Xiaomi has set the stage for its end-of-2024 smartphone lineup with the launch of the Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro. These phones fall into the upper midrange to flagship-killer categories, boasting top-tier specs and cutting-edge features that promise exceptional performance for tech enthusiasts and power users alike.
Let's meet the two contenders.
Xiaomi Redmi K80 - An Upper Midrage for the Masses: The Redmi K80 is perfect for those who want flagship features without breaking the bank.
Xiaomi Redmi K80 Pro - A Luxury Powerhouse: The Redmi K80 Pro ups the ante with even more premium offerings, including a special Automobili Lamborghini Squadra Corse edition for luxury aficionados.
If you're after stunning displays, lightning-fast performance, and excellent camera capabilities, these phones will undoubtedly catch your eye. However, budget-conscious users or those who prioritize a headphone jack might want to consider other options.
Let's now dive into the nitty-gritty of what these devices have to offer.
Body
The Redmi K80 impresses with its sleek design, measuring 8.1 mm thick and weighing 206 grams. It comes in classic colors like Black, Blue, Mint, and White, ensuring there's a style for everyone. The Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protects the display from scratches and drops.
The Redmi K80 Pro takes the design up a notch with Dragon Crystal Glass 2.0 and exclusive Lamborghini Black and Lamborghini Green colors for the special edition. Slightly bulkier at 8.4 mm and 212 grams, the Pro model feels robust yet luxurious in hand.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 | Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|---|
General |
|
|
Dimensions | H: 160.3 mm (6.31″), W: 75 mm (2.95″), D: 8.1 mm (0.32″) | H: 160.3 mm (6.31″), W: 75 mm (2.95″), D: 8.4 mm (0.33″) |
Mass | 206 g (7.27 oz) |
|
Material | Corning Gorilla Glass 7i for display protection | Dragon Crystal Glass 2.0 for display protection |
Colors | Black, Blue, Mint, White | Black, Lamborghini Black, Lamborghini Green, Mint, White |
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro's dimensions are typical for modern smartphones, especially in the mid-range and flagship segments, offering a balanced form factor for large screens. The width (75 mm) and thickness (8.1 - 8.4 mm) should provide a comfortable grip for most users, though one-handed operation might be a challenge for smaller hands.
The weights, 206 g Redmi (K80) and up to 217 g (Redmi K80 Pro), place them in the "slightly heavy" category. Extended usage sessions like gaming and reading may cause mild hand fatigue, and pocket carry could be noticeable, especially in tighter clothing. However, the weight could contribute to a premium feel, making them less likely to feel "cheap" or plasticky.
The Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, used for display protection in the Redmi K80, represents a relatively newer iteration in toughened glass, offering superior scratch resistance, ensuring clarity over time. It provides improved drop performance, particularly on hard surfaces, and it is resistant to accidental impacts, making it ideal for everyday use.
The Dragon Crystal Glass 2.0 is a proprietary toughened glass similar to Gorilla Glass but offers enhanced optical clarity for better visibility outdoors. It provides greater resistance to extreme stresses (e.g., bending and shattering).
Both materials signify a focus on durability, but the Redmi K80 Pro's Dragon Crystal Glass 2.0 edges out slightly in performance, catering to users seeking cutting-edge protection.
The color options of the Redmi K80 series add flair to the phones, catering to various user preferences:
- Black: Timeless and professional. Perfect for users who prefer understated elegance or corporate aesthetics.
- Blue: Invigorating and modern. A favorite among younger or tech-savvy individuals who appreciate a pop of color without being flashy.
- Lamborghini Black: Associated with the Redmi K80 Pro Automobili Lamborghini Squadra Corse, this color exudes luxury, sophistication, and power. Ideal for car enthusiasts or users seeking exclusivity.
- Lamborghini Green: Again, associated with the Redmi K80 Pro Automobili Lamborghini Squadra Corse. This is vibrant yet high-end. It represents boldness and individuality, especially for those who like to stand out.
- Mint: Light and refreshing. Great for those seeking something trendy yet subtle, often appealing to younger audiences.
- White: Clean and minimalist. Reflects simplicity, purity, and modernity, making it ideal for users who appreciate sleek designs.
Overall, both devices strike a fine balance between premium build quality and ergonomic usability. While slightly heavier than average, their robust designs and durable display protection justify the heft. The diverse color options allow personalization, appealing to various personalities - from the minimalist to the luxury aficionado.
The Redmi K80 Pro Automobili Lamborghini special edition adds an extra layer of desirability with its unique branding and standout colors, ideal for collectors and enthusiasts.
If we compare the two phones with their respective Redmi 70 series predecessors, there's not much change in terms of dimensions and weight. Both the Xiaomi Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro were 160.9×75×8.2 mm and 209 g.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro boast an IP68 rating, which means these phones can survive underwater up to 2.5 meters for 30 minutes.
For those new to it, what is "IP" in "IP68"? Ingress Protection, my friend! It's all about guarding your precious gadgets against intruders. In this case, the intruders are dust and water.
Breaking down the two digits, the first digit, which is 6 in this case, tells us about the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro's resistance to solids like dust. A 6 means these devices are practically dust-tight. No need to worry about tiny particles sneaking in and causing mischief.
And the second digit, which is 8, is the real star of the show. It signifies a device's resistance to liquids. An 8 means it can withstand being submerged in water. But, hold your horses, there's more to it. The number 8 in this case indicates that the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro can handle being submerged up to 2.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. So, it's not just a light drizzle protector; it can take a proper dunking.
IP68 isn't just a technical spec; it means you can live your life without constantly worrying about your phone's vulnerability to the environmental elements. Whether you're a bit clumsy with drinks or you enjoy the great outdoors, your Redmi K80 or Redmi K80 Pro is your reliable companion.
General Tip: It is a good idea to use a protective case and a screen protector to give your phone that extra layer of security.
For comparison, the predecessors Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro lacked an official IP rating.
Display
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
Xiaomi has equipped both phones with a 6.67-inch OLED display that pushes the boundaries of brightness and clarity. With a peak brightness of 3200 nits and support for 68 billion colors, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, the visuals are nothing short of breathtaking. The 120 Hz refresh rate ensures buttery-smooth scrolling and gaming, while the 1440×3200 resolution provides sharp, vibrant images with a pixel density of 526 PPI.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|
Size | 6.67″ (169 mm) diagonal |
Type | OLED, 120 Hz |
Resolution (px) | 1440×3200, about 526 PPI |
Brightness | HBM: 1800 nits; Peak: 3200 nits |
Features | 68 billion colors, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HDR Vivid, DC dimming |
The OLED displays of the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro exemplify cutting-edge smartphone screen technology, designed for users seeking immersive visual experiences. OLED screens allow individual pixels to emit light, delivering perfect blacks and incredible contrast ratios by turning off pixels entirely for dark scenes.
When displaying darker content, OLED panels consume less power compared to LCDs, extending battery life. These displays also contribute to slimmer device profiles, supporting the sleek design of the Redmi K80 series.
The displays' 120 Hz refresh rate ensures silky-smooth animations, seamless scrolling, and better responsiveness.
The benefit of this feature is especially noticeable in gaming and UI transitions.
With a resolution of 1440×3200 pixels, the displays have around 526 PPI (pixels per inch) density, ensuring razor-sharp visuals, even for tiny details like text and graphic elements in high-definition content.
This QHD+ resolution sits at the high end of smartphone displays, making it perfect for media consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks.
The 1800 nits HBM (High Brightness Mode) enables clear visibility under bright sunlight or high ambient lighting, a boon for outdoor use. The 3200 nits peak brightness makes these screens among the brightest smartphone displays available.
The peak brightness is leveraged for small bright areas in HDR content, enhancing realism with dazzling highlights. It is useful for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, as it brings scenes closer to what the creators intended.
The support for 10-bit color depth enables the display of 1 billion distinct colors compared to 16.7 million (in 8-bit displays), resulting in smoother gradients and more realistic color reproduction.
This wide color gamut ensures vibrant and true-to-life colors suitable for media professionals and cinephiles.
HDR10+ utilizes dynamic metadata to adjust brightness and contrast for each scene or frame, ensuring optimal viewing irrespective of the content.
This is great for streaming platforms that support HDR10+ (e.g., Amazon Prime Video).
Dolby Vision extends HDR capabilities with scene-by-scene metadata, offering even finer control over brightness and color.
Dolby Vision is widely supported by premium content providers like Netflix and Apple TV+. It ensures a cinematic viewing experience with vivid colors and deep contrast.
HDR Vivid is an advanced HDR standard developed by the China Ultra HD Video Industry Alliance (CUVA) to address the limitations of existing HDR technologies. It uses dynamic metadata to optimize brightness, contrast, and color mapping for each scene, ensuring high-quality reproduction of UHD content.
HDR Vivid is designed to be an open standard, making it more accessible for broad adoption. It also supports backward compatibility with existing HDR formats like HDR10 and HLG.
DC dimming adjusts the screen's brightness by changing the voltage supplied to the display instead of using pulse-width modulation (PWM), which can cause flickering.
This feature is particularly beneficial for reducing eye strain during prolonged use, especially for sensitive users.
In conclusion, the combination of OLED technology, high resolution, extreme brightness, and HDR support places these displays among the best available today. With a balance of visual fidelity, smooth operation, and advanced features, they cater to diverse user needs, such as content creators and viewers, gamers, and everyday users.
Overall, the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro displays are premium-tier, designed to compete with flagship models while delivering a visually engaging and immersive experience.
For comparison, the predecessors Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro sported similar displays with matching features but a higher, 4000 nits peak brightness.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Equipped with GSM, CDMA, HSPA, CDMA2000, LTE, and 5G capabilities, the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro ensure you stay connected at all times.
GSM, the reliable workhorse, lays the foundation for 2G connectivity, ensuring seamless voice calls and text messages. CDMA is a parallel powerhouse, offering a different approach to network communication with distinct coding techniques. Then, HSPA steps up to the plate, championing 3G connectivity, providing faster data transfer rates and improved multimedia capabilities.
CDMA2000, another evolution in CDMA technology, further refines high-speed data transmission, enhancing the user experience.
LTE, the bedrock of 4G networks, elevates the user experience with swift internet speeds and enhanced call quality. And of course, the star of the show - 5G. This powerhouse not only promises lightning-fast download and upload speeds but also significantly reduces latency, opening up a realm of possibilities for innovative applications and technologies that will shape the future.
SIM
The dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by) setup keeps you connected, making the Redmi K80 series an ideal companion for those on the go.
Chipset - Performance
Under the hood, the Redmi K80 packs the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset built on a 4-nm process. The octa-core CPU and Adreno 750 GPU make it a performance beast, capable of handling everything from intensive gaming to multitasking with ease.
The Pro model uses the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset built on a cutting-edge 3-nm process. Its Oryon V2 Phoenix CPU and Adreno 830 GPU deliver blistering performance, especially for demanding tasks like 4K video editing and high-frame-rate gaming.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 | Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|---|
Chipset | Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | Qualcomm SM8750-AB Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) |
CPU | Octa-core (1×3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 + 3×3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 + 2×3.0 GHz Cortex-A720 + 2×2.3 GHz Cortex-A520) | Octa-core (2×4.32 GHz Oryon V2 Phoenix L + 6×3.53 GHz Oryon V2 Phoenix M) |
GPU | Adreno 750 | Adreno 830 |
The chipsets, CPUs, and GPUs in the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro reflect top-notch engineering tailored for performance enthusiasts, gamers, and multitasking pros. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 used in the Redmi K80 is Qualcomm's flagship chipset from the 4-nm generation, balancing high performance and energy efficiency. It is optimized for heavy-duty tasks like gaming, AI-driven applications, and multitasking, making the Redmi K80 an excellent choice for power users.
The Redmi K80 Pro features the Snapdragon 8 Elite, Qualcomm's next-gen offering. This chipset is built on a cutting-edge 3-nm process. It provides superior performance-per-watt, ensuring even greater energy efficiency and thermal management. This chipset is crafted for professionals who need top-tier performance in AI computations, video rendering, or immersive gaming.
The Redmi K80's CPU configuration includes a mix of cores designed to handle different types of workloads efficiently:
- 1×Cortex-X4 (3.3 GHz): The powerhouse, also called the "prime core", is tailored for high-performance tasks, such as gaming and 4K video editing, delivering unparalleled speed.
- 3×Cortex-A720 (3.2 GHz): High-performance cores optimized for demanding applications. They strike a balance between speed and power consumption.
- 2×Cortex-A720 (3.0 GHz): Slightly lower clocked, these cores handle medium-demand tasks like social media apps and video streaming, conserving power when maximum performance isn't needed.
- 2×Cortex-A520 (2.3 GHz): Designed for lightweight and background tasks, these efficiency cores extend battery life during less intensive activities, like emails and calls.
The Redmi K80 Pro introduces Qualcomm's custom Oryon V2 Phoenix cores, marking a shift from ARM's standard Cortex designs:
- 2×Oryon V2 Phoenix L (4.32 GHz): These "large" cores are optimized for extreme performance, handling the most demanding tasks like AAA gaming, AI workloads, and multitasking between resource-heavy apps.
- 6×Oryon V2 Phoenix M (3.53 GHz): These "medium" cores are tailored for both efficiency and performance, ideal for handling most day-to-day tasks, from web browsing to moderate gaming. Their balance ensures energy efficiency without compromising speed.
The Redmi K80's Adreno 750 GPU delivers outstanding graphics performance, excelling in mobile gaming with features like ray tracing and high-resolution textures. It's also efficient enough for extended gaming sessions without rapid overheating or battery drain.
The Redmi K80 Pro's Adreno 830 GPU takes mobile graphics to new heights, delivering significant improvements in rendering capabilities and energy efficiency. It supports real-time ray tracing, AI-enhanced visuals, and ultra-high refresh rates for smoother gameplay and cinematic experiences.
In summary, the Redmi K80 strikes a balance between performance and energy efficiency, with its varied core architecture enabling smooth multitasking and power conservation. The Adreno 750 ensures solid gaming performance.
The Redmi K80 Pro is a step ahead, offering bleeding-edge performance with its custom Oryon cores and the next-gen Adreno 830 GPU, making it a beast for gamers, creators, and professionals.
The Redmi K80 Pro's custom architecture and cutting-edge 3-nm process deliver not just speed but also a more refined and efficient experience, ensuring the phone stays cool and responsive even under heavy workloads. Meanwhile, the K80's tried-and-tested Cortex cores make it a versatile performer for everyday and power users alike.
For comparison, the predecessor Redmi K70 featured the Qualcomm SM8550-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) chipset, with an octa-core CPU (1×3.2 GHz Cortex-X3 + 2×2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 + 2×2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 + 3×2.0 GHz Cortex-A510) and the Adreno 740 GPU; whereas the Redmi K70 Pro sported the Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) chipset, housing an octa-core CPU (1×3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 + 3×3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 + 2×3.0 GHz Cortex-A720 + 2×2.3 GHz Cortex-A520) and the Adreno 750 GPU.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 | Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|---|
Internal Storage Type | UFS 4.0 | UFS 4.0 |
Memory Card Slot | No | No |
RAM / Internal Storage Variants | 12 GB / 256 GB, 12 GB / 512 GB, 16 GB / 256 GB, 16 GB / 512 GB, 16 GB / 1 TB | 12 GB / 256 GB, 12 GB / 512 GB, 16 GB / 512 GB, 16 GB / 1 TB |
For comparison, the predecessor Redmi K70 came in the same five variants as the Redmi K80. The Redmi K70 Pro also came in five variants, of which the first four were similar to the Redmi K70's whereas the fifth was 24 GB / 1 TB.
Cameras
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the 50 MP wide camera with dual-pixel PDAF and OIS, delivering sharp, detailed shots even in challenging lighting conditions.
The 8 MP (on Redmi K80) or 32 MP (on Redmi K80 Pro) ultrawide lens ensures group photos and landscapes come out beautifully.
The Redmi K80 Pro shines in the camera department with the addition of a 50 MP telephoto lens with 2.5x optical zoom, which makes it a dream for portrait photography.
Video recording capabilities of these phones are equally impressive, supporting up to 8K at 24 fps, and 1920 fps slow motion at 720p. Selfie lovers get a 20 MP front camera with HDR support.
Rear Camera
The main camera setups on the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and K80 Pro bring serious versatility and performance, especially for photography enthusiasts and content creators. Let's break down their features, lens roles, and video capabilities. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 | Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|---|
Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) | 3 (Triple) |
Resolution (Megapixels) | 50 MP (wide, OmniVision OVX8000 sensor), 8 MP (ultrawide) | 50 MP (wide, OmniVision OVX8000 sensor), 50 MP (telephoto, Samsung JN5 sensor), 32 MP (ultrawide) |
Focal Length | 24 mm, N/A | 24 mm, 60 mm, 15 mm |
Aperture | f/1.6, N/A | f/1.6, f/2.0, f/2.2 |
Sensor Size | 1/1.55″, N/A | 1/1.55″, 1/2.76″, N/A |
Pixel Size | 1.0 μm, N/A | 1.0 μm, 0.64 μm, N/A |
Autofocus | Dual-pixel PDAF, N/A | Dual-pixel PDAF, PDAF, N/A |
Image Stabilization | OIS, N/A | OIS, OIS, N/A |
Field of View | N/A, N/A | N/A, N/A, 120° |
Optical Zoom | N/A, N/A | N/A, 2.5x, N/A |
Video Recording | 8K at 24 fps, 4K at 24/30/60 fps, 1080p at 30/60/120/240/960 fps, 720p at 1920 fps, gyro-EIS | 8K at 24 fps, 4K at 24/30/60 fps, 1080p at 30/60/120/240/960 fps, 720p at 1920 fps, gyro-EIS |
Other Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
Both models feature a 50 MP, f/1.6 wide camera with the OmniVision OVX8000 sensor. This camera is the workhorse for most situations. The f/1.6 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance by letting in more light.
The 1/1.55″ sensor size and 1.0 µm pixel size enable detailed shots with balanced exposure. Features like dual-pixel PDAF and OIS ensure quick focus and steady shots, even in challenging conditions.
The Redmi K80 has an 8 MP ultrawide lens, while the Redmi K80 Pro ups the ante with a 32 MP ultrawide lens offering a 120° field of view.
These lenses are ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, group photos, and tight spaces, where a standard lens may fall short.
The Redmi K80 Pro features a 50 MP, f/2.0 telephoto camera with the Samsung JN5 sensor. Its 2.5x optical zoom provides excellent detail for portraits, distant subjects, and creative framing without quality loss.
Its PDAF range (10 cm - ∞) ensures accurate focus for both close-up subjects (as close as 10 cm) and far-off scenes, making this lens highly versatile.
Among the features of these cameras, PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) ensures fast and precise autofocus by splitting incoming light into two paths and determining the focus by analyzing the phase difference.
Dual-Pixel PDAF (on the wide cameras) enhances this by embedding two photodiodes in every pixel, doubling the autofocus points for even faster and more reliable focus, especially in low-light or fast-moving scenarios.
OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) physically stabilizes the camera lens to counteract hand movements or vibrations, reducing blur in photos and shakiness in videos.
It's particularly beneficial for low-light shots and high-zoom photography.
Gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) uses gyroscopic sensors to digitally stabilize video footage, ensuring smooth output even when shooting on the move.
The LED flash provides illumination in dark settings.
Panorama mode stitches multiple shots together to create wide-angle scenes.
And HDR (High Dynamic Range) combines multiple exposures of a scene to capture a broader range of light and shadow details, ensuring photos look natural and well-balanced in high-contrast scenarios.
Both phones support 8K video at 24 fps for ultra-detailed, cinematic footage; and 4K video at up to 60 fps, ideal for smoother, high-resolution content. They also support high-speed recording at 1080p and 720p resolutions:
- 120 fps: Great for slightly slowed-down action shots.
- 240 fps: Used for moderately slow motion, capturing details like sports or motion analysis.
- 960 fps and 1920 fps: These are super slow-motion modes, excellent for artistic effects, science experiments, and showcasing fine details in rapid movements (like a balloon popping or water splashing).
Such high frame rates slow down time, offering unique perspectives and precise motion capture.
In conclusion, the Redmi K80 excels with its wide and ultrawide setup, providing a solid mix for day-to-day photography. Meanwhile, the Redmi K80 Pro's telephoto lens adds zoom versatility and improved ultrawide resolution, appealing to photographers who need more creative flexibility. Advanced stabilization (OIS and gyro-EIS) and high-frame-rate video recording make both models powerful tools for videographers and casual users alike.
The cameras are thoughtfully engineered, catering to everything from everyday snapshots to professional-grade content creation. Whether you're into landscapes, portraits, or action-packed videos, these phones have you covered.
For comparison, the older Redmi K70 series featured triple camera setups, consisting of a 50 MP (f/1.6) wide lens supporting PDAF and OIS; an ultrawide lens (8 MP in Redmi K70; 12 MP in Redmi K70 Pro); and either a 2 MP macro lens (in Redmi K70) or a 50 MP telephoto lens with PDAF and 2x optical zoom (in Redmi K70 Pro). Their video recording capabilities and feature sets matched those of the Redmi K80 series.
Front Camera
The selfie camera in both phones sits inside a centered punch-hole cut-out on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|
Resolution | 20 MP (wide) |
Video Recording | 1080p at 30/60 fps, gyro-EIS |
Other Features | HDR |
For comparison, the predecessors Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro featured a 16 MP wide selfie shooter, capable of recording 1080p videos at 30 fps with gyro-EIS support. Its feature set included HDR.
Battery and Charging
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 | Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|---|
Battery Type | Si-C (non-removable) | Si-C (non-removable) |
Capacity | 6550 mAh | 6000 mAh |
Wired Charging | 90 W, PD 3.0, QC 3+ | 120 W, PD 3.0, QC 3+, 100% in 28 minutes |
Wireless Charging | N/A | 50 W |
The Redmi K80's 6550 mAh silicon-carbon battery is a standout, offering all-day battery life (and then some). With 90 W wired charging, you can power up quickly, making this phone ideal for those always on the go.
Despite a slightly smaller 6000 mAh battery, the Pro compensates with 120 W wired charging that fills it up in just 28 minutes. Additionally, the phone supports 50 W wireless charging, a feature missing in the standard model.
For comparison, the older Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro both came with a 5000 mAh Li-Po battery with 120 W wired charging.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro |
---|---|
Loudspeaker | Yes (stereo speakers) |
Audio | Hi-Res 24-bit, 192 kHz; Hi-Res wireless |
Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | No |
Others | Snapdragon Sound |
The Redmi K80 series skips the headphone jack but compensates with Hi-Res audio via its stereo speakers and support for Snapdragon Sound.
Hi-Res Audio (High-Resolution Audio) is an audio technology that goes beyond the limitations of standard audio formats, delivering a richer, more immersive listening experience. Its higher bit depth can capture more detail in the sound, and its higher sampling rate (standard CD-quality audio often has a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz) allows the audio system to capture more nuances in the music. In essence, Hi-Res Audio transforms your listening experience from ordinary to extraordinary. It's about hearing your favorite tunes and audio content in a way that's truer to the artist's vision. With the Redmi K80 series supporting Hi-Res Audio, you're not just listening; you're diving deep into a sonic universe, where every note, every beat, and every whisper comes alive in exquisite detail.
The Hi-Res wireless audio signifies that the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro support audio playback at a high resolution through wireless connectivity, such as Bluetooth. When you use wireless audio devices, such as Bluetooth headphones or speakers, you can experience audio playback with enhanced clarity and detail. This is particularly appealing for users who prioritize a high-quality audio experience, whether they are listening to music, watching videos, or engaging in other multimedia activities. It's a nod to audiophiles and those who appreciate the finer nuances of sound, even in a wireless audio setup.
Snapdragon Sound is a comprehensive audio platform created by Qualcomm, the mastermind behind the Snapdragon chipset residing within your Redmi K80 series device. It's not just a single feature but a synergy of technologies aimed at delivering an immersive and high-quality audio experience. With support for high-resolution audio, you can enjoy your favorite music with exceptional clarity and detail. For those who revel in wireless audio, Snapdragon Sound brings low-latency Bluetooth connectivity to the table, which means that the audio you hear is in near-perfect sync with the video you're watching - crucial for gaming, video streaming, and virtual meetings. It also enhances your communication experience; with advanced noise cancellation algorithms, your voice comes through crystal clear during calls, even in noisy environments.
For comparison, the predecessors Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro featured stereo speakers, with support for Hi-Res 24-bit, 192 kHz audio. They too lacked the 3.5 mm headphone support. The Redmi K70 Pro additionally sported Snapdragon Sound.
Connectivity
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro tick all the connectivity boxes. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7, they cover all the bases, ensuring you can connect to any Wi-Fi network, old or new. Also, there's Wi-Fi Direct, a feature that allows direct device-to-device connections without the need for a router. It's perfect for fast file transfers and seamless collaboration.
The Redmi K80 features Bluetooth 5.4, whereas the Redmi K80 Pro boasts the latest Bluetooth 6.0, ensuring a seamless and high-quality connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With both models supporting features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming, LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, aptX HD for superior audio quality, aptX Adaptive for dynamically and efficiently adjusting the audio bit-rate based on the complexity of audio and the quality of connection, aptX Lossless for delivering uncompromised audio fidelity without any loss in quality during transmission (as if you were listening through a wired connection), and LHDC 5 (Low-latency High-Definition audio Codec version 5), your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
Low-latency High-Definition audio Codec (LHDC) is an audio codec that is used in Bluetooth technology to enhance the quality of wireless audio transmission. LHDC supports high-resolution audio, allowing for the transmission of audio data at higher bitrates (up to 900 kbps) than standard Bluetooth codecs, and at a sample rate of up to 96 kHz. This results in better audio quality with more detail and clarity.
One of the key advantages of LHDC is its low latency. Low latency is crucial for applications where synchronization between audio and video is essential, such as when watching videos or playing games. LHDC helps reduce the delay between audio transmission and reception, providing a more synchronized and immersive experience.
LHDC utilizes advanced compression algorithms to efficiently transmit high-quality audio over Bluetooth without compromising on data integrity. This contributes to a balance between audio quality and efficient use of wireless bandwidth.
The inclusion of LHDC in the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro's Bluetooth specs indicates a commitment to delivering a high-quality wireless audio experience for users who prioritize superior sound reproduction and low-latency performance in their audio devices. Whether you're streaming music or engaging in other audio-related activities, LHDC helps ensure that the Bluetooth audio experience is of the highest standard.
Lost? Not with the positioning capabilities of the Xiaomi Redmi K80 series! It supports multiple global navigation satellite systems, including GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (G1), BDS (B1I+B1c+B2a), GALILEO (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1+L5), and NavIC (L5). This means your device always knows where you are, no matter where you travel in the world. Whether you're navigating through bustling cities or remote wilderness, your device's positioning technology ensures you're always on the right path.
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro feature NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your device interactions effortless.
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro also sport infrared port.
Last but not least, both devices support the trusty USB-C - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.
Sensors
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro come equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is the in-display, ultrasonic type in both models.
- Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
- Color Spectrum Sensor: Measures and analyzes the colors of ambient light in the visible spectrum, ensuring that the device's camera and display consistently deliver true-to-life colors, regardless of the lighting conditions.
At its price point, the Redmi K80 delivers excellent value for flagship-like specs, making it a compelling choice for anyone wanting premium features on a budget. The Redmi K80 Pro justifies its higher cost with advanced features and premium build quality, particularly in its Lamborghini Edition for those who want to stand out.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro offer incredible value for their respective price points. The Redmi K80 is a stellar choice for anyone looking for flagship specs without breaking the bank, with its high-performance chipset, exceptional display, and long battery life. The Redmi K80 Pro, on the other hand, caters to those who want cutting-edge performance, enhanced camera capabilities, and luxury design at a reasonable price for a premium device.
While the lack of a headphone jack may deter some, the rich feature set and competitive pricing make both phones excellent investments. Xiaomi has once again proven that premium doesn't have to mean unaffordable.
Feature (top) image credit: Xiaomi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro release date?
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 and Redmi K80 Pro have been announced and released on the 27th November, 2024.
What is Xiaomi Redmi K80 price?
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 is priced starting from CNY 2499 (about USD 345) for the 12 GB / 256 GB variant, and goes up to CNY 3599 (about USD 359) for the 16 GB / 1 TB variant.
What is Xiaomi Redmi K80 Pro price?
The Xiaomi Redmi K80 Pro is priced starting from CNY 3699 (about USD 372) for the 12 GB / 256 GB variant, and goes up to CNY 4799 (about USD 662) for the 16 GB / 1 TB variant. The special Automobili Lamborghini Squadra Corse edition (16 GB / 1 TB) costs CNY 4999 (about USD 690).