades use different staining technologies. Metal body in gold, pink and black has a matte coating that collects almost no fingerprints. At the same time, silver and blue versions have a glossy shine, making the device more noticeable, but also more brands.
The dimensions of the model allow it to be comfortably used with one hand, which is rare in the era of “laptophone” screen size is 5.7 inches, but thanks to the elongated format, the width of the body remained convenient for palm coverage, a key feature that distinguishes it from its predecessors with 16:9 screens.
Materials of the body and tactile sensations
The design is based on an all-metal, non-collapsible case made of aluminum alloy. Xiaomi engineers have used micro-injection casting technology to achieve high strength at relatively low weight. To the touch, the metal feels cold and pleasant, and the processing of the edges does not leave a sense of sharp edges.
The top and bottom of the back cover are plastic antenna inserts. Unlike earlier Redmi models, where the antenna lines were pronounced, they are made in the form of thin strips, almost merging with the main color of the body, which gives the rear panel a more solid and premium look, hiding the technical need.
The front panel is completely covered with a protective glass that protrudes slightly above the screen frame, which protects the matrix from scratch when carried in your pocket with the keys, but you should be careful with the angles, because when they fall, they take the main blow, and the glass can crack.
The build quality of the device is high for its price segment, there are no backlashes between parts, and buttons do not stagger when pressed, and the density of all elements indicates a good fit of components in the factory.
⚠️ Warning: The metal casing degrades the radio signal, so the antenna areas are made of plastic. Do not glue these areas with metal stickers or foil, otherwise the quality of communication and operation. GPS may get worse.
Front panel and screen space
The front of the smartphone looks ascetic and functional. Most of the space is occupied by an 18:9 aspect ratio display, which gave the name of the Full Screen series. Above the screen is a conversation speaker, a proximity and light sensor, and a front-facing camera with a flash.
- 📸 The 5MP front camera is located in the center above the display and surrounded by an LED flash.
- 🔊 The conversational speaker has a classic oblong shape and is hidden under the grid.
- 🖱️ There is no mechanical Home button, navigation is carried out by screen buttons or swipes.
Under the screen is the "Mi" logo, which is laser engraving or printing, depending on the batch, and in some regions, versions without a logo on the front panel were sold, making their design even more minimalistic, and the black frame around the display ("frame" or "eybrow") is wide enough by modern standards, but was the standard for its time.
Brightness and colour reproduction IPS-They can read text comfortably even in bright sunlight, although the brightness margin may not be sufficient for use in direct rays of the midday sun. The viewing angles are excellent, the picture does not invert or fade when viewed from the side.
Location of ports and control buttons
The ergonomics of the device are designed to keep the main controls at hand. On the right side of the face is the button on and lock the screen. It has a clear, short stroke and a characteristic click, which makes it easy to feel it in your pocket.
On the left side is a combined tray for SIM-It's made of metal, it's snugly attached to the body, and you have to use a paper clip that comes in the box, or a thin needle to remove the tray, and it's important not to confuse the holes, because there's a noise-cancellation microphone next to the tray.
The bottom end is equipped with all the necessary connectors for everyday use, and it has a Micro-USB port for charging and data transfer, as well as a multimedia dynalo and main microphone. To the right of the charging port, you can see a 3.5 mm connector for wired headphones.
Lower end diagram (left to right):
Connector 3.5 mm | Microphone | Micro-USB port | DynamicsThe top face is completely free of any elements, which gives the device a complete look. The absence of unnecessary holes and buttons on the top also has a positive effect on the overall strength of the structure in case of accidental falls.
☑️ Checking the completeness when buying b/w
Rear panel and camera module
The back of the smartphone is devoid of protruding elements, except for the main camera unit. In the upper left corner, the main camera lens and LED flash are horizontally located, a design that became a hallmark of many Redmi models of the period.
Underneath the camera, in the center, is a circular fingerprint scanner, lightly recessed in the case, and has a metal ring that provides additional protection against scratches. The scanner works quickly and recognizes the finger even when the screen is off, allowing you to instantly unlock the device.
At the bottom of the back, closer to the center, is the logo "Mi" logo. In some versions, especially those designed for the Chinese market, the logo may be missing, which makes the design more austere. The metal surface has a rough texture that prevents slipping in the hand.
⚠️ Note: The fingerprint scanner on Redmi 5 doesn't have a separate glass lens, it's built directly into the button. When cleaning, don't use aggressive chemistry to avoid erasing the layer that reads the fingerprint.
Overall dimensions and weight of the device
Understanding the exact dimensions is not only necessary for ergonomics, but also for accessories. Covers and protective glass are created with millimeter tolerances in mind, so knowing the dimensions will help avoid mistakes when buying.
The smartphone has the following physical parameters:
| Parameter | Meaning | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| Height. | 151.8 mm | Standard for 5.7" screen |
| Width | 72.8 mm | Narrow hull for 18:9 |
| Thickness | 7.7 mm mm | Thin enough for the body |
| Weight. | 157 | Easy for many competitors |
Weight of 157 grams feels very light. With prolonged conversation or watching video, the hand almost never tires. The thickness of 7.7 mm allows the device to easily slide in the pocket of jeans without creating a characteristic "humpback".
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When buying a case, look for models labeled "Redmi 5 (5.7"), as cases from Redmi 5 Plus (6.0) will not fit due to the difference in dimensions.
Comparison of Redmi 5 and Redmi 5 Plus
Often users confuse the regular version of Redmi 5 with the Plus version. Despite the similar design, there are significant visual and tactile differences between the two. The Plus model has an increased screen diagonal of 6 inches and, accordingly, dimensions.
The main external difference lies in the arrangement of the elements on the rear panel. The older model has a fingerprint scanner and camera are vertical, not horizontal, as in the regular Redmi 5. In addition, the Plus version of the speaker on the rear panel is shifted lower, to the bottom of the body.
Also worth noting is the weight difference: the Redmi 5 Plus is 22 grams heavier (180 g vs. 157 g) that feels like when used.The body materials are identical, but because of the larger back cover area, the Plus version may seem more slippery in the hand without a case.
How to distinguish Redmi 5 from fake in appearance?
Frequently Asked Questions About Appearance
Does the Redmi 5 have a glass back cover?
Does the Mi logo light up on the front panel when notified?
Can I use Redmi 5 without a cover?
What color is the speaker on the back panel?
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The exterior of the Xiaomi Redmi 5 is characterized by an all-metal body, an 18:9 screen and a horizontal camera location, which makes it recognizable among budget models of 2017-2018.