Is the Redmi Note 8 Pro 64GB Storage Variant Worth Buying?

The Redmi Note 8 Pro is a popular flagship-level smartphone that continues to dominate the mid-range market. However, a potential buyer might face several concerns before making a purchase decision, particularly when it comes to the 64GB storage variant. This paper examines the pros and cons of this variant, highlighting key features, storage concerns, and suitability for different use cases.

Overview of the Redmi Note 8 Pro

The Redmi Note 8 Pro, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G chip, offers impressive hardware specifications. It features a 6.53-inch Full HD MIUI 11 display, a 4500mAh battery with 18W fast charging, and a triple-lens rear camera setup consisting of a 64MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide, and a 2MP macro lens. The front camera is a 20MP pop-up arrangement, ensuring fast and unobtrusive selfies. Additionally, it offers fingerprint scanning under the display, an IMX586 ultra-large sensor, 6GB/8GB of RAM, and a 64GB or 128GB storage variant, among other features.

Storage Concerns

When it comes to storage, the Redmi Note 8 Pro offers two variants: 64GB and 128GB. The 64GB variant, while affordable, can be a significant downside for some users. Here's why:

Insufficient Storage for Big Data Users: Apps, games, high-resolution photos, and videos can consume a lot of storage space. While 64GB might seem sufficient upon purchase, it can quickly fill up with frequent usage. For power users, developers, students, or gamers, the limited storage can be a major inconvenience. Lack of Expandability: Unlike devices with microSD card slots, the Redmi Note 8 Pro lacks the ability to expand storage beyond its 64GB limit. This is a significant drawback for those who anticipated being able to store more files externally. App CRASHES and Performance Issues: When storage space runs low, apps may crash or become unstable. In worst-case scenarios, the device might even become unresponsive, leading to operational disruptions.

Thermal Management and Camera Issues

Another factor to consider is the thermal management issues and camera performance of the Redmi Note 8 Pro. Let's break it down:

Thermal Management Challenges

One of the primary concerns with this variant is its thermal management during heavy gaming. The Snapdragon 730G chip, while powerful, can generate significant heat during intense gaming sessions. This can lead to increased battery drain and reduced performance. Users may experience lags or even overheating issues that can affect their gaming experience.

Camera Performance

The Redmi Note 8 Pro boasts an impressive camera setup with a 64MP primary sensor, which should deliver excellent image quality. However, there are some notable issues to consider:

Color Imbalance in Photos: Both the front and rear cameras suffer from exposure and white balance issues, leading to inconsistent and sometimes unpleasing images. No Google Camera Version: Currently, no customized Google Camera application is available for the Redmi Note 8 Pro. This means users won't be able to leverage advanced features like Night Sight, which can impact photo quality and usability.

Alternatives and FAQs

Given these pros and cons, it's essential to weigh the benefits of the 64GB variant against the drawbacks. Consider the following alternatives and FAQs:

Alternatives

128GB Storage Variant: Opting for the 128GB variant can provide much-needed space, rendering most of the above issues non-existent. Upgrade Options: Consider upgrading to a model with 8GB of RAM or a higher storage variant for smoother performance and more storage space.

FAQs

Is the Redmi Note 8 Pro 64GB good for gaming? - The 64GB variant is not ideal for gaming due to thermal issues and limited space. 128GB or higher variants are better suited. Does the Redmi Note 8 Pro have a back-up camera? - Yes, the Redmi Note 8 Pro has a back-up camera and a macro lens, making it versatile for different photography scenarios. How long does the Redmi Note 8 Pro battery last? - The 4500mAh battery with 18W fast charging should provide about 1-2 days of moderate to heavy usage. For gaming or streaming, it might need more frequent charging.

Conclusion

While the Redmi Note 8 Pro is an impressive device with several strong features, the 64GB storage variant may not be the best choice for everyone, especially power users and those who prioritize space and long-term usage. Users who prioritize storage and are looking for a versatile device should opt for the 128GB variant. For the time being, however, the 64GB variant can suit basic users who don't plan to use the device intensively for gaming, photography, or extensive file storage.