Redmi Turbo 5 Gets Hands-On Preview Before Official Launch

Just hours after Redmi confirmed key specifications for the upcoming Turbo 5, the device has surfaced in a hands-on video from China, offering our first real glimpse at the phone's design and features before its official announcement.

The video showcases the Turbo 5 from multiple angles, revealing a design that maintains the aesthetic language of its predecessor while introducing subtle refinements. According to the hands-on preview, the back panel features an improved texture that feels more sophisticated in hand, though specific details about the material composition weren't disclosed.

Design and Build Quality

The Turbo 5 appears to sport a metal frame construction, which should provide a premium feel and enhanced durability compared to plastic alternatives. The device maintains a substantial form factor, likely necessary to accommodate its impressive battery capacity. The video suggests the phone has a more refined appearance overall, with cleaner lines and better ergonomics than previous models in the Turbo series.

Display Specifications

Redmi has equipped the Turbo 5 with a 6.59-inch display, placing it firmly in the large-screen category. While the hands-on video doesn't reveal specific display technology details, this size suggests the phone targets users who prioritize screen real estate for media consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks. The large display pairs well with the phone's substantial battery, creating a device optimized for extended use sessions.

Battery and Charging Capabilities

One of the most impressive specifications confirmed for the Turbo 5 is its massive 7,560mAh battery. This capacity significantly exceeds what most flagship smartphones offer, positioning the Turbo 5 as a battery life champion. The large battery is complemented by versatile charging capabilities:

• 100W wired charging: Enables rapid replenishment of the large battery
• 27W reverse wired charging: Allows the phone to function as a power bank for other devices

The combination of a huge battery with fast charging technology addresses one of the most common pain points for smartphone users - the need to frequently recharge devices throughout the day.

Durability and Protection

Redmi has taken an unusual approach to durability certification for the Turbo 5, securing multiple IP ratings:

• IP66: Protection against powerful water jets
• IP68: Dust-tight and capable of withstanding continuous immersion in water
• IP69: Protection against close-range high-pressure, high-temperature spray downs
• IP69K: The highest level of protection, specifically designed for road vehicles and heavy equipment

This comprehensive certification suite suggests the Turbo 5 is built to withstand extreme conditions, making it suitable for users in demanding environments or those who prioritize device longevity.

Performance Hardware

Under the hood, the Turbo 5 is powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 8500 System-on-Chip (SoC). This mid-to-high-range processor should provide excellent performance for most tasks while maintaining good power efficiency. The chipset is paired with:

• LPDDR5X RAM: The latest generation of low-power, high-performance memory
• UFS 4.1 storage: Offering fast read/write speeds for applications and file transfers

This hardware configuration positions the Turbo 5 as a capable performer that can handle demanding applications, multitasking, and mobile gaming without significant compromises.

Color Options and Variants

The hands-on video suggests Redmi is preparing to offer the Turbo 5 in five different colorways, though specific colors weren't revealed in the preview. This variety should appeal to different aesthetic preferences and help the device reach a broader audience.

Additionally, Redmi is planning to launch a "Turbo 5 Max" variant alongside the standard model. While details about the Max variant remain scarce, it's likely to feature enhanced specifications or additional features to justify the "Max" designation.

Market Positioning and Launch Details

The Turbo 5 appears to be positioned as a feature-rich device that prioritizes battery life, durability, and performance over ultra-thin design or cutting-edge camera systems. This strategy could appeal to users who value practicality and longevity in their devices.

Redmi has scheduled the official unveiling for January 29 in China, with the announcement expected in less than 24 hours from the time of the hands-on video's release. The timing suggests Redmi is building anticipation through a carefully orchestrated reveal strategy, confirming some specifications while saving others for the official launch event.

Ecosystem Context

The Turbo 5's specifications reflect broader trends in the smartphone market, where manufacturers are increasingly focusing on battery capacity and charging speeds as key differentiators. The device's IP69K certification also indicates a growing emphasis on durability as a selling point, particularly in markets where devices face harsh environmental conditions.

For Xiaomi and Redmi, the Turbo 5 represents an opportunity to strengthen their position in the competitive mid-to-high-end smartphone segment. The combination of MediaTek's Dimensity 8500, massive battery, and comprehensive durability features creates a compelling package that could attract users looking for a reliable, long-lasting device.

As the official announcement approaches, more details about the Turbo 5's camera capabilities, software features, and pricing will likely emerge. The hands-on video has generated significant interest, and the full reveal should provide a clearer picture of how the Turbo 5 fits into Redmi's broader product strategy and the competitive landscape of 2026 smartphones.