Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ Review: Is it Still a Good Buy?

HomeReviewsXiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ Review: Is it Still a Good Buy?

Highlights

  • Impressive 200MP main camera captures stunning details.
  • 120W fast charging powers up the phone in just 30 minutes.
  • MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra ensures top-notch performance.
  • IP68 rating and Gorilla Glass Victus offer durability and protection.

Two months into its release, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ has been making waves in the smartphone market and is still priced at Rs 33,999 on Amazon.

This device aims to balance premium features with affordability, offering a blend of high-end performance, impressive photography capabilities, and rapid charging.

Sporting a sleek design and a powerful camera setup, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is positioned as a compelling choice for users seeking advanced features without venturing into flagship territory.

However, is it the right for you given its rather unconventionally high price point?

Let’s find out in my full review of the Redmi Note 13 Pro+.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Key Specs

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Key Specs
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Key Specs
  • MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra processor
  • 12GB RAM + 256GB UFS 3.1 storage
  • 6.67-inch AMOLED, 1.5K resolution, 1800 nits
  • Triple camera setup with 200MP main sensor
  • 120W fast charging, 5,000mAh battery
  • IP68 dust/water resistance
  • Supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Versatile Design and Display Can Be Considered Pricey
Speedy Performance Bloatware
Good Cameras

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Design and Build Quality

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Design and Build Quality
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Design and Build Quality

I’ve been exploring the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ in Fusion White, one of its three available colorways, alongside the more understated Fusion Black.

The first thing I noticed about my unit was its glossy back, which, while visually appealing, does tend to attract fingerprints.

Its dimensions are quite manageable, allowing for easy one-handed use, though I found that slipping on a case adds noticeable weight and bulk.

The button placement on the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is thoughtfully done, contributing to an overall better user experience.

Notably, it boasts an IP68 rating, a feature becoming more common in this price bracket but still appreciated for the added peace of mind it offers against dust and water.

Reflecting on Xiaomi’s design philosophy with this launch, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ stands out.

It’s the first smartphone in recent years I’ve felt compelled to use without a case, thanks to its striking design and solid build quality.

Xiaomi has certainly raised the bar right from the start of this year with the introduction of the Redmi Note 13 Pro+.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Display

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Display
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Display

The device features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, delivering crisp visuals with its 1.5K resolution (2,712 x 1,220 pixels) and a peak brightness of up to 1800 nits.

The support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision transforms movie watching into a truly immersive experience.

I’ve noticed the commitment to minimizing eye strain with a high PWM dimming rate of up to 1,920Hz, significantly reducing screen flicker.

For gaming and scrolling, the 120Hz refresh rate ensures everything feels buttery smooth.

Another upgrade I appreciate is the increased peak brightness to 1800 nits, making the screen exceptionally clear even in direct sunlight.

The jump to a 12-bit panel enriches the color palette, enhancing the depth of contrast and making the colors pop.

The screen’s slightly warmer tone is a pleasant departure from the harsher cold tones I’ve seen on other devices.

Thanks to the panel being an AMOLED screen, the blacks are deeper, and colors more vibrant, offering a stellar viewing experience.

Widevine L1 support, along with the aforementioned Dolby Vision, means streaming high-quality content from Netflix or YouTube is a breeze, making every viewing session a delight.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Cameras

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Cameras
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Cameras

The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ features a triple camera setup, headlined by a 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP3 sensor, making it a standout feature.

Compared to the Redmi Note 12 Pro+and similar competitors, I’ve observed a noticeable improvement in colour balance, noise reduction, and dynamic range across various lighting conditions.

Low-light photography surprisingly retains a lot of detail and presents decent color accuracy.

Capturing scenes at a dimly lit railway station and even a parked Lamborghini Urus, the images turned out quite usable.

Video capabilities are solid, with support for 4K at 30fps and slow-motion capture. Daytime video quality is commendable, though low-light conditions introduce blur and noise.

The HDR mode, in my opinion, falls short of making a significant impact on improving dynamic range, which feels average, especially outdoors.

I’m hopeful that a software update from Xiaomi could enhance HDR performance. Sunlit or well-lit shots impress with their vibrancy and clarity.

The 16MP front camera impresses with its true-to-life results, avoiding unnecessary smoothing or artificial enhancements.

While it generally manages color well in bright conditions, occasional overexposure and high saturation can be noticeable.

However, these instances are mostly well-handled, and portrait shots, in particular, stand out for their natural look and precise edge detection.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Day Camera Samples

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Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Day Video

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Performance and Features

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Performance and Features
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Performance and Features

As for the processing capabilities, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ has a MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra processor, a 4nm chip clocked at 2.8GHz, tailored specifically for this model.

Equipped with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, both top-tier with LPDDR5 and UFS 3.1 standards, it’s set up for high performance.

I did notice occasional delays in app loading and minor stutters when multitasking, but these were minor inconveniences compared to the clutter caused by the pre-installed apps.

Despite this, the gaming experience is largely positive, thanks to the device’s substantial vapor cooling chamber, which kept it cool even after nearly half an hour of photography under the sun.

I tested gaming performance with COD set at 90fps, resulting in a smooth experience.

Genshin Impact, on the other hand, only ran smoothly on low graphics settings.

Increasing the settings provided more detail at the cost of some stutters and lags, especially in high-action moments.

The haptic feedback, however, is a highlight, enhancing the experience while typing and interacting with the phone.

The speakers deliver a competitive audio experience, enjoyable for both movies and games.

While the in-display fingerprint sensor efficiently unlocks the phone, it’s not the quickest I’ve encountered.

The robust haptics motor adds to a satisfying typing feedback, and the inclusion of an IR Blaster, a staple in Redmi devices, is always appreciated for its utility.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Software and Battery Life

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Software and Battery Life
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Software and Battery Life

Xiaomi’s delay in rolling out the Android 14 update for its mid-budget smartphones, including the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, is something I hope they address soon.

Previously, the presence of bloatware and frequent app notifications seemed more tolerable, especially when targeting lower price brackets.

However, now that the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is priced upwards of Rs. 30,000, these aspects feel more intrusive.

Since setting up the phone, I’ve been receiving numerous GetApps notifications daily, despite multiple attempts to stop them forcefully.

This was somewhat disappointing.

On a brighter note, the software experience, bloatware aside, has been quite pleasant.

I appreciated the ability to uninstall most of the pre-installed apps after the initial setup, which helped declutter the phone’s interface significantly.

Moreover, Xiaomi’s commitment to providing three major OS updates and four years of security patches is commendable, offering some peace of mind regarding the device’s longevity and security.

Finally the phone packs in a robust 5,000mAh battery, alongside an incredible 120W fast charging capability.

With the charger included in the box, it takes about 30 minutes to fully charge the phone from zero, which I find remarkable.

This places the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ in a unique position among devices priced around Rs. 35,000, being one of the few to offer fast-charging speeds exceeding 100W.

Inside the charger, Xiaomi utilizes its custom Surge P1 chip, designed to enhance the charging efficiency of the battery.

In my daily routine, which includes a mix of photography, binge-watching, texting, and scrolling through Instagram, I found myself needing to charge the phone just once a day.

This battery life, combined with ultra-fast charging, ensures that I spend less time tethered to a power outlet and more time using the phone as I please.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Final Verdict

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Final Verdict
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+: Final Verdict

After spending considerable time with the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, I’m convinced it offers substantial value for its price.

It stands out with its premium design, high-quality display, and versatile camera system, all supported by solid performance and battery life.

While it’s not without its flaws, such as occasional software bloat and the slow rollout of the latest Android update, the pros far outweigh the cons.

For anyone looking at mid-range options, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ should definitely be on your radar.

5 Reasons to Buy

5 Reasons to Buy
5 Reasons to Buy
  • 200MP Main Camera: Captures stunning images with great detail and color accuracy, even in low light.
  • 120W Fast Charging: Powers up the phone quickly, minimizing downtime and enhancing convenience.
  • High-Performance Chipset: The MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra ensures smooth multitasking and gaming.
  • Immersive Display: Offers a sharp, bright viewing experience with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support.
  • Solid Build Quality: IP68 rating and Gorilla Glass Victus provide durability and peace of mind.

3 Reasons Not to Buy

3 Reasons Not to Buy
3 Reasons Not to Buy
  • Software Bloat: Comes with pre-installed apps and persistent notifications that can clutter the experience.
  • Delayed Updates: Slow rollout of Android 14 might be a concern for users seeking the latest software.
  • Price: While competitive, it may still be considered steep for some users, given the alternatives.

Top 5 Alternatives to Redmi Note 13 Pro+

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus Camera
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro

Price: Rs 24,042

Key Specs

  • Octa-core Snapdragon 7S Gen 2 Processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 6.67 inches FHD+, AMOLED Display
  • 200 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP Triple Primary Cameras
  • 16 MP Front Camera
  • 5100 mAh Battery with Turbo Charging

Motorola Edge 40 Neo

Verdict - Should You Buy Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
Motorola Edge 40 Neo

Price: Rs 25,175

Key Specs

  • Octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 7030 Processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 6.55 inches FHD+, P-OLED Display
  • 50 MP + 13 MP Dual Primary Cameras
  • 32 MP Front Camera
  • 5000 mAh Battery with Turbo Power Charging

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13

Redmi Note 13: Expected Specs
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13

Price: 16,868

Key Specs

  • Octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 6080 Processor
  • 6 GB RAM
  • 6.67 inches FHD+, AMOLED Display
  • 108 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP Triple Primary Cameras
  • 16 MP Front Camera
  • 5000 mAh Battery with Fast Charging

Realme 12 Pro Plus

Realme 12 Pro Series: Launch Timeline
Realme 12 Pro Plus

Price: Rs 28,789

Key Specs

  • Octa-core Snapdragon 7S Gen 2 Processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 6.7 inches FHD+, AMOLED Display
  • 50 MP + 8 MP + 64 MP Triple Primary Cameras
  • 32 MP Front Camera
  • 5000 mAh Battery with Super VOOC Charging

POCO X6 Pro

POCO X6 Pro: Pricing and Availability
POCO X6 Pro

Price: Rs 25,999

Key Specs

  • Octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra Processor
  • 8 GB RAM
  • 6.67 inches Display
  • 64 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP Triple Primary Cameras
  • 16 MP Front Camera
  • 5000 mAh Battery

FAQs

What makes the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ a good choice among mid-range smartphones?

The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ stands out with its high-resolution camera, rapid charging, and robust performance, packaged in a design that’s both sleek and durable.

How does the camera quality of the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ compare to other smartphones in the same price range?

With a 200MP main sensor, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ offers superior detail and color accuracy, making it one of the best camera phones at its price point.

Is the battery life of the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ sufficient for daily use?

Yes, the 5,000mAh battery, coupled with 120W fast charging, ensures that the phone lasts through a day of mixed usage with time to spare.

Can the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ handle high-performance gaming?

Thanks to the MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra processor and efficient cooling system, the phone handles most games smoothly, though some high-end games may require lower settings for optimal performance.

Are there any drawbacks to consider before purchasing the Redmi Note 13 Pro+?

Potential buyers should note the presence of bloatware and the slow rollout of Android updates, which may impact the software experience.

Also Read: Redmi Note 13 Pro+ Confirmed To Come with IP68 Certification; Launch Set for January 4, 2024

Also Read: Redmi Note 13 Series Launched in India: Price, Features, Specs, and More

Also Read: Redmi Note 13 5G vs Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G vs Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G: A Full Comparison Of Redmi’s Latest Offerings

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