Xiaomi Redmi is an Android standout (pictures)

Known as the Xiaomi Hongmi ("red rice," in Mandarin) in China, the dual-SIM 3G Redmi is the first handset from the company that is officially available outside of China, Taipei, and Hong Kong, and is set to retail online for both Singapore and Malaysia for $133 (S$169).

While most budget handsets would settle for a 5-megapixel rear camera or even less, the Redmi comes packing an 8-megapixel shooter that wouldn't be out of place in a mid- or high-end handset.

With no sharp edges the phone doesn't dig into your palm. The 4.7-inch IPS display sports a 1,280x720-pixel resolution, which means you won't have to worry about fuzzy fonts when browsing the Web.

The power and volume buttons are found on the right, and are easily in reach when holding the smartphone with one hand. Speakers are located at the back near the camera, which means you won't block it with your palm when holding it.

Underneath the cover is where you'll find the removable 2,000mAh battery. It lasted me a day and a half of moderate to heavy use.