Tech Blog #206 | Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 : A Mixed Bag of Power and Practicality
The Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4, an extend for Xiaomi Pad 6 family, competes strongly within the high-end tablet market, particularly against notable rivals like the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+. Priced at approximately €700 (around $760), it offers a compelling combination of performance and features that appeal to users seeking a premium experience without the premium price tag.
In terms of design, the Pad 6S Pro features a slim aluminum chassis that is both lightweight (590 grams) and pleasing on the hand, but it only comes in one color option—Graphite Gray. This minimalistic approach may not satisfy users looking for more personalization. The device's display, while bright and sharp with a peak brightness of 900 nits, lacks the vibrancy of OLED displays found in the iPad Pro and Galaxy Tab S9+, which could be a drawback for media consumption enthusiasts. Additionally, the aspect ratio of 3:2 is optimized for productivity tasks but may lead to black bars during video playback, and that is common in media consumption from tabs.
The Pad 6S Pro offers several RAM options (8GB to 16GB) and storage configurations (up to 1TB), utilizing UFS 4.0 technology for fast data access. This makes it suitable for demanding applications and multitasking actions. In comparison, the iPad Pro's storage options extend up to 2TB but come at a significantly higher price point. The tablet also supports stylus input, enhancing its appeal for creative professionals; however, it lacks some advanced features found in competitors' styluses.
Camera capabilities on the Pad 6S Pro are respectable, with a 50MP rear camera and a high-resolution 32MP front camera, making it suitable for video calls and casual photography. While these specs are competitive, they do not outshine the advanced camera systems offered by Apple’s iPad Pro or Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9+, which provide superior low-light performance and additional features like ProRAW for photography enthusiasts.
Battery life is another strong point for the Pad 6S Pro, spotting a large 10,000mAh battery that supports rapid charging at an impressive rate of 120W. This allows users to quickly recharge their device—achieving full charge in about 38 minutes—which is advantageous compared to many competitors that offer slower charging solutions. However, actual usage times may vary; some reviews suggest battery life could be better optimized for prolonged use.
On the software side, the Pad 6S Pro runs on HyperOS based on Android 14, providing a clean interface with support for multitasking features like split-screen and floating windows. While this enhances productivity, Xiaomi's history with software updates raises questions about long-term support compared to Apple’s robust update policy for iPads.
While the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro offers impressive specifications and competitive pricing within its segment, potential buyers should carefully consider their priorities—whether they value display quality, camera performance, or software support—before making a decision. It stands out as an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful tablet at a more accessible price point than its competitors; however, it may not fully satisfy users seeking top-tier features found in more expensive models like the iPad Pro or Galaxy Tab S9+.