Xiaomi Redmi Note 16 5G, launched in India on February 23, 2025, is a budget-friendly smartphone that delivers premium features at an affordable price of ₹18,990. With 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, a 5500mAh battery, and a 108MP triple camera, it’s designed for students, casual gamers, and everyday users seeking 5G connectivity. Its sleek design, vibrant AMOLED display, and robust performance make it a standout in the sub-₹20,000 segment. Recent feedback praises its camera and battery life, though some users note low-light camera issues and inconsistent connectivity. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or snapping photos, the Redmi Note 16 5G offers incredible value. Let’s explore why it’s a top pick in 2025.
Why the Redmi Note 16 5G Stands Out
Priced at ₹18,990, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 16 5G combines a 120Hz AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, and a high-resolution 108MP camera, making it ideal for budget-conscious tech enthusiasts. Its IP64 splash resistance and Gorilla Glass protection add durability, while the included charger enhances value. Users love the vibrant screen and camera performance, but some report average low-light photography and 5G connectivity issues. For those seeking a feature-packed 5G phone under ₹20,000, this device shines. Here’s what makes it special.
Sleek Design with Durable Build
The Redmi Note 16 5G boasts a modern, lightweight design, measuring 161.8 x 75.3 x 8.1mm and weighing 190 grams. Available in Black, it features a dual-tone matte finish that resists fingerprints and feels premium despite the plastic back. The flat frame ensures a comfortable grip for gaming or video calls, and the slim profile adds elegance.
With an IP64 rating, it’s resistant to dust and light splashes, surviving accidental spills or rain, though it’s less rugged than the IP69-rated Realme P3 5G. Corning Gorilla Glass protects the display, and users praise the sturdy build, though some note minor scratches on the plastic back without the included case. The sleek design and durability make it a practical choice for daily use.
Vibrant 6.82-Inch AMOLED Display
The Redmi Note 16 5G features a 6.82-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 1080×2400 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 1800 nits peak brightness. With 446ppi and HDR10+ support, it delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, ideal for streaming and gaming. TÜV Rheinland certifications reduce eye strain, and the 240Hz touch sampling rate ensures responsive interactions.
Users love the display’s smoothness for games like BGMI at 90fps and videos, but some note it’s less bright than the Xiaomi 14T’s 4000-nit AMOLED in direct sunlight. Compared to the Poco M7 Pro 5G’s AMOLED, it’s larger but slightly less sharp. The minimal bezels and punch-hole camera enhance immersion, making it a standout for multimedia in its price range.
Solid Performance with 8GB RAM
Powered by the 6nm MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, the Redmi Note 16 5G offers reliable performance, scoring around 450,000 on AnTuTu. With 8GB LPDDR4X RAM (plus up to 8GB virtual RAM) and 256GB UFS 2.2 storage (expandable via microSD), it handles multitasking, social media, and casual gaming smoothly. The Mali-G57 GPU supports games like Free Fire but may lag in heavy titles at high settings.
Running Android 15 with HyperOS, it offers AI features like AI Image Expansion and AI Erase, but some users report bloatware and minor UI lag. Two years of OS updates and four years of security patches are decent but trail rivals like the CMF Phone 2 Pro. Connectivity issues, like slow 5G speeds, have been noted, though it supports multiple 5G bands (n1/n3/n5/n8/n28).
Robust 5500mAh Battery
The 5500mAh battery delivers excellent endurance, lasting up to 1.5 days with moderate use (7-8 hours of screen-on time) or a full day with heavy gaming and streaming. The 45W fast charging reaches 50% in about 25 minutes, with a charger included, a rarity in this segment. Smart charging ensures over 80% battery health after years of use.
Users praise the battery’s stamina, but some find the charging speed slower than the Xiaomi 14T’s 67W. No heating issues were reported during casual use, though intensive tasks can warm the device. Compared to the Redmi 15 5G’s 7000mAh battery, it’s smaller but still outperforms the Poco M7 Pro 5G’s 5110mAh.
108MP Triple Camera for Vibrant Shots
The Redmi Note 16 5G features a triple-camera setup with a 108MP main sensor (f/1.8), a 13MP ultrawide (f/2.2), and a 2MP macro lens, paired with a 20MP front camera. The main camera captures sharp, vibrant daylight photos with excellent detail, and the ultrawide lens is great for landscapes. However, low-light shots show noise, and the macro lens adds little value. The front camera delivers decent selfies but struggles in dim conditions.
Video recording supports 4K at 30fps with electronic stabilization. Users appreciate the camera’s versatility but note low-light performance lags behind the Xiaomi 14T’s Leica-tuned setup. AI features like AI Bokeh and AI Erase enhance creativity, though some find them inconsistent. Compared to the Poco M7 Pro 5G, it’s more versatile but not class-leading.
Extra Features for Value
The phone supports 5G (n1/n3/n5/n8/n28), Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and an IR blaster for controlling appliances. It includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, though bass is limited. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is fast, but some users report occasional failures.
HyperOS includes bloatware like TikTok, which frustrates users, and connectivity issues, like weak 5G signals, have been noted. The IP64 rating, Gorilla Glass, and included charger, case, and screen protector add value. Early bird offers, like ₹1,000 discounts on Amazon India, make it more affordable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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8GB RAM and 256GB storage with microSD expansion
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5500mAh battery with 45W fast charging (charger included)
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Vibrant 6.82-inch 120Hz AMOLED display
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IP64 splash resistance and Gorilla Glass
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Versatile 108MP triple camera
Cons:
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Low-light camera performance is average
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Bloatware and occasional UI lag
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Limited two-year OS updates
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Inconsistent 5G connectivity
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Macro lens adds little value
Recent User Sentiment
Feedback praises the Redmi Note 16 5G’s value at ₹18,990, with users highlighting its vibrant display, long battery life, and 108MP camera for daylight photography. The included accessories and expandable storage are hits, but low-light camera performance and bloatware disappoint some. Connectivity issues, like slow 5G speeds, have been reported, similar to the Poco M7 Pro 5G. Compared to the Realme P3 5G, it offers a larger display but similar software critiques. It’s a strong choice for budget 5G buyers.
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Why Buy the Redmi Note 16 5G?
At ₹18,990, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 16 5G offers excellent value with 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, a 5500mAh battery, and a 108MP camera. Its AMOLED display and 5G support make it ideal for multimedia and casual gaming. Compared to the Poco M7 Pro 5G or Realme P3 5G, it excels in camera resolution and screen size but lags in software updates and low-light photography. If you prioritize affordability and a vibrant display, this phone is a great pick.
What’s your take? Excited about the Redmi Note 16 5G’s camera or its large display? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
Hi, I’m Siddharth Gokhale – the founder and voice behind Vatadosha.in. I’m a tech enthusiast with a deep passion for smartphones, gadgets, and everything mobile. Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours exploring the mobile industry, testing devices, and keeping up with the latest trends.
I started Vatadosha.in with a simple goal: to help people make smarter choices when it comes to mobile phones. Whether you’re hunting for your next device, comparing features, or just curious about the newest tech – this site is built for you.