Xiaomi Redmi Y2 review: Jack of all, star of selfies
Xiaomi’s latest Redmi Y2 promises to patch the weaknesses of the Y1 while stepping up the game in the selfie camera performance, now infused with the power of AI. At a price of ` 9,999 for the 3GB/ 32GB variant and ` 12,999 for the 4GB/ 64GB variant, it is Xiaomi’s weapon against the selfiecentric smartphones from OPPO and Vivo.
Compared to plastic build of the Redmi Y1, the Y2 sports a premium allmetal build, with a vertical rear dual camera setup. It now adorns a modern 18: 9 tall display with narrow bezels all around. The 5.99- inch 18: 9 LCD panel throws out pictures at a resolution of 1440 x 720 pixels, which ensures you are getting a vibrant display with good brightness levels and wide viewing angles. However, sunlight legibility suffers.
It seems that Xiaomi still considers the 2GHz octacore SD 625 capable of handling new software in 2018, which is why they put it in the Redmi Y2. You can expand the storage up
to 256GB with a dedicated micro SD card slot. The efficiently optimised MIUI 9.5 atop Android 8.1 Oreo is fast and fluid all around, with almost no noticeable lags or stutters while moving around the interface — it feels at home while multitasking with 3- 4 apps. However, intensive gaming on the Y2 isn’t a pleasant experience. The Face Unlock system works decently in well- lit scenarios and is solely used for unlocking the phone. When it comes to cameras, the Y2 is a performer. The 16MP front camera with
AI-based Beautify 4.0 manages to snap some great looking photos in various lighting situations. Selfies contain a decent amount of details with adequate brightness and vibrant colours. The portrait mode works well, with the
distinction between the subject and background mostly accurate. The rear 12MP + 5MP dual optical setup also shoot goodlooking pictures with the right balance of colours and details.
The Redmi Y2 offers a comfortable stamina of a single day from its 3080mAh battery, despite put under considerable amount of stress.
To sum it up, the Redmi Y2 is a great budget smartphone that
ticks all the right boxes and specialises in the optics department. If you are seeking good camera performance fused in a package that is overall a great daily driver, then look no further.