Is Redmi Xiaomi or a separate brand?

When choosing a new smartphone, many people face confusion: is Redmi the same Xiaomi, but under a different name, or a completely independent brand? On forums and in stores, this question is constantly raised, especially when it comes to the price, quality or compatibility of accessories. On the one hand, logos and design of devices are often similar, on the other hand, price tags can differ by 1.5-2 times even similar in characteristics models.

In fact, Redmi is a sub-brand of Xiaomi, but with a unique positioning strategy that came into being as a response to the growing demand for budget but performance smartphones in 2013. Today, Redmi and Xiaomi complement each other: the former focus on accessibility and mass, the latter on premium chips and innovation. However, the line between them is blurred: some Redmi models are as powerful as Xiaomi’s flagships of two years ago, and the prices for accessories (cases, charging) for both brands are often identical.

In this article, we will discuss in detail: 1) How Xiaomi and Redmi have historically developed, and why they were separated. 2 Key differences in the target audience, pricing and technical solutions. 3) Can you use firmware, accessories and service centers Xiaomi for Redmi devices (and vice versa). 4 Which models of 2023-2026 are better to choose for different tasks - from budget gaming to photography.

1 Brand history: Why Xiaomi created Redmi

Xiaomi was founded in 2010 by Lei Jun with the mission of making high-tech devices available to the mass consumer. The first Xiaomi Mi 1 (2011) and Mi 2 (2012) smartphones already offered flagship specs at a price of 2-3 times lower than Samsung or Apple. However, by 2013, the company faced a dilemma: how to maintain the loyalty of users who wanted even cheaper devices without blurring the premium image of the main brand.

The solution came in the form of a sub-brand Redmi (short for Red Rice, which symbolizes availability).The first smartphone Redmi 1 (2013) cost only a few dollars. ~$130, but had a 4.7-inch HD-screen, 8MP camera and MediaTek processor MT6589T — The success was overwhelming: in its first year of sales, Redmi took 5 percent of the Chinese market, and by 2015, it had grown to 15 percent%.

Since then, the strategy has been divided:

• 📱 Xiaomi – flagship and premium series (Mi, Mix, Ultra), innovation (folding screens, underscreen cameras), high margin.
• 💰 Redmi - budget and mid-budget models (Note, Prime, A), mass market, minimum markup.
• ⚡ POCO (later allocated to a separate sub-brand) – smartphones for enthusiasts (high performance at a low price).

Fun fact: Until 2019, Redmi was officially considered part of Xiaomi, but then was spun off as an “independent brand” (although still owned by its parent company), a marketing ploy that allowed Redmi to compete with other low-cost brands (Realme, Infinix) on an equal footing, not associated with premium Xiaomi.

2. Key differences between Redmi and Xiaomi: price, iron, firmware

At first glance, the smartphones Redmi and Xiaomi are like twins: the same shell MIUI, And the difference is that, if you look at the same cameras, even boxes, sometimes they only have a logo, but if you dig deeper, you can see the difference:

Pricing and positioning

Redmi is always cheaper - but not because it's "worse." The brand saves on:

• 📦 Case materials: plastic instead of glass/metal (e.g. Redmi Note 12 vs Xiaomi) 12T).
• 🔋 Charging included: many Redmi models are sold without a power supply (especially in Europe).
• 📸 Cameras: cheaper sensors are used (e.g. Samsung) ISOCELL GW3 at Redmi vs Sony IMX766 Xiaomi).
• 🔄 Redmi gets updates 1-2 years less than the flagship Xiaomi.

But performance is not always critical. K60 Pro (2023) is equipped with the same processor Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 as the Xiaomi 13, but costs 30-40% cheaper (2K AMOLED 120 Hz vs. FHD+ AMOLED), cameras and wireless charging support.

Specifications: comparison table

Redmi often uses older versions of chips (e.g. Snapdragon 7)+ Gen 2 in Redmi K70 Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in Xiaomi 14, but optimized MIUI Eliminates productivity gaps in 80% of tasks.

Firmware and updates

Both brands work on MIUI, but:

• ✅ Xiaomi: 4-5 years of major Android updates, monthly security patches.
• ⚠️ Redmi: 2-3 years of updates, security patches once a quarter (for models below the Note-series).

⚠️ Note: Redmi A Series smartphones (e.g. Redmi) A2) Often only get 1 major Android update. If you want long-term support, choose models marked Note or K.

3. Compatibility: Can you use Xiaomi accessories and software for Redmi?

One of the most common questions: “I bought a Redmi Note 12, will fit it with a case from Xiaomi” 12T?» Or, "Can I flash Redmi with Xiaomi firmware for better performance.

Accessories: covers, chargers, headphones

Compatibility depends on the physical dimensions and protocols:

• 📱 Cases: Only suitable if the models have the same design and location of the buttons / cameras. 11T It is not suitable for the Redmi Note 11 Pro, despite the similar names.
• ⚡ Most Redmi and Xiaomi devices support Quick Charge 3.0/4.0, But the power can be limited to firmware. 12 Pro+ charge 120W, But from charging Xiaomi 13 Ultra (67W) will only take 33W.
• 🎧 Headphones: Wireless Xiaomi Buds or Redmi Buds compatible with any Android device, but chips like LDAC or LHDC They only work on Xiaomi flagships.

💡

Before buying a case, check the exact dimensions of the model on the GSMArena website. Even similarly named smartphones (for example, Redmi 10 and Xiaomi 10) can differ in size by 5-10 mm.

Firmware and modifications

Technically, firmware. MIUI Xiaomi and Redmi are based on the same code:

• 🔄 Official updates: Install firmware from Xiaomi on Redmi is impossible – this will lead to a brick (breakdown) of the device due to mismatch drivers.
• 🛠️ Custom firmware (e.g. LineageOS): You can install on both brands, but you need to unlock the bootloader).
• ⚠️ Regional versions: Firmware for Redmi from China (CN ROM) Not compatible with Xiaomi (Global) ROM) because of different modems.

⚠️ Note: Trying to flash Redmi Note 11 firmware from Xiaomi 11 Lite (even if they have the same Snapdragon processor) 732G) cause loss IMEI And the only way to recover is through a service center.

Service services

Xiaomi service centers officially serve both brands, but there are nuances:

• 🔧 Warranty: Valid regardless of brand, if the device is purchased from an authorized seller.
• 💸 Repair costs: Redmi parts are usually cheaper (like the screen for the Redmi Note 12 costs a lot of money) ~5 000 ₽, And for Xiaomi 12 — ~12 000 ₽).
• ⏳ Timeline: Redmi repairs often take less time due to greater availability of parts.

4. Which Redmi and Xiaomi models to choose in 2026?

The choice between Redmi and Xiaomi depends on budget and priorities, and below are the current recommendations for mid-2026, based on user reviews and testimonials.

4.1 Budget up to 20,000 ₽: maximum savings

In this segment, Redmi is the undisputed leader:

• 📱 Redmi 13C (~15 000 ₽): 6.74" 90 Hz, Helio G85, 50 MP camera, 5000 mAh battery – the best choice for basic tasks.
• 📸 Redmi Note 12 4G (~18 000 ₽): Snapdragon 685, AMOLED-48MP camera, perfect for daylight photography.

There are no alternatives from Xiaomi in this price range - the cheapest models (Xiaomi Civi 3) start from 25 000. ₽.

Average budget (20 000-40,000) ₽): balance of price and opportunity

Here comes the competition:

If you want to be more productive (games, multitasking) take the Redmi Note 13 Pro.+. If the design and camera are the priority, then Xiaomi 13 Lite.

Premium (from 50,000) ₽): flagships without compromise

Xiaomi dominates this segment, but Redmi offers interesting alternatives:

• 🏆 Xiaomi 14 (~80 000 ₽): Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, screen 2K 120Hz, Leica cameras, 90W The best flagship of the company.
• 🎮 Redmi K70 Pro (~60 000 ₽): Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 2K 120 Hz, 120W It's almost the same chipset, but it's 20,000 cheaper. ₽ (Worst cameras and lack of wireless charging).

💡

If you don’t need premium chips like wireless charging or branded Leica cameras, Redmi K70 Pro offers 90% of Xiaomi 14’s capabilities for half price.

5. Myths and Misconceptions About Redmi and Xiaomi

There are many myths surrounding the relationship between Redmi and Xiaomi, and let's look at the most common ones.

5.1.Redmi is just stripped down by Xiaomi

It's not always the case.

• 🔋 Redmi Note 11 Pro+ had 120W The Xiaomi 11 Lite is just a charging system. 33W.
• 📡 Redmi K50 Gaming was equipped with shoulder triggers and active cooling, which was not in any Xiaomi of the period.

Often Redmi is the first to get innovations that later appear in Xiaomi (for example, 200-MP camera or charging on the phone). 210W).

5.2. “Xiaomi is more reliable because it is more expensive”

Reliability depends not on the brand, but on a series of devices and operating conditions:

• ✅ Redmi Note 10 Pro (2021) still works for many users without lags, while Xiaomi Mi 10T In the same year, he suffered from overheating.
• ❌ Redmi 9A 2 GB of RAM starts to slow down after a year, while Xiaomi Mi A3 (With pure Android, it remains stable.

⚠️ Note: Redmi A Series models (e.g. Redmi) A1+) They often use eMMC memory instead of UFS, This slows down after 1-2 years. Check the type of storage before buying!

5.3. «MIUI Redmi and Xiaomi are different»

It's partly true. MIUI one, but:

• 📱 In Redmi, advertising banners are more common in system applications (they can be turned off in settings).
• 🔒 Xiaomi has some features (such as Super Wallpapers or some other features). AI Call Assistant is available only on flagships.
• 🔄 Redmi updates can be released 1-2 months later than Xiaomi of the same line.

6.The future of brands: what to expect from Redmi and Xiaomi?

Xiaomi’s strategy for 2026-2026 involves further division of brands.

• 🚀 Xiaomi will focus on: Foldable smartphones (Xiaomi) MIX Fold 4. AI features (e.g., generative camera photo mode) and the Xiaomi Home ecosystem).
• 📉 Redmi will focus on: Ultra-budget models (price below 10,000) ₽). Gamers' smartphones (Redmi) K80 Gaming with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and active cooling. Localization for emerging markets (India, Latin America).

Redmi is expected to switch to its own processors (Xiaomi Surge) by 2026, which will further reduce prices, and Xiaomi may launch the first smartphone with a subscreen front camera (the technology is already being tested in the future). MIX-series).

Your budget is up to 30,000. ₽ → Redmi Note 13 Pro or Redmi K70E

We need better cameras. → Xiaomi 13 Lite or Xiaomi Civi 3

Long-term support for updates is important → Xiaomi only (series) 13/14)

Looking for a gaming smartphone → Redmi K70 pro POCO F6 Pro

Want a premium design? → Xiaomi 14 or Xiaomi MIX Fold 3-->

FAQ: Frequent questions about Redmi and Xiaomi