Is the Redmi Note 5 Pro Worth the Investment for Long-Term Use?
The Redmi Note 5 Pro, released in early 2018, is often praised for its durability and long-lasting performance. While it may not compete with the latest tech advancements, the smartphone's build quality, battery life, and overall performance make it a reliable choice for many users. Here, we explore the key factors that contribute to the longevity of the Redmi Note 5 Pro.
Build Quality
The phone boasts a metal body, which enhances its durability against daily wear and tear. This robust build helps reduce the risk of damage from minor bumps and falls. Additionally, the metal design offers a premium feel and aesthetic appeal, making the Redmi Note 5 Pro not only functional but also visually appealing.
Battery Life
In terms of power, the Redmi Note 5 Pro is equipped with a 4000 mAh battery. This capacity allows for a full day of usage with moderate to heavy use. Many users report that the battery retains its performance for several years, despite the natural degradation of battery capacity over time. Even after three to four years, the battery remains sufficient for daily tasks.
Software Updates and Performance
At the time of its release, the device shipped with MIUI 9, based on Android Oreo. While software support may become limited over time, affecting security and performance, the Redmi Note 5 Pro still receives updates until it reaches a certain point. The Snapdragon 636 processor ensures that the phone handles most apps and games well, although newer, more demanding applications may introduce slight performance lags.
Explanation from a User's Perspective
I purchased my Redmi Note 5 Pro with 4GB of RAM from Flipkart on August 29, 2018. In the three and a half years that have passed, my phone has performed well, despite not being a heavy user. I primarily use the phone for YouTube, online classes, shopping, Google searches, and listening to music. I am highly satisfied with my purchase, save for a few minor issues that are expected in any smartphone of that age.
Among the issues, the battery drains faster than expected, going to zero within 2.5 hours after 100 charges. However, this is a minor issue as my phone is now three years old. The lack of scratches and the proper use of back covers and tempered glass have contributed to its longevity. Occasionally, the phone does get laggy, but this happens less than three times per year. There have also been some overheating when used for extended periods, and the volume of the speakers has decreased. These issues are, however, tolerable given the phone's age.
As of today, the Redmi Note 5 Pro is five years old. Performance has slightly decreased, with occasional hanging in larger applications like Facebook and Instagram. Despite this, the phone remains functional for regular use such as calls, YouTube, WhatsApp, and third-party applications.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, the Redmi Note 5 Pro can last several years. While its performance may not keep up with newer models, its robust build, decent battery life, and manageable hardware issues make it a reliable and durable smartphone for everyday use. If you take good care of your device, you can expect it to continue functioning well for another year, or potentially longer.