Verdict on the Redmi Pad 2 4G: Solid tablet despite shortcomings
The Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2 4G is the successor to the Redmi Pad. Despite a three year wait since the launch of the predecessor and the lack of new features, the tablet remains true to its core values: it is affordable and still features an optional microSD expansion slot.
New features include a headphone jack and cellular support. The chassis is made of aluminum, although the weight has increased by 74 grams compared to the predecessor. The build quality is solid at first glance, but the tablet now features a plastic strip on the back and a non-flush card slot. The hybrid slot allows for either two nano-SIM cards or one SIM card and one microSD card. An outdated Wi-Fi 5 module is installed, but it is still sufficient for everyday use. The optional stylus works solidly but lacks a natural writing feel. The device is only secured biometrically by a less-than-reliable facial recognition method, and there is no vibration motor.
On the software side, the tablet ships with Android 15 and HyperOS 2.0 and, according to Xiaomi, will receive updates until June 2032. However, it remains unclear just how many major version updates are planned and how frequently security updates will be released. The security and system updates installed at the time of review were already out of date.
The tablet's cameras are functional but simple: The front camera offers acceptable color reproduction, but lacks detail. The main camera delivers usable results in daylight, and even the 2x zoom provides acceptable quality. Videos can be recorded in Full HD at 30 frames per second, but optical image stabilization is lacking.
The 11-inch LCD display impresses with its high pixel density, good contrast and low black levels, but offers no HDR support and only reaches a brightness of around 400 cd/m² in practice despite the manufacturer's specifications of up to 600 cd/m² in outdoor mode.
The Redmi Pad 2 4G is an affordable tablet with solid multimedia features. It scores points with four speakers, LTE, FM radio, a headphone jack and storage expansion. Limitations include the display's suitability for outdoor use, its weak ambient light sensor and its basic camera setup. However, thanks to its relatively cheap price tag, it remains an attractive offer in its class and so is definitely worth considering.
Source(s)
