What Xiaomi smartphone to buy in 2021: rating of the best models by price and quality

Choosing a new smartphone in 2021 has become a challenge because of the sheer number of models the Chinese giant has produced, with the market oversaturated with devices that look the same but differ dramatically in performance, camera quality and body materials. It is extremely easy for a potential buyer to get confused by the acronyms NFC, AMOLED and various Snapdragon processors.

That’s why we’ve prepared a detailed guide to help you avoid overpaying for unnecessary features and get a really powerful device. In 2021, Xiaomi made a bet on introducing screens with high refresh rates and fast charging even in the budget segment, which makes this the perfect time to upgrade the device.

We analyzed technical specifications, real-world user reviews and autonomous test results to create an objective ranking, and below you will find a breakdown of the best candidates in different price categories, from affordable "popular" to flagship solutions.

Key criteria for choosing a smartphone this year

Before you go to specific models, you need to clearly define which parameters are critical for you. In 2021, the minimum comfortable standard is a screen with a frequency of 90 Hz or 120 Hz, which ensures smooth interface. Ignoring this parameter is no longer meaningful, since the difference in the experience of using is noticeable immediately.

The second crucial aspect is the processor: To keep heavy apps and games running smoothly in 2021, it’s worth targeting Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 700-series chips and up. Budget solutions from MediaTek have also performed well, especially the Helio G99 series, which provide a good balance between energy efficiency and power.

And remember the memory types, and having an NFC module for contactless payment and stereo speakers is becoming the norm even in the middle class, but if you want maximum autonomy, you should sacrifice the thickness of your case for a 6,000 mAh battery.

• 📱 Screen: Type of matrix AMOLED for juicy flowers or IPS for eye safety, refresh rate from 90 Hz.
• 🚀 Performance: Minimum 6 GB of RAM and processor with an AnTuTu rating above 300,000 points.
• 🔋 Autonomy: Battery capacity from 4500 mAh and support for fast charging power from 33 W.

⚠️ Note: When buying a device in 2021, pay attention to the operating system version.Some models may come with an outdated Android 10, while the current standard is already Android 11 with a shell. MIUI 12.5.

Best mid-segment pick: Redmi Note 10 Pro

The undisputed hit of sales and the benchmark of the price-performance ratio in 2021 was the Redmi Note 10 Pro. This device set a new bar for the entire market, offering characteristics that were previously available only in flagships. The main feature of the model was a magnificent main camera with a resolution of 108 MP and a Samsung HM2 matrix.

The hardware platform is built on the Snapdragon 732G processor. While it's not the latest chip, it's perfectly optimized and handles most modern games at high graphics settings. The 120Hz Super AMOLED screen and Gorilla Glass 5 protective glass make using the phone a pleasure.

The design and ergonomics deserve special attention. The glass back looks expensive, and the presence of full-fledged IP53 moisture protection (and in some regions IP54) protects the device from splashes and dust. Stereo speakers provide surround sound, which is rare for this price range.

But there are nuances: The MIUI can have ads in standard applications that take time to shut down, and the plastic frame of the case, despite the glass panels, can slide in the hands without the case.

• 📸 108 MP camera with video support 4K high-quality macrography.
• ⚡ Rapid 33W charging complete, charges 5020mAh battery in 42 minutes.
• 🎧 Availability of a 3.5 mm connector for wired headphones and an IR port for controlling equipment.

⚠️ Note: In some regions sold version of the Redmi Note 10 Pro Max, which differs only in increased internal memory and the presence of the NFC, So carefully examine the box markings before buying.

Style and compactness: Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite 5G

If you don’t like the trend for massive shovels, the Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite will be a breath of fresh air.It’s one of the thinnest and lightest smartphones of 2021, which is only 6.8 mm thick and weighs 157 grams (5G), and more accessible 4G-version.

On the basis 5G-The version is based on the Snapdragon processor. 780G, It's a 5-nanometer process, and it's very energy efficient, it's very low heat. AMOLED, but with a frequency of 90 Hz, which is enough for smooth operation of the interface.

The device is designed in strict minimalism with flat faces and a flat screen, which makes it easier to stick a protective glass. Cameras, although inferior in resolution to the leader of the rating, shoot very decently due to good software processing and the presence of a telemacro lens.

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Buying thin smartphones like Mi 11 Lite, immediately buy a high-quality case with sidebars, as the camera slightly protrudes and the screen glass is vulnerable when falling on the edge.

The weak point of the model is the lack of a headphone jack and a complete charger in some versions of the delivery, and the plastic frame and rear panel (even in glass versions) require careful handling due to the fragility of the design.

• 🎨 Ultra-thin body thickness of 6.8 mm and weight of only 157 grams.
• 📶 Support for modern networks 5G and two Wi-Fi bands (2.4 and 5 GHz).
• 🔋 Optimized battery 4250 mAh, which is enough for a full day of active use.

Maximum performance: POCO X3 NFC and F3

For users who prioritize speed and gaming, the POCO lineup remains out of competition in 2021.The POCO X3 NFC model is based on the time-tested Snapdragon 732G chipset, which is familiar to us on the Redmi Note 10 Pro, but in a more affordable body.

More powerful, the POCO F3, powered by the flagship Snapdragon 870 processor, is an overclocked version of the Snapdragon 865 and is superior in performance to many of the current flagships of other brands. When paired with a 120Hz screen and a 360Hz sensor, it gives incredible responsiveness in shooters.

Both smartphones have stereo speakers and an IR port. However, the design of the X3 NFC with a huge camera module on the back is not popular. F3 in this regard looks stricter and more elegant, using a glass rear panel and thin bezels around the display.

It is worth noting that the POCO F3 is devoid of a telephoto lens, which can be a drawback for fans of zoom photography, but the main sensor Sony IMX582 or IMX686 (depending on the region) takes very detailed photos even in low light.

• 🎮 Snapdragon processor 870 model F3 provides a power reserve for 3-4 year-end.
• 📺 Screen. E4 AMOLED with a peak brightness of 1300 nits, which is clearly visible in the sun.
• ❄️ Improved cooling system with copper tube for heat removal during games.

Budget King: Redmi 10 and Redmi Note 10

Category to 15-18 thousand-ruble 2021 The year is ruled by the ball of the Redmi model 10 And the regular Redmi Note. 10. These devices prove that the public sector worker doesn't have to be slow or have a bad screen. IPS-screens (in basic versions) or AMOLED (note 10) frequent 90 Hz.

The Redmi 10 is notable for its quad camera, including an ultra-wide-angle module, and an updated design with a matte back cover texture that does not collect prints. The MediaTek Helio G88 processor, while not a benchmark champion, ensures stable operation of social networks and navigators.

Redmi Note 10 (without the Pro console) AMOLED-The Snapdragon 678 is a great option for those who want a quality display like the older brothers, but are not willing to overpay for excess power.

⚠️ Note: In the basic versions of budget models, memory is often used such as eMMC 5.1, which runs slower than modern models. UFS This may affect the speed of application installation and system loading.

The main trade-off here is materials, plastic housing, lack of water protection and simpler camera modules require careful handling, but at a price they are some of the best deals on the market.

• 💰 The best ratio of price and functionality at the start of sales.
• 🔌 Jack USB Type-C and support for fast charging even in the budget segment.
• 📱 Modern screens with high refresh rates for smoothness.

Comparative Characteristics Table

To make your final decision easier, we have brought the basic parameters of the models in a single table, which will allow you to quickly compare technical details and choose the device that is perfect for your tasks.

Analyzing the table, the Redmi Note 10 Pro wins in versatility, offering the best balance between camera, screen and autonomy, while the POCO F3 is no alternative for gamers thanks to its powerful processor.

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Choosing between the Redmi Note 10 Pro and the POCO F3 is a choice between the best camera/autonomousity and the best performance in games.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)