Let’s face it—phones age a lot like snacks in an Indian summer. Some go stale in six months, others hold their flavor for years. Now, when it comes to the Redmi Note 10S, the conversation is getting spicy again in 2025. People are asking: Is it still worth using? Worth buying second-hand? Can it actually run BGMI without catching fire?
The stir around this phone hasn’t died down—and for good reason. It came out swinging back in 2021 with solid specs and a not-so-scary price tag, and four years later, users are still finding reasons to keep it around. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer, a budget hunter, or just someone clinging lovingly to their old, slightly chipped handset, this one’s still in the conversation.
Also Read: Oppo A15 Review (2025): Budget Phone That’s Doing Just Enough… and That’s Okay
So let’s talk about it—warts, wins, and why people continue to pop up on Reddit threads defending this little warrior of a device in 2025.
It’s Still Alive: Performance and Longevity
You know what’s kind of wild? A lot of people are still using the Redmi Note 10S as their daily driver in 2025. Not limping along—actually using it.
Powered by the MediaTek Helio G95, this phone wasn’t a benchmark monster even in its prime. But that’s not what it aimed for. It went after consistent, no-frills performance. And surprisingly, that’s aged well.
Everyday Usability
- Multitasking: Still manages to switch between apps smoothly.
- Streaming: Handles streaming services without a hitch.
- Light Video Editing: Can manage basic editing tasks on apps like InShot.
While high-end gaming isn’t this phone’s playground anymore, it can still run games like BGMI, Minecraft, or even Call of Duty Mobile on medium settings. You might feel some heat building during longer sessions, and the 60Hz display won’t help when other phones are flaunting 120Hz or more—but it’s playable. And that’s saying something.
Battery Health:
Users report roughly 90% battery health even after three or four years. That’s borderline sorcery in the smartphone world. Xiaomi clearly did something right with that 5000 mAh unit.
That Display’s Still Got It
Here’s where the Note 10S punches above its weight. The 6.43-inch AMOLED display is, frankly, gorgeous for the price bracket it once came from.
Display Features
- Color Vibrancy: Rich colors make content pop.
- Depth of Blacks: AMOLED technology ensures deep blacks.
- Viewing Angles: Superior to many budget LCDs.
Whether you’re binge-watching on Prime Video, swiping through Instagram filters, or zooming in on that cringe group photo in the family WhatsApp group—this screen doesn’t disappoint.
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Cameras: Good Enough if You Know Its Limits
Now, let’s talk about the camera setup—a classic case of “jack of all trades, master of none.”
Camera Specs
- 64MP Main Camera: Takes detailed shots in good lighting.
- 8MP Ultra-Wide: Helpful for group outings and landscapes.
- 2MP Macro: More decorative than useful, let’s be honest.
- 2MP Depth Sensor: For portrait mode, as a checkbox feature.
Do they work? Yes. Will they wow you in low-light or with stabilization? Not really.
People say it’s decent for social media uploads, and we agree. Throw some light its way and it’s capable. Plus, there are plenty of GCam modders still tinkering around for this model—so if you like tweaking, you might squeeze more out of it.
The 5G Dilemma: Where It Stings
Here’s the thorn in the otherwise decent bouquet: no 5G.
Back when it launched, it wasn’t a dealbreaker. But now? In 2025? Even budget phones are throwing in 5G like it’s a welcome drink at a wedding.
Future-Proofing
- 4G Speed: Still adequate for basic tasks and gaming.
- 5G Support Absence: Limitations for long-term use, especially for new software updates.
So if you’re buying a phone today, especially to use for the next three years, this absence of 5G matters.
Custom ROM Scene: Breathing New Life into Old Hardware
Want to geek out a bit? The Redmi Note 10S has a passionate developer community cheering it on—even now. People are running Android 15-based custom ROMs like AxionOS on it.
Benefits of Custom ROMs
- Minimal Bloat: A cleaner OS experience.
- Better Thermal Management: Less overheating during intensive tasks.
- Improved Battery Life: Some users report enhanced longevity with specific ROMs.
If you’re into tinkering, it could be the reason to keep this phone going a little longer. Installing a custom ROM takes some prep and patience, but the payoff is sweet.
Buying in 2025: Is It Still Worth It Today?
Let’s say you spot a good deal on a used Note 10S. Around ₹7,000–₹9,000, depending on condition. Should you pull the trigger?
Pros of Buying
- AMOLED Display: A great screen that outshines many budget LCDs.
- Reliable Chipset: Perfect for everyday usability.
- Decent Battery Health: Offers a full day’s use even after extended use.
- Active Custom ROM Support: Potential for software updates and enhancements.
Cons to Consider
- No 5G Support: May limit future usability.
- Basic Camera Features: Lacks advanced photography options.
- Long-Term Software Support: Official updates are dwindling without custom ROMs.
So yes, it can still be a value pick—especially for secondary use or as a backup phone. If you just need something practical that won’t lag or give up mid-WhatsApp voice memo, this one still holds strong.
Still Talk of the Town: Why Are People Still Googling About This Phone?
Turns out, the Redmi Note 10S has become a kind of budget icon. People are still:
- Reading user reviews from 2021 and comparing battery performance.
- Searching for the latest custom ROM versions.
- Watching camera samples from 2025 to see how it stacks up.
- Looking for accessories, especially fast chargers and tempered glass.
- Troubleshooting overheating or battery drain quirks.
- Comparing resale value vs newer Redmi Note models.
It’s become a bit of a cult classic—not quite legendary, but memorable enough that people won’t shut up about it on forums just yet.
FAQs: Quickfire Answers for Curious Folks
Q: Is the Redmi Note 10S still worth buying in 2025?
Only if you’re okay with missing out on 5G and cutting-edge cameras. If your needs are basic and you find a clean, well-maintained unit under ₹9k, it’s a steal.
Q: What about battery life after 4 years?
Still impressive. Most users report 85–90% battery health, providing a full day’s use with moderate consumption.
Q: Does it run Android 15?
Not officially, but custom ROMs like AxionOS make it possible. Expect better UI fluidity and a cleaner experience if you take the plunge.
Q: Can I play games on it?
Totally. Games like Free Fire, BGMI, and COD Mobile still run well on balanced settings. Just don’t expect to top leaderboards.
Q: Is finding accessories still easy?
Yes. The aftermarket is alive and well. From rugged cases to 33W chargers, you’ll find plenty online or in local shops.
So… Is the Note 10S a Legend or a Leftover?
Honestly, it falls somewhere in between. It’s one of those phones that didn’t scream flagship, but it didn’t need to. It just worked—and kept working. In a world where new models come with more cameras than your average Netflix crew, the Note 10S proves that reliability still counts.
Think of it like Dhoni in his later years—not the flashiest on the field, but dependable when it matters. If that’s what you’re after, this old warrior might still have a few good matches left in it.
And if nothing else, you could always throw on a custom ROM and keep the show running. Just like that favorite t-shirt your mom keeps saying you should throw out. You know the one. You’re still not getting rid of it.
