Xiaomi Redmi to choose 2018: a guide to the best models

Choosing a smartphone in the segment of budget and mid-budget devices has always been a challenge, especially when it comes to Xiaomi products. the Redmi line in 2018 experienced a real renaissance, offering users the characteristics of flagships at a price that is affordable to a wide range of customers. It was during this period that the benchmark of what a people’s smartphone should be: with a metal body, a capacious battery and a good main camera was formed.

Looking back today, we see that the 2018 models are still relevant as second-hand devices, children's phones or reliable work gadgets. However, the variety of modifications can confuse even the experienced user.

In this article, we will analyze the technical specifications, evaluate the relevance of iron in today’s environment and help you make an informed decision, you will learn which models have received support for new versions of Android, and which will forever remain in the history of MIUI 9 or 10.

Smartphone Market 2018: Context and Features

2018 was a watershed year for the mobile industry, with manufacturers starting to roll out 18:9 displays, sliding away from the classic 16:9 displays, allowing for larger screen sizes while retaining the body dimensions. Xiaomi this year has been betting on dual main cameras even in the budget segment, which has become a new standard of quality.

It's important to understand that processors of the time, like the Snapdragon 625 and the Helio P23, were built on a 14-nanometer process, which provided phenomenal energy efficiency, and smartphones ran for days without recharging, which for many users is a more important criterion than peak performance in benchmarks.

But not everything was perfect. NFC-The limitations of modules in most models, except the top versions for the Chinese market, are also important to consider that 3GB RAM, which was considered the norm, can be a bottleneck for heavy applications today.

Redmi Note 5 (3GB/32GB) vs Redmi Note 5 Pro (4GB/64GB)

This is perhaps the most popular dilemma of the time: The global version of the Redmi Note 5 (known in China as the Redmi 5 Plus) was based on a proven Snapdragon 625 chipset, which had a huge 5.99-inch screen and a 4,000 mAh battery, and was marketed as a reliable workhorse.

The Pro version (China’s Redmi Note 5) received a more powerful Snapdragon 636. The difference in performance was about 30-40%, which is noticeable in gaming and multitasking. In addition, the camera in the Pro version was dual (12+5 MP) with support for the Dual Pixel focus, which made night shooting much better.

When choosing between these models, consider the battery status. SD625 models were often in heavy use and their batteries could wear out. Redmi Note 5 Pro in this respect benefited from a more efficient processor that was less warm under load.

• 📱 Screen: Both models IPS-fullHD matrix+, But the Pro version has a higher pixel density.
• 🔋 Autonomy: Both smartphones show great results, but SD625 more economical.
• 📸 Dual camera Pro-version gives a real advantage in detail.
• 💾 Memory: Configuration available for Pro 6/64 GB, which is more relevant for modern applications.

⚠️ Warning: The global version of the Redmi Note 5 (not the Pro) has one camera at the back. Don't confuse them when buying a used device, as visually they are almost identical, except for the inscriptions on the back cover.

Redmi 6 Pro and unique design

The Redmi 6 Pro (also known as the Mi A2 Lite in Android One) was a standout, the company’s first budget-friendly model with a screen cutout that mimics the design of the iPhone X. The diagonal was 5.84 inches, making the phone very compact and easy to control with one hand.

Inside the device was a Snapdragon 625 processor, which was actually a Redmi 5 Plus in a new, more modern case, and the main trump card was support for the Android One project, which guaranteed a clean system without advertising and unnecessary shells, as well as timely security updates.

Today, the Redmi 6 Pro is interesting to collectors and fans of pure Android. Its aluminum alloy body with antenna inserts looks more stylish than its competitors. However, having a bang without the ability to software hide black stripes on the sides can annoy some users.

If you're looking for a compact phone with a metal body and you're willing to put up with a less powerful hardware for aesthetics and a clean system, this is a great candidate, but it's not enough for heavy tasks.

Budget King: Redmi 5A and 6A

In the category "under $100" in 2018, the Redmi 5A reigned supreme. Despite the simplest Snapdragon 425 chipset and HD screen (720p), it sold in the millions. Its successor, Redmi 6A, received a Helio A22 processor and an 18:9 screen, but retained the plastic case.

These devices were designed for basic tasks: calls, instant messengers, YouTube and navigation. RAM of 2 GB in 2018 was considered acceptable, but today it is the absolute minimum. Apps will load longer, and multitasking will be virtually absent.

However, as a first phone for a child or a device for the elderly, they fit perfectly: a simple shell, a loud speaker and the ability to install a memory card make up for the low screen resolution.

• 📉 Productivity: Enough for lightweight apps and social networks.
• 💰 Price: The most affordable entry ticket to the Xiaomi ecosystem.
• 🔧 Repairability: Cheap parts and simplicity of design.
• 📦 Components: Often sold without protective glass in the kit.

⚠️ Attention: In Redmi models 5A and 6A You can't use two slots at the same time. SIM-You have to choose between two SIMKIS or one SIMKI» + flash-drive.

Comparative Characteristics Table

To organize the data and make a final decision, let’s bring the key parameters of the 2018 leaders into a single table, which will help you quickly assess the value for money.

The table shows that the Redmi Note 5 Pro offers the best balance. Increased memory and a more powerful processor make it more liquid in the secondary market. Redmi 6 Pro is interesting design, but technically repeats the usual "Notica".

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The Redmi Note 5 Pro remains a middle ground thanks to the Snapdragon 636 processor, which still pulls the interface and lightweight games better than the mass-produced SD625.

Software and Relevance of MIUI

One of the main issues when buying an old smartphone is software support. Most models in 2018 stopped at MIUI 10 or MIUI 11 based on Android 8 or 9. Official security updates for them are no longer out.

This poses risks if you plan to use the device for banking purposes. However, for everyday use (music, video, navigator), current versions of the software are quite stable, and many users prefer to install custom firmware such as LineageOS or Xiaomi.eu to extend the life of the device.

It’s worth noting that unlocking the bootloader on older models is sometimes easier, but finding the right drivers for Windows 10/11 can be harder due to the lack of support for older signatures.

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When buying a used Xiaomi, be sure to check the binding to the Mi Account. If the previous owner did not untie the device, you will not be able to use it after resetting the settings (Mi Cloud Lock).

The final recommendations: What to take in 2026?

So to sum up, the era of 2018 has given us some legendary devices. If you're looking for a phone for yourself as a primary and budget is limited, the Redmi Note 5 Pro is the best compromise. It's got enough power to make instant messaging and content comfortable.

For a child or as a spare phone in the car is perfect Redmi 5A or 6A. They are cheap, not a pity to break, and perform basic functionality. Redmi 6 Pro - the choice for price tags compact cases and fans of pure Android.

Don't chase the cheapness and take devices with 16 GB of memory - the system will take half, and there will be no space for photos. 32 GB is the absolute minimum for 2026. Also carefully check the state of the charging connectors, since in models of those years this is a frequent point of failure.