The RedMagic Astra may be compact, but it’s built like a flagship. With a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and 165 Hz OLED display, this 9-inch Android tablet was already a performance standout. Now, it’s returning with a subtle but welcome global update.
RedMagic Astra gets Starfrost finish on base model
RedMagic first launched this tablet in China under a different name: the Gaming Tablet 3 Pro. Outside of China, it arrived as the RedMagic Astra, albeit in a more limited set of configurations. That’s finally changing.
The company just rolled out a new global variant: the 12 GB + 256 GB model is now available in a second colorway, Starfrost. Previously, buyers could only get that version in Eclipse black. No other hardware tweaks were made, but the new aesthetic adds variety without touching the price.
RedMagic Astra specs remain unchanged across SKUs
While the updated base model is good news, not everything has expanded. The higher-end 24 GB + 1 TB model is still only available in Eclipse. That said, every RedMagic Astra configuration comes with a premium hardware package.
Here’s what all versions share:
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Display: 9.06-inch 2.4K OLED, 165 Hz refresh rate
- Battery: 8,200 mAh
- Storage: UFS 4.0 (varies by SKU)
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers
- Cooling: Built-in active cooling system
At $549 / €499 / £439 for the 12 GB + 256 GB version, the RedMagic Astra still undercuts most other compact flagships, especially ones with gaming chops.
It joins the elite tier of small Android tablets
With its high refresh rate, premium chipset, and aggressive pricing, the RedMagic Astra is aimed squarely at power users and gamers who want a more portable package. It’s now competing with devices like:
- Redmi K Pad
- Lenovo Legion Y700 Gen 4
- Huawei MatePad Mini
What sets the Astra apart is the blend of performance and visual fluidity. 165 Hz on a 9-inch OLED panel is rare, even in more expensive models. Add in active cooling, and you’re looking at a tablet that wants to be pushed hard.
RedMagic Astra update shows brand is listening
Adding a color option may not seem like much, but it signals something more important: RedMagic is paying attention to its global audience. The RedMagic Astra isn’t just a rebranded local release; it’s shaping up to be a proper global contender.
