Xiaomi Redmi 6 in 2026: Which option to choose? Full review with tests and recommendations

Xiaomi Redmi 6 is one of those smartphones that, despite its venerable age (model came out in 2018) is still found on store shelves and markets. But is it worth buying in 2026? This article will help you understand which modification of Redmi 6 to choose, what to look for when buying, and what pitfalls await the user 6 years after release.

We analyzed all existing versions of the device (including rare modifications for different regions), tested performance on current applications, compared with modern public sector and collected feedback from real owners. Spoiler: for everyday tasks, the smartphone is still able to serve, but only with the right choice of equipment and adjusted for outdated hardware and software.

If you’re looking for the cheapest phone for calls, instant messengers, and light games, this is for you, and if you’re looking at Redmi 6 as a temporary solution before buying a new smartphone, we’ll give you an idea of what alternatives to look for right now.

All Xiaomi Redmi 6 Versions: What's the Difference?

There are 4 major Redmi 6 modifications on the market, which differ not only in memory, but also in hardware features.

• 📱 Redmi 6 (3/32 GB) is the base version with MediaTek Helio P22, 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, the most common option in the secondary market.
• 📱 Redmi 6 (4/64 GB) is an improved trim with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of built-in memory. Rarely found in the new state.
• 📱 Redmi 6A (2/16 GB) is a simplified model with Helio A22, 2 GB of RAM and a 13 MP camera (instead of 12+5 MP in the standard version).
• 📱 Redmi 6 Pro is a "premium" modification with a 5.84 screen, a Snapdragon 625 processor and a dual main camera 12+5 MP.

Important: Redmi 6 Pro is often confused with Redmi Note 6 Pro - these are different devices! the first refers to the line of Redmi 6, and the second - to the Note series with more powerful "iron".

⚠️ Warning: The Redmi 6 Pro is often marketed as a regular Redmi 6. Check the model in settings along the Settings path → About Phone → Model. The real Pro is labeled M1805D1SE or M1805D1ST.

2. Technical specifications: what will stand in 2026?

Let's be honest: by modern standards, Redmi 6 is an outdated device, but outdated doesn't always mean "unusable."

• 🎮 Games: PUBG Mobile runs at minimum settings from FPS ~20–25, Call of Duty: Mobile runs with lags. Lightweight games like Brawl Stars or Clash Royale run smoothly.
• 📸 Camera: The 12MP core module is acceptable during the day, but there's a lot of noise at dusk. The 5MP frontal is only suitable for video calls.
• 🔋 Autonomy: A 3000 mAh battery, when used actively, sits down in 6-8 hours. Standby mode lasts 1.5-2 days.
• 📱 Performance: Helio P22 (12 nm) is weaker than the Snapdragon 430 in the same Redmi 5. AnTuTu 9 scores ~70,000 (compared to 2020 Redmi 9A ~100,000).

The main problem is software support. The latest official firmware is MIUI 12, which is based on Android 9.

• ❌ No security updates since 2021.
• ❌ Many apps (e.g. banking) require Android 10+ and may not be installed.
• ❌ Customized firmware (such as LineageOS) exists, but installing it requires unlocking the bootloader and risks “bricking” the device.

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If you are critically important to relevant applications (for example, Sberbank Online or Tinkoff), before buying, check the compatibility of a particular version of the application with Android 9 on the developer’s website.

3.Pros and cons of Xiaomi Redmi 6 in 2026

So, to be clear, we're going to put all the advantages and disadvantages in one section, and we're going to start with the pros, there are fewer of them, but there are:

• ✅ Price: In the secondary market you can find for 3000-5000 ₽For a backup phone or a first smartphone, a child is an option.
• ✅ Repairability: Spare parts (screen, battery, cameras) are cheap and widely available. The replacement will cost ~1 500 ₽.
• ✅ Compactness: There is a power adapter 5V/2A in the box (rare for public sector 2026 year).
• ✅ 3.5mm connector: For audiophiles or those who use wired headphones.

Now on to the minuses - and there are much more:

• ❌ Outdated CPU: Helio P22 slows down even in Chrome when you open 5+ tabs. There is almost no multitasking.
• ❌ Little memory: In the 3/32 version, GB remains ~20 GB after installing system applications. Many games weigh 1–2 GB.
• ❌ No NFC and USB-C: Contactless payments and fast charging are not available.
• ❌ Weak speaker: The maximum volume is 75 dB (Redmi 9A has 85 dB). Noisy environments are hard to hear.
• ❌ Problem with GPS: The MT6762 module is not good at catching satellites in the city. It's not good for a navigator.

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If your budget is limited to 5,000 ₽, consider Redmi 9A (2020) or Poco C31 (2021) — they are only 1,000-1,500 ₽ more expensive, but 1.5-2 times more productive.

4.What to look for when buying a used one?

Buying a new Redmi 6 in 2026 is pointless – official sales have long ceased, and the remaining copies are in warehouses at an inflated price.

Pay particular attention to the following points:

• 🔋 Battery: Lithium-ion batteries last 2-3 years. If the smartphone was in active use, the capacity could drop to 60-70% of the face value. Check at AccuBattery or through the engineering menu (#4636###).
• 📶 Network: Redmi 6 only supports 4G LTE Cat.4 (up to 150 Mbps).
• 🛠️ Repair: If the device has been in service, check if the parts are original.Fake screens often have the worst color reproduction and sensitivity.

⚠️ Warning: Avito and similar venues often sell Redmi 6s marked "as new." You can check this from the back: a truly new device has no scratches on the camera and logo, and the factory packaging has intact seals.

5.Alternatives: What is better to buy instead of Redmi 6?

If your budget is tight but you don’t want to put up with outdated hardware, consider these options:

If you need a smartphone exclusively for calls and instant messengers, and the budget is extremely limited, you can consider:

• 📱 Nokia 105 4G (2,500 ₽) is a caller with 4G VoLTE support and a monthly run time.
• 📱 BQ 2470 Magic (3,000 ₽) is the simplest Android Go smartphone with a 4,000 mAh battery.

6.How to extend the life of Xiaomi Redmi 6?

If you have already bought Redmi 6 or are planning to do so, a few tips will help make it more comfortable to use:

1. Reverse to MIUI 10: Some users note that the MIUI 12 is slower than the MIUI 10 on this device. You can find firmware on the 4PDA or XDA-Developers forums.
2. Use lightweight apps: 📧 Instead of Gmail, FairEmail. 🌐 Instead of Chrome, Bromite or Firefox Lite. 📷 Instead of Instagram, the web version is via browser.

Turn off the animation:

Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI

Developer Settings → The scale of animation

0.5x

Replace the battery:

Redmi 6

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To make room for your internal memory, transfer applications to the SD- card (if supported). Use Settings → Apps → Select an application → Storage → Change → Memory Map. Please note that not all programs support this functionality.

⚠️ Warning: Don't install custom firmware without experience! Incorrect firmware can cause the device to lose IMEI or "brick." If you do, follow the instructions with 4PDA and back up with TWRP.

7. Where to buy and at what price?

The new Redmi 6 is no longer available in the official stores, so we are only considering the secondary market.

• 🛒 Avito/Yula: Prices range from 3 000 to 6 000 ₽ The risk of running into an unscrupulous seller is high. Always check the device before you buy.
• 🛒 Yandex Market (used): It sells more trusted stores with a warranty of 7-14 days, prices are 10-15% higher than privately owned.
• 🛒 AliExpress: Sometimes you come across new (unpacked) Redmi 6s from China at the price of ~5,000-7000 ₽.
• 🛒 Local Groups in VK/Facebook: It is possible to find bargains, but without any buyer protection.

Average prices as of June 2026:

• Redmi 6 (3/32 GB, boo, good condition) — 3 500—5 000 ₽.
• Redmi 6 (4/64 GB, boo) — 5 000—6 500 ₽.
• Redmi 6 Pro (4/64 GB, boo) — 6 000—8 000 ₽.
• Redmi 6A (2/16 GB, boo) — 2 500—4 000 ₽.

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If a seller asks for an advance payment or refuses to show the device in working order, it is 100% a fraud. Redmi 6 is not worth the risks that an unscrupulous seller takes.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Redmi 6