Redmi Pad 2: The Best Budget Tablet Under 20000 in India

The sub-₹20,000 tablet segment in India has felt stagnant for some time, largely featuring variations of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A series and other budget Android alternatives. However, Xiaomi aims to alter this landscape with the Redmi Pad 2, a device that offers impressive value and sophistication, going beyond the typical large screen for an affordable price. Launched in India this week, it is evident that the Redmi Pad 2 is not merely an economical option; it aspires to be the definitive choice among budget tablets.

Redmi Pad 2: Not Just a Rehash

It is important to clarify that the Redmi Pad 2 is not merely a simple update or rebranding. The device has been thoughtfully redesigned, featuring deliberate hardware choices and Xiaomi’s new HyperOS 2, along with accessories that serve a practical purpose. Priced starting at ₹12,999 (inclusive of introductory HDFC offers), it strategically targets competitors like Samsung’s Tab A9 and even entry-level iPads for specific scenarios.

Display and Design: Unmatched at This Price Point

The main highlight of the Redmi Pad 2 is its 11-inch 2.5K (2560 × 1600) LCD display. It delivers sharp visuals and smooth performance with a refresh rate of 90Hz, 10-bit colour depth, and up to 600 nits brightness in outdoor mode, which is remarkable for its price. Additionally, TÜV Rheinland certifications for low blue light, flicker-free viewing, and colour calibration that is friendly to nighttime use mark it as a genuinely comfortable screen for binge-watching, reading, or prolonged study sessions.

In terms of build quality, it impresses as well. With a thickness of 7.36mm, the aluminium unibody is not just sleek and portable at a weight of 510g (519g for the cellular variant), but also feels robust and high-quality. The colour options include understated shades like Graphite Grey and Mint Green, alongside a vibrant new Lavender Purple variant for those looking to move away from traditional palettes.

Performance: Surprisingly Solid

Powering the Redmi Pad 2 is the MediaTek Helio G100 Ultra chipset, which features an octa-core configuration with two Cortex-A76 cores and six Cortex-A55 cores, complemented by Mali-G57 MC2 graphics. It may not be a flagship chip, but it performs remarkably well in daily tasks such as YouTube, Google Docs, Netflix, or casual gaming like Asphalt, managing multitasking better than anticipated.

The device offers configurations up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, along with expandable microSD support of up to 2TB. The inclusion of virtual RAM up to 8GB enhances fluidity, ensuring even the base 4GB+128GB Wi-Fi model priced at ₹12,999 remains functional, while the ₹16,999 8GB+256GB edition appears to be a stronger long-term investment.

HyperOS 2: A Genuine Advantage

This marks Xiaomi’s first budget tablet in India running on Xiaomi HyperOS 2, which significantly enhances the user experience. The operating system is lightweight, well-optimised, and incorporates cross-device features such as Call sync, Shared clipboard, and Network sync with Xiaomi phones and tablets.

Featuring no ads or unnecessary bloatware, along with an intuitive interface, HyperOS is shaping into what MIUI has long promised without fulfilling.

Battery Life: Built for Longevity

Equipped with a 9000mAh battery, the tablet is designed for durability. In a typical mixed-use scenario (browsing, streaming, reading), it easily achieves 10-11 hours of screen time. Standby drain is minimal, and the device withstands demands from active screen use and background syncing.

The 18W fast charging (with a 15W adapter included) is not the fastest on the market, but it is acceptable given the price, especially as it charges via USB-C rather than the outdated micro-USB.

Audio and Multimedia: Exceptional Quality

A remarkable feature is the quad-speaker system, enhanced with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio certification. The volume resonates without distortion, and stereo separation remains distinct even without headphones. Combined with the vibrant display, this positions the Redmi Pad 2 among the best media tablets under ₹20,000.

Cameras and Accessories: Practical Choices

While the cameras may not win accolades, they fulfill expectations adequately. The 8MP rear and 5MP front cameras offer satisfactory performance; video calls are clear, and document scans come out legible, which suffices for practical use. The front camera is located along the longer edge, making it convenient for landscape video calls—a small yet crucial detail.

Notably, Xiaomi does not cut corners on accessories either. The Redmi Smart Pen (priced at ₹3,999) provides a great experience for note-taking and sketches, featuring 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity and a 240Hz touch sampling rate. The Redmi Pad 2 Cover (priced at ₹1,299) incorporates sleep/wake functionality and also functions as a stand, ideal for students or those working from home.

Connectivity and Durability: Thoughtful Features

Unlike many tablets in this price range, the Wi-Fi + Cellular model offers dual SIM support, GPS, and retains the robust aluminium build. With an IP52 rating, it withstands light splashes and dust—an added benefit in the Indian context. Additional features include a 3.5mm headphone jack, built-in microphone, and dependable Wi-Fi ac support.