Which Xiaomi tablet is better to buy in 2026: comparison of models and tips for choosing

Introduction: Why buy a Xiaomi tablet?

Xiaomi tablets have become a niche between budget devices and premium solutions from Apple and Samsung in recent years, offering a balanced mix of performance, high-quality screen and long battery life – all at a price 20-40% lower than competitors.

In this article, we will analyze the current Xiaomi Pad models (including the Redmi Pad and POCO Pad), compare them by key parameters: processor, display, battery and additional features. We will focus on real-world use cases, from study and work to games and watching videos.

Key criteria for choosing a Xiaomi tablet

Before you dive into the specifications of specific models, decide what you need a tablet for, which depends on which parameters you should pay attention to first:

• 🎮 For games, priority: processor (Snapdragon 8)+ Gen 1 or later), screen refresh rate (120 Hz)+), cooling.
• 📚 For study / work – important: support Xiaomi Smart Pen, multitasking (mode) MIUI Desktop, weight (≤500g).
• 🎬 For multimedia, look at: screen resolution (2.5K/4K), Support for Dolby Vision, Dynamics (JBL or Dolby Atmos).
• 💰 Budget option - look for balance: Helio G99/Snapdragon 680, screen 90 Hz, battery. ≥8000 mic.

Equally important is the software factor: all Xiaomi tablets run on MIUI for Pad, an adapted version of the firmware with support for multitasking, gestures and stylus. However, updates for budget models (Redmi Pad SE) are less common than for flagships (Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro).

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi tablets do not support the official firmware of Google Android – only MIUI. This means restrictions on some services (for example, Google Assistant does not work on all models).

TOP-5 Xiaomi tablets in 2026: a comparative table

We have selected the most relevant models available in the Russian and CIS markets, and the table below contains key characteristics that will help you quickly navigate:

Important: Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro is the only model with wireless charging support (up to 50W) and magnetic mount for the keyboard, making it the best choice for a laptop replacement.

The best Xiaomi tablet for work and study

If you need a tablet for office tasks, drawing or notes, look out for two models: the Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro and the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro. Both support the Xiaomi Smart Pen stylus (with 4,096 sensitivity levels) and the keyboard, but there are key differences:

• 🖋️ Stylus: In Pad 6S The Pro uses the Smart Pen 3 with magnetic mounting and charging from the tablet, whereas the Pad 6 Pro requires a separate purchase of the Smart Pen 2.
• 🔋 Autonomy: Pad 6S The Pro has a 10,000mAh battery versus the 8600mAh of the Pad 6 Pro, but charges faster (120W vs 67W).
• 🖥️ Multitasking: Both models support the mode MIUI Desktop (like the PC interface), but Pad 6S Pro is better optimized for Microsoft Office.

For students and schoolchildren, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is also suitable – it is cheaper, but it retains support for a stylus and a 144 Hz screen. The main drawback is a less powerful processor (Snapdragon 870), which can slow down when working with heavy PDF or Photoshop.

Stylus support (if you need handwriting)

Multitasking mode (split screen)

Compatibility with keyboard

Autonomous life (≥10 hours when reading)

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⚠️ Note: Xiaomi Smart Pen Stylus is sold separately and costs between 5,000 and 8,000 ₽. Make sure the tablet model supports your pen version – for example, the Smart Pen 3 is not compatible with Pad 6 (only with the PPC). 6S Pro).

The best gaming tablet Xiaomi: what to look for

Three parameters are critical for gaming: the processor, the refresh rate of the screen and the cooling system. Among Xiaomi tablets, the undisputed leader is the Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip and a 144 Hz screen.

• 🎮 Genshin Impact on Medium Settings (60) FPS);
• 🎮 Call of Duty Mobile at maximum (90) FPS);
• 🎮 Honor of Kings with permission 2.8K.

The alternative is the Xiaomi Pad 6 (Snapdragon 870), but it warms up stronger with long sessions. For budget gaming, Redmi Pad Pro (Helio G99) is suitable, but only for light games (Brawl Stars, Clash Royale).

Tip: Enable Game Turbo mode in settings (Settings) → Special facilities → Game Turbo – This will reduce delays and optimize performance.

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Use an external gamepad (such as the Xiaomi Game Controller) for convenience. Connects via Bluetooth in 2-3 seconds.

Xiaomi budget tablets: is it worth saving?

If your budget is limited to 20,000-25,000 ₽, Consider the Redmi Pad Pro or POCO Pad. They're inferior to flagships in performance, but they cover basic needs:

• 📺 Viewing the video (YouTube, KinoPoisk);
• 📖 Reading books and comics;
• 📱 Social networks and messengers;
• 🎵 Music and podcasts.

The main compromises of budget models:

The POCO Pad only wins in price, but loses in all other ways. Redmi Pad Pro is a more balanced choice, especially if you care about the big screen (12.1).

Additional accessories: what to buy for the Xiaomi tablet

The tablet is just a base, and to unlock its potential, you'll need accessories.

1. Keyboard: Official Xiaomi Smart Keyboard (from 6,000) ₽) or third-party options (e.g. Logitech) K380).
2. Stylus: Xiaomi Smart Pen 2/3 (from 5 000 ₽) Budgetary analogues (Wacom One).
3. Case: Original cases with a stand (from 2 000) ₽) or universal (for example, Spigen).
4. Charger: The Pad 6S Pro requires a 120W power supply (not always included).

Tip: If you buy a Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro or 6S Pro, pay attention to the keyboard and stylus kits – they are often cheaper than buying all alone.

⚠️ Note: Not all accessories are compatible between models, for example, the keyboard for the Pad 6 won't fit the Pad 6S Pro due to different magnetic connectors.

Frequent questions about Xiaomi tablets

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For most users, the best choice is the Xiaomi Pad 6: it offers 80% of the capabilities of the flagship Pad 6 Pro for 60% of the price, except for gamers and professional artists who need a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 or Smart Pen 3.