Xiaomi is like iPhone 12: what models copy the design of Apple and whether to buy them?

In the smartphone world, the design of the iPhone 12 has become a benchmark of minimalism and premium: flat faces, symmetrical bezels, matte glass and a compact cutout for the front camera. It's no wonder that many manufacturers, including Xiaomi, have begun to borrow these traits for their devices. But if you're looking for Xiaomi, which is visually indistinguishable from the iPhone 12, it's important to understand that the appearance of similarity does not always mean identical capabilities.

In this article, we will look at which Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models are as close to the iPhone 12 in design as possible, compare their specifications, prices and uncover the pitfalls of this choice. You will learn whether to overpay for “iPhone-likeness” or better save on alternatives with a unique style. And also – how to distinguish the original iPhone from Xiaomi clone for small things that are not conspicuous.

What Xiaomi models look like the iPhone 12?

Xiaomi has released several devices inspired by the design of the iPhone 12, the main “appealers” for the title of “iPhone-like” are:

• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite 5G NE — flat faces, thin body, double camera in a square module.
• 📱 Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G — matte glass, symmetrical frame, but with a larger chamber block.
• 📱 POCO F4 GT — Premium design with metal inserts, but without the asymmetry typical of the iPhone.
• 📱 Xiaomi Civi 2 – the closest analogue: flat faces, compact size, dual camera in a vertical location.

But the only model that copies the iPhone 12 almost one-to-one is the Xiaomi Civi 1S (Chinese version), which even has a front-facing camera cutout made as a small “island” at the top of the screen, like an iPhone, but officially in Russia, this model is not sold.

If you are interested in the similarity with the iPhone 12 in detail, pay attention to:

• 🔹 Body shape: flat faces (not rounded like Mi's) 10T).
• 🔹 Camera location: a square module with two lenses (iPhone 12 has a vertical location).
• 🔹 Xiaomi often offers gradient shades, while Apple uses monochrome.

Xiaomi and iPhone 12: Which is better in terms of performance?

The similarity is one thing, but what about the "stuffing"? Let's compare the key parameters of the Xiaomi Civi 2 (the most "iPhone-like") and the iPhone 12:

On paper, the Xiaomi Civi 2 looks better: a more modern screen with a high refresh rate, a larger battery and quick charging. However, the iPhone 12 beats it in:

• 🔹 Performance: chip A14 Bionic is still one of the most optimized for gaming and multitasking.
• 🔹 Ecosystem: synchronization with Mac, iPad and other Apple devices.
• 🔹 Durability: iOS supports updates longer than MIUI.

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If you want an iPhone-like smartphone on the outside, Xiaomi is fine. If performance and ecosystem are important, consider a used iPhone 12 or a new model.

How to distinguish Xiaomi from iPhone 12: 5 key signs

In photos or video reviews, Xiaomi may look like two drops of water, similar to the iPhone 12, but in the hands of the difference becomes obvious.

1. Logo: The iPhone 12 doesn't have a sign on either the front or the back. Xiaomi usually has a Mi or Redmi logo on the back.
2. Charging connector: iPhone 12 uses Lightning, and all Xiaomi uses USB-C (except very old models).
3. Camera module: iPhone 12 two cameras are located vertically in one corner, Xiaomi often in a square or rectangular block.
4. Case materials: The iPhone 12 has aluminum faces and Ceramic Shield glass, and Xiaomi typically uses plastic or matte glass.
5. Interface: when you turn on the iPhone will show iOS with characteristic icons, and Xiaomi – MIUI with corporate identity.

Another way to check is to look at the serial number. iPhone has it in the settings in the Main → About section, and Xiaomi has it in Settings → About phone → General information.

Pros and cons of buying an “iPhone-like” Xiaomi

Before you buy Xiaomi, which looks like the iPhone 12, weigh the pros and cons:

✅ Advantages

• 💰 Price: 1.5-2 times cheaper than the iPhone 12 (even used).
• 🔋 Battery: battery capacity Xiaomi usually more (4000-5000 mAh vs 2815 mAh iPhone).
• 🔄 Flexibility: Android allows you to install any application, change launchers, use widgets.
• 📱 Screen: Many Xiaomi models have 120Hz, while the iPhone 12 is limited to 60Hz.

❌ Deficiencies

• 🛠️ Assembly quality: plastic parts, less durable glass, creaking of the body.
• 📉 Optimization: MIUI It can slow down over time, while iOS has been stable for years.
• 🔒 Android is more susceptible to viruses and vulnerabilities.
• 🔄 Apple supports iPhone 12 longer than Xiaomi its budget models.

⚠️ Note: If you buy Xiaomi because of the design, but plan to use it as an iPhone (like working with iMessage or AirDrop), it won't work.

Where to buy Xiaomi with a design like the iPhone 12?

If you still decided to buy an “iPhone-like” Xiaomi, here are reliable options:

• 🛒 Official stores: Mi Store, Svyaznoy, M. Video - 12-24 month warranty, original firmware.
• 🌍 AliExpress: Models like Xiaomi Civi 1S You can find it from a trusted seller (Rating 98%+).
• 🔄 B/U market: Avito, Yula - but be sure to check IMEI at imei.info.

The cost of new models varies:

• Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite 5G NE — 25,000 ₽.
• Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G — from 28,000 ₽.
• Xiaomi Civi 2 – from 35,000 ₽ (If you find it in Russia).

⚠️ Attention: AliExpress often sells clones under the guise of the original Xiaomi - devices with the brand logo, but based on a weak MediaTek Helio processor and a simplified camera!

Alternatives: other smartphones with a design like the iPhone 12

If Xiaomi is not suitable for you, but you want a smartphone in the style of the iPhone 12, consider:

• 📱 Realme GT Neo 3 – flat edges, premium glass, but with aggressive game design cameras.
• 📱 Oppo Reno8 Pro - thin body, matte coating, but the chamber module is different.
• 📱 OnePlus Nord 2T — Minimalist design, but without the symmetry characteristic of the iPhone.
• 📱 Samsung Galaxy A53 5G — rounded edges, but the overall style is close to the iPhone.

From budget options, you should pay attention to the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ — It has a flat-faced version and a matte back, which brings it closer to the iPhone 12, but at a price of 22,000. ₽.

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If you care about design, but don’t want to overpay for the brand, look for Xiaomi iPhone-style cases. For example, an Apple logo case (not original!) can visually make your smartphone look like an iPhone for 500-1000 ₽.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi in the style of iPhone 12