Xiaomi Redmi A2

The Xiaomi Redmi A2 is a dirt cheap smartphone that differs in only one way from its predecessor, the Redmi A1. And that is its processor. Namely, it is more powerful. You can read here what this means in practise and whether Xiaomi has addressed the A1's biggest drawback.

Absolute minimum

This Redmi A2 from Xiaomi sits in the dangerous price category. Namely, the bare minimum limit that a smartphone costs, and for which you often get the bare minimum in return. For just a bit more, in some cases, you do get a lot more. But when the budget does not allow that, you want the most value for your money. Xiaomi tries to do that quite nicely with this Redmi A2. So you get a spacious 6.52-inch screen, a generously large battery, and a reasonably sturdy body. And now with a faster processor for improved performance. But, of course, concessions have also been made.

With Android Go Edition

For example, the Redmi A2 runs a stripped-down version of Android called Android Go. Here, some functionality is missing, and apps have been optimised so that even with minimal hardware specs, you get a useable experience. Both screen and camera resolution are a bit low. The screen displays an HD image, altho acceptable for photos and video, but slightly less suitable for text. This can come across as somewhat grainy. The camera does not exceed 8 megapixels. Again, this is sufficient for video and photos, but don't zoom in. There are just not enough pixels for that. The selfie camera is even a bit below that with 5MP, altho this is often more than enough for video calls.

Main Xiaomi Redmi A2 specifications

• 6.52" large HD display with 5MP selfie camera in notch
• 8MP camera with depth sensor and Full HD video
• MediaTek Helio G36 processor with eight cores at up to 2.2GHz
• 32GB of storage (expandable up to 1TB)
• Room for two SIM cards (nanoSIM type)
• 5000mAh large battery with 10W charging (charger included in box)
• Comes with Android 12 (Go Edition) and two years of security updates

Memory card needed soon

Xiaomi only ships the Redmi A2 with 32GB of storage memory, which is easily expandable by inserting a memory card. The A2 recognises cards up to 1TB. There is also room for a second SIM card without sacrificing memory card space. The battery is on the large side at 5000mAh, so you won't run out of power soon. Charging is done with up to 10W, which is not fast, but within a few hours, the A2 will be filled again.