Xiaomi Pad mini packs a powerful punch with Dimensity 9400+, Redmi Pad 2 Pro boasts marathon 12,000mAh battery

Xiaomi's Tablet Offensive: Pad Mini Packs a Punch, Redmi Pad 2 Pro Boasts Marathon Battery

Xiaomi has just unveiled its latest tablet arsenal, introducing the nimble Xiaomi Pad mini and the robust Redmi Pad 2 Pro, arriving alongside the much-anticipated Xiaomi 15 smartphone series. This dual launch caters to distinct user needs, offering a compelling blend of performance and endurance.

Redmi Pad 2 Pro: A Display Masterclass with Staying Power

The Redmi Pad 2 Pro series presents a trio of options, including Wi-Fi, 5G, and a distinctive matte-screen variant, designed to minimize glare – a crucial feature for frequent users in bright environments. At its heart lies an expansive 12.1-inch IPS display, boasting a fluid 120Hz refresh rate and a dazzling 600 nits of brightness. Its 2.5K resolution (1600 x 2560) promises crisp visuals, further enhanced by Dolby Vision support and DC dimming for eye comfort. The TUV Rheinland certification for low blue light is a welcome assurance for extended viewing sessions. The unique AG nano-textured matte screen on one version dramatically reduces reflections, making it a standout for productivity and entertainment on the go.

Under the hood, all Redmi Pad 2 Pro models are powered by the capable Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor, paired with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and a generous 256GB of internal storage. For those who require even more space, a microSD card slot supports an impressive 2TB expansion. Camera specifications vary slightly: the Wi-Fi and matte-glass editions feature an 8MP rear camera, while the 5G variant steps up with a 13MP sensor. A consistent 8MP front-facing camera ensures clear video calls across the board. The real star for many will be the colossal 12,000 mAh battery, supporting brisk 33W fast charging. Modern connectivity is assured with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4, while the 5G version naturally offers the latest mobile network speeds. Four stereo speakers, complete with Dolby Atmos, aim to deliver an immersive audio experience. Running on HyperOS 2, these tablets integrate advanced AI features like Google Gemini and the convenient Circle to Search functionality.

Pricing for the Wi-Fi only model starts at €299.9 for the 6GB/128GB configuration, rising to €349.9 for the 8GB/256GB version, available in Graphite Gray, Lavender, and Silver. The premium matte glass variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage is priced at €379.9. The 5G-enabled Redmi Pad 2 Pro kicks off at €379.9 for the 6GB/128GB model and comes in Graphite Gray and Silver.

Xiaomi Pad mini: Compact Powerhouse with Speedy Charging

For users prioritizing portability and cutting-edge performance in a smaller form factor, the Xiaomi Pad mini emerges as a compelling contender. Its vibrant 8.8-inch display is a visual feast, offering a stunning 3K resolution (1880 x 3008) and an electrifying 165Hz refresh rate – a segment-leading specification that promises unparalleled smoothness for gaming and scrolling. Dolby Vision support, a peak brightness of 700 nits, and full DC dimming further elevate the viewing experience, making it a joy to use even in challenging lighting conditions.

The true marvel of the Xiaomi Pad mini lies within its powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor, a chipset designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. This is complemented by up to 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a blazing-fast 512GB of UFS 4.1 storage. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the 13MP rear camera, capable of capturing 4K video at 30fps, alongside an 8MP front camera for selfies and video conferencing. The compact chassis houses a 7500 mAh battery, which, despite its size, benefits from a rapid 67W fast charging capability and 18W wired reverse charging, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices in a pinch. Connectivity is future-proofed with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. The inclusion of two USB-C ports, dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and Hi-Res audio support rounds out the impressive feature set. Weighing in at a mere 326g, it’s designed for effortless portability. The Xiaomi Pad mini starts at $429 for the 8GB/256GB variant, with a 12GB/512GB option also available. It will be offered in Deep Lilac and Gray colorways.