Which Xiaomi phone is better to buy in 2021: TOP-5 models with prices and characteristics

Choosing a smartphone in 2021 is not an easy task, especially if we are talking about the Xiaomi brand, which offers dozens of models in different price categories. On the one hand, the company produces flagship devices with top-end processors and cameras, and on the other hand, budget devices that are not inferior in functionality to mid-budget competitors. But how not to get lost in this variety and choose the Xiaomi smartphone that is ideal for your needs?

In this article, we will analyze the best Xiaomi models of 2021, compare them on key parameters: performance, camera quality, battery life and price/quality ratio. We will focus on current prices at the end of 2021 so you can assess whether a particular purchase is profitable. And if you have not yet decided on a budget, at the end of this article you will find recommendations for choosing according to the tasks: for games, photography, long work or everyday use.

1. Xiaomi 2021 flagships: Mi 11 Ultra vs Mi 11 - which is better?

If the budget is not limited, and the priority is maximum performance and premium features, then the choice is obvious: Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and Xiaomi Mi 11. Both models are built on the basis of the Snapdragon 888 processor, but differ in their approach to design, cameras and additional features.

The Mi 11 Ultra is a monster of the 2021 smartphone, with a secondary screen on the back that displays notifications, time and can even be used as a viewfinder for selfies by the main camera, and its main advantage is the camera with a Samsung GN2 sensor (50 MP), which bypasses most competitors in light and detail, including the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

The Mi 11, in turn, lacks a secondary screen and has a more modest main camera (108 MP, but with a smaller physical pixel size), but it is lighter, thinner and cheaper - from 70,000 rubles. Both devices support 120 Hz screen update, wireless charging 67 watts and have stereo speakers with support for Dolby Atmos.

• 📱 Mi 11 Ultra: Best camera, secondary screen, premium design
• 💰 Mi 11: more affordable flagship with the same “stuffing” and screen
• ⚡ Both support ultrafast charging (67W wired / 67W wireless)
• 🎮 Ideal for gaming thanks to Snapdragon 888 and cooling system

⚠️ Note: The secondary screen on the Mi 11 Ultra doesn't support gestures or touchscreen - it's just an information panel.

2. Best mid-budget smartphone: Poco F3 or Redmi K40?

The mid-range (30 000 – 50 000 rubles) is the most competitive, and Xiaomi offers two almost identical models: Poco. F3 redmi K40. Both are built on the Snapdragon 870 processor (an improved version of the Snapdragon 865).+), have AMOLED-120 Hz screen and 4520 mAh battery with 33 W fast charging.

So what's the difference? The Poco F3 is positioned as a gaming smartphone, with a more aggressive design, pre-installed gamer software (like the Game Turbo) and slightly optimized cooling. The Redmi K40, in turn, looks more restrained and has a slightly better main camera (48 MP vs 48 MP, but with different optics).

If you need a smartphone to play games, go for the Poco F3 (it’s cheaper and has software for gamers). The Redmi K40 is better suited for everyday use thanks to its more versatile design and slightly better camera.

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Both smartphones support unlocking the bootloader, which allows you to install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS), which is relevant for enthusiasts who want to get rid of advertising in MIUI.

3.Budget models: Redmi Note 10 Pro vs Poco M3 Pro 5G

A budget of up to 25,000 rubles is not a sentence for a quality smartphone. In 2021, Xiaomi released two outstanding models: the Redmi Note 10 Pro and Poco M3 Pro 5G. The first is aimed at those who care about the screen and camera, the second is for those who want 5G at a minimum price.

Redmi Note 10 Pro received a new version AMOLED-A 120Hz screen is rare for a budget segment! camera here at 108MP (although the real quality is closer to 12MP due to pixel binning), but for its price (from 22000 pixels). ₽) It's a great option. M3 Pro 5G cheaper (from 18 000) ₽), has IPS-90Hz screen and Dimensity 700 processor, which is weaker than Snapdragon 732G Note 10 Pro.

• 📸 Redmi Note 10 Pro: Best screen and camera on budget
• 🌐 Poco M3 Pro 5G: cheap 5G, but weaker in other respects.
• 🔋 Both have a 5,000 battery.+ fast-charging mAch
• 💡 Note 10 Pro supports support NFC, M3 Pro 5G — no

⚠️ Attention: Poco M3 Pro 5G doesn't support networks 5G in Russia on frequencies used by local operators (for example, in the, n78). Before buying, check compatibility with your operator!

Game Smartphone: Black Shark 4 Pro - Should You Overpay?

For avid gamers, Xiaomi offers a line of Black Shark smartphones that are specifically optimized for gaming. 2021 Black Shark 4 Pro features a Snapdragon 888 processor, a 144 Hz screen and physical triggers on the body that can be customized for games. But its main advantage is a cooling system with a liquid circuit and fan in the case (sold separately).

Should you take the Black Shark 4 Pro instead of the usual flagship? It depends on how serious you are about mobile games. In everyday use, it loses the Mi 11 due to the bulky design and the poor quality of software. But in games, the difference is noticeable: stable 120+ FPS in PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile versus 90 FPS on standard flagships.

Are you playing hard games (PUBG, Genshin Impact, COD) more than 2 hours a day|

Do you need physical triggers for easy management?|

Ready to put up with a cumbersome design and a mediocre camera |

Is there support for accessories in your area (for example, Black Shark coolers)-->

The price of the Black Shark 4 Pro starts from 80 000 rubles - it is expensive for a gaming smartphone, but cheaper than the flagship devices from ASUS ROG or Nubia Red Magic. If games are a hobby for you, not a lifestyle, it is better to save and take Poco F3.

5. Which Xiaomi to choose for photography in 2021?

If the main criterion is the quality of the photo, then in the line of Xiaomi 2021 there are only two real candidates: Mi 11 Ultra and Mi 10S. The first we have already considered, and the second is the “updated” version of the Mi 10 with a Snapdragon 870 processor and a 108 MP camera.

Mi 11 Ultra Unquestionably Leads with Samsung Sensor GN2, It's a great way to get more detail and dynamic range. 10S cheaper (from 50 000) ₽) and has a more balanced set of cameras: the main 108 MP, ultra-wide-angle 13 MP and 8 MP telephoto with 2x For most users, the difference between these models will only be noticeable when you look at a photo on a big screen or when you print it.

If the budget is limited to 30,000 rubles, consider the Redmi Note 10 Pro. Its 108-megapixel camera uses the same Samsung HM2 sensor as the Mi 10S, but due to budget optics and processing, the quality is worse.

6. Which Xiaomi to buy for long-term work without recharging?

If you want a smartphone that lasts 2+ days on a single charge, look for models with a 6,000mAh battery or support for ultra-economic modes. In 2021, Xiaomi offers two options:

1. Poco M3 Pro 5G — battery + Dimensity 700 processor (energy efficient) in moderate use lasts 1.5-2 days.
2. Redmi 9T — 6,000mAh battery + Snapdragon 662 processor. It can last up to 3 days in economical mode, but the screen is here. IPS 60 Hz.

For maximum autonomy, it is better to choose Redmi 9T. Despite the budget screen, it is equipped with the Ultra Battery Saver function, which disables all background processes, leaving only calls and SMS. In this mode, the smartphone can work up to 5 days!

⚠️ Note: 6000mAh battery models (e.g. Redmi) 9T) Charge longer – up to 2.5 hours using a standard 18W charger. If you care about charging speed, choose devices with 33W support+ (for example, Poco X3 Pro).

7.Price comparison: where to buy Xiaomi cheaper in 2021?

Xiaomi smartphone prices vary greatly by region and seller, and by the end of 2021, the best deals are:

• 🛒 Xiaomi Russia official website – 12 months warranty, but prices are often higher than retailers.
• 🏬 SberMegaMarket, M.Video, Eldorado - regular discounts and installments 0-0-24.
• 🌍 AliExpress (official Xiaomi stores) is 10-15% cheaper, but delivery can take up to a month.
• 🔄 Avito, Yula - you can find used flagships (for example, Mi). 10T) Perfectly fit for half the price.

When buying on AliExpress, pay attention to the firmware version: Chinese models (for example, marked). CN) Google Play may not support Google Play and may have language restrictions, the best option is the global version (Global) or the European version (EEA).

1. Support for Russian LTE-ranges (especially for models purchased abroad).

2. availability of a guarantee from an official dealer (when buying in Russia).

3. Compatible with wireless charging (not all Xiaomi models support Qi).-->

FAQ: Frequent questions about choosing Xiaomi in 2021