Redmi 11 Prime 5G review: A cost-effective device for the future

Every year, I try out a sizable number of devices as a tech journalist, primarily smartphones. And if there’s one shift I’ve seen in the last few years, it’s that I’ve been finding it difficult to suggest a gadget in the sub-Rs 15,000 price range. This pricing range has been reached for notable series like Redmi Note, which originally debuted at less than Rs 15,000. There aren’t many options these days for a consumer looking for a budget device that is future-proof in the Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 pricing range.

And Redmi’s most recent device, the Redmi 11 Prime 5G, aims to somewhat remedy this. This phone is designed for someone searching for a phone under Rs 15,000 that is also future-proof and 5G ready. The Redmi Note 11T 5G is the only other 5G device that Redmi currently offers in the sub-Rs 20,000 markets.

It looks like the Redmi 11 Prime 5G makes an effort to close this gap. But does it succeed in its objectives? Here is my evaluation.

Specifications for the Redmi 11 Prime 5G include a 6.58-inch full HD+ LCD screen with a refresh rate of 90 Hz, a Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset, 4GB or 6GB of RAM, 64GB or 128GB of storage, a 50MP+ depth sensor, an 8MP front camera, a 5000 mAh battery with a 22.5W fast charger included, MIUI 13 with Android 12, and more.India’s Redmi 11 Prime 5G costs Rs 13,999 for the 4GB variant and Rs 15,999 for the 6GB RAM model.

Review of the Redmi 11 Prime 5G: What’s good?
Although admittedly less premium than, for example, the Redmi Note 11 Pro series, the Redmi 11 Prime 5G maintains the same design language as other handsets from the brand. The roughness of the polycarbonate rear gives it a unique sensation to the touch. Redmi also sent a silver color option for assessment, which sticks out and is classy and attractive. Two cameras are housed in the camera module at the back: a 2MP depth camera and a 50MP primary camera. The phone still has a headphone port, and the power button has a fingerprint scanner.

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A 6.58-inch LCD screen with a 90Hz refresh rate is included with the Redmi 11 Prime 5G. Although it is set to 60 Hz by default, which is better for battery use, you can change it to 90 Hz or 60 Hz from the options. The Redmi 11 Prime’s display is functional and legible even in direct sunlight. The large screen should satisfy the majority of users, and the full HD+ display is useful for watching films on YouTube or Netflix or simply scrolling through Facebook.

I didn’t have high expectations for the Redmi 11 Prime 5G’s performance, but it is adequate for daily use. On this, games like Asphalt 9 played without any hiccups or stuttering at all on the default settings. The Redmi 11 Prime 5G is adequate for daily chores like multitasking and toggling between apps. However, because the emphasis is elsewhere, you shouldn’t anticipate top-notch performance from this phone. And that has to do with charging less for a 5G-capable handset.

The Redmi 11 Prime 5G supports both Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G connectivity. If you’re wondering what all of this means, Xiaomi claims that the phone is prepared to provide 5G connection in the majority of circles in India once the network starts rolling out. The list of supported bands is n1 n3 n40 n78 for NSA and (n1 n3 n5 n8 n28 n40 n78 for SA.

The Redmi 11 Prime’s 5000 mAh battery easily lasts a day even when used heavily. While Xiaomi has included a 22.5W charger in the package, the phone’s fast charging capabilities are constrained. To get this back to a full charge, be ready to set aside at least two hours.

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What’s not so great about the Redmi 11 Prime 5G?
When photographing outside in a bright, well-lit environment under clear skies, the Redmi 11 Prime 5G’s camera produces passable pictures. The images are aesthetically beautiful, have good color reproduction, and are detailed. But indoors, I thought the pictures were unimpressive and the colors were too saturated. Some of the inside photographs could have benefited from more attention to detail. Additionally, the image quality and details diminish while using this camera at night or in dim illumination, as is to be expected. A night mode is available, although it doesn’t add anything. Although you should make sure there is enough light when photographing, portraits are also okay.

Redmi 11 Prime 5G: Is it worth purchasing?
A 5G-ready device without going over budget may be had with the Redmi 11 Prime 5G. The phone performs well and has a battery and display that are adequate. This is one of a few options on a fairly short list if you want to buy a cheap 5G phone that you might be able to use for the next two years. One of the Redmi 11 Prime 5G’s worst qualities is its camera, and you also lose out on other optional features like an ultra-wide angle camera. This is not to suggest that the camera performance is at all subpar; rather, it is average and in keeping with the price range.