Xiaomi Redmi Pad review

Design, build quality, handling

With a 10.6-inch display in a 5:3 aspect ratio and corresponding resulting numbers in the dimensions and weight fields, the Redmi Pad defines the term 'average' when it comes to physical properties for a midrange tablet.

That's no bad thing, however - rather, it was Xiaomi deliberately making a tablet for everyone. Hence, the simple, definitive name, too, maybe.

The Redmi Pad features an aluminum unibody, its satin finish warding off fingerprints nicely. The touch of metal, coupled with the flat sides and sharp, well-defined edges, makes for an upmarket look and feel.

The camera bump, oversized for no immediately hardware-necessitated reason, does look nicely proportioned and stylishly to-the-point. A basic Redmi badge at the opposite end is just big enough to serve for brand recognition without being too much in your face, while the regulatory markings all but disappear at this size.

Over on the front, the uniform bezel surrounding the display doesn't ruin the impression of a well-engineered piece of tech and also provides just enough area for holding on to, without looking too chunky.

The physical controls are in the top left corner (when holding the slab in landscape) - the power button is on the left, the volume rocker is up top. That can make it somewhat tricky if you want to capture a screenshot single-handed, but outside of that edge case, their placement should be just fine.

Overall, handling the Redmi Pad is a pleasant experience. Fit and finish are good enough to be worthy of a device twice the price, while size and proportions are just right.