Why Xiaomi Mi 8 is still interesting to buyers
Xiaomi Mi 8, Released in May 2018, is still one of the most talked about models of the brand. Despite the fact that since its release it has been 6 years, this smartphone continues to be bought — and not only as a budget option for the secondary market. It’s all about its unique combination of characteristics: the flagship Snapdragon 845 processor, AMOLED-screen with a cutout, dual camera with optical zoom and even support for wireless charging — all this was an innovation for its time.
Today, the Mi 8 can be found in three main states: new (remains in warehouses), as new (refurbished) and used. Prices for the model range from 5,000 to 25,000 rubles depending on the configuration, condition and region of purchase. But is the game worth the candle? In this article, we will understand what the maximum price is justified to pay for the Mi 8 in 2026, where to look for bargains and what pitfalls to look for.
Now, if you're looking for a smartphone for modern gaming or multitasking, the Mi 8 is not going to be a great option for high-end games, but for everyday tasks like phone calls, social media, memory photos, even lightweight games, it's still one of the best options for price/quality in the secondary market.
Current prices for Xiaomi Mi 8 in 2026: comparison
Pricing on the Mi 8 today depends on four key factors: condition of the case, battery performance, configuration and region of sale. Below we will give the average prices in Russia and the CIS (in rubles) for June 2026:
| Status. | 4/64 GB | 6/64 GB | 6/128 GB | 6/256 GB (SE) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New (sealed) | 18 000–22 000 | 20 000–25 000 | 22 000–28 000 | 30,000+ (rarely) |
| Like new (refurbished) | 12 000–15 000 | 14 000–17 000 | 16 000–19 000 | 20 000–24 000 |
| B/w (good condition) | 8 000–11 000 | 10 000–13 000 | 12 000–15 000 | 15 000–18 000 |
| B/y (with defects) | 5 000–7 000 | 6 000–9 000 | 8 000–11 000 | 10 000–13 000 |
⚠️ Note: The prices of the Mi 8 in the Explorer Edition can be 30-50% higher due to collectible rarity.It is also worth considering that models with unlocked bootloader (for custom firmware) are often cheaper, but require additional skills to customize.
In the secondary market, versions of 6/64 GB and 6/128 GB are most often found. The Mi 8 SE modification (with a Snapdragon 710 processor) is usually cheaper by 20-25%, but it is already difficult to find in good condition.
Where to buy Xiaomi Mi 8: pros and cons of sites
The choice of the site for the purchase of the Mi 8 directly affects the final price, guarantees and risks.
- 🛒 Avito/Yula: The widest choice, but high risk of running into a "killed" battery or an unoriginal battery. Plus: you can bargain and inspect the phone before buying. Minus: no guarantee, many scammers with "Chinese copies".
- 🌍 Marketplace (VK, Facebook: Often sell hands at below market price, but check the condition is more difficult.Tip: ask for a video with the test ##4636## (engineering menu) to check the sensors.
- 🏪 Official resellers (Svyaznoy, M. Video): Rarely, but still come across a new Mi 8 at a price of 18 000-22 000 ₽. Plus: 12-month warranty. Minus: overpriced for 2026.
- 📦 Overseas stores (AliExpress, eBay): You can find refurbished versions cheaper, but delivery takes 2-4 weeks.Warning: check the seller's reviews - many cases of swapping for replicas.
🔍 If you are buying a used Mi 8, be sure to check it out:
Model Identifier in Settings → About the phone (should be) M1803E1A global version)
Battery status via AccuBattery application (capacity not lower than 80%)
Operating capacity of cameras (test for artifacts at zoom)
No yellow spots on the AMOLED-screen (check against a white background)
Fingerprint scanner and Face ID (frequently break down after falls)-->
⚠️ Note: Mi 8 Lite (with Snapdragon 660 processor) are often found on Avito at the price of the original Mi 8. You can distinguish them by the marking on the box: Lite model is indicated as M1808D2TG.
Should you buy Xiaomi Mi 8 in 2026: pros and cons
Let's be honest: the Mi 8 is not a flagship of 2026, and comparing it to modern smartphones is pointless, but the model has a number of advantages that make it relevant even after 6 years:
Pros:
- ⚡ Performance: Snapdragon 845 still pulls Genshin Impact at low settings and will cope with any everyday tasks.
- 📸 Camera: Dual module 12 MP + 12 MP (main) + telephoto) with optical zoom 2x It still gives better photos than many public sector employees of 2026.
- 🔋 Battery: Capacity 3400 mAh with proper optimization is enough for a day (when replacing the battery - for 1.5 days).
- 🔄 Support for custom firmware: Mi 8 is one of the most popular phones for LineageOS, Pixel Experience and other firmware.
Cons:
- 🚫 No official updates: The latest MIUI 12.5 is Android 10, and that's the limit. You can't install modern versions of apps without root rights.
- 🔌 Outdated connectors: No USB-C 3.1. (only) USB 2.0), no slot for the memory card.
- 📶 Weak signal reception: Module X20 LTE Poorly catching networks in remote areas (compared to modern smartphones).
- 🔧 Repair complexity: Parts (especially original screens) are becoming rare, and the cost of replacing a display can reach 50% of the phone's price.
💡
If you want a smartphone for calls, social media, and soaps, the Mi 8 is still a great choice in 2026, but if you want to play games, multitasking, or long upgrades, you'd better go with the POCO X6 or Redmi Note 13 Pro+.
Comparison of Xiaomi Mi 8 with modern budget: what is better to buy
To understand how relevant the purchase of the Mi 8 today, compare it with the popular budget smartphones of 2023-2026 in the same price category (up to 15 000). ₽):
| Model | Processor | RAM/ROM | Screen. | Battery | Price (b/y) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi 8 (2018) | Snapdragon 845 | 6/64 GB | 6.21" AMOLED, 1080p | 3400mAh | 10 000–13 000 ₽ |
| POCO X3 NFC (2020) | Snapdragon 732G | 6/128 GB | 6.67" IPS, 120 Hz | 5160 mAh | 12 000–15 000 ₽ |
| Redmi Note 10 Pro (2021) | Snapdragon 732G | 6/128 GB | 6.67" AMOLED, 120 Hz | 5020 mAh | 14 000–17 000 ₽ |
| Samsung Galaxy A52 (2021) | Snapdragon 720G | 6/128 GB | 6.5" AMOLED, 90 Hz. | 4500mAh | 15 000–18 000 ₽ |
📊 Conclusion: performance Mi 8 bypasses all budget thanks to the Snapdragon 845, but loses in autonomy, updates and modern chips (high screen refresh rate, fast charging).
If you need a smartphone exclusively for gaming, it is better to look at the POCO X3 NFC — It's a weaker processor, but it has a 120Hz and a huge battery. AMOLED-screen-and-stereo speakers.
Better.
How to check Xiaomi Mi 8 before buying: diagnostic instructions
Buying a used smartphone is always risky, but with the Mi 8, there are a few critical points to look out for:
- Original Check: Open Settings → About Phone → All specs and compare the data with the official: Model: M1803E1A (global version) or M1803E1T (for China). IMEI must match on the box, in the phone and under the battery (if disassembled).
- Battery Test: Install the AccuBattery app and check: 🔋 Capacity: If less than 2500 mAh, the battery needs to be replaced. 📉 Wear: Over 30% - critical (battery will last less than a year).
- Screen Diagnostics: Run a “Broken Pixel” Test (Screen Test App) and check: 🟡 Yellow spots on a white background (burnout) AMOLED). 🔴 Dead pixels or stripes when pressed on screen.
Cameras and sensors:
Take a photo in different modes (night, HDR, portrait) and check:
- 📷 Artifacts with zoom (blurring,"soap").
- 🔦 Autofocus performance (point to a nearby object).
⚠️ Attention: One of the most common defects of the Mi 8 is the plume dump of the fingerprint scanner. Check it: if the sensor does not respond or the phone reboots when unlocked, it is a sign of malfunction. Repairs will cost 2,000-3 500 ₽.
💡
Before you buy, ask the seller to shoot a video with the test # #7378423# (service menu), in the Battery Info section, you will indicate the actual wear of the battery, and in the Touch Test - the performance of the touch screen.
Frequent problems Xiaomi Mi 8 and the cost of their repair
Even if the Mi 8 looks like a new one, the model develops typical "diseases" with age. Here are the most common malfunctions and estimated repair costs (for Moscow and St. Petersburg, 2026):
| Problem. | Reason. | Cost of repair | Can I correct myself? |
|---|---|---|---|
| The fingerprint scanner is not working. | Drilling or contact oxidation | 2 000–3 500 ₽ | ❌ Rationing is required. |
| Yellow spots on the screen | Burnout AMOLED-matrix | 5 000–8 000 ₽ (screen-replacement) | ❌ Only on the service. |
| Fast battery discharge | Battery wear (capacity < 2000 mAh) | 1 500–2 500 ₽ (original) | ✅ You can replace it yourself (but you need a sticky tape) |
| Overheating during charging | Failure of the power controller | 3 000–6 000 ₽ | ❌ Complicated repairs |
| Does not catch the net (constantly "H+") | Problems with the antenna module | 2 500–4 000 ₽ | ❌ Diagnosis required |
💡 Tip: If you buy the Mi 8 for custom firmware, look for an unlocked bootloader, which will make it easier to install LineageOS or Pixel Experience, but may be unwarranted (if it is still valid).
⚠️ Warning: Many "masters" offer cheap screen replacements on the Mi 8, but install non-original matrix with the worst color reproduction. AMOLED-Xiaomi screen costs from 6,000 ₽, cheap analogues (from 3 000) ₽) Often have broken pixels and poor viewing angles.