Xiaomi Mi 10: Which model to choose? Complete comparison of all versions of the flagship 2020

Xiaomi Mi 10 series is still one of the most talked about lines of flagships of the brand, despite the release of newer models. In 2020, the company released four versions of this smartphone: the standard Mi 10, reinforced Mi 10 Pro, the Mi 10 Zoom cameraphone and the top Mi 10 Ultra. Each of them had unique features, which makes the choice unobvious even after 4 years.

If you’re considering buying a used Xiaomi Mi 10 in 2026 or want to understand which model would be optimal at the time of its release, this article will help you understand the key differences. We’ll analyze performance, cameras, autonomy and other criteria relevant to modern use.

All models Xiaomi Mi 10: a brief overview of the line

The Mi 10 was the first in the world to feature 5G support and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, all of which combined premium design with a curved AMOLED screen, but differed in key parameters.

• 📱 Mi 10 (standard) - Basic model with balanced performance, 108-MP camera and battery 4780 mAh.
• 📸 Mi 10 Pro – improved camera (108 MP) + telephoto 10x), Faster charging (50W) and premium build.
• 🔍 Mi 10 Zoom - Specialized version for photography with periscopic zoom 50x and optical stabilizer.
• 💎 Mi 10 Ultra is the absolute flagship with 120x zoom, 120-watt charging and ceramic case.

It’s important to understand that the Mi 10 Lite (or Mi 10 Youth) is a standalone budget model on the Snapdragon 765G processor that is not part of the flagship lineup, and we won’t be looking at it because it’s closer to the middle class.

Comparison of technical characteristics: table

To see the differences between the models, we've put together a comparison table on key parameters, and look at the processor, RAM, and battery capacity, which are the most critical characteristics for the longevity of a smartphone.

Key point: The Mi 10 Ultra is the only model in the lineup with a 120-hertz screen and the fastest charging (120 watts), making it the most relevant to buy in 2026 among all options.

Performance and gaming: which Mi 10 is best for gaming?

All Mi 10 models are built on the same chipset, the Snapdragon 865, but that doesn’t mean they perform the same in games, the difference lies in the cooling system, the amount of RAM and the optimization of firmware.

The Mi 10 Ultra has the most efficient cooling thanks to its graphite heat pipe and ceramic body, which better removes heat, which allows you to keep high performance in heavy games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile at maximum settings, while the standard Mi 10 can begin trottling after 20-25 minutes of intense load.

• 🎮 For casual games (Clash Royale, Brawl Stars) will suit any Mi 10 – there will be no difference.
• 🔥 For hard games (PUBG Mobile, Genshin Impact: Choose the Mi 10 Pro or Ultra.
• ⚡ For streaming games (via Xbox Cloud Gaming) the Mi 10 Ultra is optimal because of the best screen (120 Hz).

⚠️ Note: In 2026, the Snapdragon 865 no longer supports the latest versions of some games at maximum settings. For example, Genshin Impact may require lower graphics for stable 60 FPS.

Which Mi 10 model takes the best photos?

If photography is your priority, the choice between the Mi 10 models comes down to two criteria: the resolution of the main module and the zoom capabilities.

The Mi 10 Pro and Mi 10 Zoom feature Samsung’s 108-megapixel HMX sensor, which was considered revolutionary in 2020. However, the Mi 10 Ultra received an updated Samsung HM2 (48 MP) sensor with large pixels (1.2 μm vs. 0.8 μm in HMX), which gives better light transmission and detail in weak light conditions.

• 📸 120x hybrid zoom (against) 50x at Zoom and 10x Pro).
• 🌙 Night mode for all modules, including telephoto.
• 🎥 8K-Video (the rest of the maximum) 4K@60fps).

However, there is a caveat: the Mi 10 Zoom has a periscopic module with an optical zoom 5x, which gives a sharper image at medium distances than the digital zoom of the Mi 10 Pro. If you want to shoot from a long distance (for example, concerts or sports), then Zoom may be better than the Pro.

Autonomy and charging: which is more important – capacity or speed?

All Mi 10 models have 4,500-4780 mAh batteries, but real life is highly dependent on processor, screen and optimization.

• 🔋 Mi 10 (standard) - holds the longest due to the less voracious matrix (90 Hz) and the lack of additional chamber modules. On average: 6-7 hours of screen with mixed load.
• ⚡ Mi 10 Pro/Zoom — on 10–15% less time due to more energy-intensive cameras and telephoto module.
• ⚡⚡ The Mi 10 Ultra is the most voracious because of the 120-hertz screen, but makes up for that with a 120-watt charge (full charge in 23 minutes!).

If you want long-term autonomy, take the standard Mi 10. If fast charging is the priority, then Ultra is out of competition. The Mi 10 Pro and Zoom are in the middle, but their 50-watt charging (the Pro) is also very fast by 2020 standards.

⚠️ Attention: By 2026, the batteries in the used Mi 10 often lose 20-30% of capacity. Before buying, check the battery status through the engineering menu (#4636##) or applications like AccuBattery. Capacity below 3500 mAh is an excuse to bargain or refuse a deal.

Design and Assembly: Ceramics vs Glass

Externally, all Mi 10 models look premium, but the body materials are very different:

• 🖼️ Mi 10 / Mi 10 Pro / Mi 10 Zoom – glass back panel (Gorilla Glass 5) with aluminum bezel. easy to scratch, slippery, but supports wireless charging.
• 🏺 Mi 10 Ultra is a ceramic case with a metal frame. Stronger, less warms, but heavier (221 g vs 208 g for the Pro) and does not support wireless charging.

Ultra ceramics have several advantages:

1. It doesn't accumulate fingerprints.
2. It is better to remove heat (important for gamers).
3. It is more resistant to scratches (but can break when hit hard).

But there are downsides: ceramics make the phone heavier and eliminate wireless charging. If you care about aesthetics and tactile sensations, the Mi 10 Pro in the Star Blue or Alpine White variant looks as premium as the Ultra, but weighs less.

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If you buy a used Mi 10 with a glass case, be sure to check for cracks under the film - they may be invisible when inspected, but over time will lead to glass layering.

Should you buy Xiaomi Mi 10 in 2026?

The relevance of the Mi 10 in 2026 depends on your goals and budget.

✅ Pluses:

• 💰 Low price on the used market (from 15 000) ₽ standard-model).
• 🔧 Good repairability – spare parts are cheap and affordable.
• 📱 Support MIUI 14 (last official update).
• 🎮 Snapdragon 865 still pulls most modern games on mid-range settings.

❌ Cons:

• 🔋 Old battery – even when replaced, the capacity will be lower than the original.
• 📸 Cameras lag behind modern flagships (no) 8K@30fps, Weak night mode compared to Mi 11/12).
• 🔄 No official Android updates (last version is Android 12).
• 📡 5G-Snapdragon modem X55 Less energy efficient than current solutions.

Alternatives in 2026:

• 🆕 Xiaomi 12 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 1) – can be found at a similar price in the used market.
• 💎 POCO F5 Pro (Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 - new but cheaper Mi 10 Ultra used.
• 📱 Redmi K60 — The best chipset and cameras for the same amount of money.

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The Xiaomi Mi 10 in 2026 makes sense to buy only as a budget flagship for undemanding tasks or as a second phone.For photography, gaming or long-term use, it's better to consider newer models.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi 10