[Review] Xiaomi Tablet 'Redmi Pad 2': Outstanding Value in the 200,000 Won Range with AI Features

Launch Price of 219,800 Won Offers Reasonable Value
Seamless Connection to Various Xiaomi Smart Devices

The "Redmi Pad 2" tablet, launched by Xiaomi last month and priced in the 200,000 won range, is a value-for-money product well-suited for first-time tablet users. Having only used Samsung Electronics and Apple tablets before, Xiaomi's tablet initially felt unfamiliar, but I was able to adapt quickly.

Since Google Play is pre-installed, I could freely install applications and use generative artificial intelligence (AI) features such as Gemini. The retail price is 219,800 won (128GB), offering a reasonable price point along with an ultra-high-resolution display and support for a 90Hz refresh rate. The battery capacity is also ample, making it an ideal choice for students considering their first tablet purchase.

I tried out apps exclusive to Xiaomi devices. The Mi Canvas app, when used with the dedicated Xiaomi stylus, was suitable for taking notes or drawing. The stylus features a button on the grip, allowing for quick erasing or tool switching. However, it did not support advanced features such as converting handwritten notes to text.

The Mi Mover app allowed me to conveniently transfer data such as photos and files stored on a previous device. It is compatible with both Android and Apple devices, enhancing user convenience.

When I opened the Mi Browser, the Google search bar and news feed appeared on the home screen. Pressing the AI button at the bottom provided functions similar to ChatGPT, such as answering questions, summarizing, and translating. It is based on the Google Gemini 2.0 model.

Additionally, there is an eye protection mode that reduces blue light or automatically adjusts color based on sunrise and sunset, making it comfortable for extended use such as watching video lectures or movies. The large 9,000mAh battery and 510g weight are manageable, making it practical for everyday use.

The screen refresh rate can be adjusted between 60Hz and 90Hz. The refresh rate indicates how many times per second the display redraws the screen. When set to 90Hz, the response speed was noticeably faster and transitions were smoother during gaming or video playback. However, this can increase battery consumption, so caution is advised. Considering that the 10th-generation Apple iPad, which is sold in the 500,000 won range, has a fixed 60Hz refresh rate, the performance is more than adequate.

The Mi Home app allows users to add various Xiaomi smart devices-such as home cameras, air purifiers, robot vacuum cleaners, and lighting-to the app with a single Xiaomi account, and control them by voice through AI speakers like Amazon Alexa or Google Clova.

The key question is whether users will be satisfied with their first Xiaomi product and gradually be drawn into the Xiaomi ecosystem. Using multiple smart devices together creates more synergy than using a single device. Although Xiaomi has recently expanded its offline stores in Korea, it lacks a notable advertising model or brand image, and its market share remains minimal. It remains to be seen how much Xiaomi can appeal to Korean consumers.