Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro
Air apparent
TABLET ❘ £449 from Mi.comwww.snipca.com/58566
Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi has built a successful phone and tablet business by offering premium device specifications at for lower prices. It’s done it again with the Pad 8 Pro, giving you a seriously speedy processor and an excellent screen for less than you’d spend on the basic iPad Air.
This is a strong performer that breezes through intensive apps and games
This year’s model is marginally thinner and lighter than last year’s, but its squared edges, narrow bezel and aluminium shell feel surprisingly luxurious. The rear has a slightly annoying raised camera, which stops it sitting flat on a desk, plus pogo pins for connecting to the optional Focus Keyboard (£179 from www.snipca. com/58572). This is similar to Apple’s Magic Keyboard, complete with built-in trackpad and self-supporting hinge that transforms the Pad 8 Pro into a decent makeshift laptop. It’s helped by Xiaomi’s Workstation mode, which puts each app within a floating window and adds split-screen views and a dock.