Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 (2021) Review: A Nostalgic Comeback That Misses the Mark

Introduction

Back in March 2021, Xiaomi revealed it had sold over 25 million units of the original Redmi Note 8 worldwide. To celebrate that success, the company brought back the fan-favorite with a refreshed version — the Redmi Note 8 (2021). While the new model aims to keep the legacy alive, it mostly sticks to the same formula, with just a few tweaks under the hood.

Unfortunately, due to global chip shortages, Xiaomi was forced to swap the Snapdragon 665 processor for a MediaTek Helio G85. The change gives the phone Bluetooth 5.2 and an extra splash-resistant coating, but it also removes 4K video recording, which many users will miss.

Specifications at a Glance

• Display: 6.3-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD (1080×2340 pixels, 60Hz)
• Chipset: MediaTek Helio G85 (12nm)
• RAM & Storage: Up to 4GB RAM, 128GB storage (expandable via microSD)
• Software: Android 11 with MIUI 12.5
• Rear Cameras: 48MP main + 8MP ultrawide + 2MP macro + 2MP depth
• Front Camera: 13MP
• Battery: 4,000mAh with 18W fast charging
• Build: Gorilla Glass 5 front and back, plastic frame
• Extras: Rear fingerprint sensor, IR blaster, 3.5mm jack, FM radio

Aside from the processor swap, the phone is almost identical to the original 2019 model, including the camera setup, display, and battery. Even the price remains unchanged, which might disappoint users expecting a bigger refresh.

Design

The Redmi Note 8 (2021) looks exactly like its predecessor — compact, sturdy, and familiar. It weighs 190g and features the same Gorilla Glass 5 protection on both sides. The bezels are slightly thick by modern standards, giving it a modest 81.7% screen-to-body ratio, but it still carries a classic charm.

Display

The 6.3-inch Full HD+ LCD display delivers decent clarity and color, though Xiaomi seems to have swapped panels this time. The result? Slightly lower brightness and contrast compared to the 2019 version. It’s still a good everyday display, but don’t expect any major improvements or high refresh rates.

Battery Life

With the same 4,000mAh battery, performance is solid. Thanks to the power-efficient Helio G85, the Note 8 (2021) scored a 102-hour endurance rating — slightly lower than the original’s 108 hours, but still excellent for casual users.

Charging Speed

Charging peaks at 18W, which fills the battery from 0 to 34% in 30 minutes and takes around 2 hours for a full charge. It’s not the fastest by today’s standards, but decent considering the price range.

Software

Running MIUI 12.5.6 based on Android 11, the Note 8 (2021) feels smooth and responsive. MIUI continues to pack a ton of customization options, themes, and smart features, making it one of the most feature-rich Android skins even on budget phones.

Performance

Here’s where things get tricky. The MediaTek Helio G85 performs roughly on par with the Snapdragon 665, but it comes with a notable downgrade — no 4K video recording. The change was likely forced by the ongoing global chip shortage, not a design choice by Xiaomi. In daily use, though, performance is snappy enough for social media, web browsing, and casual gaming.

Camera

The camera setup remains unchanged from the original: a 48MP main sensor, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro, and 2MP depth sensor. Photos look good in daylight, with sharp details and balanced colors. The 13MP selfie camera also delivers pleasing results. However, the lack of 4K recording is a clear step backward for those who value video quality.

Verdict

The Redmi Note 8 (2021) feels like a nostalgic revival rather than a meaningful upgrade. While it still offers a solid display, dependable battery life, and good cameras for the price, it doesn’t bring anything new to the table.

With competitors like the Redmi Note 10 and Redmi 10 offering better features and newer designs in the same price bracket, this refreshed model struggles to justify its existence.

In short: The Redmi Note 8 (2021) is a nice throwback — but it’s better left as a memory.