Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro is one of the most talked-about flagships of the brand in 2018, combining powerful hardware, a transparent rear body and a fingerprint scanner under the screen. But before buying, many users are interested not only in the characteristics, but also in the ergonomics of the device.
In this article, we will analyze the official weight data of the Mi 8 Pro, compare it with other flagships Xiaomi and competitors, and also tell you how to correctly assess the weight of a smartphone when choosing. You will learn why the transparent back panel added a few grams to the device, and how this affects the sensation in the hand.
Official data: how much weigh Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro
According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the weight of the Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro is 177 grams, this figure is indicated on the official website of Xiaomi and in the documentation for the device. For comparison, the standard version of the Mi 8 weighs 7 grams less – 175 g. The difference is due to the use of a transparent back panel of tempered glass, which visually gives the smartphone a premium appearance, but also increases the weight.
It is important to note that weight may vary slightly depending on:
- 🔋 Battery capacity: The Mi 8 Pro has a 3000mAh battery (as in the base model), but its location and mounting can affect the mass distribution.
- 📶 Antenna modules: support for more LTE-The range requires additional metal elements.
- 🛡️ Protective coatings: The transparent panel has multiple layers to protect against scratches, which adds weight.
Interestingly, the Mi 8 Pro is lighter than its main competitor, the Samsung Galaxy S9+ (189 g), but heavier than the OnePlus 6 (177 g vs. 176 g). The difference of 1 gram with the OnePlus seems insignificant, but in practice the weight distribution plays a big role: the Mi 8 Pro has a center of gravity shifted closer to the top due to the fingerprint scanner under the screen.
Comparison with other Xiaomi models of 2018
To get a better idea of how heavy the Mi 8 Pro is, compare it to other Xiaomi flagships of the same year, and the table below shows the weight and key characteristics that affect weight:
| Model | Weight (g) | Battery (mAh) | Case material | Screen diagonal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro | 177 | 3000 | Glass (transparent) | 6.21" |
| Xiaomi Mi 8 | 175 | 3000 | Glass (matte) | 6.21" |
| Xiaomi Mi 8 Explorer Edition | 177 | 3000 | Glass (transparent) + 3D-face-scanner | 6.21" |
| Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S | 191 | 3400 | Ceramics/metal | 5.99" |
| Xiaomi Pocophone F1 | 182 | 4000 | Polycarbonate | 6.18" |
The table shows that the Mi 8 Pro is in the mid-range in weight among Xiaomi flagships, the lightest being the base Mi 8, and the heaviest being the Mi Mix. 2S The transparent version of the Mi 8 Pro weighs as much as the Explorer Edition, despite the lack of a ceramic body and a larger battery. 3D-Face scanner – this is due to the identical design of the back panel.
If you want lightness, look for the Mi 8 or Pocophone F1 (despite the larger battery, the polycarbonate body makes it lighter than glass models), but the Mi 8 Pro beats them for its premium materials and design.
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When choosing between Mi 8 Pro and Mi 8, note that the difference in weight (2 grams) is almost imperceptible, but the transparent panel requires more careful handling - it gets dirty and scratches faster.
How weight affects ergonomics and usability
The weight of a smartphone is a subjective parameter. For some users, 177 grams seem ideal, for others, excessive. Consider how the weight of the Mi 8 Pro affects different use cases:
- 📱 With one hand: at a diagonal of 6.21" and a weight of 177 g, it is difficult to hold the smartphone with one hand, especially when typing.
- 👖 Wearing in your pocket: weight is felt when walking (especially in tight jeans), but not critical.The main thing is to avoid sudden movements so as not to damage the transparent panel.
- 🎮 Games: for long sessions (for example, in the PUBG Mobile: Hands get tired faster than lightweight smartphones like iPhone 12 (164g).
- 📸 Photography: Weight helps stabilize the camera when shooting without a tripod, but long-term retention in a horizontal position is tedious.
According to owners, the main complaints about weight arise in the first 1-2 weeks of use, then users adapt, especially if they pick up the right case. For example, thin silicone cases add a minimum weight (5-10 g), but bumpers or books can increase the weight to 200+ grams.
Why does a transparent panel add weight?
How to reduce the feeling of heaviness: tips on accessories
If the weight of the Mi 8 Pro seems excessive, you can smooth out the discomfort with the right accessories.
- Texture cases: models with a ribbed or rubber surface (such as those from Spigen or Ringke) improve grip, reducing the risk of falling out, which psychologically reduces weight perception.
- Thin covers: avoid massive bumpers. The best option is cases with a thickness of 1-1.5 mm, which add no more than 10 g.
- Toads or rings: Accessories like PopSocket or metal finger rings help hold the smartphone with one hand, distributing the load.
- Wrist belts: Relevant for active use (e.g. while jogging) The belt takes on some of the weight.
Also pay attention to the material of the cover:
- 🧲 Magnetic cases: Allows you to attach your smartphone to holders in your car or on your bike, reducing the need to hold it in your hand.
- 🧊 Transparent silicone cases: retain the design of the Mi 8 Pro, adding a minimum weight (about 5 g).
- 🛡️ Armoured covers: protect against blows, but can weight the smartphone by 20-30 g.
Prioritize: protection or ease |
Check compatibility with wireless charging |
Make sure the case does not block the fingerprint scanner |
Try to hold your smartphone in a case with one hand in the store-->
⚠️ Warning: Avoid cheap hard plastic covers, which often have sharp edges that are pressed into the palm of your hand when held for long periods of time, increasing the feeling of heaviness. TPU or hybrid cases with shock-absorbing inserts.
Weight and Durability: Myths and Reality
There is a popular belief among users that heavy smartphones are more reliable, and let's see if this is the case with the Mi 8 Pro:
Myth 1: “The heavier the smartphone, the stronger it is.”
Reality: the weight depends on materials, not strength.For example, the Mi Mix 2S with a ceramic body weighs 191 g and is really scratch resistant, but its weight is due to the density of ceramics, not the "reinforced construction." Mi 8 Pro with a glass case heavier than the Mi 8, but not stronger - both have the same level of protection Gorilla Glass 5.
Myth 2: “Lightweight smartphones are worse at cooling.”
Reality: The thermal conductivity depends on the internal design, not the weight. The Mi 8 Pro uses a liquid cooling chamber that distributes heat more efficiently than the massive metal body in older models. Weight is irrelevant.
Myth 3: “Heavy phones last longer.”
Reality: Life is determined by build and battery quality. Weight can indirectly affect connector wear (for example, USB-C loosens faster if the smartphone often falls due to an uncomfortable grip), but there is no direct relationship.
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The weight of a smartphone is not an indicator of its strength or durability, but is much more important than materials, assembly and the presence of moisture/dust protection (the Mi 8 Pro does not have an official IP standard, which is more important for reliability than weight).
Frequent questions about the weight of Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro
Let’s discuss the most popular questions of users related to the weight of this model:
Why is the Mi 8 Pro heavier than the Mi 8 when it has the same battery pack?
How does the weight of the Mi 8 Pro compare to the iPhone XS Max?
Can you reduce the weight of the Mi 8 Pro by removing the back panel?
Does weight affect the time of autonomous work?
Which case is better to choose, so as not to weigh the smartphone?
Conclusion: Is it worth paying attention to weight when buying?
The Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro weighs 177 grams, which is the average for the 2018 flagship, and is not a critical drawback, but can cause discomfort when used with one hand or carried in a narrow pocket for long periods of time.
- 📱 Xiaomi Mi 8 (175 g) – almost identical, but without a transparent panel.
- 📱 OnePlus 6 (176g) – similar weight, but with a more convenient location of the fingerprint scanner.
- 📱 Google Pixel 3 (148 g) – much lighter, but with a smaller screen size.
However, if you like the design of the Mi 8 Pro, its weight should not be a barrier to purchase. Most users adapt to the weight in 1-2 weeks, and the right accessories (case, finger ring) will minimize discomfort.
⚠️ Note: If you plan to use the Mi 8 Pro for mobile gaming or frequent photography, pay attention to balancing. the center of gravity is shifted to the top, so it is better to use additional accessories (for example, a tripod or a game controller) for stability).
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When choosing a smartphone, weight is important, but not critical. Evaluate it in conjunction with other parameters: screen diagonal, body material and weight distribution. Mi 8 Pro is a balanced option for those who appreciate design and are ready for small compromises in ergonomics.