Xiaomi Redmi 8: Which type of network to choose for maximum speed and power savings?

The Xiaomi Redmi 8, released in 2019, is still a popular budget smartphone due to its balanced performance and support for modern networks. However, many users are faced with the dilemma: which type of mobile network to choose – 4G (LTE), 3G (UMTS) or 2G (GSM) – to ensure stable Internet, battery savings and minimal delays? In this article, we will examine all the nuances, from the technical limitations of the model to practical tips for setting up.

It’s important to understand that network choice depends not only on smartphone capabilities, but also on your carrier’s coverage, plan and even geographic location. For example, in megacities, 4G can work perfectly, and in rural areas, only 2G can save you. We’ll analyze the pros and cons of each standard, teach you how to set up the network manually and automatically, and reveal little-known Redmi 8 chips that will help optimize communication.

Technical specifications Xiaomi Redmi 8: what supports the smartphone?

Before choosing a network, you should study the hardware capabilities of the device. Redmi 8 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 439 module, which supports the following communication standards:

• 📶 2G (GSM): 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 MHz is the basic cover for calls and SMS.
• 📶 3G (UMTS/WCDMA): 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 MHz – the average Internet speed (up to) 42 Mbit/s).
• 📶 4G (LTE): ranges 1/3/5/7/8/20/38/40 — maximum speed 150 Mbit/s (in theory).

Important: Redmi 8 does not support 5G, which is a hardware limitation that cannot be circumvented by software, and the device does not work with some rare 4G bands (for example, Band 28 or 71), which can affect coverage in certain regions (for example, in the United States or Australia).

Another nuance is VoLTE (voice calls over the phone) 4G). Redmi 8 supports this technology, but it depends on the firmware and operator. For example, MTS and Beeline VoLTE activates automatically, and Tele2 may need to manually configure. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Challenge 4G.

4G vs 3G vs 2G: Comparison of speed, coverage and battery consumption

To make an informed choice, compare the key parameters of networks. Below is a table with real data for Redmi 8 (tests were conducted in Moscow with the help of the Internet). SIM-map):

From the table, it can be seen that 4G provides maximum speed and minimal ping, but consumes the battery more actively. 3G is the golden mean: acceptable speed for messengers and social networks with moderate power consumption. 2G is relevant only for calls and SMS in areas with poor coverage.

⚠️ Warning: If your Redmi 8 is rapidly discharged but you rarely use mobile internet, forced switching to the Internet 2G This mode can extend the autonomy by 20-30%, but many applications (for example, YouTube or Google Maps) will not work in this mode).

How to manually choose a network type on Xiaomi Redmi 8: Step-by-step instructions

By default, the smartphone is in Automatic mode, but sometimes manual settings help solve communication problems.

1. Open the settings (cog icon).
2. Go to section. SIM-maps and mobile networks.
3. Choose yours. SIM-card (if two of them).
4. Click Network Type (or Preferred Network Type)
5. Choose one of the options: 🔄 Automatically (recommended for most users). 📶 Only 4G (LTE) — maximum speed, but there may be problems with calls without VoLTE. 📶 Only 3G — average speed, saving charge. 📶 Only 2G — Minimum battery consumption, only calls/SMS. 🔀 4G/3G/2G (car - priority 4G, but with a fall on 3G/2G low-signal.

After changing the settings, the smartphone may lose communication for a short time (10-30 seconds) – this is normal. If the selected mode does not work (for example, there is no network), try to return to Automatically or restart the device.

Make sure that SIM-The card is active and not blocked

Check the balance (some carriers block 4G when the balance is negative)

Turn off Airplane mode.

Check the coverage of the operator in your area (for example, on the website cart.guru)

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When should you use 2G or 3G instead of 4G?

Despite the benefits of 4G, there are some situations where it is advisable to switch to older standards.

• 🔋 Battery savings: If you’re roaming or far from the tower, your smartphone is constantly looking for a new one. 4G-signal that's using up the charge. 3G or 2G It will help to extend autonomy.
• 📞 Calling problems: In some regions, VoLTE is unstable and calls may be interrupted. 3G (Using traditional CS-Fallback technology will solve the problem.
• 🏙️ Poor coverage 4G: In basements, elevators or remote areas 4G It may be absent, but 2G/3G — steady.
• 💰 Traffic savings: Some operators charge 4G-traffic is more expensive (for example, in roaming). 3G lowering costs.

A case in point: a user from the Moscow region complained about the fast discharge of Redmi 8 on trips, it turned out that the smartphone constantly switched between 4G and 3G due to unstable coverage, after the forced choice of 3G autonomy increased from 8 to 12 hours.

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If you are often in places with a bad signal (for example, on the subway), create a network switch widget on the home screen. To do this, keep your finger in the free space of the screen → Widgets → find Mobile Network or Network Mode (the name depends on the version of MIUI).

Network problems on Xiaomi Redmi 8: causes and solutions

If the smartphone is not catching the network or the Internet is slow, the reasons can be different.

If problems persist, try resetting your network settings: go to Settings → System → Settings Reset → Network Reset. This will delete stored Wi-Fi passwords and mobile settings, but often helps with software failures.

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi Redmi 8 with firmware MIUI 12+ You may have a bug when, after manually selecting the network, the smartphone does not return to automatic mode. To fix this, restart the device or update the software.

Hidden Network Settings: How to Enable Advanced Options?

In the standard Redmi 8 menu, not all network settings are available. To access hidden settings, use the engineering menu:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Enter the combination: ##4636###.
3. Select Phone Information.
4. Scroll down to the Network Type Installation block.
5. You can choose non-standard modes, for example: LTE only - only 4G (without falling to 3G/2G), GSM only - only 2G, WCDMA only - only 3G.

Caution: changes to the engineering menu can lead to unstable network operation, and it is not recommended to change other settings (for example, Band Mode) if you are not sure about their purpose.

How to check network speed and stability on Redmi 8?

To objectively assess the quality of communication, use specialized applications:

• 📊 Speedtest by Ookla – Measures download/return speed and ping. Run the test 2-3 times for accuracy.
• 📡 NetMonster – shows the signal level (dBm), the type of network (LTE/UMTS/GSM) and adjacent towers.
• 🔍 CellMapper – builds a coverage map of operators in your area.

The best performance for Redmi 8:

• Signal level: -70 dBm and higher (the closer to 0, the better).
• 4G speed: from 20 Mbps (below is a sign of network congestion).
• Ping: Less than 100ms (ideal for online gaming)

If the speed is lower than expected, try:

1. Switch to another type of network (e.g. 4G to 3G).
2. Turn on/off flight mode for 10 seconds.
3. Update the operator profile (in settings) SIM-map).

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If the 4G speed on Redmi 8 is less than 10 Mbps, chances are the carrier is limiting the bandwidth for your tariff or your region is using an overloaded range (e.g. Band 3 or 7).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions