What Xiaomi phone with a good camera to buy in 2026

Choosing a smartphone with a focus on mobile photography in 2026 has gone from simply finding a high-resolution device to a complex process of analyzing optical systems. If we were chasing megapixels in the past, today the physical size of the matrix and the quality of software-based image processing are key. Xiaomi’s lineup this year offers perhaps the widest range of solutions, from affordable models with advanced software to flagships equipped with inch sensors that put them on a par with professional mirrorless cameras.

This year, the company has made a big bet on collaborating with the legendary Leica brand, which has dramatically changed the way it looks at color reproduction and detail, and now the user can choose between the bright, contrasting Leica Vibrant mode and the more natural, film-based Leica Authentic. This separation allows the phone to be tailored to suit their taste without having to rely on third-party editors.

This article will help you figure out which Xiaomi smartphone will be the perfect tool for shooting in your hands. We will look not only at dry specs, but also at real-world use cases, hidden menu features and nuances that are often silent on official presentations. The right choice today is an investment in the quality of your memories for years to come.

The flagship elite: Xiaomi series 14 and 14 Ultra

The undisputed leader in the ranking in 2026 is the Xiaomi 14 family, presented in two main form factors: a compact base and a massive Ultra. If you are looking for a device that can replace a full-fledged camera, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is the only true answer. The main feature of this model is the variable aperture of the main module, which allows you to mechanically adjust the depth of field, which is rare in the mobile market.

The 1-inch primary sensor (Sony LYT-900) captures a tremendous amount of light, delivering a clean picture even in extremely low light conditions. Unlike previous generations, it has improved stabilization and autofocus speed, and the imagery on this device looks like it's made with expensive optics, thanks to its natural bokeh and precise separation of object boundaries.

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi 14 Ultra is a heavy and oversized device. If you plan to actively shoot video from your hands, be sure to purchase a special photo case with a handle, which comes complete with a professional set, otherwise you will tire your wrist.

The base model Xiaomi 14, despite its smaller size, also received a great telephoto lens with macro shooting, making it a versatile soldier. However, if you care about maximum zoom and detail at long distances, the overpayment for the Ultra version is fully justified by the presence of a periscopic module with a floating lens.

• 📸 Primary sensor 1-inch-type variable-diaphragm f/1.63-f/4.0
• 🔭 Periscopic telephoto lens with optical zoom 5x and high-quality digital to 120x
• 🎥 Video recording in 8K Dolby Vision and professional exposure settings

Best choice: Xiaomi 13T Pro and 14T series

For those who are not willing to spend money on a top-end flagship, but require high-quality shooting, the Xiaomi 13T Pro series and the expected end of the year 14T are becoming the “gold mean” devices, which are often called “flagship killers” not only for the processor, but also for the presence of a telephoto lens with optical zoom, which in 2026 is increasingly rare in the middle segment.

The cameras are also customized with Leica, which guarantees branded color profiles and portrait modes. The main difference from the older brothers lies in the size of the sensors and the absence of some advanced mechanical elements, such as variable aperture. However, daytime shots are almost indistinguishable from flagship ones, and night shooting algorithms Night Mode 2.0 remains at a very high level.

The video capabilities of these smartphones are particularly noteworthy: they support 4K recording at 60 frames per second on all three camera modules, which gives directorial freedom when editing. Stabilization works effectively, although it is inferior in smoothness to the gimbal that you see in the Ultra series.

⚠️ Attention: In the camera settings of the T series, aggressive noise maker can be enabled by default. For more detailed pictures in low light, it is recommended to switch to manual mode or use the Night mode with a tripod.

Buying a previous-generation model like the 13T Pro in 2026 seems like a smart move. The price difference with the new products is substantial, and the difference in photo quality for 90% of social media users will be invisible. It is the smartest way to get a premium shooting experience without overpaying for marketing.

Budget segment: Redmi Note 13 Pro+ and new expectations

In the category of affordable smartphones up to 30-35 thousand rubles, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ remains the uncontested leader in terms of photos. This is the first device in its class to receive a 200-megapixel Samsung HP3 matrix with optical stabilization. The presence of OIS in this price segment is a critical parameter that is often overlooked.

The high resolution of the core module allows for digital zoom without catastrophic loss of quality. Thanks to the pixel binning algorithm (combining 16 pixels into one), the images look detailed during the day and clean at night. However, it is worth remembering that the ultra-wide-angle and macro modules here are more decorative in nature and serve only to expand functionality, not to produce quality results.

If you’re choosing a phone purely for the camera in the budget segment, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is the best choice.Competitors in this price niche often offer either less resolution or no stabilization, which in 2026 is an unacceptable trade-off.

• 📷 200 MP main sensor with optical image stabilization
• 🔍 Quality of digital zoom 2x and 4x thanks to the crop from the high matrix
• 🎨 Support RAW-Format for subsequent professional processing

Camera comparison: characteristics table

To make a final decision, you need to make a direct comparison of the specifications of the key models. The numbers speak for themselves, but it's important to understand that in mobile photography, more doesn't always mean better. + soft-soft».

As you can see from the table, the gap between flagships and the middle class is preserved by having full optical zoom. If you often shoot concerts, architecture or children from a distance, the lack of a telephoto lens (as in Redmi) will be a noticeable limitation. However, for shooting food, documents and portraits up close, the difference between models is erased.

Secrets of setting up a camera for a professional result

Even the best camera requires the right setup. Xiaomi’s standard settings are often socially oriented, making the colors too saturated and the skin too smooth. To unlock the device’s potential, you need to go to advanced settings through the Settings menu → Camera → Professional settings.

First of all, it is recommended to turn off Face Improvement and Beauty Filters if you appreciate the natural texture of the skin. It is also worth experimenting with the HDR parameter. In Auto mode, the phone can overdo it with shadows, making the picture flat. Switching to Off or Weak mode will add contrast and drama to the pictures characteristic of the Leica style.

Recommended course of action:


1. Open the Camera app.




2. Press the three stripes in the top corner.




3. Select "Settings."




4. Go to "Save and Format".




5. Include "Format HEIF" for space saving or "RAW" for pros.

For video, it's critical to check your stabilization settings. In 4K/60fps, electronic stabilization can crop the image by cropping the edges of the frame. If you want a wide angle, you'd better lower your frame rate to 30 fps or use Movie mode, where framing is minimal.

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Use a grid (rule of thirds) to enable it in the viewfinder settings, which will help you build your frame composition on the fly, and the blocked horizon will be visible immediately.

Video Shooting: Opportunities and Limitations

In 2026, Xiaomi has significantly tightened video capabilities, especially in flagship models. Dolby Vision support allows you to shoot videos with extended dynamic range, which looks perfect on compatible screens. However, it is worth considering that such files weigh a lot and require a productive PC to edit.

One of the interesting features is the Cinema Effect mode, which mimics the focus in large cameras by blurring the background in the video. It works well, but artifacts around moving objects are still present. For bloggers, it is important to have quality sound; here external microphones connect via USB-C or Bluetooth, since there is no 3.5 mm connector in the top models.

⚠️ Note: For long-term recording of video in 4K/8K The case of the smartphone can become very hot, which will lead to automatic termination of recording. For long-term shooting, use external cooling or shoot in the camera. 4K/30fps.

Active Mode works fine, but it cuts the shot a lot. If you're shooting a reportage or a walk, it's best to use an external stabilizer, because digital stabilization of the phone can have a jelly effect when you're moving.

Final verdict: what to take in 2026

Choosing a Xiaomi phone with a good camera in 2026 depends solely on your budget and requirements. If money is not a question and you need the best tool - Xiaomi 14 Ultra is unparalleled. It's a full-fledged camera with a call function. For those who want a balance between size and quality, Xiaomi 14 will be the perfect companion.

A sensible savings would be the purchase of Xiaomi 13T Pro, which gives 90% of the flagship’s capabilities for 60% of the price. and if the budget is limited, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ remains the king of the mid-range, offering features that were the lot of the premium a year ago.

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The main conclusion: Don't chase the maximum number of megapixels. It is better to choose a model with optical stabilization (OIS) and optical zoom than a device with 200 MP without stabilization.

Remember, the best camera is the one that's always with you. Xiaomi's modern algorithms allow you to make masterpieces even on medium-sized hardware if you know how to use them. Experiment with Leica modes, learn how to work with light, and your smartphone will produce a result that you can burn.

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