In 2020, Xiaomi released two flagship smartphones β Mi 10 and Mi 10 Pro, which are still relevant for purchase in the secondary market. At first glance, the models seem almost identical: both are equipped with a top-end Snapdragon 865 chipset, support networks. 5G, have AMOLED-But if you look closer, the differences become clear -- and they have a direct impact on the user experience.
The main question that worries potential buyers: should you overpay for the Pro version? In this article, we will analyze the unique technical features of each model that are not listed in standard comparison tables, and help you decide on the choice depending on your tasks - whether it is mobile photography, games or long-term autonomy.
The comparison is based on official specifications, real-world user tests and analysis of current prices in the used market, all of which are checked for compliance with MIUI 14 firmware (the latest supported version for these models).
1.Display: same size, different quality
Both models received 6,67-inch AMOLED-resolution-screen 2340Γ1080 support HDR10+. But here lies the first key difference: Mi. 10 Pro is equipped with a panel from Samsung E3, The basic version uses a screen from BOE. In practice, this means:
πΉ Brightness: The Pro version has a maximum brightness of 1,200 nits (vs. 800 nits in the standard model), which is critical when used in the sun.
πΉ Color rendering: Samsung screen E3 It covers 100% of the color space. DCI-P3 without lighting, while BOE requires calibration for professional color work.
πΉ Energy consumption: despite the same diagonal, Mi 10 Pro spends 15-20% less charge on the backlight of the screen due to a more efficient matrix.
For most users, the difference will only be noticeable when compared directly, but if you often watch HDR videos or work with graphics, the Pro version is definitely preferable.
Performance: chipset is one, but cooling is different
Both models run on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 with 5G support, but there are two nuances here that are rarely mentioned:
πΉ Cooling system: Mi 10 The Pro is equipped with liquid cooling with a graphite pad (the standard version is only a copper tube).This means that under prolonged loads (for example, in Genshin Impact at maximum settings), the Pro version does not throttl to the top. 10-15 longer.
πΉ Memory: Mi 10 Pro is used in the LPDDR5 (against LPDDR4X In the base model), which gives a 20% increase in multitasking (for example, when switching between heavy applications).
In practice, the difference in performance is only noticeable to gamers or those who mount video on a smartphone, and for everyday tasks, both devices show themselves equally fast.
β οΈ In 2026, both smartphones do not officially support Android updates above version 12 (MIUI 14) This means that new games and applications may work with lags due to the outdated version of OpenGL.
3.Camera: The main difference between the models
It is the photo module that became the main argument in favor of the Mi 10 Pro. Let's see how justified the overpayment for a "professional" camera:
| Parameter | Xiaomi Mi 10 | Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Main camera. | 108 MP, f/1.69, 1/1.33β | 108 MP, f/1.69, 1/1.33β + OIS |
| Ultra-wide module | 13 MP, f/2.4, 123Β° | 20 MP, f/2.2, 117Β° + AF |
| Telephoto (2x) | 2 MP, f/2.4 (decorative) | 12 MP, f/2.0 + OIS |
| Macro | 2 MP, f/2.4 | (replaced with full telephoto) |
| 8K video | β No. | β Available. 30 fps) |
πΉ Stabilization: in the Mi 10 Pro, the main and telephoto cameras are equipped with optical stabilization (OIS), What is critical for shooting video in motion or in low light.
πΉ Zoom: The basic version offers only digital zoom 10x, The Pro has a hybrid zoom. 5x optical 2x, Which gives you a much clearer shot.
πΉ Night shooting: thanks to the larger pixel size (1.6 ΞΌm vs. 0.8 ΞΌm in the base version), the Mi 10 Pro copes better with photos in the dark.
If the camera is your priority, the overpayment for the Pro version is completely justified, but for social media and random shots, the Mi 10 will be enough.
How to check the originality of the camera in the Mi 10 Pro?
Battery and charging: speed vs capacity
Here, the manufacturer compromised: the Mi 10 got a 4,780mAh battery, and the Mi 10 Pro got a 4,500mAh battery. However, the difference in autonomy is minimal thanks to the more efficient screen in the Pro version.
πΉ Mi 10:
- π Fast charging: 30 Watt (0-100% post 65 minute)
- π Wireless charging: 30W
- π Reverse charging: 10W
πΉ Mi 10 Pro:
- β‘ Fast charging: 50 Watt (0-100% post 45 minute)
- πΆ Wireless charging: 30W
- π Reverse charging: 10W
In practice, a 20 minute difference when fully charged can be critical if you often forget to put your smartphone on overnight charging, but consider that 50-watt power supplies for the Mi 10 Pro are less common and more expensive in the secondary market.
β οΈ Warning: Using non-original chargers above 30W on the Mi 10 may overheat the power controller and shorten battery life.
5. Design and Ergonomics: Weight Matters
Externally, smartphones are almost identical, but there are three key differences:
πΉ Weight: Mi 10 Pro is 18 grams heavier (208 g vs 192 g) This is noticeable with prolonged one-handed holding.
πΉ Materials: the rear panel of the Pro-version is made of matte glass (less slippery), while the base model has a glossy coating that collects prints.
πΉ Colors: Mi 10 Pro is available in an exclusive color "Alpine White", which does not fade over time (unlike the blue version of the Mi 10).
If you often carry a smartphone in your pocket or use it without a case, the Mi 10 will be more convenient.
Check the screen for broken pixels (#00ff00 in full screen mode)
Make sure the camera is focused at a distance of 5 cm (an ultra-wide problem)
Check the charging speed (should show "Fast Charging" in the status bar)
Check the work. 5G (customized SIM-maps and mobile networks β Type of network)-->
6.Price and relevance in 2026
In the secondary market (according to Avito and Yula data for May 2026), the prices for the models were distributed as follows:
πΉ Xiaomi Mi 10 (8/128 GB): 12 000 β 16 000 β½
πΉ Xiaomi Mi 10 (8/256 GB): 15 000 β 19 000 β½
πΉ Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro (8/256 GB): 18 000 β 24 000 β½
πΉ Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro (12/256 GB): 22 000 β 28 000 β½
Should I overpay 6,000-8000? β½ The answer depends on your priorities:
- β Yes, if: you want a camera, bright screen or fast charging.
- β Not if: You are looking for a smartphone for calls, social media and easy games.
Alternatives could be the POCO F3 (with the same chipset but with a 120Hz screen) or the Redmi K40 Pro β they are cheaper and support newer versions of Android.
π‘
In 2026, the Mi 10 Pro will remain relevant only for mobile photography enthusiasts. For all other tasks, the Mi 10 offers 90% of the features for 70% of the price.
7. Frequent problems and how to avoid them
Both models have typical βdiseasesβ that you should know about before buying:
πΉ Mi 10:
πΉ Mi 10 Pro:
π§ How to extend the life of a smartphone:
π‘
Before buying a used Mi 10 Pro, check the battery status through the AccuBattery application. Capacity below 80% of the nominal (3600 mAh) indicates the need for replacement.