Xiaomi Redmi A5 Review: A Budget-Friendly Smartphone

The Xiaomi Redmi A5, launched in March 2025, continues Xiaomi’s mission to deliver capable smartphones for budget-conscious users. As part of the Redmi A series, it focuses on the essentials — a large, smooth display, reliable battery life, and simple performance — at an accessible price for the Nigerian market. Below is a complete overview of its specifications, performance, and buying advice as of May 2025.

Key Specifications at a Glance

The Redmi A5 trims out non-essentials to keep its price affordable while still offering solid everyday features:

• Display: 6.88-inch IPS LCD, HD+ (720 × 1640 pixels), 120Hz refresh rate, 450 nits typical brightness, up to 1500 nits peak.

• Processor: Unisoc T7250 (12nm) octa-core chipset.

• RAM & Storage: 3GB, 4GB, or 6GB RAM (with virtual RAM expansion); 64GB or 128GB eMMC 5.1 storage; expandable via microSDXC (up to 2TB).

• Rear Camera: 32MP (f/2.0) main lens + auxiliary sensor, LED flash, 1080p@30fps video.

• Front Camera: 8MP (f/2.0) with HDR, 1080p@30fps video.

• Battery: 5200mAh, 15W wired charging (USB Type-C 2.0).

• Operating System: Android 15 (Go Edition) with Xiaomi’s HyperOS skin.

• Connectivity: Dual SIM, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, FM radio, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

• Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, AI face unlock, IP53 dust/splash resistance, sturdy plastic build.

Design and Display: Big, Bright, and Surprisingly Smooth

The 6.88-inch HD+ display is one of the biggest in its class, providing ample space for streaming, reading, and browsing. What makes it stand out is the 120Hz refresh rate, an uncommon feature at this price level, ensuring smoother animations and scrolling.

With a typical brightness of 450 nits and peaks up to 1500 nits, the display remains readable outdoors. While it’s not Full HD, it delivers an enjoyable visual experience for casual use.

Performance: Reliable for Everyday Tasks

Powered by the Unisoc T7250 (12nm) processor, the Redmi A5 is designed for efficiency and light workloads. It performs well for basic tasks like calls, messaging, social media, and web browsing — particularly when using the Go versions of popular apps.

The 4GB or 6GB RAM variants (with memory extension) are noticeably smoother, offering fewer slowdowns during multitasking. However, for heavy apps, advanced gaming, or constant multitasking, users will experience some lag — which is expected at this tier.

Camera: Capable for Its Class

The 32MP rear camera is a pleasant surprise in this price bracket, producing bright and detailed images under good lighting. It handles highlights and dynamic range reasonably well, though low-light shots tend to lose detail and sharpness.

The 8MP selfie camera captures natural skin tones and works well for video calls and casual selfies. Both cameras record up to 1080p at 30fps, sufficient for general use and social media uploads.

Battery Life and Charging: Built to Last

A key highlight is the 5200mAh battery, which easily lasts over a full day of moderate to heavy use. Light users may even stretch it to a day and a half. Charging via 15W wired power is modest but acceptable, taking roughly 2 to 2.5 hours for a full charge.

Buying Advice: Who Should Get the Redmi A5?

✅ Recommended For:

• Tight Budgets: Perfect for users seeking an affordable yet capable smartphone.

• Everyday Tasks: Great for calls, social media, light browsing, and media consumption.

• Display Lovers: The 120Hz refresh rate is a major plus for smooth visuals.

• Longevity and Updates: Ships with Android 15 (Go Edition) and promises 2 years of OS updates.

• Strong Battery Users: Ideal for those who prioritize all-day power.

⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind:

• Performance Limits: Not suitable for demanding apps or gaming.

• HD+ Display: Sharpness is lower compared to Full HD screens.

• Charging Speed: 15W charging is decent but not fast.

• Plastic Build: Sturdy, but lacks a premium feel.

💡 Pro Tip:
If budget allows, choose the 4GB RAM variant — it offers the best balance between performance and price.

Price in Nigeria (as of May 2025)

Prices may vary across online platforms and local stores in Lagos and other cities.

Conclusion

The Xiaomi Redmi A5 is a standout choice in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Its large 120Hz display, excellent battery life, and surprisingly good cameras make it a reliable everyday companion for users with basic smartphone needs.