Introduction: Why is Xiaomi with a retractable camera still relevant?
Smartphones with a retractable front camera from Xiaomi appeared on the market in 2019, but still remain in demand among connoisseurs of unusual solutions. The main advantage of such models is a full-screen display without cutouts and bangs, which does not interfere with watching videos or games. In 2026, these devices can be bought much cheaper than the original cost, but it is important to understand what pitfalls are hidden in used devices with mechanical elements.
In this article, we will discuss:
- 📱 Topical Xiaomi models with a retractable camera and their current prices (new / b / y)
- 🔍 Where to buy - official shops vs. Avito/yula
- ⚙️ Technical nuances that affect the durability of the mechanism
- 💰 Hidden costs: repair of the retractable module, battery, firmware
If you’re looking for a smartphone with a unique design and are willing to put up with the potential risks of mechanics, this guide will help you make an informed choice. First, let’s figure out which Xiaomi models were equipped with a retractable camera and how much they cost today.
Which Xiaomi models have a retractable camera?
In the history of the brand, only three models received a mechanical frontal:
- Xiaomi Mi 9T (2019 – budget flagship with AMOLED-screen and triple main camera.
- Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro (2019) – an improved version with a Snapdragon 855 processor and a more powerful camera.
- Black Shark 2 Pro (2019) – a gaming smartphone with a retractable camera (a rare modification).
All of these devices were released in 2019, so there are no new ones on sale — only used or refurbished, except for unpacked “old stocks”, which are sometimes found in small sellers.
The Mi 9T Pro is often confused with the Redmi K20 Pro, which is the same device but under different brands; in China, the smartphone was sold as the Redmi, and in the global market as the Mi.
Xiaomi Prices With Retractable Camera in 2026
Prices depend on the condition of the device, configuration and place of purchase, below are the current prices for June 2026 (in rubles, for Russia).
| Model | Status. | Price (₽) | Where to find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi 9T | B/w (good) | 8 000 – 12 000 | Avito, Yula, FB Marketplace |
| Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro | B/w (excellent) | 12 000 – 18 000 | Yandex Market (Verified Sellers) |
| Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro | Refurbished (refurbished) | 15 000 – 22 000 | Back Market, Amazon Renewed |
| Black Shark 2 Pro | B/w (rarely) | 20 000 – 30 000 | Telegram channels of gadgets, AliExpress |
The Mi 9T and Mi 9T Pro prices are falling, but demand for them has remained stable thanks to the following:
- 🎮 AMOLED-screen-in-screen HDR10 — Rareness in the budget segment even today.
- 📸 Triple main camera (48 MP) + 8 MP + 13 MP), which still competes with modern average budget earners.
- 🔋 Battery capacity of 4000 mAh – enough for a full day with moderate use.
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Before buying a used Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro check the state of the retractable mechanism: ask the seller to shoot a video of how the camera leaves / stops 5-10 times in a row. If you hear creaking or delays - refuse the deal.
Where is it safer to buy Xiaomi with a retractable camera?
The choice of venue depends on your budget and your willingness to take risks, and let's look at all the options, from the safest to the riskiest.
🛡️ Reliable options (guarantee 12)+ months)
- 🏪 Official Xiaomi stores – sometimes come across restored (refurbished) models with a warranty.
⚠️ Risk options (no guarantee or minimal guarantee)
- 📱 Avito / Yula – prices are lower by 20-30%, but a high chance to run into a “killed” mechanism.
- 🤖 Telegram channels (e.g., Xiaomi B/U) – sometimes rare models are found in perfect condition.
- 🛒 AliExpress – only if the seller has a rating of 98%+ And lots of reviews with photos.
⚠️ Note: Mi is often sold on Avito 9T Pro with a faulty retractable camera mechanism at a price of "like new." Check the device on the spot: run the camera 10-15 times in a row - if the mechanism starts to "knee", refuse to buy.
If you are buying a smartphone abroad (for example, on Amazon Renewed), pay attention to:
- 📄 The warranty card must be on 12+ months.
- 🔌 Power adapter - the original 18W unit must be included (for Mi). 9T Pro).
- 📦 Packaging – if the box is damaged, it may indicate sloppy transportation (risk of damage to the mechanism).
Technical details: what to look for before buying
The retractable mechanism is a weakness of all smartphones with this design, and even with careful use, problems can occur over time.
Launch the front camera 10+ Once in a row, there should be no delays.|Listen to the sound of the mechanism – creaking or clicking are not allowed|Check if the camera module is in the extended state.|Make sure the camera automatically retracts when falling (accelometer sensor)-->
🔧 Frequent problems with the mechanism
- 🔊 Screaming or crunch when moving - a sign of wear of gears.
- ⏳ Delays during departure / arrival - may indicate contamination of the mechanism or a weak battery.
- 🚫 The camera does not retract when the phone is tilted - the accelerometer sensor is defective.
- 🔋 Spontaneous extension - a problem with firmware or mechanical fixture.
If you are buying the Mi 9T Pro or Black Shark 2 Pro for gaming, consider:
- 🎮 Snapdragon 855 processor still pulls most modern games on medium settings, but can overheat.
- 🔥 Trottling (decreased performance when heated) manifests itself after 20-30 minutes of intense play.
- 🔄 Updates MIUI These models will be discontinued in 2022, and new versions of Android will not be released.
What if the camera stopped moving?
Hidden costs: how much will cost the content of Xiaomi with a retractable camera
Buying a used smartphone is just the beginning of the cost, and this is what you'll spend in the first few months of use:
| Problem. | Cost of repair (₽) | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Battery replacement | 1 500 – 3 000 | Buy a smartphone with a battery capacity ≥ 85% of the original |
| Repair of the retractable mechanism | 3 000 – 8 000 | Don’t drop your phone or press the camera. |
| Flashing (if "brick") | 1 000 – 2 500 | Do not update the software through unofficial sources |
| Replacement of display | 5 000 – 12 000 | Use protective glass and cover |
The most expensive part of repairs is the retractable mechanism, which is not repaired in service centers, but replaced entirely, which costs 5,000 to 8,000. ₽. Original parts for the Mi 9T Pro has already been discontinued, so often install analogues of questionable quality.
⚠️ Warning: If the seller claims that "the mechanism is as new, just creaks a little" - this is an excuse to bargain or refuse to buy.Scrip always intensifies over time, and after 3-6 months the camera may stop putting up completely.
Another hidden expense is accessories:
- 🔌 Original 18W adapter (if lost) — ~1 500 ₽.
- 📱 Camera protection case - from 500 ₽ (Ordinary covers can block the retractable mechanism).
- 🔋 External battery – if the battery is worn out and there is no possibility to replace it.
Alternatives: Should Xiaomi Buy with a Retractable Camera in 2026?
If you’re attracted to a full-screen design with no cutouts, but a mechanical camera seems unreliable, consider modern alternatives:
| Model | Type of frontal | Price (₽) | Pluses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 13T | Underscreen camera | 35 000 – 40 000 | No mechanics, modern processor, 120Hz |
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Mini-neck ("hole") | 25 000 – 30 000 | AMOLED, 120W charging, no mechanical parts |
| POCO F5 | Drop-shaped cutout | 22 000 – 28 000 | Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, 120Hz, long updates |
Advantages of modern alternatives:
- ✅ No mechanical breakdowns – underscreen or mini-cameras are more reliable.
- ✅ Longer supported by updates (up to 3-4 years vs. 2 years for Mi) 9T Pro).
- ✅ Better performance – new processors are more energy efficient.
But the Mi 9T Pro and Black Shark 2 Pro have one undeniable advantage: a unique design. If you care about a mechanical camera as a style element, there are almost no alternatives on the market (except for the rare Oppo Find X or Vivo NEX, which cost 2-3 times more).
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Xiaomi with a retractable camera in 2026 is a device for enthusiasts, not for pragmatic users. If you want a reliable smartphone for every day, it is better to consider modern models without mechanics.