Choosing a modern TV has become a challenge, especially when it comes to the Xiaomi brand, which offers dozens of models with similar names. It is easy to confuse a potential buyer with the acronyms QLED, MEMC, Dolby Vision and various versions of operating systems. In 2026, the Chinese giant’s lineup has grown so much that without a clear understanding of the difference between the A, P and Q series, you can overpay for unnecessary features or, conversely, lose the desired image quality.
The main problem is that marketing names often hide the real specifications: One TV can cost cheap because it doesn’t have full HDR support, and another can be an overpaid version with an excess amount of memory that you don’t need. Understanding which TV to buy from a shawmi for your specific tasks requires analyzing not only the diagonal, but also the type of backlight, the frequency of screen refresh and the HDMI version.
In this article, we will break down all the current series, compare their performance and help you determine the model that will be the ideal center of your home theater.We will not use template phrases, but focus on specific technical nuances that affect image quality and usability in the long run.
Key selection criteria: matrix, HDR and frequency
The first thing to look for when buying is the type of matrix. Budget models usually come with standard VA or IPS panels that provide an acceptable picture, but have contrast limitations. Higher-priced versions use QLED technology with quantum dots, which greatly expands color coverage and brightness. If you plan to watch content in 4K, having full support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision is a prerequisite for getting a quality picture.
Screen refresh rate is the second critical parameter. Basic models run at 60 Hz, which is enough to watch TV and movies. However, gamers planning to connect to a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X need to look for models with 120 Hz support and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology. Without these features, there can be tears in the image and lubrication of movements in dynamic scenes.
- 🔍 Brightness: for HDR-Look for indicators from 400 nits and above, otherwise the effect of the extended dynamic range will be invisible.
- 🎮 Input Lag: Delay in game mode should be less than 20 ms for comfortable play of shooters and fighting games.
- 📺 Local Dimming: Local Dimming is critical for deep black in dark scenes.
⚠️ Note: Not all TVs are marked "4K" fully-fledged matrix 3840×2160. Some budget models use the subpixel rendering method, which reduces the clarity of text and small interface details.
Budget Segment Review: Series A and 4A
Xiaomi TV A and 4A series are the entry ticket to the world of smart TVs with Android. These models are designed for those who need a simple, reliable screen for the kitchen, bedroom or cottage. Here you will not find advanced technologies like mini-LED backlighting, but the basic features of Smart TV will work smoothly.
These models often use a four-core processor that handles YouTube and online cinema playback, but can slow down when installing heavy third-party apps. RAM is usually 1.5 GB or 2 GB, which is the minimum level required for Android to work. TV. When choosing such a model, it is important to understand that it is not designed for high-quality gaming or viewing complex games. HDR-content.
Public sector designs are often plastic and the frames around the screen can be wide enough, but for everyday use during daylight hours, the difference in picture quality compared to more expensive models may not be so noticeable if you do not put TVs next to you.
Middle Class: P1 and P1E Series
The P1 lineup is a middle ground, offering improved color reproduction and a more powerful processor. There is already support for Dolby Vision and HDR10, making it much more enjoyable to watch movies on streaming platforms. Models of this series are often equipped with MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation), which artificially increases frame rates, making movement in sports and action movies more smooth.
An important difference is the presence of more modern ports, including HDMI 2.1 on some diagonals, which allows you to transmit a 4K video signal at 60 frames per second with full color depth. The operating system in these models is faster due to the increased amount of RAM, usually 2 GB or 3 GB. This reduces the likelihood of interface freezes when switching between applications.
The sound system in the P1 series has also undergone improvements: speakers with Dolby Audio support are often installed, although for full cinematic effect, the use of an external soundbar is still recommended.
The secret of MEMC in Xiaomi TVs
Flagship solutions: Q1, Q1E and Mini LED series
If you are looking for the highest quality, then your choice should fall on the series. Q1 and new products with Mini matrices LED. These televisions use quantum dots and an advanced lighting system that delivers incredible brightness and deep black, and contrast in these models reaches values previously only available in the sky. OLED-technology, but without the risk of pixel burnout.
Flagships are equipped with top-end AI processors that analyze content in real time and optimize colors, noise and sharpness. Support for gaming features here is full: 120 Hz, VRR, ALLM (automatic low latency mode) and even support for variable frame rate for PCs. This makes them a great choice not only for movies but also for hardcore gaming.
The sound in flagship models is often developed in conjunction with well-known audio brands such as Harman Kardon.The built-in speaker system can have power up to 40-50 watts and support Dolby Atmos surround sound, allowing you to enjoy movies without buying additional speakers.
| Series | Type of matrix | Support for HDR | Frequency (Hz) | OS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A / 4A | LED (VA/IPS) | HDR10, HLG | 60 | Android TV |
| P1 / P1E | LED / QLED | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | 60 | Android TV |
| Q1 / Q1E | QLED | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ | 60 / 120 | Google TV |
| Mini LED | Mini LED | Full spectrum HDR | 120 / 144 | Google TV |
Operating system: Android TV vs Google TV
One of the most confusing things for buyers is the software difference: Old and budget models run on the classic Android TV interface with horizontal app series. New models, especially flagship ones, are moving to the Google TV interface, which focuses on personalized content recommendations from all streaming services installed.
Functionally, both systems are based on the same platform, so you can install any apps from the Google Play Store in both cases. However, Google TV has a more modern and smooth interface, as well as deep integration with the smart home. If you want a modern interface and quick recommendations for "what to see", it is worth choosing a model with Google TV.
It is worth noting that firmware updates on new models are more frequent, which ensures new features and security patches. In the settings menu, the path to update is usually: Settings → Device and applications → About the system → System Update.
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When you first turn on your Xiaomi TV, be sure to update the operating system through the settings menu. This will fix many bugs that may have occurred during long storage of the device in stock.
Gaming capabilities and console connection
For owners of next-generation gaming consoles, having an HDMI 2.1 port is critical. This interface alone provides the bandwidth needed to transmit 4K images at 120 frames per second. If the TV has only HDMI 2.0, you will be limited to 60 frames or lower resolution at a high refresh rate.
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology synchronizes the console’s frame rate with the screen refresh rate, eliminating image tears. On Xiaomi TVs, this feature is often labeled as “Game Mode Plus” or similar names on the game menu. Activating this mode also reduces input delay (Input Lag) to a minimum, which is critical for competitive games.
- 🎮 Auto Low Latency Mode: The TV automatically switches to game mode when the console starts.
- 🖥️ PC Mode: Some models allow you to use the TV as a monitor with support for a wide color range.
- 🔊 eARC: port with support for Audio Return Channel allows you to transmit uncompressed sound to an external audio system.
⚠️ Note: Not all ports HDMI Usually only one or two ports are marked as 2.1 or support eARC. Carefully read the diagram of ports on the back or in the instructions before connecting the console.
Checklist before buying in the store
Before you pay for the purchase, it is recommended to quickly check the device directly in the store, if possible, or immediately after delivery by courier, which will help to avoid problems with broken pixels or matrix defects, which are easy to notice on a static image.
☑️ Checking the TV when buying
Notice the uniformity of the backlight. Turn on the all-black image and look at the screen at an angle. If you see bright spots on the edges or in the center, this indicates uneven lighting, which is especially noticeable in the dark. Also check the smart features: launch YouTube and estimate the speed of downloading videos.
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Buying a Xiaomi TV is a balance between diagonal and matrix quality. Better to take a smaller model, but with a QLED or Mini LED, than a huge screen with a mediocre picture.