Poco Pad X1: Affordable mid-range tablet makes a big impression

The Xiaomi Poco Pad X1 is an elegant mid-range tablet with a slim metal casing, solid workmanship, and a high-quality feel. The workmanship is impressive with tight gaps and a stable structure, although the slightly protruding camera causes the tablet to wobble on smooth surfaces. Visually appealing but practically unprotected, Xiaomi has also decided not to seek IP certification.

The 11.2-inch LC display delivers sharp, high-contrast images, supports HDR, and dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 144 Hz. It does not flicker, but is prone to glare when viewed at an angle. The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 ensures smooth system performance and decent graphics performance that is impressive in everyday use. Despite being well equipped with Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, and an IR blaster, comfort features such as a fingerprint sensor, vibration motor, or headphone jack are missing.

Software maintenance is a positive feature: HyperOS 3.0 is already based on Android 16 and is set to receive updates for years to come. However, Xiaomi remains true to form and pre-installs advertisements and unwanted apps, which can be removed with a little effort.

The speakers offer clear but not deep sound, and the cameras deliver solid, if unspectacular, results in daylight. The battery deserves particular criticism, as its runtime is significantly shorter in the test than that of its sister model, the Xiaomi Pad 7.

Since the Poco Pad X1 is not officially available in Germany, there is a lack of service offerings and replacement parts, which limits its sustainability. All in all, Xiaomi offers a technically strong, well-built tablet with an attractive display and fast performance, but it loses some of its shine due to a lack of convenience features and reduced battery life.