Why Xiaomi 2021 is still relevant in 2026?
Xiaomi’s 2021 smartphones remain among the most sought-after in the aftermarket – and for good reason. Even after 3 years, these devices offer a balanced ratio of price, performance and functionality that is difficult to find in new budget models. In 2021, the company released more than 20 models, but only 5 of them are worth seeing in 2026.
The main advantage of the 2021 phones is that they have mature MIUI firmware, which is debugged to the smallest detail, and there are no problems with raw software that are common in new devices, and used phone prices have dropped by 40-60%, making them ideal for those looking for a reliable smartphone for a reasonable price.
In this article, we will analyze the only 5 Xiaomi models of 2021 that are worth buying in 2026, taking into account the current requirements: support for modern applications, battery durability and upgrade capabilities.
Selection criteria: what is important in 2026?
When evaluating smartphones in 2021, we relied on 4 key factors relevant to today:
- 🔋 Battery: capacity from 4500 mAh and support for fast charging not lower than 33 W (otherwise the battery has already degraded)
- 🎮 Performance: chipset is not weaker than Snapdragon 732G or Dimensity 800U for comfortable work with modern applications
- 📸 Cameras: core module of at least 48 MP with optics from Sony or Samsung (cheap sensors OmniVision are already outdated)
- 🔄 Support for software: official updates MIUI At least until 2023 (otherwise, there will be problems with banking applications)
We excluded from consideration models with Snapdragon 662 and weaker — they no longer pull modern games and multitasking. Also, we do not consider devices with a battery less than 4000 mAh: after 3 years of operation, their capacity drops to a critical 60-70%.
TOP-5 smartphones Xiaomi 2021: a comparative table
| Model | Chipset | Battery | Main camera. | Used price (2026) | Ratings. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra | Snapdragon 888 | 5000 mAh, 67 Wh | 50 MP (Sony IMX766) + 48 MP (Telephoto) | 35 000 — 45 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| POCO F3 | Snapdragon 870 | 4520 mAh, 33 Wh | 48 MP (Sony IMX582) | 18 000 — 22 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Redmi Note 10 Pro | Snapdragon 732G | 5020 mAh, 33 Wh | 108 MP (Samsung HM2) | 15 000 — 19 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Xiaomi 11T Pro | Dimensity 1200 | 5000 mAh, 120 watts | 108 MP (Samsung HMX) | 28 000 — 35 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Redmi Note 10S | Helio G95 | 5000 mAh, 33 Wh | 64 MP (Sony IMX682) | 12 000 — 16 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐½ |
Note: prices are for devices in the “as new” state (9/10) with the original battery; devices with a replaced battery are 20-30% cheaper, but require a replacement quality check. Redmi Note 10S is included in the list as a budget option, but its Helio G95 chipset is already outdated for modern games.
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The Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and 11T Pro are the only 2021 models that still receive monthly security updates (as of June 2026).
Best flagship: Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra – camera and performance
The Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra remains the top choice for those looking for a 2021 premium smartphone with up-to-date specs.It is the only model in the lineup with the Snapdragon 888 that still ranks alongside many of the new flagships in benchmarks.
The main advantages:
- 📷 Best camera among Xiaomi 2021: the core module of Sony IMX766 (50 MP) with optical stabilization and telephoto 48 MP with 5x zoom
- 🔋 5000 mAh battery with 67 W wireless charging (really charged in 39 minutes)
- 🖥️ Screen. AMOLED 2K (3200×1440) frequent 120 Hz and support for Dolby Vision
The only significant drawback is the weight of 234 grams and dimensions (164.3×74.6×8.4 mm), one of the heaviest Xiaomi smartphones to get used to, and it’s also worth checking the condition of the rear panel: many instances eventually peel off the protective glass above the cameras.
⚠️ Attention: When buying Mi 11 Ultra used be sure to check the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner under the screen. 15% The devices are broken after 2-3 years of operation and repairs are required 8-12 thousand rubles.
How to check the originality of the Mi 11 Ultra?
Best gaming smartphone: POCO F3 – Snapdragon 870 at the price of Redmi
The POCO F3 is the rebranded Redmi K40 for the global market, and it still remains the top choice for budget gamers.The Snapdragon 870 chipset (overclocked by the Snapdragon 865+) still pulls the Genshin Impact at mid-settings (30-40 FPS) and Call of Duty Mobile at maximum (60 FPS).
Advantages for gaming:
- 🎮 Cooling system with graphite gasket and copper tube (temperature during the game does not exceed 42)°C)
- 🔄 Screen. AMOLED 120 Hz with support HDR10+ and sensory frequency 360 Hz
- 🔊 Stereo speakers with support for Dolby Atmos (important for shooters)
The main drawback is the plastic case, which eventually becomes covered with scratches, and some specimens have a problem with "yellow spots" on the screen during prolonged use (matrix defect).
Sensor problems (test in ##6484##)
Battery condition (capacity must be at least 4000 mAh)
The operation of the vibration motor (frequent problem)
The absence of yellow spots on the screen-->
Best budget option: Redmi Note 10 Pro – 108 MP for 15 thousand rubles
Redmi Note 10 Pro – the best-selling smartphone Xiaomi 2021 It's the only device in the budget segment with a 108-Megapixel camera (Samsung sensor) HM2) and AMOLED-frequency-screen 120 Hz. 2026 You can find it in a year. 15-19 thousand rubles in perfect condition.
Who's good for:
- 📸 Amateur photographers: in the daytime, the camera is not inferior to many flagships of 2020
- 🎬 Video lovers: Supports shooting 4K@30fps electronically stabilized
- 🔋 Those who care about the battery: 5020 That's enough. 1.5-2 daytime with moderate use
Weaknesses:
- ⚠️ Snapdragon chipset 732G No modern games on high settings (maximum - average)
- ⚠️ No. 5G (In 2026, this is already a minus for long-term use)
- ⚠️ The body collects fingerprints (needs silicone overlay)
⚠️ Attention: Redmi Note 10 Pro has a critical problem with the microphone. 5-7% devices, it is broken down through 1.5-2 Before buying, be sure to call from your phone and check the quality of the voice transmission.
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If you want 5G in the budget segment, consider the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G (2022) – it costs a little more, but has a Snapdragon 695 with support for next-generation networks.
Best Balance: Xiaomi 11T Pro – 120W charging and 108MP
Xiaomi 11T Pro is a lightweight version of the flagship with the same key chips, but at a more affordable price. The main advantage of the model is the fastest charging among smartphones in 2021: 120 watts allows you to charge 5000 mAh in 17 minutes (according to GSMArena tests).
What stands out:
- ⚡ Charging 120 watts (there is a power supply in the kit, which is rare for Xiaomi)
- 📸 108 MP camera (Samsung) HMX) night-time
- 🎮 Dimensity 1200 chipset is one of the best from MediaTek in 2021
- 🔊 Stereo speakers from Harman Kardon (best sound among all Xiaomi 2021)
Disadvantages:
- ❌ No optical stabilization in the main camera (electronic only)
- ❌ Polycarbonate body (not glass, like flagships)
- ❌ Screen. AMOLED, without support LTPO (The frequency is always 120 Hz, which eats up the charge)
One important thing to note is that 120 watt charging heats up your phone during the process, and it's not recommended to use it all the time, but instead, charge 60-80% of the power (you can choose mode in the settings), and it will prolong the battery life.
Redmi Note 10S for those who do not need games
Redmi Note 10S is the most affordable option in our ranking, but with serious reservations, this smartphone is suitable only for basic tasks: social networks, calls, watching videos and simple games like Brawl Stars or Clash Royale.
Pros:
- 💰 Price: New can be found for 12-14 thousand rubles, b/u - for 8-10 thousand.
- 🔋 5000 mAh battery with 33-watt charging support
- 📸 64 MP camera (Sony) IMX682) — Better than many of the public sector in 2023
Cons:
- ❌ Helio chipset G95 It is outdated in 2022 (it does not pull modern games)
- ❌ Screen. AMOLED, but only 60 Hz.
- ❌ No. NFC (phone-free)
- ❌ The body is made of glossy plastic (severely scratched)
⚠️ Attention: Redmi Note 10S If you notice that the phone is heating above 45°C while charging – immediately disconnect it from the mains and check the battery (maybe need a replacement).
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If your budget is limited to 15 thousand rubles, it is better to pay 2-3 thousand and take the Redmi Note 10 Pro - the difference in performance and screen is worth it.