Aside from the somewhat less potent processor, the spec is almost on a par with the original Redmi 2, so you’re really not missing out on much. The obvious candidate for a direct comparison would be the Moto E, Huawei Honor Holly or Sony Experia E4 (just barely).
The Redmi 2A ends up marginally cheaper than most of them, while at the same time boasting somewhat better specs than the Moto E. We also feel it looks a bit better than the chubby Moto E.
Oh, and on April 8 Xiaomi will be dropping the price to just 499 RMB, or roughly $80. What’s the occasion? The company is celebrating its fifth anniversary, and we have to say it’s come a long way in those five years.