Redmi Note 14 SE Debuts Cheaper Than Vanilla Note 14 With Quick Charging and IP64 Rating
Xiaomi has unveiled the Redmi Note 14 SE, a surprising addition to its budget-friendly lineup. Despite packing impressive features like 45W fast charging, an IP64 rating, and a stylish new color, it is priced even lower than the vanilla Redmi Note 14. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the Note 14 SE a standout in the affordable smartphone segment.
Design and Display: Premium Looks on a Budget
The Redmi Note 14 SE features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a crisp Full HD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The display supports HDR10+ and offers up to 2100 nits peak brightness, ensuring excellent visibility even under sunlight. The addition of 960Hz PWM dimming enhances eye comfort during prolonged usage.
The phone comes with an IP64 rating, giving it protection against dust and water splashes—a rare feature in this price segment. The Crimson Art color variant adds a fresh and vibrant touch to its aesthetic, making it one of the more visually appealing choices in its category.
Performance and Software: Powered by Dimensity 7025 Ultra
Under the hood, the Redmi Note 14 SE runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset, built on a 6nm architecture. This is paired with 6GB RAM and 128GB internal storage, which should be sufficient for most daily tasks and moderate gaming. The device also supports 5G connectivity, ensuring it is future-ready.
The smartphone boots with Android 15 and Xiaomi’s HyperOS, optimized for better multitasking, animations, and battery efficiency. Users can also expect two major Android updates, further increasing the device’s long-term usability.
Camera Setup: Midrange Capabilities With AI Features
The triple-camera setup on the back features a 50MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. This combination offers a good mix of versatility and clarity for everyday photography, with features like portrait mode, AI enhancements, and night mode.
On the front, the device sports an 8MP camera, ideal for selfies and video calls. While not groundbreaking, the camera setup delivers reliable results for social media use and casual photography.
Battery Life and Charging: All-Day Power With Fast Top-Ups
One of the highlights of the Redmi Note 14 SE is its 5,110 mAh battery, which ensures all-day usage with ease. It supports 45W wired charging via USB-C, offering quick top-ups that minimize downtime. This makes the device perfect for users who need long battery life without compromising on charging speed.
Redmi Note 14 SE Full Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.67” AMOLED, FHD+, 120Hz, HDR10+, 2100 nits peak brightness |
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra (6nm) |
| RAM & Storage | 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, expandable up to 1TB |
| Main Camera | 50MP (main) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (depth) |
| Front Camera | 8MP front-facing camera |
| OS & UI | Android 15, HyperOS, 2 major Android updates |
| Battery | 5,110 mAh, 45W wired fast charging |
| Build Quality | IP64 rating, Crimson Art color |
| Price | $173 (International Market) |
Conclusion: A Budget Smartphone With Flagship Features
The Redmi Note 14 SE impresses not just with its aggressive pricing but also with practical features like IP64 protection, fast charging, and a vibrant AMOLED display. For a device priced at just $173, it delivers incredible value for money, outperforming the vanilla Redmi Note 14 in key areas while remaining more affordable.
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly smartphone with modern features, the Note 14 SE should be high on your list.
