Redmi launches a Gaming Enhanced Edition of the K40 with customizations and options to match its new name

Redmi has finally unleasedh its very first Gaming Enhanced Edition of its flagship smartphone line in 2021. It has been flagrantly hyped as a flat-screened Dimensity 1200 powerhouse, and the Xiaomi brand has delivered on these points. Its 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display incorporates the same panel-folding technique employed by Apple for the iPhone 12 series that keeps bezels thin while maintaining screen visibility.

In the Gaming Enhanced Edition's case, this technology has left it with side-bezels of just 1.8mm across and a 2.7mm chin. The display framed by this minimal border is also enhanced with HDR10+ and full DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and a a three-finger 480Hz touch-sampling rate. Then again, its refresh rate does not deviate from the 120Hz spec of the rest of the K40 series.

Then again, Redmi has also graced the new variant with niche-appropriate retractable shoulder buttons. They are part of a case that does differ significantly from the rest of its line, from the new rear panel finish and RGB-accented camera hump, even accompanied by an LED flash in the shape of a lightning bolt.

This camera set-up also introduces a feature completely new to Redmi mobile photography: an ultra-low dispersion lens. This might boost shots taken with its main 64MP sensor. The OEM has also helped the K40 Gaming Enhanced Edition stand out with an ultra-thin design: it is just 8.3mm in depth, despite having a relatively large 5065mAh battery.

Redmi asserts this is an advantage compared to the typically bulky and heavy gaming flagships of 2021. Furthermore, their new competitor recharges using the same 67W tech from the Mi 11 Ultra and Pro Xiaomi flagships.

The Gaming Enhanced Edition is also the first Redmi K-series phone to launch with stereo speakers tuned by JBL. The phone also supports Hi-Res Audio, Dolby Atmos and an array of high-end codices (AAC, LDAC and LHDC). It is also rated for Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 6, and GPS with NavIC.

Redmi has made the K40 Gaming Enhanced Edition available to pre-order in China already. It starts at a markedly competitive 1999 yuan (~US$308), albeit for a 6GB RAM/128GB internal storage variant. Then again, its top-end 12GB/256GB SKU only goes up to 2699 yuan (~$416).

These prices are for the phone's 'normal' black, gray or silver colorways; however, those looking for something more colorful might go for the commemorative "Bruce Lee King of Kung Fu"-inscribed version of the phone. This alternative top-end configuration is finished in theme-appropriate black accents on a yellow background, and can be pre-ordered for 2799 yuan (~$432) from April 30, 2021.