The Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus remains a compelling budget option in 2024 for Irish buyers willing to accept an aging device with no software support. This 2018 handset offers a large 5.99-inch display, solid 4000 mAh battery, and Snapdragon 625 processor at refurbished prices 70% below original MSRP.

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RAM Options: 3GB / 4GB · Storage Variants: 32GB / 64GB · Processor: Snapdragon 625 · Condition Available: Refurbished / Unlocked · Colors: Black / Gold / Blue

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
  • Back Market Ireland offers refurbished units up to 70% cheaper than new with a 12-month warranty (Back Market Ireland)
  • CeX Ireland lists Grade B 4GB/64GB Gold units from €45–€65 depending on condition (CeX Ireland)
  • The Snapdragon 625 processor remains capable for everyday tasks and light gaming (YouTube Review)
2What’s unclear
  • Exact current prices fluctuate daily across Irish refurbishers — no single source tracks all sellers in real time (Back Market Ireland)
  • Specific network band compatibility for Irish carriers (Vodafone, Three, eir) not confirmed by retailers (Versus specs database)
  • Whether 3GB/32GB variants appear regularly in the Irish refurbished market remains uncertain (CeX Ireland listing database)
3Timeline signal
4What’s next
  • For buyers wanting a simple secondary phone or a starter device, refurbished Redmi 5 Plus hits a sweet spot under €80 (Back Market Ireland pricing page)
  • For anyone needing modern software or 5G, the trade-off is clear — spend more now or deal with an unsupported device (Refurbed.ie warranty terms)
Specification Value
Model Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus
Display 5.99 inch IPS LCD, 1080 × 2160 px (403 ppi)
RAM 3GB / 4GB
Storage 32GB / 64GB
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 (14nm)
Battery 4000 mAh
Rear Camera 12MP
Front Camera 5MP
Weight 180g
Dimensions 158.5 × 75.5 × 8.1 mm
OS (Original) Android 7 Nougat
Network Unlocked

Is the Redmi 5 Plus still a good phone in 2024?

At its core, the Redmi 5 Plus was designed to punch above its price tag — and six years later, that legacy still holds for the right buyer. The Snapdragon 625 processor, while not cutting-edge, handles WhatsApp, email, navigation, and casual gaming without complaint. Its 4000 mAh battery routinely delivers 10–14 hours of screen-on time, a figure that rivals — and sometimes beats — phones costing three times more.

The catch is software. Xiaomi launched this phone with Android 7 Nougat and MIUI 9, and the device is almost certainly past its last security patch. If you bank your phone with banking apps or store sensitive data, that matters. For a secondary device used mostly for calls, messaging, and media, it is a non-issue.

Performance in 2024

The Snapdragon 625 is a 14nm chip built for efficiency rather than raw speed. Reviews from tech analysts confirm it remains adequate for multitasking within the constraints of 3–4GB RAM. Opening multiple browser tabs or running graphically demanding games will show the age, but everyday use stays smooth.

Benchmark comparisons place the 625 comfortably above MediaTek chips found in competing budget phones of the same era, while sitting below the Snapdragon 660 series that appeared in 2018 mid-range devices.

Battery and daily use

Battery life is where the Redmi 5 Plus genuinely earns its reputation. Real-world testing from independent reviewers shows the 4000 mAh cell lasting a full day of heavy use and stretching to nearly two days with moderate usage. Full recharge with the included charger takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes.

For Irish buyers, this means the phone handles commuter schedules — morning commute, work day, evening streaming — without reaching for a charger. A genuine advantage over many newer budget phones that sacrifice battery capacity for thinner profiles.

The upshot

The Redmi 5 Plus remains a practical choice for basic needs in 2024, provided buyers understand the software trade-off. Its battery life is the headline feature — 10–14 hours of screen time easily outlasts most modern flagships.

What is the price of Redmi 5 Plus?

New units are essentially gone from official channels — Xiaomi has long discontinued this model. The entire resale market for Redmi 5 Plus now runs through refurbished and pre-owned channels, which has its own implications for pricing. Back Market Ireland lists the 64GB Midnight Black variant with a 12-month warranty and free delivery over €100, regularly undercutting original retail by up to 70%.

CeX Ireland sells Grade B refurbished 4GB/64GB Gold units in the €45–€65 range, with Grade A units fetching a modest premium. Prices shift based on condition grade, storage size, and seller demand.

New vs. refurbished pricing

The original MSRP for Redmi 5 Plus hovered around $194 USD at launch in February 2018. Today, a refurbished 64GB unit in good condition typically costs €55–€85, while 32GB variants run €35–€55. The spread reflects condition grading — a phone labeled Grade A has been through a multi-point inspection with minimal cosmetic wear, while Grade B may show light scratches or small dents.

Refurbed.ie offers refurbished Xiaomi phones with up to 40% savings, a 12-month warranty, and a 30-day trial period, adding an extra layer of confidence for first-time refurbished buyers.

Deals in Ireland and Pakistan

Irish buyers have access to several dedicated channels. PhonesOnline.ie provides Grade A refurbished unlocked phones with free shipping over €100 across Ireland. The Phone Box offers same-day dispatch from their Irish warehouse for pre-owned Xiaomi handsets. For those outside Ireland, the same model appears in Pakistani markets at similar price points, though warranty coverage and return policies differ significantly.

The implication: Irish buyers have a real advantage in terms of consumer protection. EU-level warranty requirements through sites like Back Market and Refurbed.ie mean you’re covered for 12 months even on refurbished devices — a standard that does not always apply to grey-market imports.

What are the pros and cons of the Redmi 5 Plus?

Every budget phone requires compromise, and the Redmi 5 Plus is no exception. Understanding what you gain and what you lose compared to newer budget alternatives helps clarify whether this phone belongs in your pocket or on a shelf.

Key strengths

  • Battery longevity: The 4000 mAh cell delivers 10–14 hours of screen time — exceptional for a phone this age. SWOPiFY Ireland battery test data
  • Display quality: A 5.99-inch IPS LCD at 1080 × 2160 pixels (403 ppi) with 2.5D glass — crisp, bright, and competitive with budget phones from 2019–2020.
  • Processor efficiency: The Snapdragon 625 runs cool, manages power intelligently, and handles gaming better than most competitors in the same price bracket. YouTube hands-on review
  • Value when refurbished: At €45–€85 for a functional 64GB device with warranty, the cost-per-feature ratio is difficult to beat.
  • Fingerprint unlock: Fast and reliable rear-mounted fingerprint sensor — a feature some newer budget phones have removed to cut costs.

Common weaknesses

  • No USB Type-C: The phone uses microUSB, an older standard that limits charging speed and accessory compatibility compared to newer devices with USB-C.
  • Outdated software: Android 7 Nougat with no guaranteed security updates. Apps requiring newer Android versions may refuse to install or function incorrectly.
  • Camera limitations: A single 12MP rear camera with no ultra-wide or telephoto options — acceptable in 2018, basic by 2024 standards. The 5MP front camera shows its age in low light.
  • No water resistance: No IP rating means the phone needs protection from splashes and submersion. Versus specs confirm the device lacks any water resistance certification.
  • Limited storage: 32GB base storage fills quickly with apps and media. The hybrid dual SIM slot can accommodate a microSD card, but this removes the second SIM option.
Why this matters

Irish buyers on a tight budget face a real fork: pay €50–€80 for a Redmi 5 Plus that works well today but has a defined end-of-life, or pay €120–€150 for a newer budget phone with updated software and 5G. The calculus depends entirely on how long you plan to keep the phone.

Where can I buy the Redmi 5 Plus?

Finding this phone in Ireland requires knowing where to look. Unlike flagship models that fill every electronics retailer shelf, the Redmi 5 Plus lives almost exclusively in the refurbished market. The good news: Ireland has several reputable refurbishers offering warranty-backed units with EU coverage.

Refurbished sellers

Back Market Ireland stands out as the most established option for Irish buyers. Their listings include the 64GB Gold variant (unlocked) and 64GB Midnight Black variant, both with free delivery over €100 and a 12-month warranty. Their grading system runs from “Fair” to “Like New,” with each grade tied to specific cosmetic and functional criteria.

CeX Ireland operates physical stores alongside their online platform, selling Grade B 4GB/64GB Gold units at competitive prices. The advantage of CeX is the ability to inspect the device before purchase — a benefit that purely online refurbishers cannot match.

Refurbed.ie, PhonesOnline.ie, and The Phone Box represent solid alternatives, each offering slightly different warranty terms, condition grading, and shipping policies. PhonesOnline.ie provides free shipping over €100, while The Phone Box offers same-day dispatch for orders placed before their cutoff time.

Unlocked options

Nearly all Redmi 5 Plus units available in Ireland are sold unlocked — compatible with any carrier that runs GSM or LTE bands supported by the device. This includes major Irish providers Vodafone, Three, and eir, though specific band compatibility should be confirmed against individual carrier requirements.

mStore.ie, Ireland’s dedicated Xiaomi retailer, occasionally carries certified pre-owned units alongside new stock. While prices may be slightly higher than grey-market alternatives, the official retailer relationship offers additional peace of mind.

The catch

Not all refurbished sellers are equal. Back Market and Refurbed.ie both apply multi-point inspection standards and offer clear return windows. Less established platforms may not inspect devices as thoroughly — always check the seller’s grading definitions and warranty terms before purchasing.

Is the Redmi 5 Plus better than Samsung budget phones?

Comparing the Redmi 5 Plus to Samsung’s budget lineup requires looking at the full picture, not just specs. Samsung’s cheapest devices today — the Galaxy A05 and A15 series — start at €130–€180, run Android 14, and include 5G connectivity. The Redmi 5 Plus undercuts these by €50–€100 when refurbished, but the software gap is significant.

For buyers who prioritize software longevity and security updates, Samsung’s Galaxy A series wins decisively. For buyers who prioritize raw battery life, display size, and value-for-money on a short-term or secondary device basis, the Redmi 5 Plus still holds its ground.

Feature comparison

The direct comparison reveals a clear pattern: Samsung has closed the hardware gap over six years while Xiaomi’s aging Redmi cannot match modern software standards.

Feature Redmi 5 Plus Samsung Galaxy A05s
Launch year 2018 2023
Display 5.99″ IPS LCD, 1080 × 2160 6.7″ PLS LCD, 1080 × 2400
Processor Snapdragon 625 Snapdragon 680
RAM 3GB / 4GB 4GB
Storage 32GB / 64GB 64GB / 128GB
Battery 4000 mAh 5000 mAh
Rear Camera 12MP (single) 50MP + 2MP + 2MP
Software Android 7 (out of support) Android 14 (current)
USB Port microUSB USB Type-C
Water Resistance None None
Typical price (refurbished/new) €45–€85 €130–€180

The pattern: Samsung’s budget phones have closed the hardware gap over six years, adding more RAM, faster processors, larger batteries, and multiple cameras. The Redmi 5 Plus no longer leads on hardware — but at roughly half the price when refurbished, the value proposition for basic needs remains strong.

Value for money

Irish buyers who want a phone that will last 3–4 years with software updates should look at Samsung or newer Xiaomi models. Those who need a functional phone today for under €80 — a second device, a starter phone for a family member, or a travel phone — will find the Redmi 5 Plus still delivers.

Spec table: Redmi 5 Plus details

The specifications below come from a combination of manufacturer documentation and verified retailer listings across the Irish refurbished market.

Category Specification Details
Display Type IPS LCD, 18:9 aspect ratio, 2.5D glass
Display Resolution 1080 × 2160 pixels, 403 ppi
Processor Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 (14nm, 64-bit)
Processor CPU 8× Cortex-A53, up to 2.0 GHz
Memory RAM 3GB / 4GB LPDDR3
Memory Storage 32GB / 64GB (expandable via microSD)
Battery Capacity 4000 mAh (non-removable)
Battery Charge time ~2h 10min with included charger
Camera Rear 12MP, f/2.2, PDAF, LED flash
Camera Front 5MP, f/2.0
Build Materials Mostly metal, plastic top and bottom panels
Build Weight 180g
Build Dimensions 158.5 × 75.5 × 8.1 mm
Connectivity SIM Hybrid dual SIM (nano-SIM + nano-SIM or microSD)
Connectivity USB microUSB, OTG support
Connectivity Audio 3.5mm jack
Security Fingerprint Rear-mounted, fast and reliable
Software Original OS Android 7 Nougat / MIUI 9

Upsides

  • Exceptional battery life (10–14 hours screen time)
  • Large 5.99-inch Full HD+ display
  • Sold unlocked, compatible with Irish carriers
  • Available refurbished from €45 with warranty
  • Fast fingerprint unlock
  • 3.5mm headphone jack retained

Downsides

  • Outdated Android version with no security patches
  • microUSB instead of USB Type-C
  • No water resistance rating
  • Single rear camera (no ultra-wide or telephoto)
  • Limited software update path
  • Device is 6+ years old — longevity risk on older batteries

“Up to 70% cheaper than new! Fast, free delivery. 12 month warranty.”

— Back Market, Retailer

“The highlight of the specs is the Snapdragon 625 chipset that has already proven to be a capable performer when it comes to gaming and especially when it comes to power efficiency.”

— Reviewer, YouTube Tech Reviewer

Related reading: Galaxy S23 FE to Buy in Ireland? Deals & Reviews · Beer Store Near Me: Top Ireland Off Licences Guide

Additional sources

mi.com, backmarket.ie, refurbed.ie, thephonebox.ie

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Redmi 5 a good phone?

The Redmi 5 Plus specifically was a strong budget phone at launch in February 2018. Today, it remains a practical choice for buyers who prioritize battery life and screen size over software modernity. The Snapdragon 625 processor keeps everyday apps running smoothly, and the 4000 mAh battery delivers 10–14 hours of screen time — competitive with phones priced significantly more. For a secondary device or a budget starter phone, it is still a good phone, provided buyers accept the trade-offs.

What is the weakness of Redmi?

The primary weaknesses of Redmi phones like the 5 Plus center on software support and build compromises. The device launched with Android 7 Nougat and has almost certainly received its final security patch. Combined with a microUSB port instead of USB Type-C, no water resistance rating, and a single rear camera, the Redmi 5 Plus shows its age in several departments. For buyers needing modern Android features or long-term software support, these weaknesses are significant.

Does Redmi 5 Plus have good battery life?

Yes — battery life is the Redmi 5 Plus’s strongest feature. Independent reviews confirm screen-on time reaches 10–14 hours depending on usage patterns, with moderate use stretching comfortably to two days. The 4000 mAh cell paired with the power-efficient Snapdragon 625 processor delivers results that rival phones priced three times higher. Full recharge takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes with the supplied charger.

Is Redmi 5 Plus compatible with all networks?

The Redmi 5 Plus is sold unlocked and supports LTE bands compatible with Irish carriers Vodafone, Three, and eir. Specific band requirements should be checked against individual carrier documentation, as minor variations exist between providers. The hybrid dual SIM slot allows use of two nano-SIM cards simultaneously or one SIM plus a microSD card for expanded storage.

What grade are refurbished Redmi 5 Plus phones?

Most Irish refurbishers use a grading scale from Fair to Like New. Grade A units show minimal cosmetic wear and have passed full functional testing. Grade B units may have light scratches, small dents, or minor cosmetic defects but function correctly. Grade Fair units show more visible wear but remain operational. Back Market and CeX both publish their grading criteria on their websites before purchase.

How much cheaper is refurbished Redmi 5 Plus?

Refurbished units typically cost 60–70% less than original MSRP. Where the device launched at approximately $194 USD in 2018, current refurbished prices in Ireland range from €45–€65 for 64GB units depending on condition grade. Some sellers offer additional discounts during sales events or for bulk orders. Refurbed.ie advertises savings up to 40% on Xiaomi refurbished stock alongside their 12-month warranty.

Can I find Redmi 5 Plus on eBay?

Yes — eBay listings for Redmi 5 Plus exist from international sellers, but warranty coverage and return policies vary significantly. Irish buyers benefit more from EU-based refurbishers like Back Market and Refurbed.ie, which offer 12-month warranties under EU consumer law. International eBay purchases may not include equivalent protections, and return shipping costs can eliminate any price advantage.

For budget buyers in Ireland, the Redmi 5 Plus remains a device that delivers on its core promise — a large screen, reliable battery, and functional performance at a fraction of original cost. The calculus is straightforward: spend €50–€80 on a refurbished unit with warranty protection and accept that this phone has reached its natural end-of-life for software updates, or spend €130–€180 on a newer budget device with 5G and current Android support. Neither choice is wrong — the right one depends entirely on your timeline and priorities.