The smartphone market in 2022 has undergone significant changes, and Xiaomi has taken a leading position in it, offering consumers an incredibly wide range of devices: from budget “workhorses” to premium flagships with Leica cameras, the choice of a model can be confusing even an experienced technohyphile. Many users wonder what exactly is worth paying attention to not overpay for unnecessary functions or, conversely, not to save where it is critical for comfort.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the current lineups that make sense to buy, given the release of new MIUI versions and the availability of security updates. We will not look at outdated models whose potential is already exhausted, but focus on devices that can ensure stable operation for several years.
It’s worth noting that in 2022, the brand finally solidified the division into sub-brands, each with a clear target audience, and understanding this hierarchy is key to successful buying. Below we’ll go through all the price segments so you can decide which Xiaomi to choose based on real needs, not just marketing slogans.
Xiaomi flagship series: technology at the limit of possibilities
If budget is not a limiting factor, Xiaomi’s flagship series offers the best of Android at the time of its release.In 2022, special attention should be paid to the 12 and 12 Pro series models, which received an updated design and the most powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processors.
One of the highlights of this year’s flagships is the collaboration with the legendary Leica brand, which has led to unique color profiles and improved image processing. Cameras now don’t just capture images, but create artwork with the right bokeh and color reproduction, but it’s worth remembering that performance comes at a cost not only in money, but also in energy consumption.
An important aspect of choosing a flagship in 2022 is the availability of wireless charging and water protection standard IP68.These features, previously available only in ultra-premium, are now becoming the standard for the top segment of the Chinese giant. If you plan to use the phone actively and long, the availability of these options will significantly increase the liquidity of the device in the future resale.
- 📸 Leica cameras with large sensors and optics for night shooting.
- ⚡ Superfast charging up to 120W, filling the battery in 20 minutes.
- 🎨 AMOLED-resolution-screen WQHD+ Update frequency of 120 Hz with adaptive mode.
⚠️ Warning: Flagship models on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor can be trottled during long gaming sessions due to heat.
The software deserves special attention. Flagships are the first to receive updates to new versions of MIUI and Android security patches. This ensures that your device remains relevant and protected from new threats for 3-4 years after purchase. For those who appreciate the stability of the system, this is a strong argument in favor of buying a top model.
Redmi Note Series: King of the Middle Segment
When it comes to rational choice, the Redmi Note series comes to mind. In 2022, the line continues to dictate the rules of the game in the mid-range segment, offering characteristics that were the lot of flagships a year earlier. Redmi Note 11 and 11 Pro models became hits thanks to a combination of quality screens and decent autonomy.
The main focus of this series this year was the transition to AMOLED-And even in more affordable versions, deep black and richer shades are now available to the rich, and many models have stereo speakers and IR ports, making them universal multimedia centers.
☑️ What to watch in the Redmi Note
It's important to distinguish between the Pro and the regular versions within the lineup. Often the price difference is small, but the Pro version gives a significant boost to the quality of the main camera and charging speed. If you shoot videos or photos often, the overpayment for the optical stabilization module (OIS) will be fully justified.
- 💰 The best value for money in the smartphone market.
- 🔋 5000 mAh batteries, providing up to two days of operation.
- 📱 Update 90 or 120 Hz screen for smooth interface.
And the processor base, too, is something that we've seen in 2022, when MediaTek Dimensity chips came in, and they're doing great in benchmarks and energy efficiency, and for most users, the difference between them and Snapdragon in everyday tasks is going to be subtle, but the price of the device might be nicer.
POCO gaming smartphones: power without compromise
The POCO sub-brand in 2022 has finally taken shape as a home for mobile gaming enthusiasts and those who need maximum performance for reasonable money. The F and X series models (such as the POCO F4 or X4 GT) are often based on the flagship platforms of the past year or powerful middle-classes, devoid of “tinsel” like wireless charging or premium body materials.
The key feature of these devices is an aggressive cooling system and optimization of the system for games. In the Settings menu → Special features → Game mode, you can find fine touchscreen response settings and traffic prioritization, which allows you to squeeze out all the juices from the iron in projects like PUBG Mobile or Genshin Impact.
| Model | Processor | Screen. | Charging. |
|---|---|---|---|
| POCO F4 | Snapdragon 870 | AMOLED 120 Hz | 67 W. |
| POCO X4 GT | Dimensity 8100 | LCD 144 Hz | 67 W. |
| POCO F4 GT | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | AMOLED 120 Hz | 120 W. |
The design of gaming smartphones often causes controversy: aggressive lines, RGB-Not everyone likes backlights and massive camera modules, but functionality like magnetic trigger buttons in the case (in the model). F4 GT), It can completely change the experience of shooters, and if you're a mobile gamer, it's probably the only segment where physical buttons give you a real edge over competitors.
The Secrets of POCO Optimization
Compact solutions: Xiaomi Mi and Lite versions
In a world where a 6.7-inch diagonal has become the standard, finding a handy compact smartphone is becoming increasingly difficult.The Xiaomi Lite series and some of the mainstream brand's models are trying to solve this problem by offering devices with a diagonal of about 6 inches and a lightweight body.In 2022, this is especially true for users who are tired of "shovels."
Lite versions often sacrifice processor power, but retain the ecosystem’s core benefits: a good screen, stylish design, and a modern version of Android. They are ideal for social media, instant messengers, and navigation. They often weigh less than 170 grams, making them truly comfortable with one hand.
However, when choosing a compact, you should be careful about the battery capacity. In a small case, it is physically difficult to accommodate a large battery, so autonomy can be compromised. If you spend a lot of time outside the socket, you may want to consider medium-sized models with a more capacious battery.
- 🤏 Ergonomic case, convenient for one hand control.
- 💎 Stylish and lightweight design, often using glossy materials.
- 📉 Affordable price compared to full-size analogues.
⚠️ Note: Compact models often lack optical stabilization (OIS) You can get a picture of it blurred in low light if you don't hold your hands perfectly still.
What to look for when choosing: screen, memory and NFC
When you buy a smartphone in 2022, it's not enough to just look at the model name. You need to understand the specifications that directly affect the experience. First of all, look at the type of screen matrix: AMOLED vs. IPS. For bright pictures and energy savings in dark AMOLED themes outside the competition.
The second critical parameter is RAM: In the context of growing applications and the “heavy” shell of MIUI, 4 GB of RAM in 2022 is already the absolute minimum, which can lead to slowdowns, the comfortable minimum has shifted to 6 GB, and optimally – 8 GB and above.
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When buying, be sure to check for the NFC module. In some regions, Xiaomi releases versions of smartphones without NFC (usually they are cheaper), and you can only find out about this by marking on the box or in the specification.
Don’t forget the communication standards. 5G support is becoming more relevant in 2022, even if fifth-generation networks are not yet deployed everywhere. 5G modem often suggests a more modern platform that will be relevant longer. Also check for dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), which is critical for stable Internet in apartment buildings.
The type of storage device is also important: UFS 3.1 provides significantly faster data write and read speeds than the older eMMC or UFS 2.2, which affects the speed of application launch, game installation and overall system responsiveness.
Global vs. Chinese: What's the difference?
One of the most common questions when buying is which firmware version to choose. Global Version has full support for all languages, including Russian, pre-installed Google services and support for all LTE frequencies used in Europe and the CIS.
Chinese versions (CN Version) are often cheaper, but may have limitations: the lack of some Band 20 frequencies (which affects 4G outside the city), the lack of Russian on the menu (English and Chinese only), and notification problems due to aggressive battery optimization.
Version check: Settings → About the phone → MIUI version
(The end of the line should read "Global Stable" for the global version.)There's also the concept of the Global Version with Chinese Re-Improved, which is when a vendor opens a box, changes it to global software and packs it back, and these devices are often unwarranted and may have trouble getting over-the-air updates (OTAs), and it's best to avoid these options if you're not a seasoned user.
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Purchasing the official Global Version is a guarantee of compatibility with local networks, stable notifications and no problems with banking applications.