For those not in the know, it’s not exactly uncharacteristic of Xiaomi to launch several different smartphone models throughout the year. In fact, the Chinese tech giant is known for its wide range of product lines, which include popular names such as the Redmi and Poco brands – this is in addition to its mainline Xiaomi flagship devices, which represent its most premium models. That’s not to mention the different 4G and 5G models and regional variants which are sold in different parts of the world.
With that in mind, Xiaomi recently announced the launch of a new handset in its “Redmi Turbo” line, the Redmi Turbo 3. Interestingly, the handset is currently only available for Chinese markets, and while Xiaomi hasn’t announced a global launch yet we’re hoping that it eventually brings it over to more regions worldwide. With a price tag starting at around £230 when converted, the phone does come with some rather impressive features for the price.
Internal Specs and Software
Perhaps one of the most standout features of the Redmi is that it comes with Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, a new SoC designed to bring high-end performance to more affordable smartphones, while still keeping things a step below Qualcomm’s-top-of-the-line chips. Given the phone’s sub-500 quid price, this is quite a welcome feature and it’s nice to finally see the new SoC in action.
As for other internal specifications, the Redmi Turbo 3 also comes with a base memory configuration of 12GB RAM alongside 256GB of internal storage, although there’s a slightly more expensive variant with with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. The phone runs on Android 14, layered with Xiaomi’s proprietary Hyper OS user interface, with access to Xiaomi-specific apps and software services in addition to pre-installed third-party software. The phone also runs on a large 5,000 mAh battery, with support for 90W fast charging.
Display and Design
In terms of display specifications, you’ll find a fairly large 6.67-inch AMOLED screen featuring a 2,712 x 1,220 pixel resolution, in addition to a 120hz refresh rate which should make for a smooth overall experience in addition to the 8s Gen 3 and generous RAM serving. Thankfully, the display isn’t curved and instead features a flat panel, a rare sight on most midrange Chinese phones these days.
As for its external design, the phone typically comes in three colour variants including black, as well as a more mint-styled look and pale gold version. Interestingly enough, Xiaomi also offers the Redmi Turbo 3 in an exclusive Harry Potter edition with a more intricately-designed look worthy of a wizarding scholarship. The special edition also comes bundled with freebies and Harry Potter-themed accessories.
For imaging, the Redmi Turbo 3 comes with a dual-camera setup on the rear which consists of a 50MP primary lens, in addition to an 8MP ultra-wide lens. There’s also support for 4K video recording as well as optical image stabilization. In front you’ll find a 20MP selfie camera for photos and video calls, although video recording on the front camera is limited to 1080p footage.
As mentioned yet, the phone isn’t available for global markets, although given the decent price-to-spec ratio it does make for a rather tempting smartphone choice.
