Is this Xiaomi Better than Samsung and iPhone? Xiaomi 14 Ultra
Xiaomi might not be as widely recognized as Apple or Samsung, but its phones offer outstanding build quality and top-notch cameras, making them some of the best value options on the market.
In 2024, Xiaomi has plenty of high-end options to choose from. Some models can compete with the best camera phones out there, while others boast performance specs that rival any flagship phone.
After reviewing most of Xiaomi’s top releases, we’re here to help you find the right Xiaomi phone for your needs. For example, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra currently sits at the top of our list due to its exceptional performance and sleek design. However, if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, the Xiaomi 13 is an excellent choice.
Our recommendations are based on thorough testing and expert analysis, so you can trust that we’ve considered all angles. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best Xiaomi phones in 2024.
Leading the pack is the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, which is not only the best Xiaomi phone but also one of the best camera phones we’ve ever tested. Its Leica-engineered quad camera system is outstanding, featuring a 1-inch sensor that excels in low-light conditions and offers a wide dynamic range. The 32MP front camera and impressive video-recording capabilities make it a top choice for photography enthusiasts.
But the Xiaomi 14 Ultra isn’t just about the camera. It’s a premium smartphone through and through. With a high-strength aluminum frame, Xiaomi Shield Glass, and nano-tech vegan leather, this phone is as stylish as it is durable. The large camera sensor might make the phone slightly off-balance, but if you don’t mind a bit of bulk, it’s a small price to pay for such a powerful device.
Under the hood, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. Its 5,000mAh battery offers long-lasting power and supports up to 90W fast charging.
These specs put the Xiaomi 14 Ultra on par with heavyweights like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max. While Xiaomi’s HyperOS interface comes with some pre-installed apps you might not need, a little bit of customization can make the software experience uniquely yours.
If the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is too much for your needs, the standard Xiaomi 14 is an excellent alternative. It’s significantly cheaper but still packs a punch with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. The phone handles gaming and productivity tasks with ease, thanks to HyperOS’s efficient performance management.
Even without enabling ‘performance mode,’ the Xiaomi 14 competes well with other top Android phones, including the Samsung Galaxy S24 and Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra. It even outperforms some flagship models like the Pixel 8 Pro in certain benchmark tests.
The Xiaomi 14 also comes with a larger 4,610mAh battery compared to its predecessor and supports 90W wired and 50W wireless charging. The only downside is Xiaomi’s shorter update commitment compared to its competitors. With four years of OS updates and five years of security updates, it’s still decent, but not as long as what Apple or Samsung offers.
In conclusion, whether you’re looking for a top-tier camera phone or a more budget-friendly powerhouse, Xiaomi has something for you in 2024.
Specification overview:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | February 2024 |
| Weight | 224.4g |
| Dimensions | 161.4 x 75.3 x 9.2 mm |
| OS | Android 14 with Xiaomi HyperOS |
| Screen Size | 6.73-inch |
| Resolution | 3200 x 1440 |
| CPU | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB |
| Battery | 4,610mAh |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (wide) + 50MP (ultrawide) + 50MP (telephoto, 3.2x optical) |
| Front Camera | 32MP |
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| + Incredible cameras | – Awkward to handle |
| + High-quality design | – Expensive |
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How to Choose the Best Xiaomi Phone for You
Xiaomi offers a wide range of smartphones, so you’re likely to find one that suits your needs. However, there are several factors you should consider when making your decision.
Budget: Your budget is the first thing to think about. Naturally, higher-end models come with more advanced features, but if you’re looking to spend less, you’ll need to prioritize which features matter most to you.
Specifications: Key specs to focus on include processing power, especially if you’re into gaming. The camera quality is crucial if photography is important to you. Battery life is always a plus, though fast charging can help offset shorter battery life.
Screen Size: Screen size is a matter of personal preference. A larger screen is great for watching videos and using apps but can make the phone bulkier and harder to use with one hand. Regardless of size, look for a high resolution and refresh rate for a better viewing experience.
Ultimately, decide which features are most important to you and choose accordingly. Or, if you want the best of everything, a flagship model might be the way to go—though it comes with a higher price tag.
Are Xiaomi Phones Better Than Samsung Phones?
Xiaomi’s flagship phones are increasingly becoming strong competitors to Samsung’s. The Xiaomi 14, for instance, is a solid alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S24, offering a compact, high-end experience.
There are some differences between the two brands. Xiaomi phones generally offer faster charging, while Samsung devices often have superior camera systems. Your choice will depend on what features are more important to you.
The comparison extends to budget models as well. Samsung’s Galaxy A series is known for great displays at an affordable price, while Xiaomi’s Poco phones tend to be more powerful, and Redmi phones often excel in photography.
Is Xiaomi a Good Brand to Buy?
We’ve been fans of Xiaomi phones since they started selling in the Western market, and we’d definitely recommend considering them if you’re in the market for a new phone.
Like any brand, Xiaomi has both hits and misses. Some flagship models can be overpriced, and some budget models may have features that don’t fully deliver. However, the phones on our list represent the best Xiaomi has to offer, based on our thorough testing.
Do Xiaomi Phones Have Google Apps?
Yes, all Xiaomi phones sold in the West come with Google Mobile Services, which means they include apps like Google Maps, Google Pay, and the Google Play Store. You can download additional apps just as you would with any Android phone, providing a full Android experience.
However, it’s worth noting that Android phones sold in China don’t use Google apps, as other options are more popular there. But all the phones on this list are available in the West, so you won’t encounter that issue.
