Whenever a new smartphone launches, the biggest question is always how it compares to its predecessor. In this Redmi Note 14 Review, we’ll explore all the changes—both good and bad—that Xiaomi has made this time around. Right off the bat, the most noticeable change is the design. While it borrows elements from the Redmi Note 12, it now features much larger camera modules. Some users may appreciate the fresh look, but others might find it less appealing than the Redmi Note 13’s sleeker design.
One positive upgrade is the matte-textured back, which helps reduce fingerprint smudges. The Redmi Note 14 comes in four different colors, and the purple variant stands out as one of the best-looking options. With flat edges that enhance grip and allow the phone to stand upright, the overall build remains solid. However, the plastic back and IP54 rating remain unchanged from the previous generation.
For security, Xiaomi has included both face unlock and an under-display fingerprint scanner, both of which perform reliably. But is that enough to justify an upgrade? Let’s dive deeper into the design, display, software, performance, cameras, and battery life to see if this phone is truly a worthy successor.
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Design and Build Quality
The Redmi Note 14 follows a similar design philosophy to the Note 12, with a matte-textured plastic back that minimizes fingerprint smudges. While this helps with durability, the camera modules have grown significantly in size, making the back look more generic than stylish. Many users may prefer the sleeker design of the Note 13 over this one.
Despite the plastic build, the device feels sturdy. It features flat edges, improving grip, and an IP54 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and minor water splashes. The flat frame, while functional, doesn’t provide the premium feel of metal, but it does contribute to the device’s lightweight nature.
The stereo speakers offer an improved audio experience, with one located at the bottom and the other at the top. Next to the top speaker, you’ll find the IR blaster, a signature Redmi feature that allows users to control household appliances. The 3.5mm headphone jack remains intact, ensuring compatibility with wired headphones.
The hybrid SIM tray means users have to choose between dual SIM functionality or microSD expansion, making the 256GB variant a better choice for those who need extra storage. While the design changes may not be universally appreciated, the Note 14 remains practical and well-built.
Display Specs and Features
One of the first things you’ll notice about the 6.67-inch AMOLED display is that the bezels are slightly larger than those on the Note 13. While not a dealbreaker, it’s a strange decision considering previous efforts to reduce them. However, when placed next to competitors like the Galaxy A16, the bezels are still relatively slim.
In terms of specifications, the Note 14 retains the 120Hz refresh rate, 1080p resolution, and 1,800 nits peak brightness, ensuring a smooth and vibrant viewing experience. The Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection is a notable upgrade, making the screen more resistant to scratches and minor drops.
The display delivers punchy colors, deep blacks, and decent contrast, but it’s worth noting that the Note 13 and Note 14 have almost identical screen quality. The only real improvement is the added durability. The always-on display feature is still present, which is a nice bonus.
Overall, the screen is a good one, but the increased bezels feel like a step backward. While the visual quality remains excellent, it would have been better to see a higher peak brightness or improved touch responsiveness.
Software & Updates
The Redmi Note 14 ships with HyperOS 1.0.3, built on Android 14. Xiaomi has introduced AI-powered features, with Object Eraser and Sky Replacement being the most notable. These tools allow users to remove unwanted elements from images and change backgrounds seamlessly.
Another major software change is Google Gemini replacing Google Assistant, providing smarter AI interactions. However, Gemini’s usefulness will depend on individual preferences, as most people are still used to the traditional assistant.
In terms of software support, Xiaomi hasn’t made an official statement, but users can expect two major Android updates and a few years of security patches. While it’s not as extensive as Samsung’s seven-year policy, it’s still decent for a budget device.
Performance & Chipset
A major upgrade for the Note 14 is its MediaTek Helio G99 Ultra processor, replacing the Snapdragon 685 from the Note 13. While this is a positive change, the difference in everyday tasks is minimal. The phone handles social media, web browsing, and multitasking smoothly, but gaming performance is where the G99 Ultra shines.
In benchmark tests, the G99 Ultra outperforms the Snapdragon 685, delivering slightly higher frame rates in certain games. For most users, the difference will only be noticeable in graphics-intensive apps.
Overall, while the performance boost is welcome, it’s not a game-changer. The Note 14 feels smooth, responsive, and capable, making it a solid performer in its price range.
Storage Options
The Redmi Note 14 starts at 6GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most users. However, other brands like Infinix and Tecno start at 8GB, so Redmi falls slightly behind in this aspect.
Storage options include 128GB and 256GB, with microSD card support available via the hybrid SIM slot. The 256GB variant is recommended for those using dual SIMs, as it avoids the need for additional storage.
Battery Life & Charging Speed
The Note 14 packs a 5,500mAh battery, a 500mAh increase over the Note 13. This leads to better endurance, with most users easily getting a full day of use. Screen-on-time varies, but most users can expect between 7 to 9 hours, depending on usage.
For charging, the device supports 33W fast charging, which takes just under 90 minutes for a full charge. Unlike some competitors, Redmi includes the charger in the box, which is a great addition.
While the charging speed hasn’t improved, the larger battery is a welcome change.
Camera Specs & Performance
The Note 14’s camera setup consists of a 50MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, while the ultra-wide camera has been removed. This means users have fewer options when capturing different scenes.
Main Camera
Despite lacking an ultra-wide sensor, the main camera delivers solid performance. Colors are vibrant, detail is good, and dynamic range is respectable. The biggest downside is the lack of versatility—without an ultra-wide, users must rely solely on the main sensor.
Video Quality
Video recording maxes out at 1080p 60FPS on the main camera. The lack of 4K recording is noticeable, but the electronic stabilization works well, making handheld footage smooth. Dynamic range isn’t perfect, but overall, the videos look decent.
Selfie Camera
The selfie camera has been upgraded to 20MP from 16MP on the Note 13. While detail is better, results are still inconsistent, especially in low light conditions. Selfie videos remain capped at 1080p 30FPS, making it less ideal for vloggers.
Pros & Cons of the Redmi Note 14
Pros:
- Upgraded Processor – The MediaTek Helio G99 Ultra delivers better performance, especially for gaming.
- Bigger Battery – The 5,500mAh battery provides longer screen-on time than its predecessor.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 5 Protection – A tougher display for improved durability.
- Stereo Speakers & Headphone Jack – Retains high-quality audio features not found on some competitors.
- Improved Selfie Camera – Now 20MP, delivering better details compared to the Note 13.
- Charger Included in the Box – Unlike some brands, Redmi provides a 33W charger for fast charging.
Cons:
- No Ultra-Wide Camera – Redmi removed the ultra-wide sensor, limiting camera versatility.
- Larger Bezels – Instead of reducing them, Redmi made the bezels bigger compared to the Note 13.
- Still Limited Software Support – Only two years of Android updates, whereas Samsung offers up to seven years for some models.
Conclusion
The Redmi Note 14 is a mixed bag of upgrades and downgrades. The design is less appealing, and the removal of the ultra-wide camera is disappointing. However, it does offer a tougher display, a better processor, an improved selfie camera, and a bigger battery.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly device with good performance, long battery life, and a solid main camera, the Redmi Note 14 is worth considering. However, if ultra-wide photography or a more modern design matters to you, the Note 13 might still be the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Redmi Note 14
1. Does the Redmi Note 14 have an ultra-wide camera?
No. Unlike the Redmi Note 13, the Note 14 lacks an ultra-wide camera, leaving users with only a 50MP main camera and a 2MP depth sensor.
2. What is the battery life of the Redmi Note 14?
The Redmi Note 14 has a 5,500mAh battery, offering 7-9 hours of screen-on time depending on usage. It can easily last a full day under normal use.
3. Does the Redmi Note 14 support 5G?
No. The global variant of the Redmi Note 14 only supports 4G LTE, while the China variant includes 5G with a Dimensity 725 Ultra chipset.
4. How long does the Redmi Note 14 take to charge?
With 33W fast charging, the Redmi Note 14 can charge fully in under 90 minutes. The charger is included in the box.
5. What is the difference between the Redmi Note 14 and Note 13?
The Note 14 has a stronger processor (Helio G99 Ultra), a better selfie camera (20MP), and a bigger battery (5,500mAh). However, it removes the ultra-wide camera and has larger bezels compared to the Note 13.
6. Does the Redmi Note 14 support Always-On Display?
Yes. The AMOLED screen supports Always-On Display, but the feature may be limited in certain regions or software versions.
7. Is the Redmi Note 14 good for gaming?
Yes. The Helio G99 Ultra chipset provides solid gaming performance, allowing higher frame rates in some games compared to the Note 13.
8. What version of Android does the Redmi Note 14 run?
The phone ships with HyperOS 1.0.3, based on Android 14, and is expected to receive two years of major updates.
9. Does the Redmi Note 14 have water resistance?
The Note 14 has an IP54 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and minor water splashes, but not waterproof.
10. Does the Redmi Note 14 come with a screen protector pre-installed?
No. While it has Gorilla Glass 5 for protection, it does not come with a pre-installed screen protector, so it’s advisable to get one separately.
