Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro Review: An Impressive New Flagship Tablet for £449
Xiaomi has launched its latest flagship tablet, the Pad 8 Pro, priced at £449. This device delivers serious value with fast performance, standout battery life, and a premium feel, though some software quirks and expensive accessories are notable considerations.
Design and Display Quality
The Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro features a slim and fairly light design, wrapped in a premium metal body that feels more expensive than its price tag suggests. Colour schemes are sober yet elegant, contributing to a sophisticated aesthetic.
Equally impressive is the display, which boasts a sharp and smooth panel. While it might not be OLED, the screen looks vibrant and punchy in day-to-day use, making activities like scrolling and streaming feel effortless.
Performance and Battery Life
Performance is a key strength of this tablet. It operates at serious speeds, with apps opening instantly and multitasking running smoothly. Even heavier tasks such as gaming or editing do not faze the device, making it a reliable investment for long-term use.
Battery life is another significant win. In real-world testing, the tablet comfortably lasts a couple of days without needing a charge, which is a huge plus for a device of this power.
Software and Operating System
Where the experience becomes more mixed is with the operating system. Xiaomi's HyperOS is packed with features and offers flexibility, including split-screen multitasking and useful productivity tools. However, it does not always feel as polished or consistent as it could be.
Some apps are not fully optimised for larger screens, and occasionally the interface feels cluttered. While good, it lacks the seamless feel found in competitors like iPads or Pixel devices.
Accessories and Productivity Features
Xiaomi has designed the Pad 8 Pro to be more than just a media device. It supports a stylus and keyboard, allowing it to function as a light productivity machine. Strong front-facing cameras also make it suitable for video calls.
The Pro Focus Keyboard, which doubles as a case, is one of the best available, with a tactile and responsive keypad. However, it costs £179, adding significantly to the overall price. The stylus is priced at £89 and is very responsive, though it may have a narrower appeal.
Overall Impressions and Value
Despite the high cost of accessories, the Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro is an impressive overall package. It feels solid in the hand without being too heavy and excels in areas like speed, build quality, and battery life. The software, while not perfect, is more than good enough for most users, making this tablet a genuine alternative rather than a cheaper imitation.
