Xiaomi Redmi 2023: Which smartphone to choose? Full review of models and expert advice

Choosing a Xiaomi Redmi smartphone in 2023 is not an easy task, as the lineup has been expanded with new models, each focused on different needs, from budget solutions for calls and social networks to flagship killers with top-end cameras and processors. But how not get lost in this variety and buy exactly what is right for you?

This year, Redmi offered users several interesting new products at once: from the compact Redmi 12 with a 5000 mAh battery to the powerful Redmi K60 Pro with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. At the same time, the prices for the devices remain democratic, making them one of the most popular on the market. But not all models are equally good - each has its strengths and weaknesses.

We've analyzed all the current Redmi 2023 models, compared them by key parameters, and prepared a checklist to help you decide on your choices, and to make it easier for you, we've categorized smartphones into low-end, mid-range and premium, so you can immediately focus on your wallet and needs.

Xiaomi Redmi 2023: What has changed?

2023 was a year of major upgrades for Redmi, with the manufacturer focusing on improving screens, increasing battery life and optimizing cameras. AMOLED-displays with a refresh rate of 90 Hz, which used to be the prerogative of only flagships.

Another big change is the switch to new processors, with the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ getting the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 chipset, which delivers high performance with moderate power consumption, and the Redmi K60 using the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, making it one of the most powerful smartphones in its price range.

Now even in the middle segment you can find models with a main sensor at 200 MP (as in the Redmi Note 12 Pro+), and the flagships received support for shooting video in 8K. Xiaomi has not forgotten about software optimization – image processing algorithms began to work faster and more accurately.

Finally, the cooling system is improved, and the top models now use steam chambers to prevent overheating during long-term loads, which is especially important for gamers and those who often edit video or stream.

Budget models Xiaomi Redmi 2023: the best price-quality ratio

If your budget is limited to 15,000–20,000 ₽, But if you want to get a reliable smartphone with good specs, pay attention to the following models:

• 📱 Redmi 12 – basic model with 90 Hz screen and battery 5000 mAh. Perfect for those who need a simple and durable device.
• 📸 Redmi Note 12 4G — Improved 50MP camera and Snapdragon 685 processor that will handle most everyday tasks.
• ⚡ Redmi 12C — The most affordable model with a large screen of 6.71" and support for fast charging 18 watts.

All of these smartphones run MIUI 14 (based on Android 13), which ensures stable operation and regular updates, but they also have common disadvantages: plastic housing, lack of water protection, and limited camera capabilities in low light conditions.

What to look for when buying? Budget segment often save on RAM. If you plan to use a smartphone for longer than a year, take the option with 6/128 GB or 8/128 GB - this will save you from brakes in the future.

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Before buying, check if the Redmi model supports your carrier's 4G/5G ranges.For example, the Redmi Note 12 4G doesn't work on fifth-generation networks, which may be critical for some users.

Mid-range smartphones: the gold standard of 2023

Segment 20,000-35,000 ₽ — This is the gold standard for those looking for a balance between price and opportunity. AMOLED-screens, powerful processors and cameras that are not inferior to the flagships of the past years.

Leaders in this category are:

• 🔥 Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G — Dimensity 1080 flagship chipset, 200MP main camera and support for 67W fast charging.
• 🎮 Redmi K50i — Optimized for gamers: 144 Hz display, Dimensity 8100 processor and liquid cooling system.
• 📷 Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G — A more affordable version with a 50 MP camera and OLED-screen-in-screen HDR10+.

The main advantage of these models is long-term support, for example, the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is guaranteed to receive updates to Android 15 and three years of security patches, which makes them a profitable investment for 2-3 years ahead.

But there are nuances, too: the Redmi K50i warms up in long game sessions, despite the cooling system, and the Redmi Note 12 Pro doesn't have stereo speakers, which can be important for music and video lovers.

Redmi 2023 flagship models: power at an affordable price

If you're willing to spend $40,000 ₽ and above, then Redmi K60 redmi K60 Pro is your choice. These smartphones offer specs comparable to the top-end Samsung or Apple devices, but at a significantly lower price.

Let’s compare their key features:

The Redmi K60 Pro is the only model in the lineup that supports wireless charging (30W), which may be critical for users who are used to this feature, and only it has optical zoom (2x), while the rest of the models only have digital.

Redmi flagships are not without flaws, however: For example, the Redmi K60 does not have a memory card slot, and the K60 Pro weighs 205g, which can be inconvenient for long-term one-handed use.

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If you want maximum performance for a reasonable amount of money, the Redmi K60 is the best choice, but if the camera and wireless charging are important, you should pay extra for the K60 Pro.

Which Xiaomi Redmi to choose depending on the tasks?

To simplify the choice, we have made recommendations based on the main use cases:

• 📞 Calls, social media, YouTube → Redmi 12 or Redmi Note 12 4G. Enough performance, good battery.
• 🎮 Games (Genshin Impact, PUBG, Call of Duty) → Redmi K50i or Redmi K60. Powerful processor and high-performance FPS.
• 📸 Photos and videos → Redmi Note 12 Pro+ (for daytime shooting) or Redmi K60 Pro (for professionals).
• 🔋 Maximum autonomy → Redmi 12C (battery + power-efficient processor).
• 💼 Work (multi-tasking, documents) → Redmi Note 12 Pro (good screen) + 8/256 GB memory).

If you are still in doubt, use our checklist:

Identify the main use case (games, photos, calls, etc.)

Check 5G support (if it's critical)

Compare battery life (from 4,500 mAh for active users)

Make sure the model has enough RAM (6GB minimum for comfortable operation)

Pay attention to the presence NFC (If you are planning to use contactless payments)-->

What to avoid when buying Xiaomi Redmi in 2023

Even the best smartphones have pitfalls, and here's what you should look for to keep your eyes open:

⚠️ Note: Models with C index (e.g. Redmi) 12C) They often have stripped-down features compared to the main line, for example, they may have a weaker processor or camera, despite the similar name.

A few more important points:

• 🔌 Fast charging. ≠ Long-term autonomy. For example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ It charges in 40 minutes, but discharges faster when used than the Redmi 12 with a less powerful chipset.
• 📶 Not all models support all models. 5G. If you care about internet speed, make sure your smartphone is running on fifth-generation networks (e.g. Redmi Note 12). 4G They don't support them).
• 🛡️ Lack of official water protection, even the flagship Redmi K60 uncertified IP68, So be careful with moisture.

⚠️ Note: In some regions, Xiaomi sells models with global and Chinese firmware. ROM) It is optimized for the international market and has support for Google Play. The Chinese version may not work stable or support some services.

Xiaomi Redmi 2023: official and alternative options

To avoid counterfeits and warranty issues, buy Xiaomi smartphones only in trusted locations:

• 🛒 Xiaomi’s official website is a guarantee of the original device, but prices can be higher than those of retailers.
• 🏬 Communication salons (Svyaznoy, MTS, Beeline) - often hold promotions with gifts (headphones, covers).
• 🌍 Marketplace (Wildberries, Ozon, Yandex Market) – it is convenient to compare prices, but check the seller’s rating.
• 🇨🇳 AliExpress, Gearbest – cheaper, but the risk of running into a “gray” import without a guarantee.

When buying, be sure to check:

1. Availability of a warranty card (must be in Russian).
2. Serial number on the box and in the settings of the smartphone (Settings → About the phone).
3. The firmware must be global (MIUI Global).

Tip: If you buy on AliExpress, choose sellers with a rating of at least 98% and the number of orders from 1000+. Also pay attention to reviews with photos - this will help to avoid fraud.

FAQ: Frequent questions about choosing Xiaomi Redmi 2023