Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G arrives as the successor to the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G with numerous upgrades. Xiaomi enhances the design, durability, display, performance, and features, but the price increase sparks debate among consumers.
The new model sports a curved screen akin to the Pro Plus variant, offering a premium feel with a curved front and back for better hand fit. However, some users find the curved screen less practical due to difficulty in finding suitable screen protectors.
Premium Design and Durability
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G advances durability significantly with an IP68 rating. This makes it fully water-resistant, a substantial improvement from the IP54 splash resistance of its predecessor. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, typically found in flagship phones, while the frame remains polycarbonate. The phone weighs 185 grams, about 15 grams heavier than before, contributing to a solid build.
Bright, Smooth Display Experience
The 6.67-inch AMOLED display features a 1.5K resolution and a peak brightness of 3000 nits, up from 1800 nits. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate standard for smooth scrolling and gaming. Yet, a common issue persists: in Google apps like YouTube and Play Store, the refresh rate defaults to 60fps instead of utilizing the full 120Hz, limiting the display’s fluidity.
Impressive 200MP Camera with Some Caveats
The main 200MP camera delivers sharp, detailed photos with an extensive dynamic range. This sensor actually improves zoom quality, especially at 2x digital zoom. However, the image processing sometimes produces overly saturated colors. Night mode on the ultrawide camera is essential for good low-light shots, but in the main camera, night mode occasionally casts a yellow or reddish tint, detracting from photo accuracy. Xiaomi still needs to optimize this feature.
Video Quality Needs Work
Video recording on the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G struggles with flat colors and lackluster vibrancy. Although it includes Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), autofocus performance is jittery. The Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and OIS do not harmonize well, reducing overall video smoothness and quality.
Solid Performance for Midrange Class
Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultra chipset, the device offers 15% better performance compared to its predecessor based on Antutu 10 benchmarks. It handles popular games like Mobile Legends at 90fps on ultra graphics and PUBG below 60fps. Games like Genshin Impact run at medium settings with frame rates fluctuating around 50fps. Overall, performance is sufficient but not flagship-level.
Comprehensive Features Enhance User Comfort
The phone features stereo speakers with good clarity and mild bass. It supports NFC and an IR blaster, and the vibration motor is responsive. Notably, Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G includes eSIM support, which is rare for midrange smartphones and is typically reserved for flagship models.
Pricing and Value Considerations
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G offers many valuable upgrades in build quality, durability, display, and performance. If the price hike stays moderate, around 200,000 to 300,000 IDR (approximately $13 to $20) above its predecessor, it remains a compelling option. However, if the price reaches near 5 million IDR (about $330) for the 8GB/256GB variant, consumers might prefer the Note 14T series, which could offer better value.
Xiaomi’s challenge is to maintain a price around 4.5 million IDR (approximately $300) and improve camera video optimization to secure the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G as a top choice in its segment.
-
-
-
-
