Reviving the Tablet Game: Xiaomi Pad 5 Combines Premium Features with Performance

After a significant break, Xiaomi has revived its tablet lineup in India with the introduction of the Pad 5. This versatile tablet stands out in its category due to its sharp display, robust processor, and compatibility with Xiaomi’s Smart Pen. There are, however, a few key features missing that could potentially deter some users.

In contrast to the plastic design of the original Mi Pad (Review), the Xiaomi Pad 5 presents a more premium aesthetic. It features a metallic chassis complemented by a polycarbonate back, giving it a solid feel. The Xiaomi Smart Pen conveniently attaches magnetically to the top edge of the tablet for charging and storage, while the Xiaomi Pad Keyboard connects through contact pins located at the bottom. Both accessories must be purchased separately.

The back panel of the Xiaomi Pad 5 is constructed from polycarbonate

The 10.95-inch LCD screen on the Xiaomi Pad 5 boasts a resolution of 1,600 x 2,560 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a smooth user interface. Additionally, it is HDR10+ and Dolby Vision certified, enhancing contrast and color quality when streaming compatible content. The display supports 10-bit color depth and achieves a peak brightness of 650 nits, while the quad-speaker system is equipped with Dolby Atmos capabilities.

Available in two storage options, the Xiaomi Pad 5 is priced at Rs. 26,999 for the 128GB model and Rs. 28,999 for the 256GB version. Both come with 6GB of RAM, but neither supports microSD cards for additional storage.

The Xiaomi Pad 5 features a single rear camera

Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 SoC, the Xiaomi Pad 5 may feel a bit outdated, but it should adequately handle the tablet’s productivity and entertainment tasks. Unfortunately, there is no cellular model available for the Pad 5, so users will need to depend on Wi-Fi for internet access. The device also incorporates Bluetooth 5 and a USB Type-C port with OTG functionality. Security options are limited to a 2D facial recognition system or traditional passcodes, as there’s no fingerprint scanner.

Running MIUI 13, the Xiaomi Pad 5 includes multiple tablet-optimized features, allowing applications to operate in floating windows among other enhancements. However, this version of MIUI 13 is based on Android 11. The interface is heavily tailored but performed smoothly during my initial experience.

MIUI 13 on the Xiaomi Pad 5 has been tailored for tablet use

The tablet houses an 8,720mAh battery, which supports fast charging via a 22.5W charger included in the box. Although the Xiaomi Pad 5 can handle fast charging up to 33W, that charger will need to be purchased separately. Additionally, the device features a 13-megapixel rear camera and an 8-megapixel front-facing camera.

Xiaomi’s Pad 5 signifies a substantial return compared to the original Mi Pad released in India. However, it occupies a higher price tier. The Pad 5 competes against offerings primarily from Samsung such as the Galaxy Tab A8 and the pricier Galaxy Tab S7 FE (Review), alongside competitors from Lenovo like the Yoga Smart Tab and the more expensive Tab P11 Pro (Review).

I will thoroughly assess the Xiaomi Pad 5 to determine if its software and accessories contribute to a capable productivity tool, in addition to its potential as an entertainment powerhouse like others in its category. Stay tuned for my detailed review, which will be released soon.