The Xiaomi Pad 9 delivers strong value in many areas, but one missing feature continues to stand out in everyday use: there is no fingerprint sensor. While that may not sound like a major issue at first, it quickly becomes one of the tablet’s most noticeable drawbacks.
For users who prefer not to rely on basic 2D face unlock, the only option is to enter a PIN, password, or pattern every time the tablet is unlocked. Xiaomi’s camera-based facial recognition is convenient when it works, but it is not always dependable. In dim lighting, awkward angles, or when the tablet is resting flat on a desk, the system can struggle and often forces users back to manual unlocking.
That may seem like a small inconvenience, but it becomes frustrating over time. Students moving between lectures, professionals checking notes during meetings, or anyone who unlocks the tablet repeatedly throughout the day will likely notice the extra steps. A quick fingerprint scan on the power button would have made the experience much smoother.
The missing fingerprint reader also affects security-sensitive apps. Because the tablet relies on basic front-camera face recognition, it is not secure enough for apps such as mobile banking tools, password managers, and other services that require stronger biometric authentication. In those cases, users may once again need to enter a password or PIN manually.
This feels especially outdated when many affordable smartphones now include fast and reliable fingerprint sensors, often built directly into the power button. For a mid-range tablet like the Xiaomi Pad 9, leaving out such a practical feature is hard to ignore.
Overall, the Xiaomi Pad 9 remains an appealing tablet for users looking for solid performance and good value. However, anyone who prioritizes fast unlocking, secure authentication, and everyday convenience should be aware of this limitation before buying. A fingerprint sensor may seem like a small detail, but on a device used frequently throughout the day, its absence can make a real difference.
