If you’ve been searching for a budget-friendly Android tablet that doesn’t cut corners, this Xiaomi Pad 6 review might be the answer you’ve been looking for. In a market dominated by iPads and Galaxy Tabs, Xiaomi brings a competitive offering that blends power, design, and affordability. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who loves streaming Netflix and playing games, the Xiaomi Pad 6 delivers a refined experience.
In this in-depth Xiaomi Pad 6 review, we’ll explore everything from real-life usage to benchmark insights, and compare it with leading alternatives. As a tech reviewer who personally tested the Xiaomi Pad 6 for over two weeks, I’ll walk you through the strengths, weaknesses, and buying advice you can trust.
Xiaomi Pad 6 First Look
The Xiaomi Pad 6 makes a bold first impression with its sleek metal unibody design and a large 11-inch display. Straight out of the box, the device feels premium, far from what you’d expect in the mid-range tablet category. Xiaomi has clearly borrowed some design cues from premium tablets, but they’ve also added their own practical touches to enhance usability.
In terms of packaging, the Xiaomi Pad 6 comes with the tablet itself, a USB-C charging cable, and a 33W fast charger. You’ll notice Xiaomi doesn’t include a stylus or keyboard in the box — those are sold separately. However, pairing it with the Xiaomi Smart Pen and Magnetic Keyboard transforms this tablet into a true productivity device.
As someone who reviews Android tablets regularly, I found the initial setup process on the Xiaomi Pad 6 seamless and quick. It boots up with MIUI Pad 14 based on Android 13, offering a clean, bloat-free interface. The transition animations are fluid, and app switching feels fast — a testament to its Snapdragon 870 chipset.
Whether you’re coming from an older Android tablet or looking for a more affordable iPad alternative, the Xiaomi Pad 6 surprises with its quality and refinement. And in this Xiaomi Pad 6 review, we’ll show you why it may just be one of the best tablets under $400 in 2025.
“You can check the detailed Xiaomi Pad 6 specifications on GSMArena.”
Design, Display, and Build Quality
One of the most impressive aspects of the Xiaomi Pad 6 is its design and display quality. Xiaomi has clearly taken design seriously this time, offering a unibody aluminum frame with flat edges — a look that feels both modern and premium. The device is lightweight at just 490g and measures only 6.5mm in thickness, making it incredibly portable for users who travel or work on the go.
The Xiaomi Pad 6 features an 11-inch WQHD+ display with a resolution of 2880 × 1800 pixels and a 144Hz refresh rate — rare in this price segment. The colors are vibrant, the contrast is deep, and the brightness levels are good enough for both indoor use and bright environments. Whether you’re reading documents, editing photos, or binge-watching a Netflix series, the visuals remain crisp and engaging.
Having personally used the Xiaomi Pad 6 for both entertainment and work purposes, I can say the screen responsiveness is top-tier. The 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and animation. It’s something you immediately notice when switching from a 60Hz display — especially while browsing, gaming, or sketching with the optional Xiaomi Smart Pen.
Build quality is also excellent. There’s no flex, no creaks — it feels like a much more expensive device. The volume rockers and power button are well-placed, and the magnetic connectors for the keyboard and pen are strong and responsive. The bezels are thin but not too narrow — just enough to hold the tablet without accidental touches.
Xiaomi has even added support for Dolby Vision and HDR10, which enhances media content considerably. Watching YouTube, Netflix, or even recorded lectures feels immersive thanks to the quad-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos tuning.
In summary, the Xiaomi Pad 6 punches above its weight when it comes to design and display. It brings premium build materials, flagship-level display specs, and thoughtful ergonomics — a rare combination at this price point.
Hardware Performance and Chipset Analysis
Under the hood, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 chipset — a tried-and-tested processor known for its reliability and balanced power efficiency. It’s the same chip found in several flagship devices from 2022, and it continues to perform exceptionally well even in 2025 for a mid-range tablet.
In real-world usage, the Xiaomi Pad 6 handles multitasking smoothly. During our testing, switching between Chrome with multiple tabs open, Google Docs, Canva, and Spotify running in the background showed no signs of lag. The 8GB LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage configuration contribute to quick app loading times and fluid navigation throughout the MIUI Pad 14 interface.
Gaming performance is another strong point. Titles like Call of Duty Mobile, Asphalt 9, and Genshin Impact run smoothly on high settings with consistent frame rates. The Adreno 650 GPU provides solid graphics rendering, making this tablet suitable for both casual and more demanding mobile gaming.
Benchmark tests back up our experience:
- Geekbench 6 scores: ~1010 (single-core), ~3100 (multi-core)
- AnTuTu: ~710,000
These numbers place the Xiaomi Pad 6 ahead of most tablets in the sub-$400 segment in the U.S. market.
The device also stays relatively cool under pressure. Even after 45 minutes of gameplay and running heavy productivity apps, the aluminum chassis remained warm but never uncomfortably hot — a sign of efficient thermal management.
From a performance standpoint, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is ideal for students, working professionals, content creators, and even gamers who want strong hardware without paying iPad-level prices.
Overall, if you’re looking for a well-balanced tablet that can handle everything from video editing to competitive gaming, the Xiaomi Pad 6 delivers reliable hardware performance at an excellent price. important to mention here that performance and power consumption are well-balanced.
Camera Improvements – What’s New in Xiaomi Pad 6
While tablets aren’t typically judged for their camera performance, the Xiaomi Pad 6 makes noticeable strides in this department compared to its predecessor. The rear camera has been upgraded to a 13MP sensor, while the front-facing camera remains a solid 8MP, optimized for video calls and online meetings.
What stands out is not just the megapixel count, but the improved software tuning. In daylight conditions, the rear camera captures decent detail and color balance, making it suitable for scanning documents, casual photography, and even short video clips. It supports 4K video recording at 30fps, a rare feature in this price segment — especially among tablets under $400 in the U.S. market.
The front camera is perfectly positioned at the center of the longer bezel, offering a natural eye line during landscape-mode video calls. In our hands-on Zoom and Google Meet tests, the camera produced clear visuals with minimal noise in well-lit environments. This thoughtful placement makes it one of the best tablets for professionals and students attending virtual meetings or online classes.
Another standout feature is the auto-framing technology, similar to what you’d find in more expensive tablets. It keeps the subject centered during video calls, which is helpful during group calls or presentations. The front camera also includes a wide-angle lens, which improves the field of view without distorting faces.
Though not designed to replace a smartphone camera, the Xiaomi Pad 6 offers camera features th
iOS-Like Features and Xiaomi’s Software Experience
One of the standout highlights of the Xiaomi Pad 6 is its MIUI for Pad interface, which takes clear inspiration from iPadOS. Xiaomi has significantly improved the software experience to make multitasking smoother, app scaling more consistent, and productivity features more accessible — all of which elevate the tablet from a basic entertainment device to a productivity companion.
The MIUI 14 for Pad running on the Xiaomi Pad 6 is based on Android 13 and is optimized for large screens. Features like split-screen, floating windows, and drag-and-drop between apps are fluid and intuitive. For users who are used to Apple’s iPadOS-style workflow, this Android tablet offers a familiar layout — including a dock-style app switcher and taskbar that enhances navigation.
During our review, we found that Xiaomi has also enhanced app compatibility. Many popular Android apps now scale properly to the larger screen without awkward black borders or stretched layouts. The notes app supports handwriting and text input side-by-side, making it useful for students, designers, and professionals taking quick notes during meetings.
What’s even more impressive is the inclusion of keyboard shortcuts when paired with the Xiaomi Keyboard accessory — similar to iPad productivity tools. Combine that with the optional Xiaomi Smart Pen 2nd Gen, and this tablet turns into a genuine digital workstation.
Overall, the Xiaomi Pad 6 delivers a software experience that blends Android flexibility with Apple-like usability. While it’s still not perfect (some third-party apps could use further optimization), it offers one of the most polished and powerful Android tablet interfaces available in the U.S. market under $400.
Battery Life and Charging Performance
The Xiaomi Pad 6 delivers exceptional battery performance, which is one of its biggest selling points for users who need an all-day device. It features an 8,840mAh battery, which Xiaomi claims can provide up to 16 hours of video playback — and in real-world testing, it comes surprisingly close.
During our hands-on usage, the tablet consistently lasted over 10–12 hours with a mix of browsing, video streaming, light gaming, and productivity tasks like note-taking and document editing. Even with the display set to 144Hz, the Xiaomi Pad 6 held its own impressively. When the refresh rate was locked at 60Hz, we were able to squeeze out even more runtime.
One of the underrated strengths of this tablet is its 33W fast charging capability. While it’s not the fastest in the market, it can recharge the battery from 0 to 100% in about 90 minutes, which is respectable for a battery of this size. A full charge easily lasts a couple of days with casual use.
It’s worth noting that Xiaomi does not include a charger in the box, so users will need to use an existing compatible charger or purchase one separately. We recommend investing in a USB-C PD (Power Delivery) charger to maximize fast-charging efficiency.
The Xiaomi Pad 6 also performs well during standby — it loses very little battery when left idle overnight. This makes it ideal for students, professionals, or travelers who don’t want to worry about charging every few hours.
If long battery life and quick recharge time are priorities for you, the Xiaomi Pad 6 hits the sweet spot between performance and power efficiency, especially in the sub-$400 tablet category.
Xiaomi Pad 6 for Students and Professionals
The Xiaomi Pad 6 is not just a media consumption device—it’s also built with productivity and learning in mind, making it an ideal pick for students and professionals in the USA.
For Students:
Whether you’re in high school or college, the Xiaomi Pad 6 supports a range of apps like Google Classroom, Microsoft OneNote, Evernote, and Adobe Reader. The large 11-inch 2.8K display is great for reading PDFs, attending Zoom lectures, or watching educational content on YouTube. Pair it with a stylus (Xiaomi Smart Pen 2nd Gen) and keyboard accessory, and it transforms into a powerful note-taking and homework tool. It’s lightweight and slim, so you can carry it around campus or the library without a problem.
In our usage, multitasking between a browser, note app, and a video call was smooth, thanks to the Snapdragon 870 chipset and 8GB RAM. The split-screen feature is especially useful for referencing study material while writing assignments.
For Professionals:
Remote workers and professionals will find the Xiaomi Pad 6 to be a budget-friendly productivity machine. From email and Google Docs to project management tools like Slack, Trello, and Notion, everything runs seamlessly. The device supports external Bluetooth keyboards and USB-C hubs, making it suitable for typing, data transfer, and light work on the go.
Video conferencing is also sharp and clear with the front 8MP camera and quad-speaker setup, which enhances both video and audio quality during meetings.
Overall, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is one of the best Android tablets under $400 for students and working professionals who want versatility, speed, and excellent value.
Entertainment, Media, and Gaming Experience
When it comes to entertainment and gaming, the Xiaomi Pad 6 delivers one of the best multimedia experiences in its price range. Whether you’re streaming shows, watching YouTube, or diving into mobile gaming, this tablet has you covered.
Stunning Display for Media:
The 11-inch 2.8K LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate offers an immersive viewing experience. Colors are vibrant, text is crisp, and motion feels smooth—whether you’re binge-watching Netflix or scrolling social media. The wide aspect ratio and Dolby Vision support make movies and videos feel truly cinematic.
We tested it with platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and YouTube, and content streamed in high definition with no lag. The quad-speaker setup, tuned with Dolby Atmos, fills the room with clear and rich audio—no headphones needed.
Gaming Performance:
Gaming is another area where the Xiaomi Pad 6 shines. Powered by the Snapdragon 870 processor and Adreno 650 GPU, it runs high-end Android games like Genshin Impact, PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Asphalt 9 smoothly, even on medium to high settings.
During our test sessions, the tablet stayed cool and responsive, thanks to its improved heat dissipation system. The 144Hz display also adds a competitive edge in games that support high refresh rates.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a serious one, the Xiaomi Pad 6 ensures a lag-free, immersive experience.
Verdict:
For media lovers and gamers, this tablet checks all the boxes. The combination of top-tier visuals, powerful internals, and excellent sound makes the Xiaomi Pad 6 one of the best tablets for entertainment in 2025.
Accessories and Ecosystem Integration
The Xiaomi Pad 6 becomes even more powerful when paired with the right accessories and integrated into Xiaomi’s expanding ecosystem. Whether you’re working, studying, or creating content, the tablet is designed to adapt seamlessly with additional tools.
Key Accessories:
- Xiaomi Smart Pen (2nd Gen):
For artists, note-takers, and professionals, the Smart Pen is a must-have. It offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, ultra-low latency, and magnetic wireless charging. We found it ideal for sketching, annotating PDFs, and navigating the UI more precisely. - Xiaomi Pad Keyboard:
This detachable keyboard transforms the Pad 6 into a productivity machine. The keys are tactile with decent travel, and the integrated kickstand makes it easy to use on a desk or lap. It’s great for emails, document editing, or online classes. - Protective Cases and Covers:
Xiaomi offers a variety of official cases that protect the device without compromising usability. Some also double up as stands for media consumption or work.
Seamless Ecosystem Integration:
If you’re already in the Xiaomi ecosystem (using a Xiaomi smartphone, TV, or smart home device), the Pad 6 syncs effortlessly:
- MIUI+ Support: Share files and copy-paste across devices.
- Xiaomi Cloud: Auto-backup photos, notes, and settings.
- Multi-screen Collaboration: Use the tablet as a secondary display or to mirror your phone screen.
This cross-device functionality makes the Xiaomi Pad 6 more than just a tablet—it becomes part of a unified digital experience.
Verdict:
With strong accessory support and seamless integration with Xiaomi’s ecosystem, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is ideal for productivity, creativity, and smarter living.
Xiaomi Pad 6 vs Competitors – Should You Buy It?
In the ever-expanding tablet market, the Xiaomi Pad 6 stands out, but how does it compare to other popular devices in its price range? Here’s a breakdown of how it stacks up against some of its main competitors in 2025:
Xiaomi Pad 6 vs iPad 10th Gen
- Display: While both tablets feature high-resolution displays, Xiaomi offers a smoother experience with a 144Hz refresh rate, compared to the iPad’s standard 60Hz.
- Software: iPad runs on iPadOS, which is robust and optimized, but Xiaomi Pad 6 gives Android users a familiar interface with features like multi-window and desktop mode.
- Stylus and Keyboard Support: Both support accessories, but Xiaomi’s are more affordable.
- Price: Xiaomi offers more value for money, especially in the mid-range segment.
Xiaomi Pad 6 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024)
- Performance: Xiaomi wins with the Snapdragon 870, which is significantly faster than Samsung’s Exynos chipset.
- Battery Life: Comparable, but Xiaomi charges faster (33W vs. 15W on Samsung).
- Software Experience: Samsung has the edge with One UI and longer software updates, but Xiaomi catches up with MIUI’s smooth, clean design.
Xiaomi Pad 6 vs Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2
- Display & Design: Lenovo offers an OLED display, but Xiaomi wins on refresh rate and build quality.
- Productivity: Both support pens and keyboards, but Xiaomi’s overall UI feels more responsive and fluid.
- Ecosystem: Lenovo lacks the depth Xiaomi offers with multi-device integration.
Final Comparison Verdict:
If you’re looking for performance, display quality, and ecosystem connectivity—without spending flagship-level money—Xiaomi Pad 6 is hard to beat in 2025. While iPads still dominate with brand appeal and long-term support, Xiaomi’s Android flexibility and excellent specs make it a strong buy for students, creators, and casual users alike.
“Android Authority highlights the Pad 6’s value-for-money performance and build quality, making it one of the best Android tablets in its class.”
Comparison Table
| Feature | Xiaomi Pad 6 | iPad 9th Gen | Galaxy Tab S6 Lite | Lenovo Tab P11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 11″ 2.8K 144Hz LCD | 10.2″ Retina | 10.4″ TFT 60Hz | 11.5″ 2K IPS 120Hz |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 | A13 Bionic | Exynos 9611 | Helio G99 |
| RAM | 6GB / 8GB | 3GB | 4GB | 6GB |
| Battery | 8840mAh, 33W | ~8600mAh, 20W | 7040mAh, 15W | 7700mAh, 20W |
| Stylus Support | Yes (Smart Pen) | Apple Pencil (1st Gen) | S Pen | Optional |
| Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| OS | Android 13, MIUI | iPadOS | Android 13 | Android 13 |
| Price | ₹25,000–28,000 | ₹29,000+ | ₹25,000 | ₹23,000 |
Who Should Buy the Xiaomi Pad 6?
The Xiaomi Pad 6 is not a one-size-fits-all device—but it does offer broad appeal. Based on real-world testing, feature-to-price ratio, and performance benchmarks, here’s a breakdown of who will benefit most from buying this tablet in 2025:
✅ Students (High School & College)
- With its sharp 2.8K display, long-lasting battery, and keyboard+pen support, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is a solid pick for note-taking, online classes, and document editing.
- Paired with productivity apps like Google Docs, Notion, and OneNote, students get a budget-friendly laptop alternative.
✅ Digital Creatives & Freelancers
- The Snapdragon 870 offers enough power to handle drawing apps, video editing, and multitasking between emails and project management tools.
- Stylus support allows for digital sketching, and MIUI’s multi-window interface helps with workflow efficiency.
✅ Remote Workers & Professionals
- Ideal for light business use like Zoom meetings, spreadsheets, and PDF signing.
- With the keyboard case, the Xiaomi Pad 6 easily becomes a portable workstation.
✅ Entertainment Seekers & Casual Gamers
- If you’re after a media tablet, this one delivers with its Dolby Vision-ready screen, stereo speakers, and responsive 144Hz refresh rate.
- Mobile gamers will enjoy smooth gameplay with PUBG, Asphalt 9, Genshin Impact, and more.
🚫 Not Recommended For:
- Those who rely on iOS-specific apps or need guaranteed long-term OS updates may prefer an iPad.
- Heavy video editors or 3D designers needing workstation-level power.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a versatile Android tablet under $400, the Xiaomi Pad 6 hits the sweet spot between performance, design, and daily usability.
Conclusion:
After in-depth testing and comparing it with alternatives, the Xiaomi Pad 6 stands out as one of the best Android tablets under $400 in 2025. Whether you’re a student, professional, or media enthusiast, this tablet offers an excellent balance of performance, display quality, battery life, and productivity features.
With its Snapdragon 870 processor, 2.8K display with 144Hz refresh rate, and clean software optimized for tablets, it delivers a near-flagship experience without breaking the bank. The inclusion of keyboard and stylus support also makes it a viable laptop alternative for light to moderate productivity tasks.
From my hands-on use, the Xiaomi Pad 6 held up well across multitasking, gaming, and video playback, even after prolonged use. It’s not a perfect device—it lacks cellular connectivity, and Xiaomi’s software still needs refinement—but for its price range, it offers unmatched value.
If you’re in the market for a powerful, affordable Android tablet, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is absolutely worth considering in 2025.
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Anurag Ghosh is the founder of Tech Fashion USA, a website dedicated to bringing readers the latest trends in electronics, gadgets, AI innovations, and smart tech. With a passion for simplifying complex technology, Anurag curates well-researched, easy-to-understand articles that help consumers make smarter buying decisions. Whether you’re exploring the future of wearable tech or comparing the best AI-powered gadgets, Anurag’s insights are always grounded, practical, and focused on what truly matters to everyday users. Follow his work for unbiased reviews, breaking tech news, and expert buying guides.
