Amir ZulkarnainThe Xiaomi Redmi A2 Plus is an affordable smartphone that delivers solid performance, extended battery life, and a spacious display.
Priced under RM400 in Malaysia, it stands out as one of the top budget-friendly smartphone choices. In this review, we’ll delve into its specifications, features, advantages, drawbacks, and conduct a comparison with some of its rivals in the market.
Specification table
| Specs | Detail |
|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | Mediatek Helio G36 (12 nm), Octa-core (4×2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4×1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) | PowerVR GE8320 |
| RAM (Random Access Memory) | 3GB |
| Internal Storage | 64GB |
| Battery | Li-Po 5000 mAh, non-removable, 10W wired charging |
| Display | 6.52-inch IPS LCD, 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density), 400 nits (typ) |
| Camera | Rear: Dual: 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) + 0.08 MP (depth), Dual-LED flash, HDR, 1080p@30fps video recording Front: 5 MP, f/2.2, 1080p@30fps video recording |
| Connectivity | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by), Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, LE, microUSB 2.0, FM radio |
| Security Features | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), Face Unlock |
| Operating System and Updates | Android 12 (Go edition), MIUI |
| Additional Features | Dedicated microSDXC slot |
Performance: Smooth and responsive
The Xiaomi Redmi A2 Plus is driven by the Mediatek Helio G36 chipset, a 12nm processor well-suited for handling everyday tasks and light gaming with ease. It packs 3GB of RAM and offers a generous 64GB of internal storage, which can be further expanded up to a whopping 512GB via a dedicated microSDXC slot.
Running on Android 12 (Go edition), a lightweight version of Android tailored for optimal performance and memory management on lower-end devices, it ensures smooth operation. Additionally, the phone comes with the MIUI skin on top of Android, which introduces additional features and customization options to enhance the user experience.
Camera: Decent for the price
The Xiaomi Redmi A2 Plus features a dual camera setup on the rear, comprising an 8 MP main camera and a 0.08 MP depth sensor. In favorable lighting conditions, the main camera delivers respectable photos with accurate colors and details. However, it struggles in low-light settings, resulting in noisy and somewhat blurry images.
The depth sensor aids in creating a bokeh effect for portrait shots, though its edge detection could be more precise. The camera supports HDR mode, which can enhance the dynamic range of your photos.
For selfies, the front camera is a 5 MP shooter capable of capturing decent self-portraits during daylight. Nevertheless, it encounters similar challenges in low-light environments as the rear camera. An added feature is the front camera’s support for a fast and convenient face unlock function.
Both the rear and front cameras are capable of recording videos at up to 1080p resolution, with a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The video quality is moderate, offering reasonable stabilization and audio quality.
Battery: Long-lasting and reliable
The Xiaomi Redmi A2 Plus boasts a substantial 5000 mAh battery that’s more than capable of lasting an entire day, even with moderate usage.
For charging, it supports 10W wired charging through a microUSB port, which can take the phone from empty to fully charged in approximately three hours.
Durability: Solid and sturdy
The Xiaomi Redmi A2 Plus features a solid and sturdy plastic body that feels substantial when held. Its matte finish on the rear surface effectively wards off fingerprints and smudges, maintaining a clean appearance.
Moreover, the phone benefits from a water-repellent coating, safeguarding it from minor splashes and spills. Additionally, the phone is equipped with a swift and accurate fingerprint scanner conveniently located on the back for easy access and security.
Pricelist: Affordable and competitive
The Xiaomi Redmi A2 Plus is competitively priced at RM399 for the 64GB / 3GB model in Malaysia. It offers a choice of three appealing colors: Light Green, Light Blue, and Black.
Interested buyers can easily find the phone for purchase on various online platforms, including Shopee, Zalora, CompAsia, and more.
| Storage / Promo | Price |
|---|---|
| 64GB / No Promo | RM399 |
| 64GB / RM3 Voucher | RM356 |
| 64GB / Free Shipping | RM359 |
| 32GB / No Promo | RM399 |
| 32GB / Free 1 Month Warranty | RM189 |
Conclusion: A good choice for budget-conscious users
The Xiaomi Redmi A2 Plus is a solid choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking a smartphone that delivers strong performance, extended battery life, and a generous display. With its capable processor, long-lasting battery, spacious screen, and dual camera setup, it offers a well-rounded package. Running on Android 12 (Go edition), optimized for lower-end devices, it ensures efficient operation.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider, including the lower display resolution, reliance on a microUSB port, average camera quality, and the absence of NFC. Despite these limitations, priced at RM399, the phone delivers excellent value for money and competes favorably with rivals like the Realme C21Y, Samsung Galaxy A03s, and Vivo Y12s in the budget smartphone market.
Pros
- Smooth and responsive performance
- Long-lasting and reliable battery
- Large and bright display
- Dedicated microSDXC slot
- Fingerprint scanner and face unlock
Cons:
- Low-resolution display
- MicroUSB port
- Mediocre camera quality
- No NFC