SMARTPHONE TIER: ENTRY TIER
Battery Capacity mAh: 5000
Xiaomi Redmi A3 Smartphone Review:
This Smartphone Shines as a Budget-Friendly Powerhouse
Smartphone Battery Performance
Based on Price:
Entry Tier (€0-€199)
Ranking #5
Video Review
What you need to know about the Xiaomi Redmi A3
Quick Summary
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 is not just a budget smartphone; it's a smart investment that ensures you get the most out of your money without compromising essential features.
Here's a detailed breakdown:
Key Features:
Display and Design: The Redmi A3 features a 6.71-inch HD+ display with DC dimming for better eye protection. It has good colour reproduction and brightness for its price point. The design is straightforward, with a slim flat frame, making it easy to hold. . plastic back and a waterdrop notch at the front.
Processor and Performance: It is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G36 processor, suitable for basic tasks such as browsing, social media, and light gaming. Also, it offers a 90Hz refresh rate, bringing a smoother user experience.
Camera Setup: The device includes a dual-camera setup on the rear, typically comprising a 13MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, which performs adequately in well-lit conditions.
Battery Life: One of the standout features is its 5000mAh battery, which can comfortably last a full day on a single charge under moderate usage.
Software: It runs on MIUI, Xiaomi's custom Android skin, which includes various features and customization options but comes with pre-installed apps and advertisements.
Considerations:
Performance Limitations: The MediaTek Helio G36 processor is unsuitable for heavy multitasking or high-end gaming. Users might experience lag and slow down during intensive tasks.
Camera Performance in Low Light: The camera's performance is subpar in low-light conditions, which is common in this budget segment.
Bloatware and Ads: MIUI might appeal to some, mainly because it contains bloatware and ads that can affect the user experience.
Conclusion:
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 stands out in the budget segment for its robust battery life and solid performance. It is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users or those who need a reliable secondary phone. While it may not boast the highest specifications, its affordability and overall functionality make it a competitive option in its price range.
Specification Overview - Released Date: February 2024
Body: 168.3 x 76.3 x 8.3 mm or 6.63 x 3.0 x 0.33 inches. Weight 193g.
Display: 6.71 inches, with 720 x 1650 pixels resolution
Protection: Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3
Operating System: Android 14, MIUI
Chipset: Mediatek Helio G36, Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A53)
Memory: 64GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band. Dual SIM; Stereo speakers - Yes, 3.5 Headjack: Yes
Rear Camera: Wide (main): 8MP, f/2.0, 0.08 MP (auxiliary lens), LED flash, HDR
Front Camera: 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide)
Video: Front camera: 1080p@30fps, Rear camera: 1080p@30fps
Battery: 5000 mAh, 10W wired
Colour: Midnight Black, Forest Green (Olive Green), Star Blue (Lake Blue)
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Pricing
Xiaomi Redmi A3
These prices are the best from our Affiliate Partners. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. You can learn more about our disclosure policy here.
Smartphone Battery Performance - FULL REVIEW
ViserMark offers a comprehensive range of battery performance test results based on different criteria and benchmarks for evaluating a smartphone's performance. Our tests are performed using the strictest protocol in a controlled environment to ensure repetition and consistency powered by SmartViser's test automation solution viSer.
VWS Analytics Studio is a complementary product to the viSer Test Automation solution and provides an enhanced viSer user experience. It is the fastest way to analyse and view smartphone test results. We have used the interactive dashboard to show you the recent test results for the Xiaomi Redmi A3 and comparative smartphones.
Xiaomi Redmi A3 ViserMark Labels
ViserMark's Battery Performance review is based on the smartphone battery performance results obtained during testing. The ViserMark labels provide valuable insights into the Xiaomi Redmi A3's battery performance.
Reading this review, you can find a full breakdown of our battery performance results in these sections.
Battery Performance Score
Battery Life
Battery Consumption
Battery Efficiency
Annual Energy Consumption
Also of Interest: ViserMark Labels
1. Battery Performance
What is the Xiaomi Redmi A3 Performance Score?
In our comprehensive testing, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 achieved a ViserMark Battery Performance score of 39 out of 100.
How does the Xiaomi Redmi A3 compare to Entry Tier smartphones?
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 shows a solid mix of capabilities and limitations. Its large battery capacity and relatively efficient energy use are significant pluses for anyone looking for a budget-friendly smartphone that doesn't require daily charging.
The Xiaomi Redmi series exhibits a clear upward trend in battery performance scores, reflecting ongoing improvements in power management with each new smartphone.
The Redmi A2, launched in March 2023, marked a significant milestone with its score of 44 out of 100. This score set a solid baseline for battery performance in Xiaomi’s Entry Tier smartphones and laid a strong foundation for the subsequent smartphones.
The Redmi 13C, introduced in November 2023, further elevated the benchmark with a score of 52 out of 100, demonstrating substantial advancements in battery efficiency and phone optimisation. However, the latest model, the Xiaomi Redmi A3, released in February 2024, deviated from this upward trend with a lower battery performance score of 39 out of 100. This deviation could indicate a shift in design focus, possibly towards cost reduction, different feature prioritisations, or variations in battery capacity and technology that are not directly correlated with higher efficiency scores.
Typically, users expect newer smartphones to outperform older ones, especially regarding battery life and efficiency. Xiaomi might be positioning the Xiaomi Redmi A3 differently within its product lineup, possibly focusing on enhancing other aspects such as camera capabilities and display technology that appeal to a different market segment.
The score progression, from the Redmi A2 to the Redmi 13C, highlights Xiaomi’s commitment to enhancing the battery capabilities of its smartphones. However, the apparent decline with the Xiaomi Redmi A3 invites a closer examination of the balance between battery performance and other smartphone features. This observation underscores the importance of considering the overall user experience and the potential trade-offs in design decisions.
Also of Interest: Have you missed this smartphone review?
All smartphones are thoroughly tested and verified by SmartViser. Every smartphone has a review written by ViserMark, which provides all the battery performance test results translated into ViserMark Labels.
Also of Interest:
2. Battery Life
How long will the Xiaomi Redmi A3 battery last?
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 test results indicate a battery life of 1.5 days, or 44 hours, on a single charge.
How does the Xiaomi Redmi A3 compare to Entry Tier smartphones?
The Xiaomi Redmi A3's large capacity of 5000mAh suggests potential for long-lasting battery life. However, the actual usage time may not fully align with user expectations for two days, as indicated by the 1.5 days of use per charge.
All three smartphones shown in the chart, the Xiaomi Redmi A3, Redmi A2, and Redmi 13C, feature a 5000 mAh battery, which is standard across the Entry Tier and offers a solid baseline for battery life. Despite the same battery capacity, performance varies across phones, suggesting differences in hardware optimisation or software efficiency.
The test results reveal a fluctuation in battery life scores that might also reflect changes in the underlying battery management technologies, integration of new software features that impact battery consumption, or even trade-offs for improving other hardware specifications. Xiaomi ensures consistent improvements in critical areas like battery life to maintain competitive advantage and consumer trust.
For potential buyers, it’s crucial to evaluate smartphones based on comprehensive reviews and personal usage needs. The unexpectedly lower battery life score of the recently released Xiaomin Redmi A3 suggests a complex balance between cost, performance, and market differentiation. To conclude, a lower battery life score does not necessarily reflect the overall quality or value of the smartphone.
3. NEW Battery Consumption
Xiaomi Redmi A3 battery review with viSer and VWS Analytics Studio
The Xiaomi Redmin A3 battery life details, as analysed using SmartViser's viSer and VWS Analytics Studio, provide a technical and detailed perspective on the smartphone's battery consumption. The platform's capability to monitor and access real-time test results explains how the Xiaomi Redmin A3 manages power under various daily user tasks.
ViserMark can identify the strengths and weaknesses of smartphones by comparing battery usage across similar devices, enabling potential buyers to choose the best smartphone based on their usage patterns.
The test results comparing the Xiaomi Redmi A3 with the average entry-tier smartphone provide a detailed look at its battery consumption performance across various everyday activities.
Taking a closer look at the test results, the Xiaomi Redmi A3's battery consumption across various activities compared with the average for entry-tier smartphones indicates varying degrees of efficiency and power management. This analysis reveals how the Xiaomi Redmi A3 benchmarks against typical usage patterns in the Entry Tier.
The Xiaomi Redmi A3's slightly higher power consumption than the average presents potential inefficiencies in energy usage during high-engagement activities like browsing social media platforms. These insights can influence potential buyers, particularly those who value energy efficiency, with a deeper understanding of the Xiaomi Redmi A3's performance.
During gaming sessions, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 demonstrates a significant increase in power consumption, indicating potential processing or graphics handling inefficiencies. This category also exhibits higher consumption in the Xiaomi Redmi A3, suggesting possible inefficiencies in data transmission or network handling. Both functions consume more power on the Xiaomi Redmi A3 than the average, with higher camera usage implying less sensor or processing efficiency optimisation.
Compared to other Entry Tier smartphones, the Xiaomi Redmi Redmi A3 consumes more energy across almost all activities. This could be less sophisticated power management or older technology that does not optimise battery use as effectively as other smartphones in the Entry Tier. This benchmark allows potential buyers to compare the Xiaomi Redmi A3's energy efficiency against other alternatives.
Interestingly, this smartphone excels in handling MMS, which could indicate optimisation specific to certain types of data processing or less energy-intensive software integration for messaging. This reassures potential buyers that the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is efficient in certain areas, even if it may not be the best choice for gaming enthusiasts.
Analysing Battery Efficiency:
Xiaomi Redmi A3 vs Xiaomi Redmi A2 Smartphone Comparison
The comparison of battery consumption between the Xiaomi Redmi A3 and the Xiaomi Redmi A2 highlights significant differences in energy efficiency between these two smartphones across daily smartphone activities.
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 does consume more power than the Redmi A2 during social media activities involving heavy data and screen usage. It also shows higher power consumption for outgoing calls and MMS, suggesting less efficient handling of essential communication functions. The Xiaomi Redmi A3 consumes more power for gaming than the Redmi A2, indicating a heavier processing load or less optimisation for gaming graphics and processing. Its higher consumption during file transfers suggests potential inefficiencies in data handling or network connectivity.
This smartphone uses more power for the camera but slightly less for YouTube, indicating differences in how video streaming and camera operations are optimised. The Xiaomi Redmi A3 draws more power across email, media player, and SMS functions, except for slightly lower consumption during YouTube viewing. Interestingly, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is more efficient in web browsing than the A2.
The power consumption differences between the Xiaomi Redmi A3 and Redmi A2, particularly in gaming, social media, and camera use, could significantly affect the user experience, especially for heavy users in these activities. However, the Redmi A3's power efficiency in web browsing might appeal to frequent internet surfers who value extended browsing time.
The analysis demonstrates that the Xiaomi Redmi A3 consumes more battery power across most activities than the Redmi A2, indicating general battery efficiency. Potential buyers must consider these aspects, especially if their typical smartphone usage involves heavy activities like gaming and social media. The Redmi A2 offers better battery management for such activities, potentially providing a longer-lasting user experience per charge. This comparison underscores the significance of battery efficiency as a critical factor when choosing between different smartphones within the same brand or price range, empowering potential buyers to make informed decisions based on their usage patterns and priorities.
Analysing Battery Efficiency:
Xiaomi Redmi A3 vs Xiaomi Redmi 13C Smartphone Comparison
Let's continue to analyse the battery consumption data for the Xiaomi Redmi A3 compared with the Xiaomi Redmi 13C across various daily smartphone activities.
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 and Redmi 13C are compared for battery consumption for various activities. Both smartphones show high consumption in social media usage, but the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is slightly higher, indicating a marginal difference in energy efficiency.
For outgoing calls and MMS, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 consumes more power for calls but less for MMS, suggesting variations in communication efficiency. While the Xiaomi Redmi A3 may have a slight edge in MMS efficiency, it's important to note that the Redmi 13C still maintains a solid overall performance.
One area where the two smartphones significantly differ is gaming. The Xiaomi Redmi A3 consumes more power during gaming sessions. This indicates better optimisation with newer processing technology, in the Redmi 13C resulting in a smoother gaming experience for users.
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 displayed higher power consumption during file transfer, suggesting less efficient data transmission management. Also, the Redmi 3C proved to be more energy-efficient in camera use and YouTube streaming, which is crucial for users who prioritise multimedia functionality.
The Redmi 13C stands out with its significantly lower power consumption across email, media player, and SMS functions, suggesting superior optimisation for these everyday tasks. This consistent efficiency in daily use scenarios is a testament to the Redmi 13C's reliable performance and battery life. Also, web browsing is notably more efficient on the Redmi 13C which might appeal to users who engage in long internet sessions.
This comparison illustrates that the Xiaomi Redmi 13C generally offers better battery efficiency than the Xiaomi Redmi A3 across various standard smartphone activities. The Redmi 13C's superior performance in efficiently managing battery consumption is particularly evident in multimedia uses, web browsing, and essential communications.
For users prioritising long battery life and efficient power usage, the Redmi 13C would be a more suitable choice. The Xiaomi Redmi A3, while adequate, shows areas where improvements could enhance user experience, especially for those engaging in high-consumption activities. This analysis underscores the importance of considering how battery life aligns with personal usage patterns when choosing between smartphones.
Analysing Battery Efficiency:
Xiaomi Redmi A3 Smartphone Comparison
The analysis of battery consumption across the Xiaomi Redmi A3, the Redmi A2, and the Redmi 13C smartphones reveals distinct patterns in how each phone manages power across common smartphone activities. This comparison also includes average consumption data for the Entry Tier providing a broader context for evaluating each smartphone's performance.
Detailed Observations:
Social Media and Video Streaming: It's important to note that the Xiaomi Redmi A3 consumes more power than the Redmi A2 and slightly more than the Redmi 13C and the Entry Tier average during high-engagement activities such as social media and YouTube streaming. This observation highlights Xiaomi Redmi A3's limitations and inefficient energy use in these scenarios.
Communication: The Xiaomi Redmi A3 consumes more power during voice calls and MMS than the Redmi A2, but it outperforms the Redmi 13C in MMS usage. This variability in communication efficiency across smartphones provides a comprehensive understanding of the Xiaomi Redmi A3's communication performance.
Entertainment and Utility: For tasks like gaming, and file transfers, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 consumes more energy than the Redmi A2 and the Redmi 13C. On the other hand, the Redmi 13C shows a closer alignment to the Entry Tier average, suggesting better optimisation from a recently released smartphone. Furthermore, the Xiaomi RedmiA3's power usage for the camera, media player, and email is consistently higher than its counterparts, indicating potentially lower overall battery efficiency.
Web Browsing: Interestingly, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 shows comparable or slightly better efficiency in web browsing compared to the Redmi13C, indicating some optimisation for lighter, less intensive tasks.
What does this mean for Users?
Users who frequently engage in gaming, video streaming, and social media would benefit from choosing the Redmi 13C over the Xiaomi Redmi A3 due to its superior battery management and lower power consumption.
If as a user your phone use is balanced between calls, light web browsing, or media consumption, the Redmi A2 is a reliable choice. Its performance and battery life strike a balance, reassurance that it can adapt to your moderate usage needs.
While the Xiaomi Redmi A3 may consume more power across many activities, it still appeals to budget-conscious users. If you prioritise other features over battery efficiency, this smartphone is designed with your needs in mind, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
4. Power Efficiency
What is the Battery Efficiency of the Xiaomi Redmi A3?
The battery efficiency for the Xiaomi Redmi 13C was 1.0 leaf out of 5.
How does the Xiaomi Redmin A3 compare to Entry Tier smartphones?
An efficiency score of 1 out of 5 suggests that the smartphone manages its power effectively drawn from the battery when considering its hardware and software integration.
The efficiency rating, while average, does not highlight any significant advancements in power management that differentiate the Xiaomi Redmi 13 from competitors.
The battery efficiency scores among the Xiaomi models indicate a notable progression, with one surprising exception - the Xiaomi Redmi A3. Despite being the most recent release, this smartphone registers the lowest efficiency score, a stark contrast to the Redmi A2 and the Redmi 13C, which score higher at 1.5 out of 5. This unexpected decrease in efficiency in the latest phone series could raise concerns about technological advancements or design decisions that may have compromised energy management.
The improved scores in the Redmi A2 and especially the Redmi 13C are a testament to Xiaomi's commitment to quality. These scores suggest that Xiaomi has successfully integrated more effective power management technologies in these smartphones, enhancing user experience and contributing to the longevity of the phones.
Also of Interest:
5. Annual Energy Consumption
How much energy does the Xiaomi Redmi A3 use?
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 has an annual energy consumption of 3.7 kWh annually.
How does the Xiaomi Redmi A3 compare to Entry Tier smartphones?
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 is energy-efficient, with an annual energy consumption of only 3.7 kWh. This low consumption level is beneficial for reducing electricity costs and from an environmental perspective. Despite the low energy consumption, the overall energy efficiency could be misleading if this smartphone requires multiple charges within a short period, especially for power users.
Annual energy consumption is trending downward from the Xiaomi Redmi A3's 3.7 kWh to the Redmi 13C's 2.9 kWh, with the Redmi A2 at an intermediate level of 3.0 kWh. This progression reflects an overall improvement in how efficiently these smartphones utilise power, translating into lower operational costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
The decrease in energy consumption especially in the latest release, the Redmi 13C, aligns with broader environmental sustainability goals. Lower energy requirements mean reduced carbon emissions associated with power production, positioning the Redmi A2 and Redmi 13C as more eco-friendly for environmentally conscious users.
VERDICT:
What is it like to Use?
The Xiaomi Redmi A3 strikes a great balance between cost and performance. It's not just an affordable smartphone, but one that delivers essential functions without significant compromises, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious users.
Well-suited for the Entry Tier, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is perfect for first-time smartphone users or as a secondary, budget-friendly phone. It offers reliable performance for everyday tasks, satisfactory photo quality, and excellent battery life. Its display and build quality are decent for its price point. This smartphone is a strong contender for users looking for an affordable smartphone that covers all the basics.
What's in the box?
Xiaomi Redmi A3 Smartphone
USB-A-to-C cable
10W charger
A SIM ejector tool
User manuals
Should I buy the Xiaomi Redmi A3?
As an Entry Tier smartphone, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is priced competitively, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. It has an acceptable battery life and basic functionality for calling, texting, and light app usage.
Other smartphones offer better satisfaction for users with higher performance needs, particularly in areas like gaming and photography. If you value battery life and a user-friendly experience at an affordable price, the Xiaomi Redmi A3 is a commendable choice. However, exploring alternatives within the Xiaomi smartphone series or other brands might be more suitable for intensive use.
Extra Insights
Q: Does the Xiaomi Redmi A3 support 5G?
Yes, it does
Q: Does the Xiaomi Redmi A3 have dual-SIM capabilities?
Q: What storage and RAM variants are available for the Xiaomi Redmi A3?
Q: Does the Xiaomi Redmi 13C have stereo speakers?
Q: Does the Xiaomi Redmi A3 have a microSD card slot?
Q: Is the Xiaomi Redmi A3 VoLTE enabled?
Pricing
Xiaomi Redmi A3
These prices are the best from our Affiliate Partners. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. You can learn more about our disclosure policy here.
VCX (Valued Camera eXperience)
The VCX Forum has been working with its members on the system and infrastructure as a non-profit organisation. We strive to improve our technology to develop and exchange accurate and objective quality and performance indicators, which is our ultimate goal. We will also serve as a compass for the smartphone camera industry. We appreciate your interest in the VCX Forum.
No VCX reviews are available for this smartphone.
Background
Xiaomi was founded in 2010 by serial entrepreneur Lei Jun, who believes in high quality.
Technology doesn't need to cost a fortune. It is focused on being the most user-centric mobile internet company. With more than 61 million handsets sold in 2014 and products launched in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, India, Indonesia, and Brazil, Xiaomi is expanding its footprint worldwide to become a global brand. Xiaomi is headquartered in Beijing, China, and has offices in Asia-Pacific, India, and Brazil.
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Written By
Debbie Bouffler is the Marketing and Communications Manager at SmartViser. She is crucial in developing the company's communication and marketing strategies. Debbie has gained extensive experience in strategic business development and marketing in various industries, which has helped her excel in her current position.
Debbie is a leader with imagination, an unmatched drive, and an infectious passion for growth and excellence, especially in the telecommunications industry.
For further insights into her professional journey or to connect, visit Debbie on LinkedIn.
Affiliate Disclosure:
These prices are the best from our Affiliate Partners. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. You can learn more about our disclosure policy here.