Introduction
In 2021, Redmi, a sub-brand of Xiaomi, launched a wide variety of smartphones across different price segments in both Chinese and global markets. This year marked a key turning point where AMOLED displays began to dominate the mid-range segment, replacing traditional LCD panels.
Let’s explore Redmi’s major 2021 models — including Note, K, and POCO series — along with their display technologies, regional versions, and vibrant color options.
Overview of Redmi’s 2021 Global Strategy
Redmi’s focus in 2021 was to bridge premium display experiences with affordable pricing. The brand prioritized:
- Expanding AMOLED adoption.
- Differentiating Chinese and global variants.
- Creating visually appealing phones with bold color options.
- Introducing cost-effective 5G-ready LCD models.
Transition from LCD to AMOLED Displays
2021 was the year when AMOLED became mainstream for Redmi’s mid-range phones.
While flagship and upper mid-range models like the K40 and Note 10 Pro featured AMOLED panels, entry-level phones such as the Redmi 10 retained LCDs for affordability.
Comparison of Display Technologies
| Feature | AMOLED | LCD |
|---|---|---|
| Brightness & Contrast | High contrast, true blacks | Limited contrast |
| Power Efficiency | More efficient on dark themes | Consumes more power |
| Color Vibrancy | Rich and vivid | Softer tones |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Usage in Redmi 2021 | K40, Note 10 Pro, Note 11 Pro | Redmi 10, Note 10T, POCO X3 Pro |
Redmi Note 10 Series (Global Versions)
The Redmi Note 10 Series was a huge success globally. It made AMOLED displays standard for mid-range phones.
| Model | Release Date | Display Type | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10 Pro | March 2021 | AMOLED | Gradient Bronze, Glacier Blue, Onyx Gray |
| Redmi Note 10 | March 2021 | AMOLED | Shadow Black, Pebble White, Lake Green |
| Redmi Note 10S | April 2021 | AMOLED | Ocean Blue, Onyx Gray, Pebble White |
| Redmi Note 10T / 10 5G | July 2021 | LCD | Chrome Silver, Graphite Gray, Aurora Green |
Redmi Note 11 Series (China Versions)
The Note 11 Series marked Redmi’s full transition to AMOLED for premium models in China.
| Model | Release Date | Display Type | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 11 | October 2021 | LCD | Dreamy Star River, Mint Green, Mysterious Black Realm |
| Redmi Note 11 Pro / Pro+ | October 2021 | AMOLED | Misty Forest, Time Quiet Purple, Mysterious Black, Dream Galaxy |
Redmi K40 Series (China Versions)
Redmi’s K40 lineup brought flagship-grade performance and stunning AMOLED/OLED panels.
| Model | Release Date | Display Type | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi K40 | February 2021 | AMOLED | Glossy Black, Snow White, Fantasy |
| Redmi K40 Pro / Pro+ | February 2021 | AMOLED | Ink Feather, Snow White, Fantasy |
| Redmi K40 Gaming | April 2021 | OLED | Shadow Black, Silver Blade, Bumblebee Yellow |
Redmi 10 Series (Global and India Versions)
These models targeted the entry-level segment while maintaining good aesthetics.
| Model | Release Date | Display Type | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 10 | August 2021 | LCD | Carbon Gray, Pebble White, Sea Blue |
| Redmi 10 Prime (India) | September 2021 | LCD | Pebble White, Carbon Gray |
POCO Series (Global Market)
POCO, based on Redmi’s hardware platform, had an exceptional year in 2021.
| Model | Based On | Release Date | Display Type | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POCO F3 | Redmi K40 | March 2021 | AMOLED | Arctic White, Deep Ocean Blue, Night Black |
| POCO X3 Pro | Redmi Note Platform | March 2021 | LCD | Phantom Black, Frost Blue, Metal Bronze |
| POCO M3 Pro 5G | Redmi Note 10T | May 2021 | LCD | Power Black, Cool Blue, POCO Yellow |
Consolidated Specifications Table
| Series | Model | Market | Display Type | Key Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note 10 | Note 10 / 10S / Pro / 10T | Global | AMOLED / LCD | White, Blue, Bronze |
| Note 11 | Note 11 / 11 Pro / Pro+ | China | AMOLED / LCD | Purple, Green, Black |
| K40 | K40 / Pro / Pro+ / Gaming | China | AMOLED / OLED | Black, White, Yellow |
| Redmi 10 | 10 / 10 Prime | Global / India | LCD | Gray, White, Blue |
| POCO | F3 / X3 Pro / M3 Pro 5G | Global | AMOLED / LCD | Blue, Yellow, Black |
Regional Color Variations
Color names vary slightly across markets — for example:
- Misty Forest in China might be listed as Forest Green globally.
- Dream Galaxy in China may appear as Nebula Blue elsewhere.
AMOLED vs LCD in 2021 Redmi Phones
Redmi’s shift from LCD to AMOLED was strategic:
- AMOLED became standard in mid-to-premium segments.
- LCD remained for entry-level and cost-sensitive 5G models.
This helped Redmi balance performance, cost, and display quality effectively.
Market Performance and Impact
2021 positioned Redmi as a global leader in mid-range smartphones.
The Note 10 series’ AMOLED success pressured competitors like Realme and Samsung to respond with similar upgrades.
Summary of Redmi’s 2021 Product Strategy
- Flagship-level screens in affordable devices.
- Segmented display choices to target different audiences.
- Distinctive designs and vibrant colors across all models.
Conclusion
Redmi’s 2021 lineup highlighted a year of transformation — from LCD dominance to widespread AMOLED adoption. Whether it was the stylish Note 10 Pro, the gaming-focused K40, or the affordable POCO M3 Pro 5G, each model reflected Redmi’s commitment to making high-quality displays accessible to everyone.
FAQs
1. Which Redmi phone first used AMOLED in 2021?
The Redmi Note 10 Pro was among the first global Redmi phones to feature an AMOLED display.
2. Are all K40 series models AMOLED?
Yes, the K40, K40 Pro, and K40 Pro+ all use high-end AMOLED panels, while the K40 Gaming uses an OLED screen.
3. Which Redmi phones still used LCD in 2021?
Models like Redmi 10, POCO X3 Pro, and Note 10T 5G continued using LCD screens.
4. Why did Redmi keep using LCD for some models?
To maintain affordability for entry-level and 5G phones where cost control was essential.
5. Which 2021 Redmi model offered the most color options?
The Note 11 Pro / Pro+ had the widest variety, featuring Misty Forest, Time Quiet Purple, Dream Galaxy, and more.
