Xiaomi smartphones with a retractable camera: what models exist and should you buy in 2026?

The pop-up camera in smartphones is an innovative solution that has allowed manufacturers to achieve frameless design without screen cutouts. Xiaomi pioneered the technology with several models with a mechanical front camera module. However, these devices are becoming less common today, as the brand has moved to alternative solutions such as subscreen sensors or miniature cutouts.

If you are looking for Xiaomi with a retractable camera, it is important to understand that all such models were released before 2021, and their support is officially completed. However, they are still in demand among enthusiasts of unusual gadgets, collectors or those who appreciate unique design. In this article, we will analyze all existing models with a pop-camera from Xiaomi, their technical features, pros and cons, as well as give recommendations for selection and operation.

All Xiaomi smartphones with a retractable camera: the full list

In its history, Xiaomi has released only 4 models with a mechanical front camera, all of them belonging to the flagship or sub-flagship lineup and were introduced in 2019-2020.

• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9T (2019 – the first model with a pop-camera, budget flagship
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro (2019) – improved version with Snapdragon 855 processor
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 10T / 10T Pro (2020) – flagships with support 5G and a 144 Hz screen
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 10T Lite (2020) – simplified version with Snapdragon 750G

All of these devices share a common design: the retractable module is located at the top of the body and activates automatically when the front camera is launched or at the command of the user. The mechanism operates on the basis of a stepper motor and is equipped with drop sensors — if the smartphone is dropped, the camera will instantly retract back to avoid damage.

Comparison of technical characteristics: table

To make it easier to compare models, we've put their key parameters together in a single table, and note that despite the similar design, the internal stuffing is very different, from budget chips to top-end processors.

And you can see from the table that the Mi 10T Pro is the most advanced model in the lineup, but it's also the most expensive model in the secondary market. If you're looking for performance, you should pay attention to it. And the Mi 9T is the most budget option that you can still find in excellent condition at the price of a modern entry-level smartphone.

Pros and cons of the retractable camera in Xiaomi smartphones

A mechanical front camera is not only a stylish design, but also a trade-off. Let's look at the key advantages and disadvantages of these devices.

Advantages ✅

• 🎨 Frameless screen without cutouts – ideal for watching videos and games
• 🔍 Selfie quality is higher than that of underscreen cameras (no blurring)
• 🛡️ Dust protection: the mechanism closes when not in use
• 🎮 Game mode without overlays of the camera on the screen (relevant for Mi) 10T 144 Hz)

Deficiencies ❌

• ⚙️ Mechanical wear: engine life is limited (~300,000 cycles)
• 💧 Vulnerability to moisture: even when IP53 Water can cause the mechanism to fail.
• ⏳ Delay in activation: camera is pulled out ~1 second (longer than static modules)
• 🔋 Repair problems: spare parts for the mechanism are hard to find

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If you buy a used smartphone with a retractable camera, be sure to check its performance on video: ask the seller to record the process of retracting the module in slow motion, this will help to identify jerks or uneven movement that indicate an imminent breakdown.

Which Xiaomi model with a retractable camera to choose in 2026?

The choice depends on your priorities: performance, price or unique features.

1. For gaming and maximum power: Mi 10T Pro with Snapdragon 865 and 144Hz screen. Despite its age, it still pulls modern games at mid-sets.
2. For photos: Mi 9T Pro - it has the best main camera among models with pop-mechanism (48 MP with Sony IMX586).
3. Budget option: Mi 9T — cheap, but with AMOLED-screen and acceptable performance for everyday tasks.
4. For 5G experiments, the Mi 10T Lite is the only model in the lineup with support for fifth networks and a high screen refresh rate (120 Hz).

It’s important to consider that all of these smartphones are no longer getting updates, with the latest MIUI version being 12.5 (based on Android 11). If you’re critical about the relevance of the software, consider modern alternatives like the Xiaomi 13 Ultra with a subscreen camera.

Smoothness of the mechanism (no jerks / jamming)

Status of sealing rubber around the module

Operation of the drop sensor (camera retracted when tilted)

Absence of extraneous sounds (squeaking, crunch) when moving

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How to take care of the retractable camera mechanism?

A mechanical camera requires careful handling, and here are the key rules that will prolong its life:

• 🚫 Do not drop your smartphone face down – the impact can bend the camera rod.
• 💦 Avoid moisture: even IP53 does not protect against direct water in the mechanism.
• 🧴 Do not use aggressive cleaners for the case - they can damage seals.
• 🔋 Do not load the camera with a low charge (less than 15%) – this increases the risk of freeze mechanism.

If the camera stops moving, try the following steps:

1. Reboot your smartphone.
2. Clean the camera connector from dust with compressed air (do not blow in with your mouth!).
3. Reset your camera settings in the Settings menu → Apps → Camera → Storage → Clear the data.
4. If nothing works, contact the service. Self-repair of the mechanism almost always leads to its complete failure.

Frequent breakdowns and their causes

According to service centers, the most common problems with the retractable camera in Xiaomi are related to:

⚠️ Warning: If the smartphone fell from a height of more than 1 meter, even without visible damage, the camera mechanism could deform.Symptoms: uneven movement, creaking or complete failure.In 80% of cases, such repairs cost more than the cost of the phone itself in the secondary market.

The most dangerous failure is getting liquid into the mechanism. Unlike electronic components that can be dried, the gears and lubrication of the mechanism corrode in a matter of hours when in contact with water. If the smartphone is wet, don't turn it on and bring it to the service immediately!

Alternatives: modern Xiaomi smartphones without a retractable camera

If you’re attracted to a bezel-less design but a mechanical camera seems unreliable, consider modern alternatives from Xiaomi:

• 📱 Xiaomi 13 Ultra – a subscreen front camera (almost invisible)
• 📱 Xiaomi Mix 4 is the first model with CUP (camera-screen)
• 📱 Xiaomi 12S Ultra – Minimum notch for the camera (3.6 mm)
• 📱 POCO F5 Pro is a thin cutout, but with a 120Hz screen and Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1

The main advantage of modern solutions is the lack of moving parts, which makes them more reliable, but the quality of selfies on underscreen cameras is still inferior to the classic modules (as in the Mi 9T Pro).

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If you want a smartphone with a retractable camera for the sake of a unique design, consider the Mi 9T, the most reliable and cheapest-to-repair model in the lineup. It's already a little weak for everyday use in 2026, but as a collectible gadget or a second phone, it's a great option.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions