Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 is still one of the most talked-about budget smartphones of the brand, despite the release of newer models. Users are often interested in its technical characteristics, especially if they are planning to buy in the secondary market or compared with modern gadgets. The main question that is asked before buying is: how many inches of screen this phone has and how does it affect usability?
In this article, we will not only give you an accurate answer to the diagonal question, but also understand why the Redmi Note 5 with its 5.99-inch display is still relevant in 2026. You will learn how inches relate to the actual dimensions of the case, what screen technologies are used here, and how this parameter affects the choice of cases, protective glasses or even the perception of multimedia.
Spoiler: screen size is not just a number, it's a function of ergonomics, smartphone weight, even how convenient it is to play mobile games or watch videos, so let's get to the bottom of it!
Official data: the exact screen diagonal of Redmi Note 5 in inches and centimeters
According to the technical specification from Xiaomi, the Redmi Note 5 is equipped with a display with a diagonal of 5.99 inches. This figure is often rounded to 6 inches in marketing materials, but the official value is exactly 5.99.” For those who are used to operating a metric system, this is equivalent to 15.21 cm.
Interestingly, despite its nearly 6-inch screen, the Redmi Note 5’s body remains compact due to its minimal bezels on the sides (though they are still visible on the top and bottom), achieved by using an 18:9 aspect ratio, the so-called “extended” format that became the standard for smartphones in 2018.
It is important to understand that the screen diagonal is measured by the angular points of the matrix, not by the outer edges of the case. Therefore, the real dimensions of the phone will be larger: 158.5 × 75.45 × 8.05 mm. If you plan to buy a case or protective glass, be sure to check compatibility with this model - sometimes accessories manufacturers indicate the screen diagonal as 6", which can be misleading.
⚠️ Note: Some marketplaces (e.g. AliExpress or local marketplaces) may have a 6.0" instead of 5.99" diagonal in their product description.
Screen technology: what is hidden behind the diagonal 5.99
Screen size is just the tip of the iceberg, and it's much more important to understand what technology is used in the display, because brightness, color reproduction, and even battery life depend on it. 5 fixed IPS-resolution-matrix 2160 × 1080 pixels (Full) HD+). Here are the key features:
- 🔹 Pixel density (PPI): 403ppi — This is enough for a clear image without visible pixelation.
- 🔹 Brightness: up to 450 nits (according to tests), which ensures good readability in the sun.
- 🔹 Color gamut: 84% NTSC, It is close to the sRGB standard and provides natural color reproduction.
- 🔹 Protection: 2.5D-rounded glass with oleophobic coating (but without Gorilla Glass).
For comparison: modern smartphones are often equipped with AMOLED-screen-support HDR, but IPS Redmi Note 5 has its advantages - for example, more natural colors and the lack of the effect of "burning out" pixels, IPS-Matrices are usually cheaper to manufacture, which has a positive effect on the final price of the device.
Another nuance is automatic color temperature control, and in screen settings (Settings → Display → Color scheme), you can choose between Standard, Warm and Cold palettes, and you can also turn on reading mode, which reduces the blue component of light.
Comparison with other Xiaomi models: how 5.99 looks compared to competitors
To get a better idea of how big (or small) the Redmi Note 5’s screen is, let’s compare it to other popular models of the brand.
| Model | Diagonal (inches) | Relationship of parties | Permission | Type of matrix | Year of release |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 5 | 5.99 | 18:9 | 2160×1080 (FHD+) | IPS | 2018 |
| Redmi Note 4 | 5.5 | 16:9 | 1920×1080 (FHD) | IPS | 2017 |
| Redmi Note 8 Pro | 6.53 | 19.5:9 | 2340×1080 (FHD+) | IPS | 2019 |
| Poco X3 NFC | 6.67 | 20:9 | 2400×1080 (FHD+) | IPS | 2020 |
| Mi 11 Lite | 6.55 | 20:9 | 2400×1080 (FHD+) | AMOLED | 2021 |
As you can see from the table, the Redmi Note 5 is in between compact models (like the Redmi Note 4) and modern “longreaders” with a diagonal of 6.5” and above, and thanks to the 18:9 aspect ratio, it looks more modern than the classic 16:9 devices.
If you want one-handed operation, 5.99 is the maximum you can reach the top corner of the screen with your thumb (average hand size). X3 NFC 6.67 is already problematic without an interception.
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The Redmi Note 5 is one of the latest ~6 smartphones to be used with one hand. Current models with 6.5+ screens already require adaptation or use of a second hand.
How the screen diagonal affects the choice of accessories
Knowing the exact diagonal of the screen is critical when buying accessories.
- 📱 Security: Look for options marked "for Redmi Note 5 5.99" Universal "6.0" glasses may not fit due to a difference of 0.01 inches and the shape of the notches under the speaker / camera.
- 👛 Cases: Most manufacturers indicate compatibility by model, but if you take a universal case, focus on the dimensions 158.5 × 75.45 mm.
- 🔋 Power Bank: For a comfortable viewing of video from an external battery, keep in mind that 5.99 is a boundary size at which you can still do without a stand.
- 🎮 Gamepads: If you plan to play with an external controller, check if it supports a wide mount for smartphones ~75 mm.
Pay special attention to protective glasses with a 2.5D-edge. Redmi Note 5 screen has rounded edges, so the glass must repeat this shape. Cheap "flat" glasses can peel off at the edges or interfere with the fingerprint sensor (if it is located on the back).
⚠️ Warning: When buying accessories on AliExpress or other sites, read reviews carefully. Often sellers indicate compatibility with the Redmi Note 5 Pro (Indian version), which has the same 5.99" but a different rear design and camera location. This can lead to a mismatch of notches! The exact name of the model (Note 5 vs Note 5 Pro)| Screen size (5.99" or 15.21 cm)| The shape of the cutouts (camera, speaker, sensor)| Presence 2.5D-glazing| Compatibility with wireless charging (if used) --> Ergonomics: Is it convenient to use a smartphone with a screen 5.99" in 2026? in the era of smartphones with diagonals 6.7" and larger Redmi Note 5 may seem compact. But is it really? Let's get to the bottom of it: the pros of a 5.99-inch screen: ✅ It is convenient to hold in one hand (weighing only 181 g). ✅ It is easy to reach the top corner of the screen with your thumb. ✅ Compact to modern shovels - fits in a pocket of jeans: ❌ Black fields remain for YouTube videos (most content is optimized for 16:9 or 21:9). ❌ The game interface may seem “close” compared to 6.5"+ display. ❌ Less room for multitasking (separate screen works, but not as convenient as on large displays). To be objective, we tested: tried typing a long message in Telegram with one hand on Redmi Note 5 and Poco. X3 NFC (6.67) Result: Note 5 did it without errors and interceptions, while Poco X3 You had to adjust or use your second hand. Conclusion: 5.99" is the optimal balance between convenience and multimedia? If you are in doubt whether the screen size will suit you, take a ruler and draw a rectangle on paper. 158.5 × 75.45 mm (body dimensions of Redmi Note) 5). Cut it out and hold it in your hand, and you can see how comfortable it is to use your smartphone, and you can also visit an offline store and compare it to other models live. 5 There are many myths surrounding this smartphone, related to screen size. 1: "6 Inches is too little for modern games. Reality: Most mobile games (e.g., mobile games, PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty, Genshin Impact (CDD) adapted for screens 5.5" before 6.5". On the Redmi Note. 5 They are running without any problems, thanks to the full HD+ So, the resolution is that the image is still clear. 6.7"-The display details are better seen, but the difference is not critical. Myth 2: "IPS-worse AMOLED in all respects." Reality: AMOLED It has a deeper black color and a higher contrast, but IPS It's a natural color reproduction, and it doesn't have a burnout effect, IPS-Redmi Note 5's are less prone to long-term yellow spots. Myth 3: 5.99 and 6.0 are the same thing. The difference of 0.01 inches (0.025 cm) seems small, but in the manufacture of accessories, even such an error is enough that the glass or case does not fit perfectly. Always specify the exact model! Myth 4: "A smartphone with such a screen is already outdated." Reality: Redmi Note 5 still supports most modern applications and even Android 11 (through custom firmware. 💡If you buy a Redmi Note 5 in the secondary market, be sure to check the screen for broken pixels. To do this, download the Screen Test app and run a test for uniform colors (red, green, blue, black. FAQ: Answers to popular questions about the screen Redmi Note 5 Can you replace the screen on the Redmi Note 5 AMOLED? Technically possible, but not appropriate. AMOLED-The arrays for this model are not mass-produced, and adapting the screen from another smartphone will require flashing and can lead to problems with color reproduction or sensor, the cost of such a replacement often exceeds the price of the phone itself in the secondary market. Why do some reviews say that the screen is 6.0" rather than 5.99?" This is marketing rounding. Manufacturers often simplify the numbers for ease of perception (e.g. 5.99" → 6.0"). Xiaomi's official spec spec spec spec spec specs 5.99. Which case is best for Redmi Note 5, given the screen size: 👛 Thin bumper (for example, from Spigen or Ringke) – retains compactness. 👛 Magnetic-mounted cover book (convenient for watching video). 👛 Silicone case with anti-slip coating (if you hold your phone in your hand often). Avoid cases with thick sideways - they can interfere with swipes around the edges of the screen. Is the Redmi Note 5 suitable for watching movies? Yes, but with caveats: 🎬 Most movies have a 21:9 or 16:9 aspect ratio, so the 18:9 screen will have black fields. 🎬 Full HD+ The resolution provides good detail, but the brightness (450 nits) may not be enough in bright sunlight. 🎬 For comfortable viewing, it is recommended to use headphones - the speaker on the Redmi Note 5 is monophonic and located on the bottom edge. If you are interested in theatrical experience, consider models with AMOLED-screens and stereo speakers (e.g. Redmi Note) 10 Pro. How to check the actual size of the screen if the seller is not providing accurate data? Take a ruler and measure the diagonal of the visible area of the screen (angular to angle, not including frames). 2.54. For example: If the diagonal of measurements = 15.1 centimeter → 15.1 / 2.54 ≈ 5.94" (nearer to the stated 5.99" You can also use applications like Screen Ruler to measure accurately.