Obviously not but as long as you don't go for the DHL shipping option then you won't pay any. Judging by your username though you won't be buying this deal just in case.

First time order of a Chinese phone from Ali Express.
Picked this up for my Mum, had my doubts of what a sub £120 phone can do/be (used the ali express app to get the price above with £8 coupon off or something).
From ordering to delivery in my depot ( i am a postie) was 7 days, I have a S7 Edge, n whilst it doesn't have the super amoled screen and NFC of a Samsung premium phone, for what it does include for sub £120 is FANTASTIC!!
I use the finger print scanner on my S7 Edge, whilst good on the front it could be better, keep in mind the edge is a £500 + phone, the note 3 finger print scanner is on the back, (where the S8's is gonna be) and WOW is that thing accurate and fast!
Super smooth UI, massive battery, 5.5" screen, and what i was impressed with most of all was the build quality from Xiaomi.
If this is the effort and features they have in their entry level phones, i am very keen to try one of their premium models, the likes of which are still sub £250 massive price difference from the Samsung and Apple sim free pricing.
Overall Samsung and the like have got complacent in recent years, the likes of Xiaomi, and Blu Boo are hitting a market they have overlooked, and are doing a great job in the process, with the Samsung Note 7 debacle the big boys are gonna need to really step up their game!
Thanks again OP for the deal link, and all the comments and tips from the HUKD army!

Buying stuff from China might not be for you

Sit tight stop being a drama queen and wait for your phone to arrive

​if you're ordering one from aliexpress search for redmi note 3 152mm. that finds a lot.

also check out XDA for redmi note 3. it has an accessory post which shows lots which fit the Kate version here.

That's exactly what I'm thinking! Thankfully it's still usable at least! Might even order the replacement screen and have a go at repairing it myself and order a new phone too. All going well my mum can have the spare - she's still on an iPhone 3GS. Seriously.

Surely for that kind of price, you may as well just buy a new one!?

Can't seem to find anyone local (I'm in Glasgow) and asked about half a dozen repair places who flat out refused even if I provided the parts. I've had a couple of quotes from online repair places. One quoted £99 and the other quoted £48 - but with a possible 4 week turnaround which puts me off.

i would imagine you MIGHT find someone local (that's how I read your request) if you had the parts.

seems tough to get hold of the right screen.

check out XDA where someone has linked to a couple of sites where you can get the screen.

I bought this after seeing this deal. Anyway, my dog knocked it off the table yesterday and after it initially seeming fine (no cracks, working normally) I'm having some screen issues (lines and discolouration) and I've decided that a replacement screen is the only way forward however I'm struggling to find anyone who will attempt this.

Has anyone found anywhere that will replace their Note 3 screen?

Well that didn't work. I tried a cheapy one for my Redmi 3S too and same result (phone briefly starts charging and then stops and won't restart charging unless you remove the phone completely from the pad). I've ordered the Upgraded one now from that link and wait and see if that is better.If anyone has brought one and it works, please share a link.

Anyone wanting to use dual sim and an sd card.Iv'e just recieved a sim adaptor from aliexpress about £1-20p took 3 weeks to get here but works perfectly on mine.
got it here.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Hybrid-Double-Dual-SIM-Card-Micro-SD-Adapter-for-Android-Extender-2-Nano-Micro-SIM-Adapter/32788674545.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.K1gSkE

which Lineage did you use? do all the functions work ok? what are the main differences?

I cant believe the value of this phone. Absolutely chuffed with it. got mine for £146 and worth every penny.

My last phone was a galaxy s7, and this is comparable in my opinion. The camera lets this down a bit, but you cant complain at this price.

Possibly? You could always change it and see. Go into settings/system and device/additional settings/region and change it, reboot, and see if a manual update picks anything up :smiley:

Does it make a difference to the handset? I originally set mine up as Morocco

Set it to the Falklands

what location did you set the phone to in the end? that might make the difference. I'm India.

I'm on 8.1.3.0 after a manual search, odd your on the previous version :neutral_face:

thankyou
i have tried manually searching for up dates, but nothing, my last update is 8.1.1.0

Thought I'd give MIUI a try since never used it before and looked good from videos but not that great. flashed lineage OS instead which wasn't too hard and now it's great!

I got a spare dual sim holder from ali was gonna try the sd card trick but as no one here has posted they did i'll wait for the sim adapter to come.

Going to give one of these a try...

Qi Wireless Phone Charger or with Charge Receiver for Redmi note 3/2/pro/prime/Doogee x7/x5 max/Umi diamond/London/Oukitel k4000
http://s.aliexpress.com/NBjiIrEZ
(from AliExpress Android)

Anyone wanting 2 sims and an sd card just found this adapter on aliexpress.Might be ok cheap as chips.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/2-in-1-Double-Dual-SIM-Card-Adapter-for-Android-Micro-SD-extender-Nano-SIM-Micro/32788674545.html

Have you tried to manually search for up dates.I don't let mine auto update last one was about 3 week ago, 8.1.3.0

how to stop redmi note 3 es file explorer keeps starting
can anyone tell me how to get es file explorer to stop loading, when i switch on my phone it always start, cant use finger scan have to put pass code in first then close the es file exploer 'it always says eject' never done it before
also my phone used to check for new updates but this has stopped the last few months has anyone else had this ?
thanks

was that the phone or the case? if its the phone did you order dhl or normal post. Thanks in advance

Ordered 2 cases using the 2 links above, always handy to have 2

great, thanks for the help, ordered a case now

Brilliant! got them working now thanks

as in the app called security. should already been on the phone. the main section is permissions and you will need to run through the autostart, permissions and other permissions to make sure your apps work as expected.
Google and terms like miui [app name ] permissions will likely show how others have e solved as well.

OK, I'll take a look. Where is the miui security app available from?

have you been into the miui security settings app. miui heavily restricts background apps.

you need to allow them to auto run and have the right permissions

Anyone having any issues with notifications on certain apps with this phone? Ebay and PayPal notifications aren't coming through for me. Been into app settings and done the obvious, tried uninstall and reinstall, still nothing.

OH got this one (in purple), perfect fit

Transparent Colorful TPU phone Cases For Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 4 Pro SE Special Edition 152mm Official Global Version back cover
http://s.aliexpress.com/qUryyEVJ
(from AliExpress Android)

for those looking for cases, search for redmi note 3 se or alternatively 152mm case. although weird it will return cases that fit

I bought one of these cases when i ordered phone. Fits perfectly.

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Micro-USB-Cable-For-Xiaomi-Redmi-Note-3-Case-Military-Camouflage-Armor-Phone-Cover-Case/32716693087.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.28GY00

edit : Just realized its the same as one as 'carhandle' above. just a different seller.

RE: Covers or cases, I got this one. Good alternative if you don’t like flipcases

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/LENUO-For-Xiaomi-Redmi-Note-3-Pro-Special-Edition-Case-PU-Leather-Back-Cover-Housing-For/32780072778.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.ojSWg0

Yes mines the same,But its a big battery i just stick it on overnight.

Have had mine for a week now and happy with the phone, but am finding it takes forever to charge. At Least 3-4 hours. Is anyone else having this problem

See my post above 541.I just got a flip one today seems good quality very sturdy one,I tried the thin ones paid £7 off Amazon and it was just cheap rubbish.

This is the case I bought for the phone, fits perfectly(I bought brown) :smiley:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/For-Xiaomi-Redmi-International-Edition-Note-3-Phone-Case-Stand-Wallet-Leather-Flip-Cover-For-Redmi/32764172838.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.9n9gTS

did anyone get a case for this phone? bought one but its too small, must be for non se version.

Recieved my case today as my post above 541 with a royal mail text last night telling me it would be delivered today.Very pleased with it 13 days from ordering to delivery seems really good quality so far.I was not sure wether to get black or brown got black but now its come i'll order another colour aswell.It also came with a screen cover which i'm not sure if its tempered glass or plastic no info didn't even know it was included,Its not floppy plastic crap but rigid easy to fit and no bubbles under. Remember this is the special edition one slightly larger.

OH has 64 in hers but it's 256 according to http://m.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_redmi_note_3-7863.php

I've got the full version nova, and apex, will give action a try

What is the largest SD card people are using on this. hoping 128gb is compatible, can anyone confirm?

nova, action, apex are the three big ones.

I use nova ATM but do switch between it and action

What type of launcher is everyone using on this phone, miui or some other one

I have just ordered another one of these $159.00

I've my giff gaff sim in but it's only showing as 3g, even tho I've it set as 4g preferred, and it is a 4g top up I bought of giff gaff, also checked network status online but everything seems fine there, anyone have any ideas what might be the problem as the sim works on my LG G2

Micro sims fit into the bottom part for sim 2. U don't need to put one in the top part

It hasn't arrived yet but its in the uk after a week,should be here in a couple of days.I'll update everyone if its ok when it gets here.This is the one. https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Case-For-Xiaomi-Redmi-Note-3-Pro-Prime-Special-Edition-SE-Version-Stand-Magnetic-Filp-Cover/32787103721.html

I have an issue with mine iI haveordered and received a micro simply from bt I've inserted into sim 1 on the tray then went to bt website to activate despite waiting all day my phone can't be used is there any suggestions for tweaking the settings??

Have you a link to the case you are using as I think I might need buy one to keep the phone in good condition

Ordered a new case a tempered glass and a spare sim card holder Case and sim holder last week been in uk 3 days that was quick.Tempered glass not even shipped so ordered from someone else.Just crap Royal mail to wait for now.

Received mine this morning, ordered 15 Feb arrived 25th. Very happy with the phone, surprised at how good it actually is

Its my second time purchasing from AliExpress. First time I ordered some wedding cards for around £150 which were never dispatched. I had to open a dispute and got refunded. This time it says delivery within 20 - 40 days and already somewhere within the UK most probably with customs so dispute cannot be opened before 40 days period. I ordered on the 1st of Feb. So I will wait and see.

Mine arrived today, ordered on 10th Feb arrived 24th. Fantastic phone, really good value. Just waiting for the case I ordered at same time.

Mine arrived yesterday. Only took 11 days. Awesome bit of kit for the money!

I think mine arrived today but I wasn't in so have to wait till tomorrow to collect it, I'm hoping it's the phone as I don't recall ordering anything else that can't fit through the letterbox

Yes we learn from others' mistakes

That's super, at least our time hasn't gone to waste :sunglasses:

You presumed a bit too much there. The point I made was your comment that free shipping avoiding customs charges was a bit too overrated and that it's quite misleading to a new buyer. I've learnt from this thread it has nothing to do with free delivery but is only avoided because the vendor undervalues the product.

About refusing delivery, there should be a refund regardless of the reason why it was refused

Thank you :smiley:

Well obviously you're due a refund IF the thing doesn't show up. Did i really need to spell that out?

It was you who said.......



....as if you're holding AliExpress personally responsible for UK Customs and Excise legislation :smile:

Erm....Don't really know what to make of your angle here. If the item doesn't arrive the buyer is responsible. Just because you don't pay for delivery doesn't mean the owner can shirk the responsibility of having the item sent to you in one piece. AliExpress have Buyer Protection for this very reason. I hope to God you don't own a business.

The customs thing is a separate issue. As others have said here it's hopefully not going to be a problem. One valid reason for me to refuse delivery is that it arrived way beyond the estimated delivery time which by the way is well on course to happening. I should be able to reject it outright. Not that I will in this case.

If they put £45 as phones price we won't be charged customs hopefully. Royal mail says it could be coz of random customs check. I will pay customs if its £20 rather than risking £125. Its not AliExpress fault anyways our bad luck I would say. Delay is due to UK authorities not coz of China. I hope we receive it asap

if you've ordered leads from China before surely you should have known before purchasing:

1 paying no customs duty is ever guaranteed

2 you're lucky you don't pay it, you should, it's a legal tax

3 if you do, it's what, 20% at most. is that 20 odd quid such a deal breaker, especially if you admit points 1 and 2 and the fact this is a really good phone?

can also download an app called aida64. on system it will say either kenzo or Kate

Thanks for quick reply, yes it has CE1317 on the box. Maybe I'll open it now :wink:

No nothing saying kate or special edition on box.does it have this on the back.CE1317 if so it should be the right one that E is not e but similar i don't have the exact one on my keyboard.

On what grounds would they offer a refund?

They've shipped it with no delivery charge as you paid them to.

Thanks op have just ordered after looking through every thread/comment on here lol.Some great useful info from members as usual and looks great phone for the money.

Received mine yesterday after ordering on the 7th Feb. The box reads Redmi Note 3, no mention of special edition or pro? Was this the same for everyone or I have I been sent the wrong one? Thanks.

No, I'm not moaning for the sake of it. I phoned RM and was told that parcel is usually delivered within an average of 15 days when it arrives at Heathrow, otherwise it's most likely lost or being held for customs-elated incidents. I order from China regularly, first time this has happened to any one of my deliveries. In fact I have already purchased this phone in gold from Geekbuying without any issues. Still stands that that comment doesn't hold true in all cases.

I have been unlucky, there's no doubt about that. The only thing is whether AliExpress can handle a refund process. Here's hoping that they can. I'm just hoping the parcel is lost right now which would ensure a better chance of refund.

Have you actually got this phone yet or just moaning for the sake of it.Royal mail will tell you theres vat and custom charges they have to.Doesn't mean it will they put the value at £45 or maybe $ on mine and there was no charges.wait till it comes.Good luck getting your'e money back any time soon.

If you thought you could be guaranteed exemption from Import Duty and Tax then you've been naieve

You've been unlucky in that they've cottoned on to you.

Take a deep breath and move on :smiley:

This comment has got way more likes than it should have. I chose the free shipping and will be charged vat and customs. Just spoke to royal mail about it. The only other explanation is that it has been lost.

I told AliExpress about it and they've asked me to open up a dispute. If there's a customs charge then definitely not accepting it. I suppose we'll come to know how the AliExpress dispute process works.

Buying stuff from China might not be for you

Sit tight stop being a drama queen and wait for your phone to arrive

mine left China 4 days ago but still not updated to say if it's arrived in uk

told whom? mine is 12th day of being at processing center. I called Royal mail yesterday and the lady told me the delay could be coz of custom checks and that u may have to pay the customs duty. Does any one know estimated customs duty on this mobile? I am also thinking of not paying the duty and returning it back. I saw somewhere in this thread may be a comment by someone who ordered to get it deliver by DHL and was not charged customs duty as the declared price was £45. lets see what happens

It does say 20 to 40 days.Mine arrived in 14 days but i think i was lucky.I was expecting 3 to 4 weeks.Its worth the wait.

Mine still hasn't arrived after 17 days of being at "processing centre". I've told them what I think of it and right now just thinking of refusing delivery to have it returned and get money back

Can get the smaller one still for around £125

Official Global version Xiaomi Redmi 3S Prime Octa core 3GB Mobile Phone Snapdragon 430 4100mAh 5.0" 32GB OTA B7 B20 MIUI8.1
http://s.aliexpress.com/rI3UVNJr
(from AliExpress Android)

Thanks for the reply. I am worried as I live in London about half an hour travel distance from Heathrow. I hope it turns up early next week and without any custom duty.
Is there any way I can find out the whereabouts of my delivery in case its gets lost in the post. And who do I complain in that scenario the Chinese or the royal mail bosses?

Cheers!

Just over a week once Chinese new year ended

Youre right, im just being tight!! How long was delivery for you?

Ah fair enough lol. Not sure we are completely rural north Scotland though still Inverness and John O groats lol

Can of plasti dip. Protects phone doesn't add any bulk or weight. When it looks scruffy peel it off and spray some new.

Nearly, I'm out in the Shire.

Had it for a week and I'd be delighted even at 146

Hey... We are in the same city!!! :o

There's no tracking available once it arrives in the UK as it's royal mail signed for service so the next you'll know is that it'll be delivered. Took my phone 4 or 5 days from arrival at Heathrow till delivery to rural north Scotland, 8 days seems long but I'd wait and see if it appears early next week before starting to worry.

still waiting for the Royal Mail to deliver, is it normal or something to worry about.
Is it posssible to locate the mobile from within the UK? Any suggestions...thanks
United Kingdom
Destination Country 2017-02-10 09:32:00 【8】Arrival at Processing Center (Country code: GB)
2017-02-10 09:32:00 Received at Processing Facility
2017-02-07 23:54:56 【8】Despatched to overseas (Country code: GB)
2017-02-07 23:54:00 【GBLAL】Transit to Air Transit Centre
2017-02-06 19:00:00 【HONGKONG】Hand over to airline
2017-02-06 17:45:06 Received by line-haul
2017-02-06 13:01:00 Notification of shipment confirmation
China
Original Country 2017-02-06 12:45:06 Outbound in sorting center
2017-02-06 12:15:06 Inbound in sorting center
2017-02-06 11:55:59 Accepted by carrier
2017-02-05 15:35:45 Waiting for pick up

Up to £146 now. I was just about to order too. :disappointed:

​Are you sure it's not just the screen brightness, causing the drain? Mine is only on 1/4 of the way up, and I find that's fine for me.

I mean delete not move. I've got 2 folders with like 10 apps that i can move but can't delete to save some space.

You've got me baffled, I've a mi max which has effectively the same software and I can move all apps from my homescreen - all my google related apps are in a folder on another screen.

Just to clarify, I can move the system apps from my homescreen to another but they can't be deleted.

Yeah I deleted some but I ones I can't get rid of are the google ones and few others. The screen is what's using most of battery and brightness setting is in the middle.

To delete apps from the homescreen (or any screen) hold your finger on the app till you get the wastebin symbol at the top of the screen and then drag the app to the wastebin.

To see what's using your battery, go into settings and select battery, then select battery use - this will tell you what's apps are using the most power.

You'd probably need to root it.

I really can't see anything draining. Also just did the update with screwed with my fingerprint scanner but reboot fixed it. Feels slower since update though...

Is there anyway to remove apps that already on the phone? So got load of apps on homescreen that take up too much space and want to get rid of....I mean without having to install another app to do it..

Wish mi mover worked on my phone keeps disconnecting

Yes i didn't use mine till i found a case.Was worried about dropping it i got a case off amazon its cheap crap but will do till a better one comes along.Iv'e ordered one from aliexpress,Hopefully that will be better quality.

Just recieved mine ordered (29 Jan recieved 17 Feb) used mi mover to move apps and data from my nexus to this worked with no issues.
Only issue is how slippery the phone is. May have to look to get a case

Just ordered a case tempered glass and a spare sim card holder from aliexpress.I might try the sd card trick has anyone tried it yet.

Something is obviously draining the battery with the screen off. Try find what it is.

I think the cheapest it can be had for is now £138.

Strange one, I've found my battery to be fantastic. By the end of yesterday it was at 48% after usage throughout the day.

Agreed the battery is not what I expected. My p9 lite used to have a lot more battery left at the end of each day. Guess this has a bigger screen, but still expected it to be a bit better.

I just use morocco as it shares the same time zone as us...

Issues had before I sorted but, anyone have issues with battery. Idle time is 2d 16h 17m with screen time of 2h 44m and I'm down to 45%. That doesn't seem great to me if you look at on screen time which if was playing games or watching bit of video it would cap out around 4h mark which isn't that great and usually the standard.

Most of the on screen time has been little bit of web browsing, messing with settings and couple of phone calls.

Mine stillsm hasn't arrived and been on the same processing center message for 2 weeks. If I refuse delivery for the phone if it eventually does turn up down the line will it get sent back to China?

got 3 x kenzo RN3 last march when they come out, don't regret at all, use EE and Three no problem. This phone perfect for those on O2, Vodaphone networks, the ones I have not so

really am getting no where wi mi move for app transfer - what else does anyone else recommend in using ?

I have ordered a replacement for my broken one from Ali Express. Broken one is not the right size anyway. May take a wee while to get here, but willing to wait.

https://m.aliexpress.com/item/32764504398.html#autostay

First time order of a Chinese phone from Ali Express.
Picked this up for my Mum, had my doubts of what a sub £120 phone can do/be (used the ali express app to get the price above with £8 coupon off or something).
From ordering to delivery in my depot ( i am a postie) was 7 days, I have a S7 Edge, n whilst it doesn't have the super amoled screen and NFC of a Samsung premium phone, for what it does include for sub £120 is FANTASTIC!!
I use the finger print scanner on my S7 Edge, whilst good on the front it could be better, keep in mind the edge is a £500 + phone, the note 3 finger print scanner is on the back, (where the S8's is gonna be) and WOW is that thing accurate and fast!
Super smooth UI, massive battery, 5.5" screen, and what i was impressed with most of all was the build quality from Xiaomi.
If this is the effort and features they have in their entry level phones, i am very keen to try one of their premium models, the likes of which are still sub £250 massive price difference from the Samsung and Apple sim free pricing.
Overall Samsung and the like have got complacent in recent years, the likes of Xiaomi, and Blu Boo are hitting a market they have overlooked, and are doing a great job in the process, with the Samsung Note 7 debacle the big boys are gonna need to really step up their game!
Thanks again OP for the deal link, and all the comments and tips from the HUKD army!

Shouldn't be now, should be back to normal

Will there be a further delays with the Chinese new year?

How does the note 3 compare with the redmi pro?

how do i use mi move ?? after transfer of the apps etc it automatically disconnects then i have o option to do anything ??

I did exactly the same with my Redmi 3S... then I saw this video and stopped worrying about it

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5A6lSF8uvn8

Mines was intact when I got it. But I pulled it the wrong way out of the cardboard sleeve and it cracked.

Warning to others - the tempered glass is very fragile. Take care.

anyone know a good tempered glass for this from amazon? the one that came with it was cracked.

I took the plunge and the phone was delivered in less than 3 weeks from China.

Good phone - like it so far.

Might be an obvious one, but have you removed the back sticker? This covers the speaker.

​Really? I think the sound is excellent. Could be your unit perhaps.

​Could be due to exchange rate fluctuations

​I used xiaomi official store and it took 5 days once sent (I ordered on the Chinese New Year holiday when everything stops). I'd very much recommend. Got a Mi Band fitness band too and that came in one week, from seller MC Tech.

extremely DISAPPOINTED with the sound from the speakers put youtube on last night so tinny it was very bad - unless someone has tweak how to improve this it will be heading back to China..!

What a phone. Arrived yesterday and set up smoothly using Falkland Islands as the locale. Outrageous price for so much spec.
The other half is well jealous so I'll be buying another ASAP.

Would this phone still be good value at £140 with screen protector?

Have ordered about 4 or 5 phones from China and they normally take about 3-5 days once in the UK. HAd some cables that took 30 or so days to arrive once in the UK, but that was an exception (but they did turn up)

Mine has been sitting at UK processing centre status since Sunday monrning. Does anyone know how long its been taking to be delivered from when it arrived in UK?

Still hasn't arrived for me. Starting to get worried now. Been on the same message for over 9 days

How do i get the phone for this price? coming up at £133 gold £137 grey. Shipping set to usa

Thanks for the reply, I will do that .



Ok thanks, hope your right, don't know why I got that warning though I will ring EE to clarify tomorrow and will let you all know.

If it is all ok, I highly recommend this phone it's great . Only took 12 days to come with free delivery too.

Currently showing price as $164.99 for the gold, more for the grey. No option for warranty either. Is that right. Thanks!

So how long was delivery in total and what store? I think im going for this phone x

Thanks for posting the deal OP and thanks for all the info on this thread. It helped me make the jump to my first Chinese phone , coming from Nexus 4.

Anyone have any recommendations for a light weight minimalist case?

Had this since Saturday and I'm absolutely delighted with it, an absolute beast. Thanks to OP and everyone who helped answer my questions

Your locale is purely for your own personal localisation information and current time display, your provider will CLEARLY be able to see you are based in the UK using UK masts to make calls, texts and date within the UK!

​i sweet mine to India. no issues on data from three.

try find a place which has GMT as the default time.

Got it today great phone but there is a massive problem with it.

No choice for UK in LOCALE. So I set Germany, now I think my provider EE thinks im abroad, because I just got a 'Exceeded date usage,charges may apply' warning. (I should have 17gb left)
Im with EE and get 20gb p/m in UK and 500mb while in EUROPE.

Does anybody know if there's anyway to set UK in locale and if not how to fix this

case i ordered at same time as phone arrived today, lets hope the phone isn't far behind!!
14 days, not to bad.

update just received to miui 8.1.3.0

still marshmallow but always good to get optimisations etc. hopefully nougat to come sooner rather then later

Normal banking apps will work. However if you want to use an app, i.e. Android Pay, for contactless payments, then you won't be able to, as this phone does not have a NFC (near field communication) chip.

mine arrived today and it's the biz so far, but tempered glass screen protector was smashed in the box, have contacted them.

So far I'm VERY impressed for £125

Connected this via bluetooth to my Kenwood car stereo no problem, contacts are on the screen, won't dial out on the car stereo? Keep getting 'dial error'. I've allowed the car full access to the phone, tried reconnecting, to no avail. Odd thing is, if I ring on the phone, it comes through the car stereo, and I'm able to have a conversation! Can anyone help?

Shows up as $169.99 for me. Using mobile site and set destination to us at start. Is this offer still on?

my OH phone just turned up, happy days

Tried Coop, Barclays, Barclaycard and Vanquis. They all worked fine, device is not rooted.

Can anyone tell me if banking apps will work on this phone?
I'm assuming that you won't be able to pay for things like say applepay or whatever the android equivalent is.
Currently have a knackered iphone 6 and wondering if this is faster, the same, slower etc
Sorry...complete n00b

By default, MIUI won't show contacts stored on SIM. Open the "Contacts" app, then press and hold the menu button (bottom left capacitive button). Contacts options menu should appear. There will be a "Display Preferences" option and in it will be a "Show SIM contacts" toggle.

I had this phone for quite a while and even with more modern stuff coming out I highly recommend it. It's a much smoother phone in use than an umi z which has the new helio x27, which makes it also better than a Redmi note 4 with an x20. The battery lasts for ages, the screen to body ratio is really nice. Only issue is low light camera performance, but it's fine in decent light.

Also cant set it manually cos it wont let me go to part of site to do that.

im having issues...All my contacts are saved to sim but phone isnt detecting them. Also im not getting message for my data and pm messages.

I use tap to wake on my MI Max - but it just takes me to the lock screen which I then need to swipe - I don't use the fingerprint scanner (can't be bothered).

Install Radon Kernel/custom rom



Install Radon Kernel/custom rom

Mine got delivered on Saturday and generally delighted with it.

Minor quibble - waking it up from Lock. My old samsung woke up just by tapping the screen, great if you have it on a table beside you. This you've to press the power button or pick it up and use the fingerprint scanner on the back.

Anyone found a way to enable tap-to-wake?

Mine just arrived. Yay! Feels very nice in hand and gold color is nice but kinda wish paid bit more for black one lol. Take a bit time to get used to the not so punch colors (using samsung phones before)

Yep OH is on o2 so same network and gets 4G fine on hers

Took the plunge and bought the gray one, cost £128.16. I hope it don't take to long to arrive

Will 4g work on this using Giff gaff SIM

Picked my phone up from the post office yesterday, impressed so far just wished I had ordered a case and protector separately now as case that comes with it too tight as described and looks rubbish. Ordered a case now from aliexpress and screen protectors from eBay. Recommend the phone seems very easy to set up and super fast. Delivery took only 6 days from being posted to first attempt of delivery.

Grey currently OOS for $159.99 though stock coming and going of late (considering buying another while still available) - really impressed with it (and my Mi Max).

$157.99 when I follow the link into the AliExpress app? That's using US as a destination so no UK warranty charge - and free shipping. And that's on my phone (Mi Max).

went through quidco didn't add extras but it came up at $195.99 maybe it because I'm on my phone will have to try on the laptop and see if that helps

Works fine still for me, are you adding extras?

is this deal over, if not how do you I get it for £126.90, just coming up at £163 for me

Mine did i just went into settings and changed the name to my network,Plusnet.

I use Côte d'Ivoire. Same time zone as UK.

The other option is to flash Xposed Framework and use xMIUI module to change text and icon size. A pain I know.

Falklands will do.

Just got the phone and there is no option to choose UK as locale. What did you guys do?

Don't do it mate - bad karma.

Anyone using a BT sim with this phone showing it as being T-Mobile?

it makes text bigger on notifications when you pull bar down although it does make text bigger generally

Phone was delivered today.
Can't wait to set it up later.
Thanks HUKDers for all the advise and reviews on this phone

Heartily recommend MI MOVER from the Google play store for moving all your apps across to your new phone.

Connects your old and new phones together and installs all your apps to your new one.

Very smooth.

That doesn't change the status bar text. Apparently you need to find a theme that has a bigger font for the status bar but I haven't found any yet

That doesn't make any difference to notification bar at the top.Only to text size on screen.

Go to settings then display then text size and move slider at bottom of screen

anyone work out how to make text bigger in the notification bar at top of screen, default is so tiny

Mine arrived 2 days after that

Lsst update was yesterday morning and it said it arrived at processing center and arrive at transit country.

​Yes, I had to sign for mine.

Any reputable sellers offering the white version?

​I ordered tempered screen & case separately, arrived around the same time as the phone (within a day or so)

​I bought this phone in December.... 15 calendar days from order until it was in my hand. I opted for standard delivery and had no additional customs charges.
Great phone, using it now and very happy with it.

mine arrived, looks good. question on postage the royal mail tracking number shows it still in Heathrow, and no signature was asked for on delivery. Did any body else who received have to sign for it?

Sound quality on mine through headphones is excellent.

Have to disagree with you my phone as worked perfectly since i bought it 12 months ago there is nothing wrong with the official xiaomi chinese rom if the global was available when i bought it would have got that model obviously but no point whatsoever to flash it never get any problems with google no problems in getting rid of chinese apps only slight annoyance is the odd chinese notification and perhaps best part is tend to get miui updates earlier than the other models 2 days ago got ota to 8.1.2.0 not yet available for global or special edition and i certainly dont see any point in flashing cyogen or whatever its called i personally love the miui os

Sounds good to me.

Your phone need Flash ROM

Hi all,

Could somebody with the phone comment on the sound quality via headphone jack please?Reading conflicting reviews about it online.

Many thanks

OH's arrived yesterday. It updated MIUI straightaway and Google play was pre installed no bloatware or strange Chinese apps. She's very happy with it

Nothing received as of yet.

.................
2017-02-05 10:42
Arrive at transit country
.................
2017-02-05 10:42
【8】Arrival at Processing Center (Country code: GB)
.................
2017-02-05 09:54
Arrive at destination county
.................
2017-02-03 23:03
【8】Despatched to overseas (Country code: GB)
.................
2017-02-03 23:03
【GBLAL】Transit to Air Transit Centre
.................
2017-02-02 21:50
Received by line-haul
.................
2017-02-02 19:00
Security check success
.................
UK
Destination Country
2017-02-02 17:05
Notification of shipment confirmation
.................
CN
Original Country
2017-02-02 16:50
Outbound in sorting center
.................
2017-02-02 16:20
Inbound in sorting center
.................
2017-02-02 16:14
Accepted by carrier

Works fine here.

Nano and micro sim

I have the standard version of this phone (no band 20) had it since its launch last february and i am running it on the original chinese rom no global out then i'm still on chinese rom installed google services and play store my self and got rid of not wanted chinese apps and have never had a problem with google or anything else have had about 12 miui updates latest one yesterday to miui 8.1.2.0

i had this problem and it buggered with Google Now too. My unit went faulty so returned it for a refund and got a Nexus 6P

Nano or Micro. Think it is micro if you want to use an SD card as well but adapters are pennies on Amazon, just buy one of them and expand/cut down as necessary

https://www.amazon.co.uk/d/mb6/Noosy-Standard-SIM-Adapter-Iphone-Samsung-Galaxy/B00D8WC9Q0/ref=pd_sim_147_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=AN072VD5HV4PMYPET30J

What sim card size does this phone use? seeing conflicting results when I search?

​Yes.
I am a postie we deliver TONS of these every day, the sheer volume of Chinese stuff coming through our network now is overwhelming, Royal Mail recently done a deal with Ali Express to make it easier to ship goods to the UK, spare Chargers and cases for phones are like £2-3 delivered and free delivery at that, only downside is waiting 20-30 days in some cases.
But it's definitely opened up a new revenue stream.

Thanks, hopefully it comes tomorrow!!

​Yes it does come by Royal Mail, the regular postie delivered mine, after I gave him my signiture that is :wink:

I assume it came by Royal Mail, it came early and a housemate received it.

was it delivered by Royal Mail or some courier? in case I miss my delivery its then easy to pick up from Royal mail collection office

Does it just arrive on normal royal mail?

​I've ordered ones Iinked higher up in the thread, read back a few pages.

​if you're ordering one from aliexpress search for redmi note 3 152mm. that finds a lot.

also check out XDA for redmi note 3. it has an accessory post which shows lots which fit the Kate version here.

I ve ordered this phone, but wasn't sure on what case would fit it, can you link off to the one you ordered please?

Dang, missed the delivery this morning.

Just to add, it was printed on the parcel "Cellphone-total value $45" so no duty to pay.
Giffgaff 4g working straight out of the box. Google Play already installed, all apps, including Santander banking app working perfectly.
Lovely screen on the phone, feels great in the hand, and well put together, loving it so far, what a bargain :sunglasses:

Still want one of these -_-

Mine has arrived! Yay! Now just to wait for the case and accessories that I've ordered, all of which still seem to be in China.

United Kingdom
Destination Country 2017-02-05 09:54:00 Arrive at destination county
2017-02-03 23:03:07 【8】Despatched to overseas (Country code: GB)
2017-02-03 23:03:00 【GBLAL】Transit to Air Transit Centre
2017-02-02 21:53:14 Received by line-haul
2017-02-02 19:00:00 Security check success
2017-02-02 17:05:00 Notification of shipment confirmation
China
Original Country 2017-02-02 16:53:14 Outbound in sorting center
2017-02-02 16:23:14 Inbound in sorting center
2017-02-02 16:13:03 Accepted by c
This is what my is showing but phone just have been delivered.

Just got mine in the post this morning guys! Super happy so far :smile:

Thanks, ordered this morning.

And this is OH's current order for the Note 3

2017-02-04 18:28:49 【8】Despatched to overseas (Country code: GB)
2017-02-04 18:28:00 【GBLAL】Transit to Air Transit Centre
2017-02-04 18:28:00 Despatched to overseas (Country code: GB)
2017-02-03 19:00:00 【HONGKONG】Hand over to airline
2017-02-03 17:15:06 Received by line-haul
2017-02-03 12:29:00 Notification of shipment confirmation
2017-02-03 12:15:06 Outbound in sorting center
2017-02-03 11:45:06 Inbound in sorting center
2017-02-03 11:19:45 Accepted by carrier

So if it carries on in a similar fashion to last time, should be with her Fri/Sat this week!

If this helps, this is what happened to my Redmi 3S in relation to dates/events

2017-01-13 08:29:00 Delivered
2017-01-11 19:23:00 【8】Arrival at Processing Center (Country code: GB)
2017-01-11 19:23:00 Received at Processing Facility
2017-01-11 19:23:00 ARRIVED IN THE UK
2017-01-11 18:01:00 Arrival at Destination (Exchange Office)
2017-01-07 19:33:04 【8】Despatched to overseas (Country code: GB)
2017-01-07 19:33:00 【GBLAL】Transit to Air Transit Centre
2017-01-06 21:58:58 Received by line-haul
2017-01-06 19:00:00 【HONGKONG】Hand over to airline
2017-01-06 17:04:00 Notification of shipment confirmation
2017-01-06 16:58:58 Outbound in sorting center
2017-01-06 16:28:58 Inbound in sorting center
2017-01-06 15:55:50 Accepted by carrier
2017-01-06 08:56:20 Waiting for pick up

​doubtful. probably the week after would be my guess as it does get stuck a few places along the way

Shipped on the 5th and now departing from good old china. Think i'll get it beginning of next week or earlier? I only live 10 minutes from my sorting office.

It took 10 days from me ordering and phone being delivered from aliexpress. That was from fantacy. Sim tray wouldn't open so had to prise it open with sim tool pin. Apart from that the phone is great.

Absolute bargain at the price.

check your orders page, I had the same "internet problems" and it turned out my order had gone through each time, nearly ordering myself 4 phones.

wife tried to order but no matter what card we try it wont let us order just says 'internet problems'. giving up now will look elsewhere banggood etc

HK Goldway are definitely a quality, reliable seller. I actually bought 8 Xiaomi phones (6 for my staff) from them in two batches and no problems with either order.

ordered from Hongkong Gateway as suggested. Order now gone to "Payment Verification" status, not sure if this is what happened to my previous order

Order it from hongkong goldway, they are one of the most reputable sellers on aliexpress and i got my phone in 7/8 days (you have to select "sellers shipping method" but they guarantee you wont get slapped with a customs charge...i didnt), been using it a week now and its a brilliant phone, doesn't miss a beat

Will we not hit the same issue with Aliexpress wanting to verify identity? Or is it the end seller who's causing issues?

here
or here

Placed my order yesterday but order closed today and I have to send copies of my ID to verify...... Don't think so!!

So, are there alternate suppliers?

cant order due to need to verify, is this standard

£152 here before any discount or cashback....
http://www.geekbuying.com/item/International-Version-Xiaomi-Mi-Max-3GB-64GB-Smartphone---Silver-369768.html

I bought this phone last year. Never had any problems with it. Previous phone was a Samsung Galaxy Note 3. Battery life is great. Worked straight out of the box. All my apps work as they should including banking apps. I'll never pay for a contract phone again. At this price you can afford to upgrade regularly. Never had a problem getting a case to fit.

You're welcome.

I'll stick with my 3 year old Z3. Thank you.

​means if you have reported it either received or raise an issue with your order aliexpress assume the order is ok and they release payment to the seller

Mine has been shipped and now have this message.

Your order will be closed in: 59 days 14 hours 53 minutes.

What does that mean? Does it mean I have 60 days to report issues then it close it?

any mi max deals?

​Worse. Camera is just ok

camera?

I have bought off this seller on 3 occasions no problems dont forget all china have been on china new year holiday including post for week so there is going to be a backlog of orders to get out china is back to normal from today my items were shipped after 3 days so taking that as the norm and adding the 7day chinese new year break comes to your 10 day estimate

I had 5 days with my Mi Max, was dispatched after 3. If they don't fulfil within the time the order is cancelled and AliExpress refund your money - unless you want to extend the time they have to fulfil. At least thats how the process is meant to work.
Seller only gets paid by AliExpress after you've confirmed you've received your order.

​Nah thats common. Check his feedback unless they are a new seller i wont be worried

Now getting bit worried cos apparently this seller is shady....

Ordered late last night and says:

Processing time remaining: 10 days 15 hours and 45 minutes.

So this phone is roughly the size of an iphone 6 plus, Thanks very much for your help, I might get the same case.

Ah yes you do! Interestingly enough though, when i did set the currency to sterling, the price was coming a few quid higher.

​Should be here before the end of the month then, I can cope with that.

My Mi Max was 21 days using standard delivery, took 3 days after order for dispatch and the Royal Mail took 4 days after arriving in the U.K. After arrival in the U.K. You lose the tracking as it's Royal Mail sign on delivery.

It's more expensive....

Seriously though, you've not said what's important for you, clearly from specs the xiaomi is better spec', but maybe the ZTE does everything you need without paying the price for the xiaomi.

how this compares to ZTE nubia Z7 max recently posted
thanks in advance

​i tend to find its always closer to the former with aliexpress.

mine certainly came around the 25 day mark.

Yay, mines been shipped!...still says it could take between 20-40 days though :smirk:

Depends on the card. A few posts above I've linked a Halifax one which has no overseas transaction fee - ideal for purchases like these and trips abroad.

Yup. 2.99% and £1

I use this one its for the iphone 6 plus fits like a glove link https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00NMCXKFU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 can be bought cheaper from china but obviously lot longer delivery than amazon you may find it cheaper on ebay i got the brown one goes nice with the gold phone

Ordered.

Do you get charged when using a card to pay in USD?

How big is this phone compared to the iphone 7 plus? I was looking to get the sleeve pouch cases but can't find one specific to this phone.

you cant use paypal on aliexpress but you can on gearbest i have used gearbest 8 times paying with paypal never had a problem normally takes about 14 days for delivery although my last order took 4 weeks but that was over the xmas period

Buck thanks for this, they look great

I see PayPal as an option on these....is that a good way to pay from aliexpress?

Ok well just ordered. Hope it all goes smoothly and dont have any issues when I receive it!

I've had a couple of phones and countless techy bits and quadcopter related stuff from AE/GearBest/BangGood etc. Never had anything get lost

Something anyone buying this phone may be interested in are these Xiaomi Hybrid Dual Drivers Earphones Mi IV In-Ear Headphones Pro - SILVER i have these and they are superb for the price as good as any 80-100 pound set currently 12.42 at gearbest link http://www.gearbest.com/earphones/pp_261864.html or for 15.33 for gold gold also available from this seller on aliexpress link https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Original-Xiaomi-Mi-IV-Hybrid-Earphones-Wired-Control-with-MIC-for-xiaomi-MI3-MI5-Redmi-3/2178148_32670135392.html?spm=2114.12010612.0.0.ktyIcH as no earphones come with this phone well worth purchasing these at the same time

Anyone ordered one that got lost? Really tempted but main worry is it will get lost Really need a new phone! Between this and P9lite.

That case looks good but its for the redmi note 4?

Dont think it will fit this phone but if it does i'd be ordering one!

Here is a couple of cases that look good, i have this one:

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Micro-USB-Cable-For-Xiaomi-Redmi-Note-3-Case-Military-Camouflage-Armor-Phone-Cover-Case/32716693087.html?spm=2114.30010308.3.3.jwqfqf&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_1_10065_10068_10501_10503_10000032_119_10000025_10000029_430_10000028_10060_10062_10056_10055_10000062_10054_10059_10099_10000022_10000012_10103_10000015_10102_10096_10000018_10000019_10000056_10000059_10052_10053_10107_10050_10106_10051_10000053_10000007_10000050_10084_10118_10083_10000047_10080_10082_10081_10110_10111_10112_10113_10114_10115_10000041_10000044_10078_10079_10000038_429_10073_10000035_10121-10503_10501,searchweb201603_3,afswitch_3_afChannel,single_sort_3_default&btsid=8b338ff6-1f4d-46cb-b0aa-0c02920ffa07

Fits the phone very well, arrived within 6 days, super fast

I have also ordered this one:

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Xiaomi-Redmi-Note-3-Pro-Se-Special-Edition-Case-Matte-Hard-Coque-Back-Cover-For-Xiaomi/32789776380.html?spm=2114.30010308.3.23.lOux78&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_1_10065_10068_10501_10503_10000032_119_10000025_10000029_430_10000028_10060_10062_10056_10055_10000062_10054_10059_10099_10000022_10000012_10103_10000015_10102_10096_10000018_10000019_10000056_10000059_10052_10053_10107_10050_10106_10051_10000053_10000007_10000050_10084_10118_10083_10000047_10080_10082_10081_10110_10111_10112_10113_10114_10115_10000041_10000044_10078_10079_10000038_429_10073_10000035_10121-10503_10501,searchweb201603_3,afswitch_3_afChannel,single_sort_3_default&btsid=75cf7c11-4dd9-4658-904b-671688a59950

But the guy hasnt even shipped it yet and i placed this order before the first one. I guess some of them are on chinese new year holiday and some are working.

I keep one of these for such occasions. No overseas fees and protection that a credit card gives you

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/travel-credit-cards#halifax

The redmi note 3 pro se should be the correct one

I've had too many smashed phones i need to be able to get a descent case so unfortunately will probably go with this:

http://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/xiaomi-redmi-note-4-miui-8-mobile-phone-3gb-ram-32gb-119-93-ali-express-store-xiaomi-2597010?p=29955296

Pretty good deal if anyone else is worried about cases

Hi I am ordering through mobile website but its showing $157. Isnt it possible to pay in Pounds Sterling to avoid getting charged more for exchange rates by credit card. If I use app or PC to buy it adds up warranty thing. so confusing. Is there any method to avoid all this hassle and track quidco as well. Thanks any help will be very much appreciated

Tempted! Could some kind person please tell me which is the right case on this page, seems to be two options available. Thanks.

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/152mm-xiaomi-redmi-note-3-pro-special-edition-TPU-Case-Official-Global-international-Version-Taiwan-Edition/32778225691.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.CaYuI7&aff_platform=aaf&cpt=1485956766235&sk=Y7bAZbY&aff_trace_key=b2f751a06c03400ea539bd7c992be245-1485956766235-01199-Y7bAZbY

Regarding specifically camera quality - does anybody know how the camera on this compares with an iphone 4s?
Better, the same, worse?

Ordered 28/1/17 payment gone through but nothing showing yet in TCB. Has anyone else's TCB tracked?

I ended up paying more because I paid in dollars. So 2.99% stg fee and £1.00 transaction fee

I am a postie, so when it arrives in my depot!:stuck_out_tongue:
Ps thanks for the warranty info!

Is this phone available in white/silver anywhere?

Yet again.....

I've posted this on most AliExpress phone deals at some point..

Change your destination country to USA and order as normal with UK delivery, once it's in the shopping cart you can change your destination back to UK to pay in £, or just carry on and pay in $.

I'd suggest ordering via their app and creating an account before ordering, I got a $10 discount code I could apply. Also the tracking via the app is very straightforward, standard free delivery will more or less guarantee no import charges, typical delivery via free shipping is around 20 days with no tracking available after it arrives in UK and the royal mail get it - its royal mail signed for so next update is when its delivered.

On the product page, set US as shipping location, add the phone to cart, then in the cart set shipping to UK

For the love of god, please can someone tell me how to remove the replacement warranty, SCOURED the site for the option to remove it.
Cheers.

you will get tracking until it arrives in uk then royal mail take over but it never seams to track on their tracker but in my experience it takes about 3days after arrival in uk to royal mail postal delivery

this will work straight out the box, from what i'm aware the zuk z2 requires flashing. think the zuk z2 is better phone BUT only use if you know what you are doing technically to get it working

Thanks Buck. I'm just a bit confused as the shipping method on my order says "AliExpress Standard Shipping" no mention of DHL and I'd rather have standard 30 day shipping than courier as I'm in no massive rush for the phone....

Just interested what people think the shipping method will be...

Please can someone help I'm stuck deciding between this and the zuk z2 :disappointed: does anyone know how the cameras compare too? First time in hotukdeals - thanks!

you probably wont find one its only very recently that cases (tpu and flip) have become available for this phone outside of taiwan (this special edition originally realeased for taiwanese market ) you may find one in taiwan but its a nightmare to order from there as the dont deliver to uk you have to use a intermediary supplier now that cases are starting to appear you might find one in the future

If you use DHL as shipping you will have to pay custom charges i have on 3 occasions in the past but you do get the phone a lot quicker the last time i used dhl was for the redmi note 3 pro prime when it first launched last february (no band 20 and chinese rom) the phone cost 165 pound but the seller marked it as 100 dollars to keep custom charges down still had to pay 25 pound that include Dhl handling fee for paying customs on your behalf so phone cost me 187 pound but delivered in 7 days. Have since bought 2 of these for my kids and used aliexpress standard delivery and no custom charges the first phone took 15 days to arrive and the second one 25 days but that was ordered on the 11/11 sales day and this seller sold 10,000 that day and was the reason for longer delivery it was'nt dispatch for 10 days hope this will help you decide

Yep OH's shiny new Note 3 is waiting for them to come back after New Year. She's taking it quite well though.

I think you get automatically refunded if they don't ship within that processing time thing.

And as col said, Chinese new year....When I ordered this it said they were on holiday til 3rd Feb so it wouldn't ship til then

It's to give some reassurance that AE are keeping tabs on their sellers. Expect a little slower response times at the moment though due to Chinese New Year

Anyone know what the 'Processing Time Remaining' means as part of the order? It's like a count down timer.

Ordered Xiaomi Redmi 3s prime, then saw this for 20 more, cancelled order and ordered this one. Thanks.

Sorry, I don't know but I don't recommend the Note 3 if you're after a decent camera phone.

Anyone found a good rugged case?

I really like the look of this but dont seem to make it for the 152mm version: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Metal-Aluminum-Border-Silicone-2in1-Totally-Protection-Back-Cover-Case-For-Xiaomi-Redmi-Note-4-Redmi/32767782543.html?

Yes. Probably runs better. Nova launcher.

Has anyone been hit by customs charges on these orders yet? Just looking at the pictures (from the link provided) says
7. Customs Duty. DHL shipping may need to clear customs. 95% that you need to pay customs taxes.

I have imported a few phones from China and never needed to pay customs yet....

​nope, I've got nova and action launcher installed as two of probably 100 apps and loads of games.
miui uses a fair chunk of ram so 3gb models over 2gb is my recommendation.

but works fine.

If I install a custom launcher , google launcher for example, will these affect the phone performance

​camera isn't great, won't be miles worse but if camera is important then worth a think. maybe Google for some sample shots to help you decide

I have been very fortunate. Ordered 21 Jan, arrived today, 31 Jan. No import taxes.
Now to get it set up and decide if MIUI 8 or Lineage is the way to go.

I have a p9 lite at the moment, do you think this camera would be worse? looking to move to this phone due to 16gb being a pain at the moment.

Technically yes, but the software is always patchy and many custom ROMs have the kernel set to permissive by default.

Good example is nougat, multitasking barely works, multiwindow is a shambles, and there's constant system drain no matter what.

I stand corrected these are new models i was'nt aware of nice to see xiaomi now supporting band 20 with more choice

There's actually 3 other Xiaomi phones that have band 20. The Redmi 3S, Redmi 4A and Mi Note 2. Although the RN3 Pro SE is the only one that has slightly different dimensions compared the non band 20 RN3 Pro.

the indian snapdragon rn4 does not have band 20 support this at the moment is the only xiaomi phone with band 20 it was originally launched for the Taiwanese market and has since found its way to europe thats why untill very recently you could not find cases and screen protectors outside of Taiwan

Correct me if i am wrong but isnt the OP3T an absolute beast of a phone?

They rave about it on XDA

That's what I thought you were going to say - similar thing happens with my Huawei P6 (UK-purchased, used as a backup only now). Yeah, even the previous LG model, the G2's camera will be noticeably better than this, & possibly even the model before that.

Mine should be here tomorrow, so I'll have to decide whether this + lineage 14.1 is better than my OP3T with OOS 4 :disappointed:

I have a steady hand, but sometimes your subjects aren't so steady and the slightest movement produces massive blurring, my old LG G3 had a far better camera on it, admittedly it was a flagship phone for a time...

Keeping a very steady hand will definitely help, but I know what you mean. It's the main reason I'll never buy one of these mid-priced Chinese-sourced phones. May consider a Xiaomi Mi5 series phone though in the future as the cameras in those are supposed to be good (from reviews).

I have this phone, its fantastic, BUT if you really need a great camera in your phone do not buy this as the camera is what lets this phone down. Taking pictures in anything but fantastic lighting quickly produces blurred, grainy images and tbh, even in good lighting its very easy to get blurred photos.

​Yup

​It's already selling like hot cakes in India which means it should have band 20 too and is already on the international market. Won't be long.

​Not ready rooted. Barclays app works fine in UK and that particular one is very picky

how does this compare to the zuk z2?

also which has a better camera? I heard it's not great...

Either sync to Google and then log into your new phone with the same account or use Miui Move (from the Play store)

Sync them with Google and use the same account.

Or export to vcf file in the contacts app and transfer to the new and import.

My phone just arrived, took 9 days in total (i ordered from hong kong goldway on aliexpress...a highly reputable and recommended seller) paid more but they pretty much gaurantee that you wont get slapped with customs charges (they shipped the phone to France first) and delivery was super fast.

This phone looks and feels great in the hand, very well built (thanks REV)

What would be the best/easiest way to export my contacts list from my Motorola Moto G?

That's the silver one. The grey one is grey and black.

If MIUI works for you good

Personally I prefer a very stock android which has the apps I choose to install

That's the beauty of android you have choices

Not looking girly or anything like that at all.
The gray one has the top (around the screen) in white, which is horrible. Of course looks are subjective, but might help someone that avoids gold for fear of not knowing how it looks like. It's fine, really.

Can't really justify a fifth phone just want to try one of these as heard lots about them. I'll bite if I can get one sub 100

Camera probably won't be.

Will this be better than my Samsung note 3???

​yep comes with the global ROM which has all Google play services installed by default

we do get the google play store on this right ?

would you not be better going the whole hog and getting a new one ?

Kenzo/Kate is the top #2 installed LineageOS device. CM is now LineageOS.

https://stats.lineageos.org/

not sure if i will.....but just getting prepared if i can't stand it when i try it

LineageOS (close to stock Android) is much quicker then MIUI. Their recent updates have been pretty pointless. Adding calendar events? Really.

Why would you want to do this?
I've spent lots of hours rooting phones and installing custom software, but that was in the days where custom software gave you access to new features or improved performance, in the last few years the manufacturers have really improved their software and I haven't needed to muck about with the software. Miui is pretty good, and the company seem to be keen to develop the features taking into account customer feedback and requests. I haven't yet found anything in Miui that I don't like - but everyone is different.

Both are Android, just MIUI is highly modified. Yes. There are plenty of custom ROM's at XDA.

Is it possible to replace the MIUI with Android? Far from an expert on these things, but is this called rooting it or something?

you will get a OTA update to miui8 when you first put phone on nad finish set up just make sure you have enough battery before you do the OTA update it takes about 20mins dont be worried about the screen being black for long periods just leave it go like i said takes about 20mins

it is about the same here is a youtube link comparing them https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIibCm1dYSk

Thanks for the detailed info don coop, much appreciated! :smiley:

Thanks for the advice rev6, much appreciated :smiley:

​unless the seller has tinkered with the phone this will come with boot loader locked and not rooted.

it'll come with miui7 and so recommend updating to miui 8 as soon as you can.

​most people will say the Snapdragon versions are the better to buy. better performance and they generally are better supported in the custom ROM community.

xiaomi have just released a Snapdragon version of the note 4 so you could hold out for that, might be a while though.

I'd get this over the 4 MTK version.

Anyone know if the phone is already rooted? I know these cheaper android phones used to always be rooted, which can cause some apps like banking apps to not work.

Wondering if this is still the case?

I'm getting seriously confused by all the different Xiaomi models, can anyone tell me if this Redmi Note 4 on Geekbuying would be better than the deal posted here? [HK Stock][Official Global ROM] 5.5inch Helio X20 MT6797 Deca Core 3GB RAM 32GB ROM 13.0MP 4100mAh Metal Body - Silver £139.87. Cheers!

Lol what you mean?
Just frustrating... I shouldn't try to understand people's action s lol just confuses me

Thanks for the clarification, was worried. I also read the T&C and saw nothing.

I cancelled an order, it's cancelled on both ends, money is showing on my current balance, I assume it takes 7-10 days to appear as available again.. Not seen anything about cancellation fee's, even on their T&C.

Slow night bud I take it ?

Someone was selling one of these on eBay.
I mailed him to ask for a bin price and he said around 85 mark. I replied saying that would be fine, and asked if he could clarify whether the blemish was on the screen or the bezel as was hard to see from photo. He replied immediately saying he would get a photo to me asap.He then proceeded to list it with bin price for 110+ postage (10quid) with no best offer option. I didn't bin as that was quite different from the 85 he said he would be happy with. Then like an hour past and it was still at 110. I closed the tab for 10 mins then when I come back it says it's been sold for 70 (+ postage)
...
I'm confused as like I said no best offer option was available .
I can only guess he reduced the price from110 bin to 70 buy it now in the 10.min interval I had the tab closed. I just don't know what he would have accepted 70 when clearly I'd said to him I would pay the 85 (+postage) he originally said he wanted.
All I can think of is that someone else was messaging him and offered him 70 and he jumped at that and edited the lsitk g to they could get it immediately. Just seems like a bizzare thing to do when he clearly knew I was going to give him more for it (and to be fair he probably would have got the 100 for it had he waited it out) it was also only listed today so not like it had gone unsold for a while.
Arghhhh.... Just irritatimg people seem to make odd choices, also annoyed haha that whoever got it an amazing bargain (80quid delivered!!)

They charge you to cancel even if they haven't shipped the item? Fudge, I cancelled the order 3 times but ended up ordering 2. How would I know if I was charged?

Not even comparable I'm sorry to say.
The processor is far more capable in this, it has 3gb ram, a compass (hall sensor, not on moto g) and 32GB of internal memory. This is a 5.5 inch screen and the build quality is top notch. Battery is bigger. I've been frustrated by the crappy performance of my moto g 3rd gen, have seen the dissapointing spec of the 4th gen and having owned this phone for about 3 weeks can confidently say that this handset takes the crown of the sub 150 smart phones. Then, just in case you weren't convinced, takes out it's appendage and urinates in a firehose like fasion all over any budget offering from motorola,

Worth the wait for this

plenty of people moan about 8gb being unusable. after switching to this 32gb phone I'm NEVER getting 16gb again.

so happy to have changed from my Moto x play.

little bit extra ram means just a bit better performance, but battery and storage makes this a million times better. got so many of my humble bundle and Amazon app store games on it's ridiculous.

miui is fine, nova launcher and everything else is no bother (miui 8 much better than 7).

hear nougat has been spotted for the redmi note 3... would imagine kenzo rather then Kate but bodes well for an update ( official one anyway).

Ordered....

comes up as £135.40 with select from china option?

my order was cancelled for security reasons...

Ordered it, thanks all for the advice (especially OP) :smile:

Some reviews

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdmPKZSVT4Y
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wbw1Mqv-zRU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIibCm1dYSk&t

According to SWMBO, looks too princessy... What ever that means

Still showing as 20% for me in the quidco app

The gold one looks better than the gray one, imo

​A few have had errors, or can't process orders.

None from me using Barclaycard. Went through normal security check via the Barclaycard website. However I only ordered an hour ago.

Would like to get his but I see PayPal is not accepted . Has anyone had any problems using a credit card on aliexpress in terms of security?

I don't know if this is expired as it is showing 8.4% now. I'm waiting to see if mines has tracked.

Went for the plunge :smiley:.

I'll admit i'm not the greatest with custom ROM's, and all that jazz. I just need this phone to act like my falling-to-bits HTC One M8.

Read the reviews, watched some videos, and this looked too good not to buy. Hope all is well when it comes!! :sunglasses:

Can i cancel my order from yesterday to get this deal with possible 20% quidco without being charged cancelation cost by aliexpress? Thanks in advance for help

Yikes guess so... Thanks

quidco hasn't tracked yet

how long did it take for others?

Managing expectations during Chinese new year

Is it normal to have a 17-18 day waiting time on dispatch? o_O

No idea. It's the same for their Global Redmi 4A. Two listings with different prices and stock. Their availability is also strange. On one listing they make a phone unavailable without adding an extra but then make it available on its own on another listing.

Not sure on the time limit but certainly the Quidco app currently says 20% for AliExpress. There is a post on HUKD about it http://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/20-aliexpress-cashback-also-up-50-off-shoes-bags-sports-outdoors-fashion-via-quidco-2608686

I've heard ppl complain that it doesn't pay out but mine did on my Redmi 3S.

The premier membership is worth it but you'd get your 20% even with the standard account

From the website or app search for AliExpress and follow that link to the website and then find your item and purchase in the normal way. As said above, make sure you clear your history (cookies etc) if you have been looking on Aliexpress previously or use another device/pc

right if i can get this figured out i'll take the plunge. what time is the 20% on until?
first thing to get round is need to decide what account type on qudco i want - standard or the £5 premium?
then if someone can give me a step by step guide on how to to order this via quidco... i'll be eternally grateful lol

confused, why would they have the same phone but under 2 different listings & be different prices?

In the end we went via this link

Original Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro Prime Special Edition 5.5" LTE Snapdragon 650 Hexa Core 3GB 32GB Fingerprint Metal Body FCC
http://s.aliexpress.com/nmYnUNja
(from AliExpress Android)

Worked out at £128.91 in Grey (a little cheaper in Gold)

Remember to either clear your cache/cookies if you've been looking at this and then want to buy via Quidco (or use another device)

Quidco tracked

£133.67 now from China and have to select official std gold version?

oh also i've literally just joined quidco now, never used it before. So if anyone can post a step-by-step guide on what I need to do to get the quidco on this that'd be great :smiley:

also do I go for premium quidco account or standard?

Another listing from the same seller that seems to be the exact same but marginally cheaper. Also "Official Standard" is available for Gray for £128.10 whereas in the deal link, it's unavailable without adding "Tempered film".

are you talking about hudk in general or aliexpress

ok so I know that quidco only goes through if approved by the selling site, so would that in this case be aliexpress or would it be down to the actual seller which in your case was fantasy but in this case will be xiaomi online store?

Have been debating over this as a spare

The quidco offer pushed it for me, just hope they pay out

If they do its the bargain of the century lol

Thanks for the heads up

Wow! That decided it for my OH, ordered and tracked via Quidco. Thank you so much.

its a activity tracker and watch i have one of these they are every bit as good as a fitbit at much lower price i paid 18 pound for mine from gearbest tracks heart rate, steps,sleep,and calories also a watch and can set for various alerts like incoming calls, texts with caller id and for apps ect works with any smartphone through mifit app battery is excellent had mine on 3 weeks now and still 71% on battery this will deplete quicker the more alerts you set

Mine tracked and paid out no problem for my Redmi 3S (via Fantacy)

how exactly does quidco work? is it simple to use?
also why do people seem to think that quidco wont come through on aliexpress deal (seen this written a few times by people on here)
been tempted by the redmi note 3 for a while now but ideally wanting around the 100 mark (as really dont need), if quidco tracked then i'd get back 20% on approx 130 (is that correct) which seems like a large %

still deciding if i want this

wife has a Oneplus 2 looking to upgrade that would this be a step up?

20% with quidco for the next 3 hours...

Thank you.

Yes.

Hi, can you please tell me if it has a missed message (LED?) notification light for whatsapp/texts/missed calls?

In case it helps, I purchased a mi 5 from aliexpress a month ago. The company was goldway. I did select DHL and I did pay import tax of about £14 on a purchase price of £204 including warranty and delivery. It ordered on the 29/12/2016 and it came on the 6/1/2017 so pretty fast. I was happy with the purchase and would use again. Goldway lowered the price of item to avoid paying too much tax. I had to prepay the import duty tax to DHL before they would deliver, but \i would use the service of aliexpress, goldway and dhl again and probably will.

very ​interesting, I'll look into lineage

Sure most people will have seen this, but for the impatient:

"During this holiday The shipping company also will be off work ( from Jan.23th to Feb. 3rd) so all the orderes paid( from Jan.23th to Feb. 3rd) will be delayed
Thanks for your kind understanding.
After the holiday we will handle the emails and orders asap,any needs please leave us messeges"

Thank you :smiley:

It will work fine on ALL UK 4G networks

Ordered :smiley: Cant wait. I had the payment error a few times. To resolve I clicked pay by other method and could still pay for visa and this went straight through. Waiting for confirmation email now as checked out as a guest. Anybody know if this works on EE/Virgin network? Thank you

Looks like a good time to be going sim only, some great deals about at the moment.

http://www.hotukdeals.com/search?action=search&keywords=Sim+only

​but they are great for security. the first thin
g a theif does is turn off phone or remove battery. some security apps wont allow device to be switched off unless you unlock with code.

Yeah I wouldn't go for one of the slightly cheaper ones with Hardly any feedback....This seems the safer seller choice.
Very tempted don't need a fifth smartphone. It's this or the lenovo p2. Wish I could snap up a used note 3 nearer the 100 mark

I think I'm going to get this looks great what would be a bargain sim only deal to use in this phone only need about 3-4 gig data thanks

Does this allow for the monthly security updates from google?

Have a bad habit of losing my cash cards had 3 replacements in 12 months. I don't like wallets in pockets forget which jacket/jeans my cards are in go out without. Android pay has been a bit of a save lots of times. My job involves me getting changed into a uniform just find don't forget my phone. Its a pretty big plus for me, but can live without. Its a great price good value. Cant justify another new phone so will hold off a few more months. :smiley:

Like a fitbit (activity tracker)

Way better screen

what is mi band 2 on ali express is this needed for UK?

the good thing with aliexpress is they hold the payment untill you confirm you received the phone and are happy with it then they release the payment to the vendor

Thanks......think I'll get this ordered

the redmi note 3 is better than s5 it is comparable to the s6 in performance antutu score rdn3 78000 s6 81000 s6 has a better camera and slightly better screen but costs 3x as much

it is about the same here is a youtube link comparing them https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIibCm1dYSk

​I used this app to transfer from my Mi4 to my Mi5. Dead easy, and moved absolutely everything, even down to WiFi passwords.

There is also this https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.miui.backup.transfer
to transfer your stuff across

Thanks.

Don't use Kies, really only use it for browsing (with Firefox) and email. Occasional photos and apps like Spotify and Navmii.

If it's running Android I guess I'd adapt no probs.

Changing shipping on first page to US, add phone to cart then in checkout set shipping to UK

Went to buy and it comes to more as you seem to have to take the warranty and you can't use PayPal

Depends really on your expectations, if you use stuff like Kies it may take some adjustment and I can't really say what you would find disappointing as I don't know you. I've had HTC's and Sony Xperias in the recent past but I wouldn't go the contract route or paying outright for "known" brands again. Should bear in mind that Xiaomi are a massive tech company, just a bit underground in UK/Europe. I had a Uhans S1 as my first dabble with imported phones and that convinced me that this was the way to do it. Slick, slim phone with bags of power for under 90quid. Unfortunately, I needed more battery life so switched to a Redmi 3S and it's been faultless.

At the moment, I don't think it really is. Many people prefer the Snapdragon in the Note 3 but there is a Note 4 on the way with a newer Snapdragon, when they also release that with Band 20 then that would be my choice over the Note 3 but as of now I would (and did) stick with the 3 (albeit a Redmi 3S in my case).

How does this compare to Samsung S5?

I've had Samsungs for last 5 years or so, so am kinda attached to them. I've had my S5 for 3 years but am looking to upgrade. Would this fit the bill? I'm reluctant to spend 300+ on any phone so I'm tempted by this.

Would I be disappointed?

I meant the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4

Samsung note 4? It's not..

I didn't post the other links as the seller has very few orders completed on AE. I tend to stick to the other "official" Xiaomi store, Fantacy (where my own phone came from) and Hong Kong Goldway.

No one has picked up on this yet, it's obviously cheaper. Both links you've posted definitely look like 'Kate' version

The grey one works out cheaper in these new links you've posted. Might go for it.

Does the same go for colgrigson's post too?

link for flip case https://www.aliexpress.com/item/For-Xiaomi-Redmi-International-Edition-Note-3-Phone-Case-Stand-Wallet-Leather-Flip-Cover-For-Redmi/32764172838.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.XblfIR
link for tpu case https://www.aliexpress.com/item/152mm-xiaomi-redmi-note-3-pro-special-edition-TPU-Case-Official-Global-international-Version-Taiwan-Edition/32778225691.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.CaYuI7&aff_platform=aaf&cpt=1485566484706&sk=Y7bAZbY&aff_trace_key=95c09a09a902405291163e25a92b2738-1485566484706-00868-Y7bAZbY
link for glass screen protector https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Official-Global-Version-For-Xiaomi-Redmi-Note-3-3i-pro-prime-special-Edition-Mobile-Phone-Case/32764504398.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000014.1.hisvcT&scm=1007.13338.50051.0&pvid=050aa77b-b281-441f-a667-e7bbdfbbfce9&tpp=1

Anyone ordered from Ali express ? Take long?

I think whatever you use will be fine

https://youtu.be/5A6lSF8uvn8

Can't see an iPhone ever matching this

​Redmi 4 might not cover 4G on your network, as it has no band 20/800. This has killed it for me being on GiffGaff, which is why I've ordered this note 3 :wink:

ordered for the missus,anyone who has the phone what case/screen protector did you order,and happy enough with the protection they offer?

cheers

Thanks for the info. Sorted now :smiley:

My Redmi 3s was about 13 days too but someone posted in another thread that Chinese customs shut down for a week or so for Chinese New Year so could be longer.

The value of the package is marked so that it is below the UK VAT/Customs limit so I had no problems with customs charges. Others have said that if you pay for courier you do get charged customs fees.....so choose the free postage option.

Thinking about a Redmi 4 - anyone got any advice?

How much better is the Note 4 over this?

Thanks

Yep.

​I thought Mi Max was lacking the NFC chip.

I had a mi max , but could not get android pay to work, is it because it's a non standard operating system, mi max was way to bug so looking for another as I love xiamoi

I dont get all this technical stuff, but I moved from a Moto G to this (but I paid £18 more than this deal), the phone arrived in 2 weeks from the 'official store' on Aliexpress, and worked out the box, it receives 4g on vodafone, I put a 64gb sd card in, and have installed loads from the play store and havent touched the sides yet on memory usage.
In my opinion this is the best phone I have yet had (but that isnt saying much as I tend to buy cheap), I would recommend this absolutely, the battery lasts 3 to 4 days for me on average usage (the moto G needed recharging daily), the interface seems quite usable (I manage without issues), and it came preloaded with the play store and 4g support (many seem to question this - not an issue on this phone on Vodafone)

​Huh?

Please refrain from sharing such private details. The thread is about a Xiaomi phone!

No, but as your Debit card is 'flashier' than this, pull that out to pay in shops instead - it will impress the shop assistant just as much.

As soon as I posted, I remembered having an Ainol tablet a few years ago, and that claimed it was a Samsung Galaxy Tab. I guess that was for a similar reason.

Your link is for the Redmi Note 3 Pro - "Kenzo" (no Band 20) and not the same as this deal which is the Redmi Note 3 Pro Special Edition - "Kate". I'm not 100% certain but there doesn't seem to be a silver/white option for the "Kate" Special Edition. XDA thread questioning it's availability. It doesn't seem like anywhere sells a silver/white "Kate". If you look at Geekbuying's RN3 page for example, silver/white is only an option for non international version "Kenzo" whereas "Kate" is black/grey or gold options only.

im using this phone now i got from aliexpress and put Cyanogen mod on it runs like pixel now

Got the silver here, the seller seems new though

Or grey here

Original Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro Prime Special Edition 5.5" LTE Snapdragon 650 Hexa Core 3GB 32GB Fingerprint Metal Body FCC
http://s.aliexpress.com/YNnmmiYv
(from AliExpress Android)


Original Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro Prime Special Edition International Version Mobile Phone Snapdragon 650 32GB ROM Fingerprint ID
http://s.aliexpress.com/v2E77fIV
(from AliExpress Android)

Vulkan API only works on S7 etc so it changes phone name to fool google play

BTW well done I wondered who would be the first to notice

Its all on XDA

I posted a link to the ROM earlier
Unofficially unlock your bootloader and install twrp
Flash firmware
Flash ROM
Flash gapps
Flash radon
Flash magisk
Flash vulkan API
install phh superuser if you game
Install magisk manager
Install substratum

Don't be intimidated twrp is your insurance if you make a mistake just start again

​Why does the device name say it's a galaxy note 4?

This is a problem with the International versions; had the same with my daughter's 3S and had to go for silver.

Having used the phone for the past week, I have found no issues at all with the global ROM it shipped with. It's snappy, has a good screen, and a premium look and feel. Battery is better than most as well. The camera is perfectly adequate, especially considering the price. I was going to flash a custom ROM straight away, however I'm going to use miui8 for the next while.

RN3

It is. Original Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro Snapdragon 650 Hexa Core 5.5" Mobile Phone 1920x1080 16MP 4000mAh 4G LTE Metal Body Fingerprint
http://s.aliexpress.com/nMFJbyyA
(from AliExpress Android)

I want the grey one. That looks the best IMO

Original Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro Snapdragon 650 Hexa Core 5.5" Mobile Phone 1920x1080 16MP 4000mAh 4G LTE Metal Body Fingerprint
http://s.aliexpress.com/nMFJbyyA
(from AliExpress Android)

This one is cheaper. It comes in silver or gold. No grey.

THIS ONE HAS 2GB RAM!

They say 20-40 days however I ordered and it took 13 days.

​What phone are those screen shots from?

How do i buy this without the tempered film in grey? It's coming up as £130 for me. I've already got a gold one but was waiting for the grey to come down in price from reputable Chinese retailer

Cool. Do you have any tutorials?

​When I say 'any ROM' I'm referring to official ones

​The UK is not in any ROM up to press. I always choose India, others have said choose the Falklands

bought the xiaomi redmi note 4 from AliExpress. It came without instructions and not able to select UK even though it was supposed to be the global version

​Limited tracking, shows dispatched, leaving china, arriving UK etc

Yes, the AliExpress app is excellent for tracking, until the royal mail get their hands on it as in the UK it's royal mail signed for so you can see it arriving at Heathrow, then the next you know of its whereabouts is when its delivered.

Yeah, I won't move up to Nougat till I can get a working version of xposed - I have too many apps that rely on it!

This is a known bug that you will find on all nougat roms, this is not kernel specific, flashing kernel will not fix your occasional camera crashes, you have to live with it until devs find a solution or xiaomi releases nougat for kenzo. If you want perfect camera/flash then you should try marshmallow roms.

Also no xposed for Nougat

I used to love Cm back in the days when I had a HD2, but settled on stock ROM's that I could mod with xposed. I might have a look at Lineage but it would only be when they're rock solid - a patchy camera wouldn't appeal :wink: I've got a Samsung Note 4 at the mo and was contemplating it, but the N4 version is still pretty buggy.

https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=673368273298926231

Camera can be a bit hit and miss (thanks Xiaomi)

Which version of Lineage is that? Are there any issues with day to day usage?

Does the standard shipping come with tracking? I'm hesitant when buying from China.

You want this phone running sweet?

Flash lineage os unofficial by the strix
Radon kernel
Want to play PoGo? install magisk manager and phh superuser from the Play store (do not install root from dev options)
Also you can install Substratum and my favourite theme swift dark
Lastly install Vulkan API to play all of the latest games
Battery life is insane

you could not have had a xiaomi phone with same spec a few years ago because the snapdragon 650 was launched initially for the standard version of this phone (no band 20) last february specifically for the indian market there were earlier versions with mtk cpu which are a lot slower than the snapdragon and if you never had any ota updates you must have had a vendors custom rom installed on it . I have the snapdragon 650 version of this phone since its launch last february and have had at least 10 ota updates in that time the last one being a update from android 5.1.1 (lollypop to android 6 marshmallow ) this version will come with android 6 but will probably have miui 7 and will ota to the new miui 8 once you turn it on so dont know what phone you had afew years ago if it was a redmi note 3 then it must have been a mtk model with a custom rom

​Mi5

Shane no NFC.... does anyone know of an xiaomi with NFC with good spec?

Ordered before xmas from this seller, arrived in Wales after 20 days, no customs. Quidco still tracking though...

Nice story, shame you veered off on some weird tangent defending a phone that I wasn't berating!
Is it Lenovo's "flagship" phone? No. My point entirely. Was I talking specifically about this phone? Nope. Is the LG G5 an amazing phone? No. Was is LG's flagship in 2016? Yes.

Brilliant phone. Bought one for when it was £150. Used for about 7 months and just sold it last week through gumtree for £135. :-).
This is a very good price.

The battery is massive in this 4000mah. Lasts really well. I don't think that it will be an issue.

​64GB of storage is more than enough for most people

Yeah I agree, it's not for the faint hearted, the guide is very easy to follow but Miui is a good enough skin for most people whereas ZUI is beyond ****

What phone was it?

can not update android software, tried to get fault sorted but got no help from the company.

​Pedantic nonsense. The ZUK specs match the OP3 and the other SD820 competitors. The G5 was a total failure with build quality issues and the modular gimmick being whitewashed by Motorola who do it cheaper and better. Yes it's camera is not as good, but it has a better DAC than most flagships, an excellent innovative physical button implementation that the rest don't have and its build quality is much better than something like the LG G5.

Works perfectly fine here.

Global Dev now has UK. So I assume stable will get it next.

what new update?

I got a Xiaomi a few years ago. the same spec as this one. unable to get software updates for the operating system. does not work that well. I would advice to stay away as it has no support if anything goes wrong.

I have this phone, got it from aliexpress during 11.11 & paid £150 so this is hot! An amazing phone for the price, lightning fast, nice large full HD screen! Also has a IR blaster which is really handy! (can connect it to any device that has IR basically, whether its a TV, Stereo, AV or AC unit etc.. Battery life is also really good, lasts about 2 times longer than my Iphone 6s, a true all day phone.

The fingerprint sensor is at the back which is a bit odd at first, but its actually quite a good place to have it when you think about it!

4G on O2 works fine, unsure about other networks!
Also, looks and feels really nice in your hand, people often confuse it for a samsung s6!

If anyone has any questions please let me know and I will do my best to answer.

Lineage OS here. I'll try MIUI again eventually.

If you've not used removable batteries and you've no issues then I wouldn't worry. For power users or people that travel, the ability to swap and go is fantastic. I have an external charger for my batteries when I'm travelling and charge using that, the phone is barely ever connected.

http://www.xiaomidevice.com/xiaomi-redmi-note-4-pro.html

Not sure if it's widely available though.

But honestly how much more inconvenient is a portable charger over a new battery? They do the same thing but without having to swap a battery out don't they?

​India version with Snapdragon launched this week.

​Time for a new phone?

I've been forced to carry a portable charger with my HTC M8 for 6 months as I can't face the ordeal of opening it up, with hair dryer and razor blades, disassembling the entire thing, every single ribbon cable and connection and component and hopefully putting it back together so it still functions. Granted not all phone batteries are this hard to replace.

Out of interest, why?

I have never felt the need to remove a battery in any modern day smart phone, and the Redmi series have fantastic batteries so I don't feel like I need to carry a spare battery.

What's the advantage in removal batteries?

as far as i am aware there is no snapdragon version of the redmi note 4 only mtk if you have link for a snapdragon version can you please post

​i use Morocco, as it's same timezone as GMT

Flip case : ​https://m.aliexpress.com/item/32771118827.html#autostay
Tempered screen protector : https://m.aliexpress.com/item/32776847425.html#autostay

Yes, it is; I thought that the person was referring to the cases on the phone page, which are the official ones and too small.

​I have tis very fone, bought from these vendors. Standard delivery option, arrived to N Ireland in 15 days. You will be well pleased with the quality.

​Set deliver to USA then remove warranty. Delivery details can be changed at payment

​Plenty of official cases, just be sure to search for Redmi Note 3 Pro SE

The SoC is better on the Redmi Note 3. 650 vs 625. The P2 is £210 in most cases. I'd go for this at the current prices.

Well this is around 130 and the p2 is 199 so at those prices points 70 quid difference. Is the p2 worth it.
P2 has more ram but this phone seems to have a much better antutu score (that confuses me)
XDA support doesn't really bother me as sadly I'm not tech enough to do anything like that.
So xiaomi will honor there warranties? The fact p2 is from a UK retailer is instinctively mroe appealing howere issues/bugs have been reported and lenovo don't seem interested (no update in the works and they locked the thread on their forum that was posted re the bugs) so although they seem more trusyy on paper I'l don't know that translates irl

Just been - P2 bought, no top up needed or asked for. Two year warranty on this phone as well apparently.
I took an old 3 Sim that I had lying around, and asked the salesman not to open the box and keep it sealed. He even cut the old sim down to nano size for me even though I presume it is dead!
haven't tried the phone yet as need to get my regular sim cut down.

At this price? The Redmi Note 3. It does have the better SoC and the developer support is unreal (XDA, etc). Now if you're talking more towards £150/160 then probably the P2. The battery life is insane and the AMOLED screen is a nice touch. Xiaomi are quite reliable when it comes to hardware so if the warranty puts you off it shouldn't be too much of a concern. Unless it's DOA of course.

Rev, you seem to know your stuff. How does this compare with the lenovo p2? Which would you go for?

Redmi Note 3. The rest isn't all that important once you bought it. Unless you're buying cases/screen protectors of course.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 pro prime special Edition doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, does it?

Hot deal, though. Great price.

I wish people wouldn't use the term "flagship" for any phone that has decent specs. The Z2 is a very capable phone but the camera is one area where it falls way short, but that's to be expected at the £200 price point. It's a great phone for the money but people coming in looking at these threads may think that they're getting a phone that's on a par with a Samsung S7, LG G5 etc which really isn't the case. The closest thing would be the latest OnePlus, but that's over twice the price. (And for the record, I'm looking at getting a Xiaomi Note 4 if anything goes wrong with my current phone)

Try the AliExpress app?

Rubbish, this is a 152mm case specifically for Kate/Band 20 Note 3's

Zuk z2 would be great but unfortunately requires flashing out the box. The other 2 will work straight out box (if you go for the right xiaomi)

The lack of micro-SD card kills it for me.

​Zuk z2 is better than both the Redmi and the Huawei. In fact the Huawei is not really in the same league as the other 2 in any measure. The ZUK is a proper flagship with flagship specs, the RN3 has 2015 flagship performance for an amazing price. Also the screen size is very different.

I personally prefer the ZUK, especially as 5.5' phones are not for me

Cheers, but tried three cards, Firefox, Chrome and Edge and same result everytime.
Given up :disappointed:

Yes, I hadn't looked for a month or so, so these must be new additions.

Thanks for that; had not managed to find one previously

Case looks like it fits perfectly.

NO! If you read their small print at the bottom it says that the cases are a tight fit!!! An understatement! My son had the regular phone/official flip case before he smashed it. I have had to cut the case slightly and attach the phone in there with double sided tape (a lot) otherwise it pops out. The clear cases do work but are very tight.

There ARE official cases for this, but only in Taiwan and they do not ship outside of the country.

​Emzhell, can you provide any recommendations for cases and screen protectors please? The case supplied is indeed a few mm too short, and using the headphone/ir is affected. Cheers.

Well went for one, my first XIAOMI phone :smiley:

I had same problem and it drove me mad. After a lot of work I found it was a user option in Chrome settings. I am at work at the moment and this was my home computer but from memory it was "allow third-party scripts to run?" or something like that. Once I unset that everything was fine on Aliexpress

Change shipping country to US on the first page, add to cart then in your cart specify UK for shipping

Ordered, damn this site lol :smile:

The SnapDragon one? Sort of. But I don't think there's one that supports Band 20 yet.

RN4 is an upgrade on this, isn't it?

​Oh, and the default browser will have some shortcuts on the start page specific to the locale you choose.

​Locale doesn't really matter, as long as you choose English language. Although, if you choose china, it definitely installed some Chinese apps. I always choose India, and the phone is in English and the clock works and updates just fine in spring and autumn. Also, this may be the Xiaomi store, but it's not official.

Cant decide on this or the huawei p9 lite or the Lenovo ZUK Z2.

All about the same price. Had a Lenovo before which I liked but still no ROW ROM yet. Huawei is in the UK so can get it straight away and no issue with returns.

Any thoughts?

Silver never seems to be available cheap :disappointed:

This is a completely different beast. Much better than a Moto G4

Coming at £132 for me - can't seem to remove the warranty?

Just like to clear some things up for people.

I've been using this phone since November, it's well built and fast and IMO holds it's own with phones twice the money.

The seller here is the xiaomi official store which I bought from, took 12 days to reach me in hull (East Yorkshire).

Being the global version more commonly known as Kate it supports band 20 and Google play works out the box.

I did have a couple of problems however which are minor,

Firstly buying cases and screen protectors for this model can be difficult as this model the 'kate' is around 2mm taller than the 'kenzo' which is the Chinese version. but don't let it put you off you can find them!

Out the box i was missing a UK plug, however the USB lead that came with it, i used on an old Samsung 3 pin plug I had knocking around. not sure if that's normal just my experience.

And lastly the phone needed location as Falklands again no big deal, updates etc work spot on so does time and date etc etc.

Better to get a Moto G4 for roughly the same price. Similar specs, same screen size, better build quality, have warranty, no customs / vat.

Im in the same boat as well. Can you let me know if you can get it without the £10 top up?

here's a link for a good flip case for this phone link https://www.aliexpress.com/item/For-Xiaomi-Redmi-International-Edition-Note-3-Phone-Case-Stand-Wallet-Leather-Flip-Cover-For-Redmi/32764172838.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.XblfIR

Meh, given up and cancelled/deleted orders.
Keeps refusing payment and stating system error or system busy - tried three cards and all the same so off to the Three shop for the P2.

MIUI is good if you like to have lots of choice in settings, but can be a bit over the top if you want to keep it simple. Yes, i know there is a lite version, but even that is not as simple as original android.

Thanks - am trying to buy one but keep getting system errors. Site is all over the place.

I have had one of these phones ( non global version ) since their launch last February and can highly recommend these are fantastic phones you do get regular ota updates this is one thing xiaomi are known for .I have since bought both of my children this version from this seller and they love them. The phone build is excellent and the performance is on a par with galaxy 6 camera is not as good but perfectly adequate at this price range on antutu this phone scores 79000 and galaxy 6 82000 . I personally love the miui interface its like a mix of android and iphone the battery is fantastic lasts me easily 3 days takes about 2hrs 15 min to charge from 0 -100 % memory can be increased to 128gb with micro sd card there is absolutely no bloatware

Anyone else having trouble paying for the damn thing?
Get all the way to check out and payment, enter card details, and payment does not go through because of system error, try a couple more times, same thing, then declines to take card because of multiple attempts.

In addition, I checked my orders page before I went in, and found five Note 4 phones sitting there from earlier in the week, where I had tried to pay for them but the same thing had happened - system errors!
Cleared and cancelled them but still getting system error or system busy.
Think I'll give up....

Remember to remove the U.K. warranty charge (change destination country) unless you want the warranty. And I see aliexpress still have the new customer discount vouchers on their app, I got a $10 discount on my Mi Max. I also went through quidco for 9.9% cash back , but not holding out much hope for it being paid.

This or Lenovo ZUK Z2. Could somebody in the know help me to pick the right one please, as they both are in the same price range.
Thank you

Gold is.

Also how to get for 126? Shows as over 135 for me (grey version) as can't buy the phone alone have to add screen film

Heat from me. Had mine for 3 months. Great phone

Want to try a xiaomi so bad lol just don't need a fifth phone XD

I'm sure there's official SE cases.

​totally irrelevant, the price is exclusive of UK vat and as such the price is misleading at best. if you can guarantee that no vat will be charged them that's a different story but I don't think you would be so confident giving a financial guarantee as opposed to mere words.

thanks for the valuable info. I didnt know Chinese sellers can name mobiles on their own.

Yes, that's the one

I have the Redmi 3S with the Global ROM and have seen no reason to change it, quite like Miui actually. Phone came sealed and has been proven to be malware free. As said above if you want a case make sure it specifically says 152mm as the Band 20 versions are a couple of mm longer. We didn't have any trouble finding plenty of options for the Band 20 (Kate) case for OH's Note 3 though so don't let that put you off.

Awesome phones, I'd certainly never pay for a phone on contract again.

I ordered this with mine, I assumed it was correct? https://www.aliexpress.com/item/152mm-xiaomi-redmi-note-3-pro-special-edition-TPU-Case-Official-Global-international-Version-Taiwan-Edition/32778225691.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.CaYuI7

Ah, so this is the official non modified Xiaomi official ROM, not a vendor modded one?
In that case, will go ahead and take a punt, saving myself £60 in the process.
many thanks.

Its going to be a sad day when I part with my RN3

Absolutely love this phone

Thinking of buying another one as a spare

Also, the official cases are too short as this is a couple of mm longer than the standard version

Was on the verge of buying this and/or the Note 4 International/global version earlier on this week. In basket and hovering over 'buy', but the flashing of new ROMs and working out if you needed an unlocked bootloader etc etc stopped me going for it, as well as the projected delivery time and possible lack of updates.
Now erring towards the Lenovo P2 from Three - £60 more expensive but security of buying in Uk and don't have to reflash etc.
Any advice - I realise the cost differential but have read so much stuff about malware etc bundled in with adapted Miui vendor ROMs that concerns me. Most advice seems to be to reflash them when you receive it but is that honestly needed?
Any advice?

Yes, I supported the Falklands as well

Non-removable batteries are a major pain :disappointed:

It looks great and I am after a new phone. But can I be bothered with the looooong delivery time

Thank you :smiley:

Thank you :smiley:

Can I use this straight out the box? I've never had an imported phone.

Nice, but I think it needs a longer name

Is it worth getting the warranty and is it worth the paper it is written on?

No nfc for android pay?

I'm on the north Wales coast so it'll be 5​

thats a nice story

I've been using this phone since October, great phone, well worth it at that price. It's well supported by custom ROM community at XDA so you can easily remove that stock firmware if it's not to your taste. LTE on O2, don't know about other networks.

Be aware no UK region on these phones.

Yes, set my Mi Max to Ghana and everything else is fine.

I was wondering what you mean by this? If you are referring to the bands, then you will note ( no pun intended) that the Global version caters for all the UK bands, including band 20 which is the one sometimes missing on Chinese devices.

whats the difference between Xiaomi Note 3 Pro and Xiaomi Note 3 Pro Prime as in this previous thread. thanks
http://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/xiaomi-redmi-note-3-pro-5-5-fhd-snapdragon-650-3gb-4000mah-gold-band20-kate-global-2591476?page=2#comments

What does that mean? Just the date/time?

Committed to it! I hope it's easy to set up.. It looks like it is. Thanks

doesn't include vat and customs handling ?

Says "Cannot be delivered to United Kingdom"
Shame, I was ready to buy

have some heat