Review: Xiaomi Redmi Note 7, Unlocked Global Version – valuable budget smartphone with powerful performance

Explore the affordable yet powerful Xiaomi Redmi Note 7’s top features and camera capabilities... Read more

Specifications

Brand	Xiaomi
Wireless Carrier	Unlocked
Operating System	Android 9.0
Cellular Technology	4G, 3G, 2G
Memory Storage Capacity	64 GB
Connectivity Technology	Wi-Fi
Color	Black
Screen Size	6.3 Inches
Wireless network technology	GSM, LTE
SIM card slot count	Dual SIM

Unboxing the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7: An Affordable Range Smartphone

Here’s to the unboxing of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7, a noteworthy player in the affordable range of smartphones. My first impression is reasonably positive – the packaging is sleek and professional, signaling a promising start.

Opening up the In-Box Surprises

Upon unsealing, this global version box discloses a few standard contents – smartphone itself (of course) and additionally, a pin for opening the SIM tray. Kudos to Xiaomi for throwing in a free case, a pleasant surprise. Yet, moving straight to the highlight of the unboxing experience, the Redmi Note 7, the anticipation builds.

An First Impression: Initial Look at the Phone

The very first glance at the phone is met with an undeniable aura of a modern smartphone. Its design elements are admirable and the phone in itself seems quite posh.

The Expected and Unexpected in the Package

• Expected: The Redmi Note 7, a pin for the sim tray, and the standard user manuals.
• Unexpected: In a delightfully unexpected turn, Xiaomi includes a protective case with the phone, an amenity that usually costs extra.

All in all, the unboxing experience is fulfilling, setting an encouraging tone for the in-depth review. Getting hands-on a smartphone that does not burn a hole in the pocket yet does not compromise on key features sparks my curiosity. Is the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 too good to be true or is it truly a reliable budget-friendly candidate? Let’s delve in more to find out!

Exploring Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 Design Details

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 blends affordability with performance
• Offers varied colour spectrum and dual-camera setup
• Built with Gorilla Glass and plastic

In my hands, I have the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 – a phone that promises to blend affordability with performance. At first glance, I am quite taken with the aesthetics of the smartphone. One noteworthy mention is the colour spectrum available for this phone. Let’s delve a bit deeper, shall we?

The Color Spectrum: Reviewing the Redmi Note 7 Variations

The Redmi Note 7 I am reviewing boasts a striking colour that blends from a deep magic night blue at the base, into a lighter, almost cosmic, blue at the top. The gradient finish is truly quite mesmerizing, giving off a different hue from every angle. It’s a detail many would appreciate for its innovative splash of personality. However, if the vibrant gradient is not your cup of tea, rest assured, the Redmi Note 7 comes in a variety of other shades too.

Housing Intricacies: The Phone Built from Within – Dual Cameras, Fingerprint Scanner, and Frequently-Used Ports

Camera: On the rear, there’s a dual-camera setup with a 48-megapixel primary sensor – quite an impressive feature for an affordable range device. And just below it, sits a fingerprint scanner.

Fingerprint Scanner: It’s strategically located for easy reach and accessibility, something a lot of flagship phones get wrong. However, its actual performance will be evaluated in the later part of this review.

Ports: The Redmi Note 7 doesn’t shy away from essential inputs. There’s a USB Type-C charging port flanked by a speaker and microphone. Alongside that, we’ve got a beloved 3.5mm headphone jack! Quite the rarity these days. Additionally, there’s an IR blaster for those inclined to use their phone as a remote.

A Glimpse at the External Design: Gorilla Glass and Plastic Housing

Now, let’s talk build quality. The front and back panels are covered with Gorilla Glass, giving it a premium feel, which is quite unexpected considering the budget-friendly price tag. It does add some heft to the device, but in a reassuring way that conveys durability. The sides, however, are built with plastic. Given the price range of the Note 7, this is an acceptable trade-off.

To conclude, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 definitely scores high in design. From the captivating color scheme to the judiciously placed ports and buttons, it sets a high standard for what affordable smartphones can look like. But design is just one facet of a great phone experience. In the following sections, we’ll put the phone’s features and performance to the test.

Testing the Fingerprint Scanner and Facial Recognition

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7’s fingerprint scanner is very fast
• Facial recognition feature is quick, security robustness questionable

Switching gears, let’s dive into the intricacies of Xiaomi Redmi Note 7’s biometrics and security utilities – the fingerprint scanner and facial recognition functionalities.

The Speed Demon: Unrivaled Speed of the Fingerprint Scanner

Without a doubt, the fingerprint scanner of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is impressively fast . Positioned on the back of the phone, the scanner is conveniently situated for a user’s finger to naturally rest on. The test was executed by locking and unlocking the phone in a matter of moments – the device successfully passed with flying colors. Demonstrating an incredibly swift response time, the fingerprint recognition didn’t show any signs of a delay.

Facial Recognition: Quick Unlocking but Is It Secure Enough?

Equally impressive is the facial recognition feature on this phone. The facial unlock mechanism is snappy and responsive, unlocking the phone almost instantaneously after recognizing the saved facial features. This quick response time was quite remarkable.

However, while speed and efficiency may be a plus, the feature may raise some eyebrows regarding its security metrics. It’s important to note that the mechanism was observed to unlock the phone almost too swiftly, creating slight skepticism about its ability to differentiate between a real face or a picture. This isn’t exactly a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of when considering the device’s overall security.

All things considered, the speed and efficiency of the Redmi Note 7’s security features are commendable, although considerations regarding security robustness should be kept in mind.

Breaking Down the Display Quality

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 has a high-quality display
• Brightness levels and PPI are impressive
• Color representation slightly inaccurate, but overall good

In this section, we’re going to dive into one of the integral features of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 – its display.

The 6.3 inch full HD+ IPS Panel

At first glance, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7’s 6.3-inch 1080p IPS panel impresses and it does not disappoint once you spend some time with it. The clarity of the display and liveliness of the colors shine through from the moment you turn on the phone, creating a pleasing viewing experience. But let’s delve a little deeper:

Pixel Density and Brightness

With a pixel density of 409 PPI, the Redmi Note 7 boasts an exceptional pixel density when compared to some of the higher-end phones, like the iPhone XR. This fact alone emphasizes the value for money that this phone offers.

What do PIXELS per inch (PPI) truly mean you ask? In simple terms, it is a measurement of how sharp an image can appear. More pixels packed into every inch of the screen, gives you a more detailed and sharper viewing experience. It’s safe to say, sharper images translate to a better viewing experience.

Now, in terms of brightness, I can confidently say the Redmi Note 7 performs admirably, especially when you consider that it uses an LCD screen. This just tells you that Xiaomi did not compromise on the quality of display components to keep the costs down. The brightness levels are quite reasonable. Yes, the display doesn’t get eye-searing bright in direct sunlight, but it’s certainly readable and clear on most days and under most lighting conditions.

Let’s Talk Nooks and Corners

Design-wise, the bezels, forehead, and chin aren’t paper-thin like some of the high-end flagship models out there. But they are quite slim for a phone in the Redmi Note 7’s price range. The teardrop notch, a current smartphone design trend, isn’t overly intrusive and it certainly does not take away from a great full-screen viewing experience.

The Catch

The color accuracy, on the other hand, leaves a little to be desired. At a glance, colors look bright and attractive on the screen, but a closer inspection reveals that they may not be entirely accurate. However, remember, we all perceive colors differently, and the slight inaccuracies I noticed may come across as normal to the average consumer. The general color output, regardless of the slight inaccuracy, is still quite pleasing to the naked eye.

Bottom Line

All in all, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 delivers a remarkably high-quality display for its price. It offers an engaging viewing experience, with its thoughtful design, adequate brightness levels, impressive PPI, and decent color representation. A few minor trade-offs are there, but the overall display puts it in a sweet spot when we talk about ‘value for money’ mid-range smartphones.

The Audio Experience: Single Speaker Unit

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 has a single speaker layout
• Issues include lacking surround-sound effect and easy muffling
• Offers reasonable audio quality considering its price

As I venture into the audio quality of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7, my attention is immediately drawn to its single speaker unit. This layout is already a remarkable deviation from the stereo-style speakers prominent in many flagship phones.

First Audio Impressions

Laying my fingers on the volume button, I crank up the sound to observe how this gadget performs in an audio test. My first reactions? The sound, although projecting from just a single unit speaker, is surprisingly clear and loud. The deep, rich and balanced tonal quality makes consuming media on the Redmi Note 7 a pleasurable experience.

Limitations of a Single Speaker

However , as expected with a single speaker smartphone, the Redmi Note 7 does fall short in delivering a surround-sound effect. This lack of immersive acoustic presence may not sit well with audiophiles or anyone keen on a more robust listening experience.

Positioning of the Speaker

Another potential drawback is the placement of the speaker, which is at the bottom of the device. During horizontal use, especially when playing games or watching videos, the speaker can easily be covered, muffling the sound output inadvertently. The design could’ve indeed been improved by integrating a second speaker on the top or giving the existing one a more strategic position.

Overall Assessment

All things considered, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 offers a reasonable audio experience given its competitive price point. The single speaker’s limitations are a notable shortcoming, but not a deal-breaker considering its decent sound output. This goes to show that while Xiaomi did make certain compromises in the sound department, it didn’t lose the essence of delivering a decent quality sound.

Diving into the User Interface and Application Optimizations

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 has efficient, user-friendly interface
• Fluidity and app management are impressive due to software optimization
• App switcher enhances navigational simplicity

As soon as you boot up the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7, you’re welcomed with a familiar yet efficient user interface. At first glance, it’s quite apparent that Xiaomi has invested valuable time in creating a functional interface that caters to the needs of its users while prioritizing ease-of-use.

Fluidity and App Management

The fluidity of the phone is one of the first things that caught my eye. How effortlessly it switches between the apps, manages memory, and maintains a smooth flow is impressive. While the Snapdragon 660 processor and 4GB RAM definitely contribute to this smoothness, it cannot be attributed to hardware alone. You really need to credit their software optimization.

The App Switcher

The app switcher interface is another noteworthy change from the conventional linear scrolling we see on most phones today. Instead, it showcases all apps at a glance, hinting at a well-thought-out design aimed at enhancing navigational simplicity.

Here’s how it works: A slight swipe up from the bottom half displays all the apps you’ve launched. Long gone are the days of scrolling endlessly to find your app.” You quickly glance and tap to select the desired application and you’re in – crystal clear and arguably more efficient.

Closing Apps

Closing apps could not have been more straightforward. A simple swipe to either side and voila, the app is banished from the memory. However, the speed at which the phone is ready to deal with the next instruction is commendable. It’s evident that Xiaomi has done a fair job in ensuring background tasks or closed applications do not hinder the overall experience.

Final Thoughts on User Interface

Unbiasedly, Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 takes home the points for a smooth and easily navigable user interface. Their twist on the app switcher is a refreshing change that efficiently serves the purpose. It should be noted though, while their smoothness is impressive, the optimization does seem to target aesthetics and may not be everybody’s cup of tea. But then, isn’t that what makes every interface unique?

The Spotlight on Camera Capabilities

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 offers commendable camera capabilities.
• Supports 1080p recording and 48-megapixel photos, challenges in 4K.
• Overall decent photography performance for its price.

Stepping into the heart of mobile photography, let’s dive into the camera capabilities of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7. This phone brings forth functionalities that are commendable and noteworthy, particularly with regards to its price point.

Filter, HDR, and Video Modes: Exploring the Basics

Starting basic, the camera app on the Redmi Note 7 offers a variety of filters for adding creativity to your shots. However, it’s questionable how often one might use them. The camera also sports HDR mode which could prove beneficial in high contrast scenes, but again, effectiveness varies.

The device supports 1080p recording at 30 frames per second. A solid result, but don’t expect 4k video recording within the basic camera app.

Advancing to 4K Recording with a Third-Party Software

Speaking of 4K, a noteworthy fact about this affordable smartphone is its hidden capability to record in 4K. Although, this is only possible with the help of third-party apps. It is important though to keep in mind that recording in such high resolution might bring some challenges – stability, memory, and even heat management.

Advantages and Limitations of the 48 Megapixel Camera

Let’s jump to another appealing spec, the 48-megapixel camera. Though a big number for a relatively small price, the output might not reach your expectations instantly. One great advantage is the ability to utilize this high pixel count for cropping and zooming while maintaining image quality, if you remember to switch it to ‘Pro Mode’, but on the flip side, some unintentional over sharpening and inaccurate color rendition can be observed in the results.

However, keep in mind how Redmi Note 7 cleverly says it fuses multiple pixels into one to create a larger, better-quality 12MP photo, promising less noise and sharper image. On paper, it sounds great, but in practice, the results might not be as euphoric.

In sum, although the overall camera performance might not be extraordinary, it’s pretty decent for its price. The camera in Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 could be seen as ample for daily use, but for more serious photography, it might fall a bit short.

The Debate: Does Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 truly deliver Value for Money?

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 delivers good performance for its price
• Camera quality and display not on par with flagship phones
• 4000 mAh battery lasts long, but lacks fast charging

As soon as you unbox the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7, you begin to wonder if this phone, which costs a reasonable fraction of a typical flagship smartphone, can truly deliver on its promise of high-end features at a budget-friendly price. Let’s delve into this a bit.

Probing the Phone’s Performance

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 houses a 4,000 milliamp-hour battery, quite a giant when you compare this to the 2,600 milliamp-hour battery in flagship devices such as the S9+. Coupled with a Snapdragon 660 processor, this phone boasts a package that is designed for efficiency and durability. It’s impressive how long this phone can last on a single charge, and the processor ensures the phone maintains an appreciable level of speed and responsiveness. However, do note that this phone does not support fast charging, so refilling that huge battery capacity may take a bit of waiting.

The Phone’s Camera Performance

Equipped with a dual camera setup, with a depth sensor 5 megapixel camera and a whopping 48 megapixel main camera, on paper, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is set for stellar photography. In actual practice, however, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. While it is capable of taking impressively sharp images thanks to the 48-megapixel sensor, I noticed a fair amount of over sharpening and the colors seemed a bit off. But considering the price point, this is an area that can be forgiven to an extent. The performance of top-tier smartphone cameras is definitely superior, but with Xiaomi Redmi Note 7, you can take more than passable photographs.

Screen Quality and Audio Experience

While the 6.3 inch IPS Full HD+ display, with a pixel density of 409 PPI, is great for most tasks, it doesn’t quite match up to AMOLED displays found in high-tier smartphones. Colors are fairly accurate, but lack the vibrancy and contrast of more premium displays. The audio experience from the single speaker is satisfactory and clear, but lacks depth and might not live up to an audiophile’s expectations. A more balanced stereo sound setup would have greatly improved media consumption.

The Verdict

All things considered, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 indeed represents a value buy, delivering a reasonably good performance at its price point. However, for those who count camera quality and display brilliance as top priorities, they might find this phone’s abilities a notch below smartphone flagships. But if you are willing to trade off a bit of those high-end qualities for affordability, then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is a compelling contender in the affordable smartphone category.

The Verdict: Reasons to Consider the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 offers impressive features at its price
• Positives include design, performance, display, and battery life
• Downsides include camera performance and security concerns

After a comprehensive testing and analysis, let’s address the pressing question – should you consider the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 for your next smartphone purchase? Weighing the pros and cons and factoring in its competitors, I’ve drawn conclusions based on my firsthand experience with the phone.

Favourable Features

Overall, this smartphone has an impressive line-up of features relative to its price point. Starting with the design, the combination of Gorilla Glass and a plastic in a slim, modern-looking housing makes a positive first impression. The phone comes in multiple attractive colors, adding a touch of personalization to the otherwise generic smartphone market.

Despite not being a flagship smartphone, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 performs commendably when it comes to unlocking via fingerprint scanner and facial recognition. Its almost instantaneous response is noteworthy.

The 6.3 inch full HD+ IPS panel, with a pixel density that is competitively higher than some flagships, allows for a quality display. Coupled with a single but decent speaker, the smartphone offers a satisfactory multimedia experience. Not to be overlooked is the generous 4000mAh battery and efficient Snapdragon 660 processor, which contribute to robust overall performance.

Room for Improvement

Now moving on to aspects that can be improved. While the camera boasts of a massive 48 MP capability, the reality doesn’t entirely live up to the hype. Images often appeared over-sharpened, and the color reproduction was not always consistent. The omission of default 4K recording is another downside, although third-party apps offer a workaround.

The facial recognition, although speedy, raises security concerns due to its relatively lax authentication process. Similarly, the single-speaker audio setup might not please audio enthusiasts seeking a more immersive sound experience.

Conclusion

Despite its shortcomings, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 shines in its price category because of its value-packed offering. Given its affordability, it quite remarkably mimics some premium features offered by high-end flagships. So if you’re seeking a robust, reasonably-priced smartphone with capable performance and a decent battery life, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is a contender worth considering.

Next Steps

Okay folks, we’ve embarked on our Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 journey together, explored all its nooks, put it through its paces, tested it, nitpicked it, and praised it where it deserved. But where do we go next?

Let’s Talk

First, I want to hear from you. Our review is nothing without your participation. We thrive on a diverse range of opinions and perspectives. So, do drop your thoughts in the comments section. Whether you agree, disagree, or have something completely new to offer, your insights are invaluable to us and other users. But please, keep the discussions civil and respectful – that’s all we ask!

Additional Resources for Purchase

If you are interested in purchasing a Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 for yourself, do check out your local electronic shops or reputable online marketplaces. We encourage you to meticulously scrutinize seller reputation, product reviews, and price comparisons before making your decision. Be a smart and informed buyer, folks!

Stay Up-to-Date

Technology continuously evolves, which means our reviews should too, right? So, we’re going to stay on top of the software updates for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7. We’ll update this review accordingly if new features are added, bugs are ironed out, camera quality improves, and performance increases. After all, a review should be a living document, constantly updated to reflect the current state of the product!

In conclusion, we appreciate your time and involvement in this deep dive into the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7. So, let’s keep this conversation going and be sure to check back often for updates!

Should you buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7, Unlocked Global Version?

Buy it if…

You are on a tight budget

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 offers a range of impressive features overlapping with those of high-end smartphones, at a fraction of the price making it an affordable choice.

You value speedy unlocking mechanisms

The phone’s facial recognition and fingerprint scanner are exceptionally quick, offering swift and easy access to your device.

You need high battery life

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is powered by a 4000 milliamp-hour battery, substantially larger than most smartphones in the market – capable of lasting for a significant amount of time.

Don’t buy it if…

You prioritize high-quality camera performance

While the Redmi Note 7 offers a dual camera setup, the colors and pixel-fusing technology may not meet the standards of a meticulous photographer.

You prefer a lighter device

Although not overly weighty, the phone does carry some bulk which might discourage individuals looking for a more lightweight smartphone.

You’re seeking premium build quality

While functional, the Redmi Note 7’s plastic sides might be a minus point if you’re seeking a more premium or sophisticated feel.

FAQ

Is the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 affordable?

Yes, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is considered to be in the most affordable range of smartphones.

Does the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 come with a case?

Yes, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 comes with a case in the box.

How many speakers does the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 have?

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 comes with a single speaker unit.

Does the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 have a headphone jack?

Yes, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 has a headphone jack.

What type of display does the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 have?

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 has a 6.3 inch, 1080p IPS panel.

Can you record 4k video with the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7?

By default, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 records at 1080p at 30fps. However, it is possible to record in 4k using third-party software.

What is the pixel density of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7’s display?

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7’s display has a pixel density of 409 PPI.

What is the battery capacity of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7?

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 has a 4000 mAh battery.

What processor does the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 use?

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 uses a Snapdragon 660 processor.

How fast is the fingerprint and facial recognition unlock on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7?

The fingerprint scanner and facial recognition unlock on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is very fast, unlocking the phone almost instantly.