Xiaomi Redmi 6 vs. Xiaomi redmi 5: specs

Let's kick off the comparison with the main specs of the two Redmi models.

	Xiaomi Redmi 5 4G Phablet Global Version - BLACK
	$170.4 $149.99	(351)

Xiaomi Redmi 6 vs. Xiaomi redmi 5: design and display

The Xiaomi Redmi 6 takes a lot after the Redmi 5 in design —but there are differences as well. Both phones come with a polycarbonate back panel with a brushed metal surface and aim for the ever-so-popular bezel-less look.

The Redmi 6, though, opts for a smaller screen: 5.45 inches compared to 5.7 inches on the Redmi 5. But don't get discouraged by the smaller screen as you are actually getting an upgrade in pixel density. The Redmi 6 features a 1440 x 720 display with an 18:9 ratio and a pixel density of 295ppi as opposed to 282ppi on the Redmi 5.

Xiaomi Redmi 6 vs. Xiaomi redmi 5: performance

The Xiaomi Redmi 6 comes powered by MediaTek's Helio P22 SoC — a beautiful octa-core processor running 12nm process. This is a noticeable improvement compared to the  Snapdragon 450 processor with a 14nm process on the Xiaomi Redmi 5. This makes the experience with the Redmi 6 not only smoother but also more energy efficient — according to Xiaomi, the new processor consumes 48% less power than 28nm chipsets.

You can get the Redmi 6 in one of the two versions: 3GB RAM + 32GB ROM or 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM. Plus, there is an SD card for further expanding your storage. The Redmi 5 was launched in three options letting you choose between 2GB RAM + 16GB, 3GB RAM + 32GB or 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM.

Software-wise, as one would expect, the Redmi 6 comes with the later version of the company's custom UI — and you get to make full use of MIUI 10 based on Android 8.1 Oreo. The new UI comes with a number of cool upgrades including intelligent portrait mode and machine learning promising to save you loads of time by making predictions based on your past behavior and preloading apps before you open them. The Redmi 5, on the other hand, comes with the older MIUI 9 based on Android 7.1.2 Nougat.

Both phones include all essential connectivity options: dual-SIM, 4G VoLTE, and Bluetooth. And come with rear-mounted fingerprint sensors for quick and secure unlocking so you can be sure your private data will be well-protected. Despite the fingerprint sensors, the Xiaomi Redmi 6 offers AI Face Unlock. When you pick up the phone, the screen will automatically wake and it will be quickly unlocked via face recognition.

Xiaomi Redmi 6 vs. Xiaomi redmi 5: cameras and battery

One of the biggest upgrades on the Redmi 6 is the dual camera setup: the phone comes with a a 12MP primary snapper and a 5MP secondary camera on the back, making it the first phone in the Redmi series to feature rear-facing dual cameras. Thanks to the double sensor and the use of the latest advances in AI, the Redmi 6 promises to take your photos to a more professional level than with the previous model.

On the battery side, you have the 3,300mAh battery on the Redmi 5 and the slightly smaller 3,000mAh battery on the newer Redmi 6. But, taking into account the more energy-efficient processor on the Redmi 6, you will probably not experience any difference in usage or standby time.

Xiaomi Redmi 6 vs. Xiaomi redmi 5: price and wrap-up

The Redmi 6 4G model is currently available on the Chinese market for about 999 RMB (approx. $156) while the Xiaomi Redmi 5 starts at about $125 for the 2GB model ($149 for the 3GB model). As both models fit very well into the budget category, you will be getting a great deal whichever option you go for. Is it worth upgrading your Redmi 5 to Redmi 6? We'd say yes. For a  minimal increase in price, you get:

- Dual rear cam: 12MP + 5MP with AI portrait mode

- MIUI 10 with advanced machine learning

- A faster and more energy efficient MediaTek's Helio P22 SoC Octa Core processor

- 5.4 inch display with a higher pixel density 295ppi

- Classic Redmi series design and Xiaomi-assured quality

All in all, the Redmi 6 is well worth upgrading for. Following a long line of highly successful budget smartphones, we believe the new model is right on its path to being the company's latest bestseller.