Opening

You could be forgiven for getting lost in the multitude of Redmi Note 13 models. There are two regular and three Pro models, 4G and 5G versions, and more to keep track of. The sheer number can even leave us – the reviewers – feeling overwhelmed. Today, however, we’re focusing on the most basic model of all, the one that started it all – the Redmi Note 13!

The most affordable Redmi Note 13 model is a 4G smartphone that shares many features with the mid-level and premium Note 13 variations. It boasts a large 120Hz AMOLED, a triple camera with a high-res primary, stereo speakers, and a robust 5,000mAh battery with fast charging capabilities.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G review

The Redmi Note 13 phones have a simple yet stylish design, along with IP54-rated ingress protection. The Redmi Note 13 4G has a slim camera housing, making it a rather attractive device.

The phone features a 6.67-inch 1080p AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and is powered by the entry-level Snapdragon 685 4G chipset. It is available in 6GB and 8GB RAM options, with storage capacities of 128GB and 256GB, as well as microSD expansion.

We were pleasantly surprised by the camera setup on the Redmi Note 13, considering it is an entry-level smartphone. The primary camera is a 108MP unit, along with an 8MP ultrawide and a 2MP macro camera on the back. There is also a 16MP selfie camera.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G review

The Redmi Note 13 offers additional features including stereo speakers, an under-display fingerprint scanner, and a large 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging. The phone runs on Android 13 with MIUI 14.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G specs summary:

  • Design: 162.3×75.6×8.0mm, 189g; Gorilla Glass 3 front, plastic back, plastic frame; IP54, dust and splash resistant.
  • Display: 6.67″ AMOLED, 120Hz, 1800 nits (peak), 1080x2400px resolution, 20:9 aspect ratio, 395ppi.
  • Chipset: Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 685 (6 nm): Octa-core (4×2.8 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4×1.9 GHz Cortex-A53); Adreno 610.
  • Memory: 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM; UFS 2.2; microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot).
  • OS/Software: Android 13, MIUI 14.
  • Rear camera: Primary: 108 MP, f/1.8, 24mm, 1/1.67″, 0.64µm, PDAF; Ultra wide: 8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚; Macro: 2 MP, f/2.4.
  • Front camera: 16 MP, f/2.4, (wide).
  • Video recording: Rear camera: 1080p@30fps; Front camera: 1080p@30fps.
  • Battery: 5000mAh; 33W wired, 50% in 29 min, 100% in 70 min (advertised).
  • Connectivity: LTE; Hybrid Dual SIM; Wi-Fi 5; BT 5.1; NFC; Infrared port; 3.5mm jack.
  • Misc: Fingerprint reader (under display, optical); stereo speakers.

The Redmi Note 13 appears to be a compelling offering, packing everything you’d expect from an affordable smartphone plus some. Without further delay, let’s unbox the Note 13!

Unboxing the Redmi Note 13

The Redmi Note 13 comes in a durable retail package with essential accessories – a 3A USB cable, a 33W power adapter, and a dark gray protective case.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G review

The phone has a thin protective film on its screen, which is good for preventing scratches but tends to attract smudges.