Description
Xiaomi Redmi 14C Review: A Budget Smartphone with Impressive Features
The Xiaomi Redmi 14C is an affordable yet feature-packed device that stands out in the budget segment. Launched in August 2024, this smartphone aims to offer a well-rounded experience with a large screen, decent performance, and solid battery life.
Redmi 14C specs and price in Kenya
Category | Details |
---|---|
Network Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
Launch | Announced: 2024, August 30 Released: 2024, August 30 |
Body | Dimensions: 171.9 x 77.8 x 8.2 mm (6.77 x 3.06 x 0.32 in) Weight: 204/207/211 g (7.20 oz) |
Build | Glass front, plastic frame, glass back, or silicone polymer (eco-leather) back |
SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
Display | Type: IPS LCD, 120Hz, 450 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) Size: 6.88 inches, 112.4 cm² (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) Resolution: 720 x 1640 pixels (~260 ppi density) |
Platform | OS: Android 14, HyperOS |
Chipset | Mediatek Helio G81 Ultra |
CPU | Octa-core (2×2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6×1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 |
Memory | Card Slot: microSDXC (dedicated slot) Internal: 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM eMMC 5.1 |
Main Camera | Dual: 50 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), PDAF 2 MP, f/2.4, (depth) 0.08 MP (auxiliary lens) Features: LED flash, HDR Video: 1080p@30fps |
Selfie Camera | Single: 13 MP, f/2.0 Features: HDR Video: 1080p@30fps |
Sound | Loudspeaker: Yes 3.5mm jack: Yes |
Comms | WLAN: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band Bluetooth: 5.4, A2DP, LE Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS NFC: Yes (market/region dependent) Radio: FM radio USB: USB Type-C 2.0 |
Features (Sensors) | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass, Virtual proximity sensing |
Battery | Type: 5160 mAh Charging: 18W wired, PD |
Miscellaneous | Colors: Midnight Black, Sage Green, Dreamy Purple, Starry Blue Models: 2411DRN47C, 2409BRN2CA |
Price | KSh 17,500 |
Design & Build
The Redmi 14C impresses with its modern design and choice of materials. It sports a glass front, a plastic frame, and a glass back or eco-friendly silicone polymer back, making it feel more premium than typical budget phones. Available in a variety of attractive colors — Midnight Black, Sage Green, Dreamy Purple, and Starry Blue — users can pick a style that suits their personality.
At 173.2 grams and a 6.88-inch screen, the device is lightweight for its size, though it might feel a bit large for users with smaller hands.
Display
The 6.88-inch IPS LCD display of the Redmi 14C is one of its standout features. Offering a 120Hz refresh rate and a brightness of 450 nits (typical) to 600 nits (HBM), it delivers a smooth visual experience for day-to-day use, including scrolling through apps and watching videos. However, the 720 x 1640 pixels resolution does lower the pixel density to around 260 ppi, which is fine for casual use but may not be as sharp as higher-end models. Still, it’s impressive at this price point, especially with the fast refresh rate, which is a rare feature in budget devices.
Performance
Under the hood, the Mediatek Helio G81 Ultra chipset powers the Redmi 14C. Paired with either 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM, the phone handles everyday tasks with ease. The Mali-G52 MC2 GPU ensures smooth casual gaming and media playback, though it may struggle with more demanding games or multitasking at times.
For storage, the phone offers 128GB or 256GB options, which should be more than enough for most users, and there is also a microSD card slot for further expansion.
Camera
The camera setup on the Redmi 14C provides decent results for a budget phone. The 50 MP primary camera (f/1.8 aperture) captures vibrant and detailed shots in good lighting conditions. The addition of a 2 MP depth sensor helps with portrait shots, although it may not be as sharp as cameras found in more expensive models. The 0.08 MP auxiliary lens is mostly a gimmick for better bokeh effects and adds little in terms of practical use.
The 13 MP front camera (f/2.0) performs admirably for selfies, producing sharp and clear images in well-lit environments. Low-light selfies may suffer a bit from noise, but it’s a solid performer for its category.
Battery Life
The 5160 mAh battery is another highlight of the Redmi 14C. It offers all-day usage with ease, even with heavy screen-on time. Xiaomi has also equipped the device with 18W fast charging, ensuring that you can charge the phone relatively quickly. While it doesn’t support faster charging speeds like some of the higher-end devices, it still provides a satisfactory experience for those who need to recharge in a short amount of time.
Software
The device runs on Android 14 with HyperOS, Xiaomi’s custom skin. The software is smooth and offers a clean experience, with some added customization options and features typical of Xiaomi’s MIUI family, such as a variety of themes, enhanced privacy options, and multitasking capabilities.
Additional Features
- Side-mounted fingerprint scanner: Reliable and easy to use, located in a convenient position.
- Accelerometer, Compass, and Virtual Proximity Sensing: These sensors enhance the phone’s functionality for various tasks.
- Connectivity: It supports 4G LTE, offering a stable network experience for calls and internet browsing, though 5G is not supported.
Pricing
At KSh 17,500 in Kenya, the Redmi 14C offers excellent value for money. With its large display, decent performance, capable cameras, and long-lasting battery, it is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a budget smartphone that doesn’t skimp on features.
Pros:
- 120Hz smooth display at an affordable price
- Strong camera performance for the price (50 MP primary and 13 MP selfie)
- Long-lasting 5160 mAh battery
- Solid build quality with eco-friendly materials
- Large storage options (up to 256GB)
Cons:
- 720p resolution might not be ideal for those who prioritize pixel density
- Helio G81 Ultra chipset is good for daily tasks, but not for demanding gaming or heavy multitasking
- No 5G support
Final Verdict
The Xiaomi Redmi 14C offers incredible value for a budget phone. While it’s not the most powerful device on the market, its large screen, smooth performance, and long-lasting battery make it a great option for everyday users. If you’re looking for a budget phone that ticks most of the boxes, the Redmi 14C is definitely worth considering.
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