Xiaomi Redmi S2 price in 2026: where to buy cheaper and what to look for

Xiaomi Redmi S2 is a budget smartphone of 2018, which is still in demand due to the ratio of price and opportunity. However, it is not so easy to find it on sale today: the model has long been discontinued, and prices in the secondary market range from symbolic to overpriced. In this article, we will analyze how much the Redmi S2 really costs in 2026, where it can be bought, what to look for when choosing a used device and whether it is worth considering at all today.

The Redmi S2 (codename ysl) is not officially sold in new boxes, either hand-held or in reseller stores with leftover warehouses. Its current cost depends on the condition, configuration, region and even the color of the case. Below you will find a detailed price analysis, a comparison with competitors and a list of proven sites where you can find this smartphone.

Xiaomi Redmi S2: what affects the price

Before analyzing the cost, we recall the key technical parameters of the model that form its market price:

  • πŸ“± Screen: 5.99" HD+ (1440Γ—720), ratio 18:9, Corning Gorilla Glass (but not all versions).
  • πŸ”§ Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 (14 nm), 8 cores up to 2.0 GHz – reliable but outdated chip.
  • πŸ“Έ Camera: dual main (12 MP) + 5 MP) with phase autofocus and LED-flash; front 16 MP with soft flash.
  • πŸ”‹ Battery: 3080 Mach, support for fast charging Quick Charge 3.0 (but the adapter is usually complete 5V/2A).
  • πŸ’Ύ Memory: 3/32 GB 4/64 GB (both versions are available), microSD slot 256 GB.
  • πŸ“Ά Connection: 4G LTE (Band 1/3/5/7/8/20), Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2, IR-port (infrared transmitter).

Important: Redmi S2 came in three colors β€” rose gold, gray and gold. The latter two versions are usually cheaper by 5-10%, as pink was considered β€œlimited” and was in high demand.

The price is also affected by the region of sale: in Russia and Ukraine, the model was officially sold, and in Kazakhstan and Belarus, there were often β€œgray” deliveries, which can affect the warranty (which no longer exists) and support of the frequencies of mobile operators.

πŸ“Š Have you ever used Xiaomi Redmi? S2?
Yeah, that was my first smartphone.
Yeah, but I sold it a long time ago.
No, but I heard about the model.
No, I don't plan on.

How much is Xiaomi Redmi S2 in 2026: prices of new and used devices

Since the model is discontinued, all offers on the market are divided into two categories:

  1. New (unpacked) - residues in the warehouses of resellers or stores that have not sold their supplies. Such devices are extremely rare and are unreasonably expensive (up to 20-25,000 rubles), which does not correspond to the real value of the smartphone.
  2. B/w (with or after resellers) - the bulk of the offers. The price depends on the condition, availability of the box, the warranty card (already invalid) and the configuration.

Current prices for Redmi S2 in 2026 (according to Avito, Yula, OLX and specialized forums):

Status.Price (RF, β‚½)Price (Ukraine, β‚΄)Price (Kazakhstan, β‚Έ)Notes
New (sealed)18 000 – 25 00012 000 – 18 00090 000 – 120 000Unreasonably high price, it is better to consider analogues
B/u, "like new" (without scratches, with a box)6 000 – 9 0004 000 – 6 50030 000 – 45 000Best option if you need a spare phone
B/u, good (small scratches, no box)4 000 – 6 0002 500 – 4 00020 000 – 30 000The most common variant
B/u, satisfactory (scratches, rubbing, minor defects are possible)2 500 – 4 0001 500 – 2 50012 000 – 20 000Risk of hidden problems (battery, speaker)
Faulty (parts)1 000 – 2 000500 – 1 5005 000 – 10 000Suitable for repair or replacement of display/battery

⚠️ Note: Prices are indicated for the version 3/32 GB: Modification 4/64 GB could cost you 10–15% It's more expensive, but less common, and it's also influenced by firmware: devices with global reach. MIUI (without reference to China, usually more expensive 500–1000 ruble.

πŸ’‘

Before buying a used Redmi S2, be sure to check the IMEI on imei.info – this will help you avoid stolen or locked devices.

Where to buy Xiaomi Redmi S2 in 2026: proven sites

Finding this model takes patience, because it's been out of production for a long time. Here's where you can find the Redmi S2:

  • πŸ“± Avito/Yula / OLX β€” The main source of used devices, look for sellers with high ratings and reviews, filter the phrase "Redmi". S2 ys” (where ysl is the code name of the model).

⚠️ Avoid buying from sellers who:

  • 🚫 Refusing to show IMEI serial number.
  • 🚫 Claim that the phone is β€œlike new” but do not provide live photos (especially screen and body).
  • 🚫 Sell the device without the possibility of checking before payment (especially important for messengers such as Telegram).

Make sure IMEI is not blacklisted | Check all buttons and connectors | Evaluate battery status (uptime from 100%) | Check the camera for artifacts | Make sure the phone is not tied to your Xiaomi--> account

Should you buy Xiaomi Redmi S2 in 2026: pros and cons

The Redmi S2 in 2026 is a device for very limited tasks, and it's only worth considering in three cases:

  1. You need a spare phone for calls and instant messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp).
  2. You are looking for a cheap device for a child or elderly relatives.
  3. You need a donor platform for firmware experiments or repairs.

In all other cases, it is better to consider more modern budget models (for example, Redmi 9A or Poco C50).

Advantages of Redmi S2:

  • βœ… Reliable processor – Snapdragon 625 does not warm up and still pulls basic tasks.

Disadvantages:

  • ❌ The old slate is the last official MIUI 12 is based on Android 9. Many apps are no longer supported.
  • ❌ Weak screen - resolution HD+ 2026 looks archaic.
  • ❌ Battery problems – even when replacing the battery, the autonomy does not exceed 1 day.
  • ❌ No. NFC Type-C – MicroUSB and Outdated Communication Standards.

πŸ’‘

The Redmi S2 in 2026 is only suitable as a temporary solution or a spare phone. For everyday use, it is better to choose a model not older than 2020.

Xiaomi Redmi S2: What to buy instead

If you want a budget smartphone with similar specs, but more relevant, consider these models (prices are indicated for new devices):

ModelPrice (β‚½)AdvantagesDeficiencies
Redmi 9A (2020)7 000 – 9 000More modern processor (Helio G25), Android 10, big screen 6.53Weak camera, just 2/32GB in the base
Poco C50 (2022)8 000 – 10 000Helio G35 processor, Android 12, good autonomyPlastic case, no quick charging
Redmi A1+ (2022)6 000 – 8 000Pure Android Go, light firmware, NFCWeak processor (Helio A22), little memory
Samsung Galaxy A03 Core7 500 – 9 500Samsung brand, Android 11, good optimizationVery weak chipset (Unisoc SC9863A)

If you need a phone specifically with IR-port (for control equipment), then from modern models will suit Redmi 10A POCO M4 Pro – They also support an infrared transmitter.

Why is the Redmi S2 still in demand?
Despite its age, the model is popular due to three factors: 1. Easy repair β€” parts are cheap, schemes are open access. 2. Support for custom firmware β€” on the Redmi S2 it is easy to install LineageOS or Pixel Experience. 3. Nostalgia β€” for many it was the first Xiaomi smartphone, and they want to return it to memory.

How to check Xiaomi Redmi S2 before buying: Step-by-step instructions

If you still decide to buy Redmi S2, be sure to check it on this checklist:

  1. External examination: πŸ” Check the case for chips and cracks (especially around the cameras and connectors). πŸ” Make sure all buttons (Power, Volume) work clearly, without jamming. πŸ” Look at the screen for broken pixels (you can use the test on the Display Tester).
  2. Iron check: πŸ“ž Call your phone and check the microphone/speaker. πŸ“Έ Take a photo on the main and front camera - whether there is blurry or artifacts. πŸ”‹ Run a battery test (for example, through the AccuBattery app).
  3. Verification of the software part: πŸ”„ Make sure the phone is not tied to your Mi Account (request a reset before factory settings). πŸ”„ Check the version. MIUI in settings (Settings) β†’ The phone). πŸ”„ Run AnTuTu Benchmark – If the result is below 70,000, it’s possible the phone overheats or overclocks.

⚠️ Note: If the seller refuses to show the work IR-If you're using a port (infrared transmitter), it might mean it's faulty. Check it through the Mi Remote app, it should recognize the equipment (e.g. air conditioning or TV).

Frequent Xiaomi Redmi S2 problems and their solutions

Even if you buy a device in good condition, be prepared for the typical problems of this model:

  • πŸ”‹ Fast battery discharge - after 4-5 years of operation, the capacity drops to 60-70%. ~1 000–1 500 β‚½).
  • πŸ“΅ Poor reception of the network - especially in the version for China (some are missing) 4G-Solution: firmware for the global version MIUI.
  • πŸ”Š Quiet speaker -- over time, dust clogs the grille. Solution: cleaning with alcohol or replacing the speaker (~800 β‚½).
  • πŸ“± Hanging and lags - due to outdated iron and a new version MIUI. Solution: rollback MIUI 10 or installing custom firmware.
  • πŸ“· The artifacts in the photo -- over time, the camera matrix degrades. Solution: camera replacement (~1 200–1 800 β‚½).

If you're not ready to do the repair, consider a newer model, like the 2019 Redmi 8A, which is not much more expensive, but it's free of most of these problems.

πŸ’‘

Before buying Redmi S2, assess whether you are willing to spend an additional 1-2 thousand rubles for repairs (battery, speaker, camera).

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Redmi S2

❓ Can I install Android 11 or newer on Redmi? S2?
Officially, no, the latest version from Xiaomi β€” MIUI 12 is based on Android 9. However, there are informal firmware (like LineageOS 18.1) that port Android 11.Be aware that they may not work stable and will deprive you of some features (for example, they will not work well, IR-port).
❓ How much does it cost to replace the screen on Redmi? S2?
The cost of the original display with a touchscreen is about 2,500-3,500 β‚½ (Non-original screens can be found at 1,500 to 2,000 times a year. β‚½, But they often have the worst color reproduction. It's 1,000 to 1,500 times a service center to replace them. β‚½ additionally.
❓ Is Redmi a good fit? S2 play-off?
It can only run lightweight games like Brawl Stars, Clash Royale or Among Us at minimal settings. Modern projects like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile will slow down or not launch at all. For gaming, consider Poco X3 or Redmi Note 10.
❓ How to distinguish the original Redmi S2 fake?
The main features of the original: πŸ”Ή The box must have a hologram sticker with a serial number. πŸ”Ή In settings (Settings) β†’ For telephone) model M1803E6G (global version) or M1803E6T (China). πŸ”Ή When connected to a PC, it is defined as Qualcomm. HS-USB Diagnostics 900E. πŸ”Ή The back panel has the words "Designed by Xiaomi" (fakes often have typos) and fakes usually have a dimmer screen, poor build quality and "raw" firmware.
❓ Where to download the original firmware for Redmi S2?
The official firmware is available on MIUI Downloads. For the Redmi S2, choose the "ysl" model. The latest stable version is MIUI 12.5.2 (Android 9). Use the Mi Flash Tool or Recovery to install.