Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 is one of the most popular smartphones in the budget segment, released in 2018. Despite its venerable age, the model is still in demand due to balanced performance, reliable hardware and affordable price. But before buying, many users wonder how much this device weighs? After all, the usability depends on the mass, especially if you are used to carrying a phone in your pocket or holding it with one hand.
In this article, we will not only give an accurate answer to the question of the weight of the Redmi Note. 5 in all its modifications (3/32 GB, 4/64 GB and global version, but also compare it with competitors – Samsung Galaxy A6, Honor 7X And then we'll look at how weight affects ergonomics, why manufacturers sometimes overstate that in specs, and what to do if your smartphone suddenly gets heavier over time. FAQ Answering the most frequent questions about weight and size of the device.
The official weight of Xiaomi Redmi Note 5: manufacturer data
According to the specifications published on the official website of Xiaomi, the weight of the Redmi Note 5 is 180 grams.
- 📱 Redmi Note 5 3/32 GB — 180 s
- 📱 Redmi Note 5 4/64 GB — 180 s
- 🌍 Redmi Note 5 Global (international) – 180g
Interestingly, the manufacturer does not divide the weight according to memory versions – this is logical, since the difference in mass between the 5.1 chips by 32 and 64 GB is minimal (literally fractions of a gram).
The fact is that weight can vary depending on:
- 🔋 Battery type – some batches are equipped with batteries from different suppliers (for example, ATL or Sunwoda, which affects the mass.
- 📶 Availability NFC — In the Chinese version, the module is missing, and in the global version it can be added. ~2-3 s.
- 🛠️ Build case – the thickness of the metal frame or adhesive layer between the screen and the back panel may vary slightly.
Redmi Note 5's weight comparisons to 2018 competitors
To see how heavy (or light) the Redmi Note 5 is, compare it to the main competitors in the budget segment at the time of release.
| Model | Weight (g) | Battery capacity (mAh) | Case material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 | 180 | 4000 | Metal + Plastic |
| Samsung Galaxy A6 (2018) | 162 | 3000 | Metal + glass |
| Honor 7X | 165 | 3340 | Metal |
| Nokia 6.1 | 172 | 3000 | Aluminum (all-metal) |
| Asus ZenFone Max Pro M1 | 180 | 5000 | Metal + Plastic |
As you can see from the table, the Redmi Note 5 is not the lightest smartphone in its class, but it is not out of the trend, and its weight is due to two key factors:
- Large battery – 4000 mAh against 3000-3,340 mAh competitors.
- Metal body – unlike the Galaxy A6, where the back panel is glass (and it is lighter than metal).
The Asus ZenFone Max Pro M1 weighs the same but has a battery of 1,000 mAh more, suggesting that Xiaomi could optimise weight using a thinner body or lighter materials. However, in 2018, the priority was not minimum weight, but reliability and battery life.
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The Redmi Note 5 is heavier than its competitors due to its large battery and metal body, but this is justified by better autonomy and durability.
How weight affects ergonomics: is it convenient to use?
180 grams is not as small as it might seem. For comparison: modern flagships like the iPhone 15 Pro weigh about 187 g, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 — 168 g. So the Redmi Note 5 is closer in weight to the top models than to public sector in 2023-2026. How does this affect convenience?
Weight plus 180g:
- 🔋 Confident retention – the smartphone does not seem “toy”, does not slip out of hand.
- 🛡️ Durability – metal body and solid weight reduce the risk of damage in a fall.
- 🔋 Large battery – the weight is justified by a capacity of 4000 mAh, which provides 1.5-2 days of operation.
Cons:
- 🤏 Hand fatigue – with prolonged retention (for example, while watching a video) may experience discomfort.
- 👖 A handicap in your pocket – if you wear a phone in tight jeans, it can “pull” the fabric down.
- 🎮 Difficulties in games – for gamers, weight can be critical for long sessions.
To check how much weight the Redmi Note 5 will suit you, try the following:
Take any object weighing 180g (such as a small bag of sugar)
Hold it in your hand for 5-10 minutes, simulating smartphone use
Try to “dial” SMS with one hand.
Put it in your pocket and walk for 10 minutes.-->
If you don’t feel uncomfortable after this test, the Redmi Note 5 will work for you, and if your arm is tired or the object seems heavy, consider lighter alternatives (e.g., the Redmi 5 weighs only 157 grams).
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If the smartphone seems heavy, use a case with a finger loop - this will reduce the load on the hand.
Why is the actual weight different from the official weight?
Many users, weighing Redmi Note 5 on the kitchen scale, are surprised: instead of the stated 180 g, the device shows 175-183 g.
Main factors:
- Libra error – household kitchen scales have an error of ± 5 g for accurate measurement, jewelry scales are needed.
- Set – if you weigh the phone with the installed SIM-The card and memory card are added ~1-2g.
- Factory deviations – as mentioned earlier, different batches may have minor differences in weight.
- Covers and films – even a thin silicone case adds 10-15 g, and glass screen protection – another 5-8 g.
In addition, some users confuse the weight of the package with the weight of the device itself. The Redmi Note 5 box weighs about 300-350 g (along with cable, charging and documentation).If you saw the number ~500 g on the label, it is the total weight of the kit, not the smartphone!
⚠️ Note: If your Redmi Note 5 weighs significantly more than 185g (e.g., 195-200g), this may indicate a fake or an unoriginal battery. IMEI via imei.info or contact the service center.
How to reduce the weight of a smartphone in everyday use?
Of course, the physical weight of the Redmi Note 5 isn't going to change, but you can make it subjectively seem lighter. Here are some proven ways to do this:
- 🧲 Use a magnetic holder – attach the phone to a metal surface (like in a car) or wear it on a lap belt.
- 🎒 Carry in a backpack/bag – if pockets are uncomfortable, use a small case on your belt.
- 🖥️ Connect wireless headphones - this will remove the excess weight of the wire in your pocket.
- 🔄 Optimize content – remove unnecessary files to reduce hand load when scrolling.
You can also modify the cover:
- Choose a case with a ribbed texture - it is better fixed in the hand.
- Use a neckline case (such as Ringke Fusion-X).
- Refuse heavy armored covers - they add up to 30-50 g.
If you play on your smartphone frequently, consider buying a mounted gamepad – this will spread the weight across both hands and reduce fatigue.
The myth of "heavy" smartphones
Frequent questions about the weight of Xiaomi Redmi Note 5
We have collected the most popular questions about the mass of Redmi Note 5 and gave them detailed answers.
❓ Does the Redmi Note 5 weigh more than the Redmi Note 4?
❓ Why my Redmi Note 5 has become heavier over time?
❓ How much weight does the Redmi Note 5 Pro have?
❓ Can you reduce weight by removing the back cover?
❓ How the weight of the Redmi Note 5 compares to modern smartphones?
Conclusion: Should you pay attention to weight when choosing?
The weight of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 at 180 grams is a trade-off between battery capacity, body strength and ergonomics. It won’t be a problem for most users, but if you’re used to ultra-light smartphones (like the iPhone 12 mini weighs 135 grams), it may take time to adapt.
Who is the Redmi Note 5 by weight?
- 👍 Those who value long-term autonomy and are willing to put up with a little extra weight.
- 👍 Users with large hands - it is easier to hold a solid device.
- 👍 Lovers of durable metal housings (unlike fragile glass ones).
Who should look for an alternative?
- 👎 Gamers who spend many hours at a smartphone.
After all, weight is just one of many things, and it's more important how comfortable your smartphone is, if you can, hold a Redmi Note 5 in your hand before you buy it, or try a similar weight like the POCO X3.
⚠️ Warning: If you buy a Redmi Note 5 handheld, be sure to check its weight. Counterfeit products often weigh 10 to 20 grams less due to cheap body materials and low-quality battery. Normal weight is 178 to 182 grams.