Choosing a new smartphone is always a difficult balancing act between the desired functionality and the available budget. When Xiaomi 12T and iPhone 11 come to the fore, many users are confused as to which of these devices will be a smarter investment. iPhone 11, released in 2019, is still the bestseller in the used market and refurbished equipment due to its stability and ecosystem. On the other hand, Xiaomi 12T, introduced in 2022, offers modern technology, high-speed charging and a screen with a high refresh rate.
In this comparison, we will not rely on dry spec numbers, but will look at the real-world experience of using both devices in everyday scenarios.
You have to decide what is more important for you: time-tested optimization of iOS and video shooting quality or advanced Android hardware, 120 Hz display and lightning fast charging.
Both smartphones have their own unique advantages that can be crucial for different types of users.
Visually, these smartphones represent completely different philosophical approaches to design. iPhone 11 is made in the classic Apple style with an aluminum frame and a glass back panel, which provides a pleasant tactile sensation and a premium look. The dimensions of the device allow you to work comfortably with one hand, and the weight of 194 grams is almost not felt in the pocket. Unlike it, Xiaomi 12T received a more modern and bold design of the camera block, occupying a significant part of the upper back. The body is also glass, but the frame is thinner, and the screen takes up a more complex camera area from the sliding of the upper panel, which requires a more slical layer of the camera. ⚠️ Warning: The glass on the back of both smartphones easily collects fingerprints and requires regular wipes or the use of a protective case to keep the tidy look.If you prefer a compact and time-tested shape, the good old Applephone may seem more convenient. However, fans of large screens and modern proportions Xiaomi 12T I'll have a lot more to like.
Cameras: photo and video shooting The question of photography has always been the trump card of the Cupertinos, and the iPhone 11 was no exception. The main module at 12 MP shoots with excellent dynamics and natural colors that do not require processing. The main advantage is video shooting: stabilization, switching between cameras during 4K recording and sound quality here still outpace many competitors of the mid-range. Xiaomi 12T relies on megapixels, offering the main sensor Samsung HP1 at 108 MP. The daytime detail of shots is phenomenal, especially if you use high resolution, but the dynamic shooting is winning at the expense of the motion and the range, however, the camera is good. For the best night photos on Xiaomi 12T, use a tripod and turn on Night Mode manually, holding the phone motionless 3-4 seconds instead of an automatic short shot. Xiaomi also has a macro camera and an ultra-wire, which, however, is noticeably inferior to the main module in quality. The lack of a telephoto lens (optical zoom) in both devices is compensated by digital zoom, which is implemented on the iPhone more software-wise.
In this discipline, the gap between the devices is huge and leaves no doubt about the winner. iPhone 11 has a battery capacity of 3110 mAh, which is a minimum for the modern user. When used actively, the smartphone barely survives until the evening, and support for fast charging is limited to 18-20 watts, which means more than an hour and a half at the outlet. Xiaomi 12T received a battery of 5000 mAh, which provides a day and a half of quiet work or a full day of heavy load. But most importantly, HyperCharge technology with a power of 120 watts. Full charge of the device occurs in less than 20 minutes, you can dramatically charge the phone, you take a coffee or a shower. ☑️ Check before buying used iPhone Battery status (in settings)Availability of Face IDTrue Tone Original Display (True Tone) Check for iCloud lock: 0 / 5 ⚠️ Note: Use of non-original chargers with less power 67 W does not activate the maximum charging speed Xiaomi 12T, So it's a must-have home power supply, and for those who are always on the move, the speed of power recovery on Xiaomi is a critical advantage. 11 You will either have to carry a PowerBank with you or put up with frequent trips to the outlet.
The choice between these smartphones is primarily the choice of the operating system. iOS on the iPhone 11 guarantees to receive security updates and new features for several years. The interface is the same for all devices, the applications are optimized perfectly, and the integration with other Apple gadgets (AirPods, Mac, iPad) is unparalleled. MIUI (HyperOS in the new versions on Xiaomi 12T It offers a lot more customization options, you can change themes, fonts, the layout of controls, and get functionality that is only available with jailbreak in iOS. However, the system may contain embedded advertising in some system applications, which, however, can be disabled. 💡Council MIUI: immediately after turning on the phone, go to the special features settings and turn off the "Recommendations" to remove advertising in system applications. If you're already immersed in the Google ecosystem and you like file freedom, Xiaomi will be more native. If you want a buy-and-forget system with maximum lifespan and liquidity in the secondary market, the iPhone is the choice. 💡The main result of the comparison: Xiaomi 12T It's a win on screen, charging and autonomy, and the iPhone 11 is a win on video, optimization and liquidity. Is it worth buying an iPhone 11 in 2026? Buying an iPhone 11 only makes sense in three cases: A very tight budget, a desire to enter the Apple ecosystem at minimal cost, or the need for a compact phone.In all other cases, it's best to consider more modern models, as a 60Hz screen and a weak battery can be annoying. 12T 120W charging? Yes, heating is possible, but Xiaomi cooling system 12T Designed to handle heat loss. The phone controls the temperature and can reduce the charging speed if it gets too hot, which is safe for the battery. Is there a 3.5 mm headphone jack in Xiaomi 12T? No, the Xiaomi 12T, like the iPhone 11, does not have a standard 3.5 mm connector. To connect wired headphones, you will need a USB-C adapter or use a Bluetooth headset. Does the iPhone 11 support 5G networks? No, the iPhone 11 does not support fifth generation networks (5G). To work in 5G networks, you need to consider iPhone 12 and later. Xiaomi 12T also works mainly in 4G LTE networks, despite the powerful modem.