Redmi Note 15 5G Full Review: Is It Worth Buying Under ₹20,000?

Xiaomi has kicked off 2026 with the launch of its Note 15 series, introducing the base model, Redmi Note 15, as an all-round upgrade over its predecessors. With rising smartphone prices, the Note 15 positions itself as a competitive device under ₹20,000, offering a blend of design, performance, and features.

Design & Build

The Redmi Note 15 features a 3D curved AMOLED display, a rarity in modern smartphones where flat screens dominate. The device is lightweight, weighing approximately 176g, and offers a premium in-hand feel. The build is reinforced with tempered glass, providing durability, and the phone comes with a scratch guard for added protection.

The camera module adopts a squircle design, striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality. The phone retains traditional physical features, including a power button, volume rocker, IR blaster, USB Type-C port, dual speakers, hybrid SIM tray, and noise-cancelling microphones.

Display & Multimedia

The 6.78-inch AMOLED display supports a 120Hz refresh rate and peaks at 3200 nits brightness (1000 nits in HBM mode), delivering an immersive visual experience. Curved edges enhance the display’s aesthetics, making the bezels almost invisible.

Audio performance is equally impressive, with well-balanced stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos support, and a 300% amplified mode for an enhanced multimedia experience.

Performance & Hardware

Powered by the 6th Gen MediaTek 3 SoC, the Redmi Note 15 comes with 8GB RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and app performance. AnTuTu benchmarks record 6.5 lakh points on version 10 and 7.5 lakh points on version 11, reflecting a 25–30% performance improvement over last year’s model.

The 5520mAh battery supports 45W fast charging and reverse wired charging, delivering all-day usage without significant heat generation. While not designed as a gaming device, it comfortably handles casual gaming at 60FPS, maintaining stability over extended sessions.

Software & Updates

The device runs on HyperOS 2.0, based on Android 15, with guaranteed upgrades to Android 16 and HyperOS 3.0 within months. Xiaomi promises four major OS updates and six security updates, ensuring long-term software support. HyperOS delivers smooth animations, multitasking, and AI-powered features, including Gemini integration and “Circle to Search” functionality.

Connectivity & Sensors

Connectivity options include all 5G bands, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, IR Blaster, and FM Radio. Sensors include an in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock, both of which function reliably. The hybrid SIM tray allows either dual SIM cards or one SIM and one microSD card.

Cameras

The Redmi Note 15 features a 108MP primary sensor paired with an 8MP ultrawide sensor, a setup rarely seen under ₹20,000. The rear quad-camera setup includes two functional sensors and an LED flash. The 20MP front camera delivers crisp selfies.

Photography performance is impressive, offering vibrant colors, good dynamic range, and accurate skin tones. Videos can be recorded at 4K 30FPS with OIS support on the primary sensor. The device supports multiple shooting modes, including Ultra HD, Portrait, Pro, and standard Video modes, making it versatile for photography and videography.

Additional Features

• Low Light Performance: Certified by TV Rheinland.
• Durability: IP6566 rating and MIL-STD-810H compliance.
• Haptics: Satisfactorily responsive for its price segment.
• SAR values: Within safe limits.

What The Final Verdict

The Redmi Note 15 is a well-rounded upgrade from its predecessor. It offers a better display, larger battery, enhanced performance, and a premium design, all while keeping the price accessible. In the increasingly competitive mid-range segment, it stands out as a strong contender, especially for users seeking a combination of multimedia, photography, and daily performance under ₹20,000.

With significant hardware improvements, solid software support, and a refined design, the Redmi Note 15 is positioned as one of the most attractive options in its category for 2026.

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