Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE review exploring performance, display quality, and Dolby Atmos speakers

Description

Packed Display Features for an Immersive Experience

The Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE boasts an 11-inch LCD IPS display with a resolution of 1900×1200 FHD, and I must say, the visuals are stunning. Whether I was binge-watching my favorite shows or flipping through presentations, the 1 billion colors, combined with the 90Hz refresh rate, delivered vibrant and smooth visuals. Text appears crisp, and even my Excel sheets looked oddly satisfying on this screen. With 400 nits of brightness, the screen remains visible in most lighting conditions, though it can struggle slightly in direct sunlight.

Scrolling through the interface feels incredibly fluid, thanks to the high refresh rate, and gaming sessions were enjoyable without any noticeable lag in response. However, the bezels on the screen, although slim, might feel a tad dated compared to some higher-end tablets. Still, at this price range, the display quality is a strong selling point.

Sound That Surrounds You

What really caught me off guard was the quad-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos support on this device. I wasn’t expecting the sound to be this impressive on a tablet. Listening to music felt rich, with clear highs and surprisingly deep bass for such a compact device. Watching action-packed movies was a treat, as the surround effect made every explosion and soundtrack immersive.

I tested the speakers while video calling my family, and everyone’s voice came through loud and clear. However, the lack of audio output customization options might be a drawback for audiophiles who prefer tweaking their sound profiles. Still, for the average user like me, the audio quality is outstanding for both entertainment and productivity.

Performance That Keeps Up with Demands

Being powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor, this tablet handles multitasking like a champ. I was able to switch between apps, run casual games, and even edit documents without any noticeable lag. The 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage provide plenty of space for files and apps, and the expandable microSD slot ensures you’re unlikely to run out of space.

I put the processor to the test with some heavier apps, and while it performed well overall, you might notice occasional stutters with highly demanding 3D games. For day-to-day tasks, though, it’s more than capable. The MIUI 14, based on Android 13, is optimized for this tablet, offering intuitive features tailored for larger screens. That said, MIUI does come with a bit of bloatware, which you might want to clean up for a smoother experience.

Battery Life and Charging Capabilities

The 8,000mAh battery on this device is a powerhouse. I could comfortably go through extended video playback, web browsing, and light gaming without needing to recharge. Even with heavy use, the tablet didn’t give up on me quickly. The support for 22.5W charging came in handy, as I could top it up relatively fast when needed.

However, I did notice that the provided adapter doesn’t always charge as quickly as I’d hoped, especially when compared to devices with more advanced fast-charging technologies. Still, the long battery life ensures you’re not constantly hunting for a power outlet.

Camera Capabilities for Everyday Use

Both the rear and front cameras are rated at 8MP, and while they won’t compete with high-end smartphones, they’re decent for casual use. The rear camera is fine for snapping quick photos or scanning documents, while the front camera’s 105° field of view is perfect for group video calls. I appreciated the FocusFrame feature, which adjusts the frame dynamically during calls, making sure everyone stays in view.

In low-light conditions, though, the camera quality does take a hit. Graininess becomes noticeable, and the lack of advanced camera features is apparent. Still, for a tablet, these cameras are practical and functional for most scenarios.

Key Benefits

• Stunning 11-inch FHD display with 1 billion colors and a 90Hz refresh rate
• Quad speakers with Dolby Atmos for immersive audio experiences
• Powerful Snapdragon 680 processor ensures smooth multitasking
• 8,000mAh battery with reliable all-day performance
• Expandable storage via microSD slot

Areas for Improvement

• Camera performance is underwhelming in low-light settings
• Occasional stutters with heavy gaming apps
• MIUI bloatware can clutter the experience initially
• Brightness struggles slightly in direct sunlight

Product Contenders

Comparing the Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE to similar tablets, I found it holds its own in several areas. For instance, when stacked against the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8, the Xiaomi tablet offers a better refresh rate and superior sound quality, thanks to its quad speakers. However, the Samsung alternative edges ahead with its slimmer design and slightly better camera performance.

As for the Amazon Fire HD 10, while it’s more budget-friendly, it falls short in terms of display quality and performance, especially under heavy multitasking. The Xiaomi option feels more premium and is better suited for productivity.

The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus, on the other hand, is a close competitor, with a similarly vibrant display and comparable performance. Still, the Redmi Pad SE takes the lead with its Dolby Atmos support and longer-lasting battery.

Smart Spending

For its price, this tablet delivers an impressive mix of features. The high-quality display, immersive sound, and reliable performance make it a strong contender in its category. While the cameras and occasional software quirks leave room for improvement, it still offers excellent value for its features. If you’re looking for a tablet that can handle both entertainment and productivity, this device doesn’t disappoint.

Additional information