Xiaomi Redmi Note 4chat_bubble_outlineFrom real comments

Longevity and efficiency define the ownership experience. Numerous commenters report using the Redmi Note 4 for five to nine years, some as a secondary phone well into 2024-2025. The Snapdragon 625 chip is repeatedly called efficient and beast-like, never overheating, while the 4000mAh battery was considered a novelty at launch. Several owners only retired the phone once essential apps like UPI or WhatsApp stopped working properly, or the original battery finally degraded.

A standout custom ROM and modding community keeps it alive. Multiple commenters highlight the surprisingly active custom ROM scene, noting kernels and ROMs still being released years after release. Users ran LineageOS, Pixel Experience, and MIUI EU builds, describing smoother performance than newer phones running heavier software. This device is credited as a starting point for several ROM projects, with community support described as massive, especially compared to sibling models.

Repairs are common but require care due to adhesive and variant differences. Battery and screen replacement guides drew many thankful comments, with users successfully self-repairing broken screens and swollen batteries. However, several warn the adhesive tape under the battery is fragile and risky to remove, and that screen connectors differ between Snapdragon and MediaTek variants. One suggested cooling the battery with ice to loosen the adhesive, while another advised buying a screen with the frame attached to avoid glue issues entirely.