Xiaomi, a prominent smartphone manufacturer, may not be a household name in the US due to its lack of phone sales in the country. However, it is a major player in the global smartphone market, competing closely with giants like Apple and Samsung. Xiaomi offers a wide range of devices under its core brand, as well as its sub-brands Poco, Redmi, and Black Shark. This extensive lineup provides consumers with a variety of options to choose from, but it can also make it challenging to select the best Xiaomi phone for individual needs.
To assist consumers in making an informed decision, our team at Tech Advisor regularly reviews Xiaomi handsets, ranging from flagship models like the Xiaomi 14 to entry-level devices. We use these phones with our own SIM cards to provide authentic feedback on performance, battery life, and more. Additionally, we have compared Xiaomi phones with competitors from other brands like Google, Samsung, and OnePlus to provide a comprehensive analysis of how Xiaomi devices stack up against rivals.
In our most recent update as of November 20, 2024, we have added reviews for mid-range models such as the Xiaomi 14T and 14T Pro, as well as Xiaomi’s first foldable phone, the Mix Flip.
Best Xiaomi Phone Reviews 2024
- Xiaomi 14 – Best Xiaomi Phone
- Pros: Incredible cameras, flawless performance, super-fast charging, stunning screen.
- Cons: HyperOS software annoyances, fingerprint magnet on certain colors, more expensive than some rivals.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Xiaomi 14 is a compact flagship phone for 2024 that excels in various aspects, including premium design, powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a top-notch camera setup co-developed with Leica. While the HyperOS software may have its drawbacks, the Xiaomi 14 remains a solid choice for those seeking a flagship device.
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra – Best Camera
- Pros: Incredible photography performance, stunning vegan leather design, gorgeous curved screen, 90W fast charging, top performance.
- Cons: Expensive, HyperOS software is a mixed bag.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is a photography-centric smartphone with an impressive Leica quad-camera system and optional Photography Kit for DSLR-like performance. Despite its high price, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra delivers exceptional camera capabilities and premium features.
- Xiaomi 14T Pro – Flagship Features for Less
- Pros: Storming performance, decent cameras, very competitively priced, super speedy charging.
- Cons: Cluttered software with incomplete AI, fairly dull design, no charger included.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Xiaomi 14T Pro offers flagship-level features at a fraction of the price, including a 144Hz OLED display, solid camera setup, and 50W wireless charging. While the HyperOS software may have its flaws, the Xiaomi 14T Pro presents an attractive option for users seeking high-end features without breaking the bank.
- Xiaomi 13 – Best Former Flagship
- Pros: Small and stunning design, powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, excellent main camera.
- Cons: Middling battery life, competitors offer more for the money.
- Price When Reviewed: Not available in the US
The Xiaomi 13 offers a well-built design, impressive performance, and excellent main camera capabilities. While it may not stand out compared to competitors in its price range, the Xiaomi 13 provides a compelling option for users looking for a former flagship device.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro – Best Redmi
- Pros: Smooth performance, bright 120Hz AMOLED screen, fast charging, double the storage.
- Cons: Frustrating software experience, limited software support, some camera issues.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Redmi Note 13 Pro delivers a compelling combination of performance, display quality, and fast charging capabilities at an affordable price point. While it may have software drawbacks and limited software support, the Redmi Note 13 Pro offers a solid mid-range smartphone option.
- Xiaomi 14T – Best Mid-Range Option
- Pros: Slick design, brilliant cameras, Circle to Search and Gemini support, solid performance, speedy charging.
- Cons: No charger included, no wireless charging, plastic frame, own-brand AI is a mixed bag.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Xiaomi 14T provides excellent value for its price, offering impressive performance, solid camera capabilities, and fast charging support. While the 14T Pro offers some enhancements at a higher price, the 14T remains a compelling choice for users seeking a mid-range smartphone with premium features.
- Poco X6 Pro – Best Poco
- Pros: Outstanding performance for the money, advanced display, subtle design improvements, fast charging with adapter included.
- Cons: Camera not a huge improvement, new HyperOS UI much like MIUI, rather bland looks, at least in black.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Poco X6 Pro 5G stands out for its impressive display, powerful performance, and fast charging capabilities at a competitive price point. While it may have some camera limitations and software nuances, the Poco X6 Pro offers excellent value for budget-conscious consumers.
- Xiaomi 13T Pro – A Cheaper Premium Option
- Pros: Top-tier performance, 120W charging, IP68 rating, five years of security updates.
- Cons: Frustrating MIUI software, average battery life, polarizing rear design.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Xiaomi 13T Pro presents a flagship-level experience with top-tier performance, fast charging support, and an IP68 rating. Despite drawbacks such as MIUI software issues and average battery life, the Xiaomi 13T Pro offers a compelling option for users seeking premium features at a more affordable price.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ – Another Mid-Range Contender
- Pros: Superb 120Hz screen, very good performance, premium design, solid battery life, 120W charging.
- Cons: Hit-and-miss cameras, annoying software, only three Android version updates.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ elevates Xiaomi’s Redmi brand with premium features, including a high-quality display, strong performance, and fast charging capabilities. While it may have some camera inconsistencies and software issues, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ offers a compelling mid-range smartphone option.
- Xiaomi Mix Flip – Best Foldable
- Pros: Decent battery life for a flip phone, good photos with the right lighting, swift performance.
- Cons: Pricier than rivals, no water resistance, cluttered software.
- Price When Reviewed: Unavailable in the US
The Xiaomi Mix Flip is Xiaomi’s first foldable phone designed for the Western market, offering impressive performance and a foldable design. While it may be pricier than some competitors and lack water resistance, the Xiaomi Mix Flip provides a solid option for users seeking a foldable smartphone with strong performance.
Xiaomi Phone Buying Advice
What’s the difference between Xiaomi’s different brands?
Xiaomi offers a range of brands including Xiaomi, Redmi, Black Shark, and Poco, each catering to different segments of the market. Xiaomi devices are premium offerings, Redmi focuses on budget-friendly options, Black Shark is dedicated to gaming phones, and Poco offers affordable devices with a focus on power and performance.
Should I buy a Xiaomi phone from China?
Buying a Xiaomi phone from China may offer certain exclusive models and cost savings, but it comes with risks such as warranty issues, software compatibility, and potential additional costs like import duties.
What software do Xiaomi phones use?
Xiaomi phones run on the Android operating system with the company’s custom HyperOS skin installed on top, providing users with a unique interface and customization options.
For more related stories and in-depth reviews, stay tuned for updates on the latest Xiaomi phones and other tech products.
