Nubia RedMagic 5G Review: An Unruly Android Gaming Beast

In front, selfies are handled with an 8MP f/2.0 1.12-micron shooter. The RedMagic 5G supports video recording up to 8k 30fps (unstabilized) and 4k 60fps (stabilized) using the main shooter, and up 1080p 30fps (unstabilized) with the selfie camera. It also captures slow motion video at up to 960fps (1080p) and -- given enough light -- even 1920fps (720p). As for the audio, it’s mono only, which is disappointing for a handset with flagship specs. We understand this is a gaming phone, but imaging is a critical pillar for any modern handset.

The macro is very difficult to use since it lacks AF, and the resulting shots look exactly like what you’d expect from a 2-megapixel fixed-focus camera with a smaller aperture: underwhelming. Video recording is fine, but stabilization isn’t the best. Making matters worse, the RedMagic 5G’s native camera app is disorganized. For example, the ultrawide is only available in pro mode, while the macro is buried in the “Camera Family” menu, alongside panorama, slow motion, and time lapse. Basically, it’s not a pleasant experience.
As we already mentioned, you can fix most of these shortcomings by installing an unofficial Google Camera APK. While it only supports the main shooter and selfie camera, it significantly improves image quality and video stabilization. Still, it’s annoying you have to jump through hoops because Nubia didn’t care about imaging performance, and some things -- like the lack of OIS -- can't be fixed in software.