Xiaomi’s 15T brings the quality, but not the innovation

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Xiaomi continues to enhance its sub-flagship series, aiming to deliver flagship features at more affordable prices.

After testing the Xiaomi 14T last year, I had high expectations for the new models, and the 15T has not faltered on paper. It is equipped with a faster processor, a larger battery, and a more expansive display encased in slimmer bezels.

However, there are some drawbacks. The display reduces brightness levels compared to its predecessor and has a slightly lower refresh rate. Moreover, camera hardware hasn’t seen notable upgrades.

Is the Xiaomi 15T worth your time, or should you consider the 15T Pro for meaningful improvements? After hands-on testing, here’s my verdict, which you can compare against our review of the Xiaomi 15T Pro.

Design & Build

• Glass back, plastic frame
• Weight: 194g, Corning Gorilla Glass 7i
• IP68 rated for water and dust resistance

The design of the Xiaomi 15T mirrors its Pro counterpart in size and shape, with minor differences such as the position of the LED flash. On the 15T, it is integrated into the camera island.

Luke Baker

In spite of the identical exterior, the materials used in construction feel different. The 15T features a plastic frame as opposed to the aluminum frame of the Pro. While some may perceive this as less premium, the lighter weight (194g against 210g) can be a merit in ease of handling and comfort during extended use.

With an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance and the same durable materials, both the 15T and Pro should hold up similarly against wear and tear. A TPU case is provided in the box for additional protection.

Luke Baker

A trio of metallic colors is available—Black, Gray, and Rose Gold. I have the Gray variant for testing and find it retains a professional and sleek aesthetic.

This phone is substantial in size and has a boxy design reminiscent of the iPhone, which might feel cumbersome for smaller hands. However, for larger hands, it provides a secure grip.

Screen & Speakers

• 6.83-inch OLED display with 1280 x 2772 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate
• Peak brightness of 3200 nits, 3840Hz PWM dimming
• Stereo sound capabilities

The display is among the standout features of the Xiaomi 15T. The expansive, flat OLED screen with slim bezels presents an immersive viewing experience. It supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for high-quality video playback.

Luke Baker

While the refresh rate is lower than the Pro’s, most users will likely find the 120Hz sufficient. Moreover, Xiaomi has ensured that the phone meets TUV Rheinland’s low blue-light and flicker-free certifications, catering to users sensitive to screen flicker.

Sound quality is delivered effectively through the dual stereo speakers, which provide decent volume levels, suitable for media consumption, though bass response could be better.

Specs & Performance

• MediaTek Dimensity 8400-Ultra processor
• Available with 12GB RAM
• Storage options: 256GB or 512GB

The heart of the Xiaomi 15T is powered by the Dimensity 8400-Ultra, a robust chip that supports most user demands efficiently. With 12GB of RAM being standard for multitasking, the overall system runs smoothly.

Luke Baker

While everyday operating tasks deliver a seamless experience, gaming performance may be a slight drawback when compared to flagship models. Demanding titles might require reducing graphical settings for the best gaming experience.

Cameras

• 50 MP f/1.7 primary camera
• 40 MP f/1.9 2x telephoto lens
• 12 MP f/2.2 ultra-wide angle lens
• 32 MP f/2.2 front-facing camera

Equipped with a Light Fusion 800 sensor, the main camera produces quality images under varied lighting conditions, supported by Xiaomi’s collaboration with Leica for enhanced color tuning and depth effects.

Luke Baker

While proficient, the telephoto camera offers only a 2x optical zoom, which might disappoint those interested in more extensive zoom capabilities. Likewise, macro photography is limited, with users resorting to cropping from the main sensor.

Video recording capabilities are robust, allowing for 4K recording up to 60fps. While impressive, some high-end features like 4K 120fps remain exclusive to the 15T Pro.

Battery Life & Charging

• 5500 mAh battery
• 67W wired charging speed
• No charger included

The Xiaomi 15T is powered by a robust 5500 mAh battery, although it lacks wireless charging support. The wired charging speed is commendable at 67W, allowing users to quickly recharge their devices.

Benchmarked against the PCMark Work 3.0 Battery Drain test, the Xiaomi 15T maintains over 14 hours of use, making it more than adequate for daily needs.

Luke Baker

Even with regular use, the device sustains a day and a half on a charge. The quick charging capabilities allow users to reach around 65% in just half an hour, although it would have been great to see support for wireless charging.

Software & Apps

• Hyper OS based on Android 15
• Xiaomi Astral Communication feature
• Xiaomi HyperAI integration

Running on Hyper OS, a unique version of Android 15, the Xiaomi 15T includes several customization options and combines elements from both Android and iOS interfaces.

Luke Baker

While the operating system features heavy customization, there are also numerous pre-installed applications. Although Xiaomi provides easy options for removing unnecessary apps, the abundance of defaults may frustrate some users.

Innovations like the Xiaomi Astral Communication allow users to connect with another Xiaomi 15T directly without cellular reception, a feature that could be particularly useful in remote settings.

Price & Availability

The Xiaomi 15T’s pricing aligns with its predecessor, starting at £549/€549 for the 12GB RAM, 256GB storage variant, escalating to £599/€599 for the 512GB option.

Positioned about £100 below the Pro variant, the 15T’s value proposition is compelling, especially for those not requiring materials like aluminum or features like wireless charging. You can explore our recommendations in our guide to the best mid-range phones.

The Xiaomi 15T is available through Xiaomi’s official store or Amazon for wider distribution across the UK and Europe, though U.S. availability remains limited.

Special launch deals are available until October 31, including bundles that feature a 43-inch Fire TV and a 90W fast charger.

Should You Buy the Xiaomi 15T?

The Xiaomi 15T offers robust specifications at competitive pricing, thus likely earning popularity among potential buyers. Its sharp design, combined with sufficient performance, creates a good aesthetic akin to flagship devices.

However, compared to its predecessor, the improvements are incremental rather than substantial. While the enhancements include a newer processor and larger battery, the performance may not be enticing enough for current 14T owners to upgrade. However, the innovative Astral Communication feature is a distinct draw that may appeal to diverse use cases.

Specs

• Hyper OS based on Android 15
• 6.83-inch OLED display with 1280 x 2772 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
• In-display fingerprint sensor
• MediaTek Dimensity 8400-Ultra processor
• 12GB RAM
• 256GB / 512GB storage options
• Camera setup:
• 50MP primary sensor
• 12MP ultra-wide lens
• 40MP 2x telephoto lens
• 32MP selfie camera
• 4K video recording at up to 60fps
• Stereo speaker system
• Dual-SIM functionality along with eSIM
• Wi-Fi 6e and Bluetooth 5.2 support
• 5500mAh battery capacity
• 67W wired charging speed
• Dimensions: 163.2 x 78.0 x 7.50mm
• Weight: 194g
• Available colors: Black, Gray, Rose Gold