Xiaomi Pad 5 Review: Long-Awaited Return

Editor note: This review is an original English adaptation by Notebook Center, based on source material from Notebook-Center.ru.

Overview

Xiaomi returned to the European tablet market in September 2021 with the Pad 5, after a long gap since its previous model. This device focuses on a large high-resolution display, solid mid-high performance, and strong multimedia features. It runs Android 11 with MIUI 12.5 and targets users who want a capable Android tablet for media, web work, and everyday apps.

Technical Specifications

Design and Build

The Pad 5 has flat, clean lines and a slim 6.7 mm body at 511 g. The chassis combines a matte plastic back with a metal frame and is described as rigid in daily use. Xiaomi offered pearl white and dark gray color options. There is no memory card slot, no fingerprint scanner, and no 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Display, Audio, and Cameras

The 11-inch IPS panel uses a 2560x1600 resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, with Gorilla Glass 5 protection. In practical terms, this gives a sharp image and smoother scrolling than basic 60 Hz panels. The four-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos support is one of the strongest points for video and music playback. For cameras, the tablet includes an 8 MP front camera for calls and a 13 MP rear camera for photos and video.

Keyboard and Input

A physical keyboard is not included in the box, so typing depends on the on-screen keyboard by default. The large display makes touch typing easier than on smaller tablets. Optional accessories such as a stylus and keyboard are available separately.

Performance

With the Snapdragon 860 and Adreno 640, the Pad 5 is positioned for smooth everyday multitasking and capable gaming in its class. MIUI 12.5 adds tablet-focused interface features, including split-screen workspace use. The tested memory/storage configuration here is 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage.

Ports, Wireless, and Battery

Physical connectivity is minimal: one USB Type-C port. Wireless options include Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 5.0, while LTE and NFC are not available on this model. The 8720 mAh battery is rated in the source for up to about a day of video use over Wi-Fi at medium brightness, and full charging is stated at roughly two hours with the bundled 22.5 W adapter.

Verdict

Xiaomi Pad 5 is a well-balanced Android tablet for users who value display quality, multimedia sound, and dependable performance. Its main trade-off is connectivity and expansion: no LTE option, no memory card support, and no fingerprint reader. If those limits are acceptable, it remains a practical media-and-productivity tablet in its segment.