Redmi Note 8 Pro was a game-changer in the mid-range smartphone segment when it launched. Packed with powerful hardware, a versatile quad-camera setup, and a premium design, it offered a feature set that was unheard of at its price point. Even today, the Note 8 Pro remains a favorite among budget-conscious users and tech enthusiasts for its durability, performance, and style. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the Redmi Note 8 Pro, exploring its specifications, strengths, and why it still holds value in 2025.
Design and Build – Premium Aesthetics at a Budget Price
The Redmi Note 8 Pro features a stunning glass design that was rare for its segment when it first launched. Both the front and back are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, offering resistance against minor drops and scratches. Its symmetrical layout and gradient color finishes give it a modern, premium look.
- Build Material: Glass front and back, plastic frame
- Colors Available: Forest Green, Pearl White, Mineral Grey
- Dimensions: 161.3 x 76.4 x 8.8 mm
- Weight: 200 grams
- Fingerprint Sensor: Rear-mounted
The curved edges and balanced weight distribution make it easy to hold and use despite the large display.
Display – Big, Bright, and Immersive
The Redmi Note 8 Pro boasts a 6.53-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD display with a 19.5:9 aspect ratio and a waterdrop notch. The screen offers vivid colors, excellent brightness levels, and a decent contrast ratio, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming.
- Resolution: 2340 x 1080 pixels
- Brightness: ~500 nits
- Screen-to-Body Ratio: ~84.9%
- Protection: Gorilla Glass 5
Although it lacks an AMOLED panel, the LCD used is among the best in its class, with sharp visuals and decent outdoor visibility.
Performance – MediaTek’s Comeback with Helio G90T
One of the biggest surprises with the Note 8 Pro was its use of the MediaTek Helio G90T processor, a high-performance gaming chipset that outperformed Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 700 series at the time of release. Paired with up to 8GB RAM, it delivers smooth performance across apps, games, and multitasking.
- CPU: Octa-core (2×2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
- GPU: Mali-G76 MC4
- RAM/Storage Options: 6GB + 64GB / 6GB + 128GB / 8GB + 128GB
- Expandable Storage: microSD support up to 512GB
Games like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty, and Asphalt 9 run smoothly with high frame rates. Thermal management is decent thanks to the liquid cooling system.
Camera – Versatile Quad Setup
Redmi Note 8 Pro was the first phone in India to sport a 64MP primary camera, a breakthrough in mobile photography at the time. Its quad-camera system delivers solid performance in various lighting conditions.
- Main Camera: 64MP, f/1.9 (Samsung GW1 sensor)
- Ultra-wide: 8MP, 120˚ field of view
- Macro: 2MP
- Depth Sensor: 2MP
- Front Camera: 20MP AI Selfie Camera
- Video Recording: 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps, Slo-mo 960fps
The camera app supports Night Mode, AI Scene Detection, Portrait Mode, and Pro controls for manual photography. Selfies are sharp with great skin tone processing.
Battery Life – Built to Last All Day
The device houses a 4500mAh battery that easily supports over a day of heavy usage. Paired with 18W fast charging, it takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to charge from 0–100%.
- Battery Capacity: 4500mAh
- Charging: 18W fast charger (included)
- Battery Backup: ~7–8 hours screen-on time
It was among the first in the segment to support USB Type-C and fast charging as standard.
Gaming & Features
Thanks to the Helio G90T, the Note 8 Pro performs incredibly well for gaming. It features HyperEngine Game Technology, which enhances resource allocation and reduces latency during gameplay. Features like dual-band Wi-Fi, IR Blaster, headphone jack, and Hi-Res audio support round out the package.
Software Experience
Launched with MIUI 10 on Android 9, the phone has received multiple updates and currently supports MIUI 13 based on Android 12 (region-dependent). While MIUI includes some preloaded apps and ads, the interface is feature-rich with customization options like:
- Dark Mode
- Game Turbo
- Floating Windows
- Second Space
- App Lock
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Powerful Helio G90T performance
Stunning design with Gorilla Glass 5
Excellent cameras for the price
Long battery life with fast charging
IR blaster and 3.5mm jack
Cons:
MIUI ads (can be disabled)
Slightly heavy at 200g
LCD screen, not AMOLED
Final Verdict
Redmi Note 8 Pro set a new benchmark for budget smartphones when it launched and continues to be relevant for casual users, students, and gamers on a budget. Its combination of powerful performance, solid cameras, and feature-rich software makes it a legendary device in the Redmi Note lineup.
If you’re considering buying a used or refurbished mid-range phone, the Redmi Note 8 Pro remains a strong and affordable choice in 2025.
