The Redmi Note series has long been a cornerstone of Xiaomi's global strategy, offering compelling specifications at aggressive price points. The latest iteration, the Redmi Note 15 series, is beginning its global rollout, with the 5G variant now appearing on the radar for a Malaysian launch. Recent regulatory approval and the first hands-on reviews provide a clear picture of what this mid-range contender brings to the table, highlighting its position as a more premium offering compared to its 4G sibling.
Regulatory Green Light in Malaysia
The path to a Malaysian launch for the Redmi Note 15 5G has become clearer with its recent appearance in the SIRIM certification database. This regulatory body's approval, which was granted back in October, is a strong indicator that Xiaomi is preparing to introduce the device to the local market. Interestingly, as of now, only the 5G model has received this certification. The base 4G model, along with the Pro and Pro+ variants, are absent from the database, leaving their Malaysian availability uncertain. This selective certification suggests Xiaomi may be prioritizing the 5G variant for its initial launch in the region.
Launch Status & Availability
- Malaysia: Redmi Note 15 5G certified by SIRIM (approved Oct 2025). 4G, Pro, and Pro+ models not yet listed.
- Global: 5G model pre-orders expected to start January 5, 2026.
- Colors (5G): Glacier Blue, Mist Purple, Black.
- Colors (4G): Glacier Blue, Purple, Forest Green, Black.
Design and Display: A Shared Premium Aesthetic
From a design perspective, the Redmi Note 15 5G and its 4G counterpart are virtually twins. Both models feature a sleek build with curved edges on the front and back, contributing to a comfortable and premium in-hand feel. They share a large, vibrant 6.77-inch curved AMOLED display that boasts a Full HD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. A standout feature is the panel's exceptional peak brightness, rated for up to 3,200 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even under harsh sunlight. An optical under-display fingerprint scanner rounds out the front-facing features, maintaining a clean, modern look.
Performance and Core Hardware Divergence
Beneath the surface, the two models take different paths. The Redmi Note 15 5G is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, a chipset designed for efficient 5G connectivity and capable mid-tier performance. It is offered in multiple configurations ranging from 6GB of RAM with 128GB of storage up to a top-tier 12GB/512GB option. In contrast, the 4G model relies on MediaTek's Helio G100-Ultra chip, with RAM options starting at 6GB. This fundamental difference in silicon defines their target audiences: one future-proofed for next-gen networks, the other catering to markets or users where 5G is not yet a priority.
Camera and Battery: Strategic Trade-Offs
The camera systems also reveal a strategic differentiation. Both phones are anchored by a high-resolution 108MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), promising detailed photos in good light. However, the 5G model gains an advantage with a more versatile 8MP ultrawide camera, while the 4G model makes do with a basic 2MP depth sensor. For selfies, both use a 20MP front-facing camera. The battery strategy further highlights their differing philosophies. The 4G model opts for maximum endurance with a large 6,000 mAh battery supported by 33W charging. The 5G model, prioritizing a slimmer and lighter form factor, uses a 5,520 mAh silicon-carbon battery but compensates with faster 45W wired charging.
Durability, Software, and Pricing
Durability is another area where the 5G model pulls ahead. It carries an IP66 rating for dust and water resistance, offering better protection against powerful water jets compared to the 4G model's IP64 rating, which only protects against splashes. Both devices will ship with Xiaomi's latest HyperOS 2.0, based on Android 15, promising a fresh software experience with updated features and security. Pricing positions the 5G model as the premium option. The Redmi Note 15 4G starts at an estimated EUR 229 (approximately MYR 1,100), while the Redmi Note 15 5G begins at EUR 279 (approximately MYR 1,340). Global pre-orders for the 5G variant are expected to commence on January 5, 2026.
Conclusion and Market Outlook
The Redmi Note 15 5G emerges as a compelling package for users seeking a modern 5G experience, a versatile camera with an ultrawide lens, faster charging, and superior durability, all wrapped in a sleek design with a brilliant display. Its SIRIM certification strongly hints at an imminent Malaysian launch, though the company's plans for the rest of the series remain unclear. For potential buyers, the choice will hinge on the value placed on 5G connectivity and the improved secondary camera versus the appeal of the 4G model's larger battery and lower entry price. As the global rollout continues, all eyes will be on Xiaomi to finalize local availability and pricing.