Redmi Pad SE 8.7
A month ago, Xiaomi reached out for us to check out the Redmi Pad SE 8.7. We published an unboxing video about it and even tried it on our newly-purchased Gamesir G8+. We featured it on our previous video about the latter, and even posted about this tablet on our social platforms.
In this article, I will share with you why we think that the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 is a budget-friendly tablet that is worth your consideration.
1. The Ideal Mini Tablet Size
One of the standout features of the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 is its compact 8.7-inch display. This size hits the sweet spot between portability and usability, making it an excellent choice for users on the go. The tablet’s dimensions (211.58 x 125.48 x 8.8mm) and lightweight design (373 grams for the Wi-Fi model and 375 grams for the 4G variant) ensure that it can easily slip into a bag or be held comfortably for extended periods.
The display itself is no slouch either. With an HD+ resolution of 800 x 1340 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 offers smooth visuals and crisp text. The screen boasts a peak brightness of 600 nits, ensuring good visibility even in outdoor settings. For those concerned about eye strain, the display is TÜV Rheinland certified for low blue light and flicker-free performance, making it ideal for extended reading or viewing sessions.
2. Acceptable Gaming Performance on a Budget
While the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 isn’t marketed as a gaming powerhouse, it offers surprisingly decent performance for casual gamers. At its heart lies the MediaTek Helio G85 chipset, which, despite being a few years old, still packs a punch for its price point.
The octa-core processor, featuring two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 2.0GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8GHz, coupled with the Mali-G52 MP2 GPU, provides enough horsepower for most everyday tasks and light gaming. While you will experience some lag with graphically intensive titles like Genshin Impact or Honkai Star Rail, even at lower settings, the tablet can handle less demanding games and daily tasks with ease. I particularly love playing Stardew Valley and Dead Cells on this tablet.
It’s worth noting that the device may heat up after prolonged gaming sessions, but this is not uncommon for tablets in this price range. For casual gaming and everyday use, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 offers acceptable performance that won’t leave most users wanting.
3. SIM-Ready for On-the-Go Connectivity
In an age where staying connected is paramount, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G variant stands out with its built-in SIM card slot. This feature allows users to stay online even without Wi-Fi, making it an excellent choice for those who need internet access on the go.
The ability to insert a SIM card opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or simply away from a Wi-Fi hotspot, you can browse the web, stream content, or stay in touch with friends and family. This feature is particularly valuable for students, remote workers, or anyone who needs reliable internet access outside the home or office.
Moreover, the tablet supports dual SIM functionality, providing even more flexibility in terms of mobile data plans and coverage. This level of connectivity in a budget tablet is a significant advantage that shouldn’t be overlooked.
4. Innovative Packaged Case: Handle and Stand in One
One of the most ingenious aspects of the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 is its packaged case, which serves a dual purpose as both a handle and a stand. This thoughtful accessory adds tremendous value to the overall package and enhances the tablet’s usability in various scenarios.
As a handle, the case provides a secure grip, reducing the risk of accidental drops and making the tablet more comfortable to hold for extended periods. This feature is particularly useful for reading e-books, browsing the web, or using the tablet in portrait mode.
When transformed into a stand, the case allows users to prop up the tablet at various angles, perfect for watching videos, participating in video calls, or using the device as a digital photo frame. This versatility makes the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 adaptable to different use cases without the need for additional accessories.
While the case is an optional accessory priced at PHP 599, its functionality and integration with the tablet make it a worthwhile investment for most users.
5. Compatibility with Gamesir G8+ for Enhanced Gaming
For gaming enthusiasts looking to elevate their mobile gaming experience, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 works seamlessly with the Gamesir G8+ controller. This compatibility opens up new possibilities for gaming on the tablet, transforming it into a more capable gaming device.
The Gamesir G8+ is an advanced mobile gaming controller known for its ergonomic design, responsive controls, and additional features compared to its predecessor. When paired with the Redmi Pad SE 8.7, it provides a console-like gaming experience, making it easier to play action games, racing titles, or emulators that benefit from physical controls.
This compatibility is particularly valuable given the tablet’s modest gaming performance. By offloading control to a dedicated gamepad like the G8+, users can enjoy a more immersive and responsive gaming experience, potentially mitigating some of the performance limitations of the tablet’s hardware.
While the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 may not compete with high-end gaming tablets, its compatibility with advanced controllers like the Gamesir G8+ significantly enhances its gaming potential, making it a versatile choice for budget-conscious gamers.
It is a good buy!
While the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 offers impressive features for its price point, it’s important to approach it with realistic expectations. The tablet’s performance, while adequate for most tasks, may struggle with more demanding applications or multitasking scenarios. The cameras, both front and rear, are functional but not exceptional, which is typical for tablets in this price range.
However, when considering the overall package – the compact size, decent display, 4G connectivity option, innovative case design, and gaming potential – the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 emerges as a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. It strikes a balance between affordability and functionality that’s hard to beat in its price category.
The tablet’s long battery life, with a 6,650mAh capacity, ensures that it can keep up with your daily needs without frequent charging. While the 18W fast charging isn’t the fastest on the market, it’s a welcome feature at this price point.
In conclusion, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 is a well-rounded tablet that offers excellent value for money. It’s not without its compromises, but for users seeking an affordable, portable, and connected tablet experience, it’s certainly worth considering.
Redmi Pad SE 8.7 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 8.7-inch IPS LCD, 800 x 1340 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G85 |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 64GB/128GB (expandable up to 2TB) |
| Rear Camera | 8 MP |
| Front Camera | 5 MP |
| Battery | 6,650mAh with 18W fast charging |
| Operating System | Android 14 with HyperOS |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, 4G LTE (on 4G model) |
| Dimensions | 211.58 x 125.48 x 8.8mm |
| Weight | 373g (Wi-Fi) / 375g (4G) |
| Price | PHP 8,499 (4GB+64GB), PHP 9,499 (4GB+128GB) |
Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.
