Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of Xiaomi's latest creation, the Redmi Note 13 series of phones, including the Redmi Note 13 (China), Note 13 Pro, and Note 13 Pro+. Brace yourselves because this series is a true powerhouse, packed to the brim with features that will make any gadget lover's heart skip a beat. We're putting the specs of all three models under the magnifying glass and comparing them to their predecessors in the Xiaomi Note series.
Update: Xiaomi announced a slightly different variant of the Redmi Note 13 for the international markets on 2024-01-04, so we've appended "(China)" to the name of the China-exclusive Redmi Note 13 described in this article.
8 GB / 256 GB
GSM unlocked (T-Mobile, Mint, Tello, Global)
Global version
Buy on Amazon US Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
8 GB / 256 GB
Global bands unlocked (T-Mobile, Mint, Tello, Global)
Global ROM
Buy on Amazon US Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
12 GB / 512 GB
Global bands unlocked (T-Mobile, Mint, Tello, Global)
Global ROM
Buy on Amazon US
Body: Unleashing the Style
First things first, Xiaomi has kept the phones in the series sleek and stylish. Here are the relevant specs for all the variants:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| General |
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| Dimensions | H: 161.1 mm (6.34″), W: 75 mm (2.95″), D: 7.6 mm (0.30″) | H: 161.2 mm (6.35″), W: 74.3 mm (2.93″), D: 8 mm (0.31″) | H: 161.4 mm (6.35″), W: 74.2 mm (2.92″), D: 8.9 mm (0.35″) |
| Mass | 173.5 g (6.14 oz) | 187 g (6.60 oz) | 204.5 g (7.23 oz) |
| Material | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for display protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for display protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for display protection; aluminum frame |
| Colors | Black, Blue, White | Black, Blue, Violet, White | Black, Camo Green, Violet, White |
If we compare the new series to the previous series, Redmi Note 12, the dimensions of the Redmi Note 13 variants are very similar to those of the corresponding Redmi Note 12 variants. As for the mass (weight), whereas Redmi Note 13 (China) is lighter than the Redmi Note 12 (188 g), the other variant, Redmi Note 13 Pro+, does not see much of a change from Redmi Note 12 Pro+ (208.4 g).
Your precious Redmi Note 13 series has got an upgrade for its screen material. (The Redmi Note 12 had Gorilla Glass 3 for display protection, whereas the Note 12 Pro+ had Gorilla Glass 5.) No matter which model you choose, your phone can handle a few accidental bumps and scrapes, making it perfect for those of us who aren't always the most graceful with our devices.
Gorilla Glass 5 is like the trusted guardian of your phone's display. It's designed to withstand the bumps, knocks, and occasional drops that life throws at your device. It's not invincible, but it's certainly a tough cookie.
Think of it like your phone's invisible armor. It can handle minor scratches and even survive a few accidental falls without shattering into a thousand pieces. It's like your trusty sidekick, always there to protect your screen when you need it most.
Gorilla Glass Victus is like the upgraded version of your phone's shield. It's the tough guy in town, ready to take on even more punishment. Victus offers improved scratch resistance compared to its predecessors and can withstand drops from higher heights. It's like your phone's bodyguard on steroids.
If Gorilla Glass 5 is your phone's shield, Victus is the reinforced version that's ready to tackle tougher challenges. It's a step up in durability, and it's a reassuring presence for those who tend to put their phones through the wringer.
Just remember, even with these guardians in place, it's still a good idea to use a protective case to give your phone that extra layer of security.
IP54 and IP68: Water and Dust Protection
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
The Redmi Note 13 (China) and the Redmi Note 13 Pro are IP54 rated, which means they can handle a bit of dust and splashes, so don't worry if you get caught in a sudden rain shower while texting your friend about your latest tech crush.
The first digit 5 in IP54 is a measure of protection against the solid particles, and is just 1 level below the highest and the industry standard value of 6. The value 5 means that the dust can enter the phone, but not in sufficient quantity to interfere with its safe operation. It is good for protecting your phone from crumbs, lint, and other everyday debris.
The second digit 4 in IP54 is a measure of protection against water. It means your phone can handle splashes of water (but not water jets from, say, the nozzle of a garden hose). You need to prevent your phone from taking a dive into the water.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro+, on the other hand, boasts an IP68 rating, standard among the flagships. This rating means that your phone is dustproof, and protected against immersion in water up to a depth of 1 meter for some time (usually 30 minutes).
Display: Bringing the Sun Indoors.
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
Moving on to the display, Xiaomi didn't cut any corners here. The Redmi Note 13 (China) sports a stunning AMOLED screen with 1 billion colors! That's right, you'll be treated to a vibrant visual feast. With a 120 Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1000 nits, it's like watching your favorite movie in a theater.
The 6.67-inch display in the various models covers nearly 85 - 89% of the phone's front, delivering an immersive experience for all your binge-watching sessions. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.67″ (169 mm) diagonal | 6.67″ (169 mm) diagonal | 6.67″ (169 mm) diagonal |
| Type | Super AMOLED, 120 Hz | OLED, 120 Hz | OLED, 120 Hz |
| Resolution (px) | 1080×2400, about 395 PPI | 1220×2712, about 446 PPI | 1220×2712, about 446 PPI |
| Brightness | Peak: 1000 nits | Peak: 1800 nits | Peak: 1800 nits |
| Features | 1 billion colors, 1920 Hz high frequency PWM (pulse-width modulation) dimming | 68 billion colors, Dolby Vision, 1920 Hz high frequency PWM dimming | 68 billion colors, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 1920 Hz high frequency PWM dimming |
The Pro version raises the bar with its curved OLED display boasting 68 billion colors. With thin bezels and a resolution of 1220×2712 pixels, you're in for a visual treat. You'll be lost in the world of Dolby Vision and a staggering 1800 nits peak brightness. It's a display designed to make your content shine.
Much like the Redmi Note 13 Pro, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ boasts the same stunning OLED display but with the additional support for HDR10+. Your visual experience remains top-notch. With its dazzling display, this phone serves up colors that are more vibrant than a peacock on a tropical vacation.
But remember, brighter isn't always better, especially when you're sneaking a peek at your phone in the dark. The Redmi Note 12 featured an AMOLED display similar to the Redmi Note 13 (China) and with the same resolution, but with a peak brightness of 1200 nits.
The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ had an impressive OLED display (with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, a peak brightness of 900 nits, and support for 1 billion colors, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision), but it might need to wear sunglasses when facing the Note 13 Pro+. The Note 13 Pro+ model has a display that's so sharp, it could double as a chef's knife.
Unleashing the Connectivity: Networks Supported
Let's talk about how the Redmi Note 13 series connects you to the digital universe. All the models support an array of networks - GSM, CDMA, HSPA, LTE, and 5G. Additionally, the Note 13 (China) and the Note 13 Pro models support CDMA2000, whereas the Note 13 Pro+ model supports EVDO.
Dual SIM: Double the Fun
All three variants sport 2 nano-SIM card slots.
Chipset: The Heart of the Beast
Redmi Note 13 series deserves the credit for turning your daily tasks into an extreme sport. Under the hood, these smartphones run on Android 13 with Xiaomi's MIUI 14 skin. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6080 (6 nm) | Qualcomm SM7435-AB Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7200 Ultra (4 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (2×2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 + 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4×2.4 GHz + 4×1.95 GHz) | Octa-core (2×2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 + 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A510) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 710 | Mali-G610 MC4 |
The Redmi Note 13 (China) model is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 6080 chipset, boasting an octa-core CPU. This includes 2 high-performance Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.4 GHz for heavy lifting and 6 power-efficient Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz for everyday tasks. The Mali-G57 MC2 GPU ensures smooth gaming and graphics performance.
The older Redmi Note 12 had an octa-core CPU too, but with lower clock rates (2×2.0 GHz Cortex-A78 + 6×1.8 GHz Cortex-A55).
The Redmi Note 13 Pro model is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU and Adreno 710 GPU. This translates to faster processing and smoother graphics performance.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ model is equipped with the Mediatek Dimensity 7200 Ultra chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU and Mali-G610 MC4 GPU. It's a powerhouse, delivering top-tier performance. The clock rate of 2.8 GHz of its performance cores make this phone faster than a cheetah with a caffeine addiction. It's like having a sports car in your pocket, except without the speeding tickets.
The older Note 12 Pro+ series with its octa-core CPU (2×2.6 GHz Cortex-A78 + 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) was also quite powerful, but not as much as the Note 13 Pro+.
Overall, the older Note 12 series models had decent performance, but let's face it, they're more like a reliable family sedan. They'll get you from point A to B, but not with the same adrenaline rush as the Note 13 series.
Memory and Storage Galore
When it comes to RAM and storage, Xiaomi offers a variety of options to suit your needs. While 6 GB is plenty for a host of apps running simultaneously, the minimum of 128 GB storage allows you to download every app and game you desire without breaking a sweat. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAM Type | LPDDR4X | LPDDR4X | LPDDR5 |
| Internal Storage Type | UFS 2.2 | UFS 2.2 | UFS 3.1 |
| Memory Card Slot | Yes | No | No |
| RAM / Internal Storage Variants | 6 GB / 128 GB, 8 GB / 128 GB, 8 GB / 256 GB, 12 GB / 256 GB | 8 GB / 128 GB, 8 GB / 256 GB, 12 GB / 256 GB, 12 GB / 512 GB, 16 GB / 512 GB | 12 GB / 256 GB, 12 GB / 512 GB, 16 GB / 512 GB |
The Redmi Note 13 (China) offers more RAM compared to the older Redmi Note 12. (The Redmi Note 12 had variants with 4 GB to 8 GB of RAM.) However, the internal storage capacity remains unchanged. In fact, the Redmi Note 12 featured a memory card slot too (you could insert the memory card along with the SIM), which is also present in the Note 13 (China).
The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ also offers more internal storage space as well as more RAM compared to the older Redmi Note 12 Pro+. The latter had two variants, both with 256 GB of internal space, and 8 GB and 12 GB of RAM. Both the older and the new versions lack the memory card slot.
Cameras: Capturing Moments in Style
Photography lovers, get ready to be amazed by the camera capabilities of the Redmi Note 13 series. On the back, you'll find a multi-camera setup featuring a 100 MP or 200 MP main shooter with an f/1.7 aperture for stunning low-light performance. With features like LED flash, HDR, and panorama mode, your photos will turn out nothing short of spectacular.
Rear Camera
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) | 3 (Triple) | 3 (Triple) |
| Resolution (Megapixels) | 100 MP, 2 MP | 200 MP (Samsung's HP3 sensor), 8 MP (Sony's IMX355 sensor), 2 MP (OmniVision OV02B10 sensor) | 200 MP (Samsung's HP3 sensor), 8 MP (Sony's IMX355 sensor), 2 MP (OmniVision OV02B10 sensor) |
| Aperture | f/1.7, f/2.4 | f/1.7, f/2.2, f/2.4 | f/1.7, f/2.2, f/2.4 |
| Sensor Size | N/A, N/A | 1/1.4″, 1/4″, N/A | 1/1.4″, 1/4″, N/A |
| Pixel Size | 0.64 μm, N/A | 0.56 μm, 1.12 μm, N/A | 0.56 μm, 1.12 μm, N/A |
| Autofocus | PDAF, N/A | Multi-directional PDAF, N/A, N/A | Multi-directional PDAF, N/A, N/A |
| Image Stabilization | N/A, N/A | OIS, N/A, N/A | OIS, N/A, N/A |
| Field of View | Wide, Depth | Wide, 120° (ultrawide), Macro | Wide, 120° (ultrawide), Macro |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 30/60/120 fps | 4K at 24/30 fps, 1080p at 30/60/120 fps |
| Other Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama |
The Redmi Note 13 (China) has received a major update in the camera from the older Redmi Note 12. The latter had a triple camera setup with resolutions 48 MP, 8 MP, and 2 MP. The higher resolution of the newer version means more detailed photos.
A 200 MP main camera? Say cheese, because your portraits are about to get more detail than a crime scene investigation. The camera setup on the Pro model gets a significant boost over the Redmi Note 13 (China) model, with a 200 MP main camera, an 8 MP ultrawide, and a 2 MP macro lens.
Expect jaw-dropping shots, especially with the multi-directional PDAF and OIS, which means your photos won't look like they were taken during an earthquake. Video recording capabilities are also enhanced with 4K at 30 fps and 1080p at higher frame rates.
The Pro+ camera's setup mirrors that of the Pro, with a 200 MP main shooter, an 8 MP ultrawide, and a 2 MP macro lens. Expect remarkable photography and video recording, including 4K at 24/30 fps and 1080p at various frame rates. The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ camera had similar specs, but lacked the video recording capability of 4K at 24 fps (it did have the video recording capability of 4K at 30 fps, and additionally, of 720p at 960 fps).
The Note 13 Pro and Pro+ could probably capture a fly on a wall in 4K resolution. They can turn your Instagram into a high-resolution art gallery.
Front Camera
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro and Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 16 MP | 16 MP |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30 fps | 1080p at 30/60 fps |
| Other Features | HDR | HDR |
The selfie camera in the Redmi Note 13 lineup of phones is no slouch either, boasting 16 MP and HDR support.
The selfie camera in the older Redmi Note 12 had similar video capabilities and features as the newer Note 13 (China), but had a resolution of 13 MP. The selfie camera of the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ matches its newer counterpart.
In short, whether you're capturing a breathtaking landscape or snapping a quick selfie, this phone has you covered.
Battery
Powering the phone is a beefy non-removable Li-Po battery in each model. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Type | Li-Po (non-removable) | Li-Po (non-removable) | Li-Po (non-removable) |
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5100 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 33 W | 67 W, PD 3.0, 100% in 44 minutes | 120 W, PD 3.0, 100% in 19 minutes |
With the 33 W wired charging of Redmi Note 13 (China), you won't have to wait long to get back to using your phone after a quick top-up. This battery has the same specs as the one in the older Redmi Note 12.
A larger 5100 mAh battery keeps the Pro variant running, and its 67 W wired charging ensures you spend less time plugged in.
The Pro+ packs a 5000 mAh battery, slightly smaller than the Pro, but it comes with blazing-fast 120 W wired charging, getting you from 0 to 100% in just 19 minutes. These specs are also similar to those of the older Redmi Note 12 Pro+.
In short, the Redmi Note 13 series makes "low battery anxiety" a thing of the past.
Sound
The Redmi Note 13 series also excels in the sound department. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | Redmi Note 13 (China) | Redmi Note 13 Pro | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes (stereo speakers) | Yes (stereo speakers) |
| Audio | 24-bit, 192 kHz | 24-bit, 192 kHz | 24-bit, 192 kHz |
| Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | Yes | Yes | No |
All three variants feature loudspeakers (the Pro and the Pro+ models with stereo speakers). The Redmi Note 13 (China) and 13 Pro also sport a 3.5 mm headphone jack for those who prefer wired audio.
The 24-bit, 192 kHz audio support ensures crystal-clear sound quality, making your music and videos truly immersive.
There has not been much change from the Redmi Note 12 series in the sound department, except that the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ did have the headphone jack.
Connectivity
In terms of connectivity, you've got Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (with the Pro+ version supporting Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6) with dual-band support; Bluetooth - 5.3 in Redmi Note 13 (China) and 13 Pro+, 5.2 in Redmi Note 13 Pro, A2DP, LE; infrared port; USB-C 2.0; and GPS.
The Redmi Note 13 (China) does not have NFC, though the Pro and the Pro+ variants may have NFC depending upon the region from where you purchase them.
All three models also sport IR blaster on their tops, useful to use the phone as a universal remote control.
Sensors
The phone (from any of the three models) comes equipped with the following sensors to enhance your overall user experience:
- 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 phone close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the Redmi Note 13 (China) model, and the in-display, optical type in the other two models.
- Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your phone 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 phone's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your phone, the accelerometer knows.
- Compass: The compass determines your phone's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
To Buy or Not to Buy?
So, the million-dollar question - would I personally buy a Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 series phone? Well, here's the scoop. These phones are absolute gems when it comes to performance and display quality. The camera setup is impressive, and they cover all the essential bases for a tech-savvy user.
However, it's worth noting that the absence of a memory card slot in the Pro and the Pro+ variants might be a deal-breaker for some, and NFC enthusiasts may or may not find it here.
But if you're looking for a solid, budget-friendly smartphone that excels in most aspects, the Redmi Note 13 series is a fantastic choice. These phones are powerful, feature-packed devices that won't break the bank.
Another big question: Do the enhancements in the Pro and the Pro+ justify the price increase over the standard Redmi Note 13 (China)?
- Pro: If you're a multimedia enthusiast and demand top-tier performance, the Pro is a worthy upgrade. The improved display, camera capabilities, and processing power make it a great choice for those who want more from their smartphone.
- Pro+: The Pro+ takes it a step further, appealing to power users who crave the best in every department. With lightning-fast charging and a formidable chipset, it's a top-tier device.
So, the price increase is justified if you prioritize cutting-edge technology, stunning visuals, and powerful performance. However, for those on a budget, the standard Redmi Note 13 (China) still offers a fantastic smartphone experience.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and how much you're willing to invest in a smartphone that suits your lifestyle.
In conclusion, it is clear that the Redmi Note 13 (China) and its Pro and Pro+ siblings are like the superheroes of the Xiaomi Note series. They've raised the bar in terms of display, performance, camera capabilities, and affordability.
I'd give this phone a thumbs-up for its overall performance and value for money. Just keep in mind your specific needs and preferences before hitting that "Buy Now" button, and the Redmi Note 13 series might just be your new sidekick in the world of tech. Happy gadget hunting!
8 GB / 256 GB
GSM unlocked (T-Mobile, Mint, Tello, Global)
Global version
Buy on Amazon US Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
8 GB / 256 GB
Global bands unlocked (T-Mobile, Mint, Tello, Global)
Global ROM
Buy on Amazon US Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
12 GB / 512 GB
Global bands unlocked (T-Mobile, Mint, Tello, Global)
Global ROM
Buy on Amazon US
Feature (top) image credit: Weibo.cn.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the IP rating of Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 (China)?
The Redmi Note 13 (China) is rated IP54.
What is the peak brightness supported by the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro?
The Redmi Note 13 Pro features an OLED display with a peak brightness of 1800 nits.
Which models of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 series sport a 3.5 mm headphone jack?
The Redmi Note 13 (China) and Note 13 Pro sport the 3.5 mm headphone jack, while the Note 13 Pro+ model lacks this feature.
