Xiaomi 4S vs. P1: Detailed comparison and differences of models

Choosing a modern TV often turns into a complex performance comparison process, where not only diagonal and price come to the fore, but also matrix quality, availability of gaming features and the operating system. Xiaomi offers a variety of options, among which the 4S and P1 series are at the forefront in different price segments. Understanding the fundamental difference between these series will help avoid disappointment after purchase and get exactly the user experience you need.

The 4S series has traditionally been marketed as a budget or mid-budget solution, aimed at the mass consumer who needs a reliable screen for watching TV and streaming services. At the same time, the P1 series (especially in the Pro or Game versions) often features more advanced panels, supports HDR10+ technologies and has improved features for gaming.

In this article, we will conduct a deep analysis of the differences so that you can make an informed decision. We will look at image quality, processor performance, operating system features and even the nuances of building cases. The key difference is often the type of backlight used and the presence of a full refresh rate of 120 Hz in older P1 models, whereas the 4S is usually limited to 60 Hz. Let's dive into the details.

Design and design features of the buildings

Visual perception of the TV in the interior is no less important than its internal content. The 4S series models are most often made in a classic plastic case with a medium thickness frame. Xiaomi engineers try to minimize the weight of the device, which makes it easier to install on the wall, but can create a sense of “plasticity” when tactile contact. The fasteners in this series are usually located on the edges, which requires a wide bench.

The P1 series, especially in the more expensive versions, often flaunts metal trim elements and thinner frames that create a soaring image effect. The frameless design here is better implemented, and the materials of the case feel premium. It's not just aesthetics: the metal body better removes heat from the powerful processor, which is critical for long-term operation in 4K HDR.

• 📐 Series 4S: Lightweight plastic case, standard frames, legs at the edges.
• 🛡️ Series P1: Metal inserts, ultra-thin frames, improved ergonomics.
• 🔌 Port location: B P1 Often there is a side access to key HDMI port.
• 🎨 Color reproduction of frameworks: P1 Often has a darker, deeper shade of frame.

⚠️ Attention: When buying a model 4S Be sure to measure the width of your cabinet. Due to the wide distance between the legs, the TV may not stand steadily on narrow furniture modules, unlike some versions. P1 centre-stay.

Also worth noting is the thickness of the profile. Xiaomi 4S often have a thickening at the bottom where the electronics are located, whereas P1 can be made using the technology of "uniform thickness" or have a more elegant profile. If you plan to build a TV into a niche, these few millimeters can be crucial.

Matrix technologies and image quality

The most important parameter for any TV is picture. Basic 4S models are usually equipped with VA or IPS matrices with a refresh rate of 60 Hz. This is the standard for the budget segment, providing acceptable clarity in a static image. However, dynamic scenes in movies or games can be accompanied by noticeable plumes due to the response time of the pixels.

The P1 series is changing dramatically, often with improved contrast and enhanced dynamic range support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, meaning that bright areas of the image will be really bright and shadows will be deep and detailed, without the washed-out gray effect of cheap LCD screens.

Local lighting is particularly noteworthy. Top-end versions of the P1 can use zonal Direct LED technology to highlight individual areas of the screen independently. In the 4S, Edge LED is more common, which is cheaper to produce but gives uneven lighting around the edges of the screen in dark scenes.

Performance: Processors and Game Modes

The heart of any Smart TV is a processor. The 4S model typically has entry-level chips like Amlogic or MediaTek with two or four cores, enough power to decode 4K video and run the interface, but when you run heavy apps or games, you can get slowed down. RAM is often just 1.5 or 2 GB, which is a bottleneck for a modern system.

The P1 series, especially the Game Edition, features more powerful quad-core processors and increased RAM (up to 3GB and up) that deliver smooth menus, fast app downloads and, most importantly, support for VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) technologies. These are critical features for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X console owners.

When you connect the game console to the 4S, you will likely get a standard input delay, which can interfere with dynamic shooters. P1 is able to automatically switch to game mode, minimizing signal latency to a minimum. In addition, the powerful “stuffing” allows smoother to play content with high bitrate, without turning the film into a slideshow.

Operating system and ecosystem

Both sets run Android TV (or its evolution into Google TV in new models), which gives access to Google Play’s huge app store, third-party software installation and smart home integration, but can run at different speeds depending on the hardware base.

On 4S, the interface may seem a little less responsive, and voice search through the remote can work with a little delay. In P1, thanks to the reserve of power, animation systems look smoother, and switching between applications is instantaneous. It is important to note that both models support Chromecast built-in, which allows you to stream content from a smartphone with one touch.

The Mi Home ecosystem is also integrated into both devices, allowing you to use the TV as a smart home control center, so you can display images from the surveillance cameras directly to the screen or control light without interrupting a movie, but on P1, multitasking is better: you can watch TV at the same time and monitor sensors without brakes.

Audio systems and audio connectivity

Sound is 50% of the viewing experience, and here the differences between the series are also noticeable.The budget 4S comes with standard stereo speakers of about 2x10 watts. The sound is clean, but it lacks bass depth and volume, especially when watching blockbusters with complex soundtracks.

Flagship P1s often boast Dolby Audio technology and more powerful speakers (sometimes 2x20W or more).Some models even feature a 2.1 system with a dedicated subwoofer inside the case, which creates a more immersive effect, allowing you to enjoy movies without buying external acoustics.

⚠️ Note: If you plan to use a soundbar, make sure the TV supports the protocol. ARC Or eARC. 4S Only optical output or base output may be present. ARC, This will limit the quality of the sound transmitted to the external system.

It is important for audiophiles to have support for high-resolution codecs. P1 is better at decoding complex formats such as DTS-HD Master Audio, whereas the 4S can simply play the stereo downmix or require a third-party player like VLC or Kodi to properly process the sound.

Switching and connection ports

The number and quality of ports determine how easily you can connect all the necessary equipment. In the 4S, the set of ports is standard: several USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0 and headphone access. The speed of data transfer over USB is limited, which can affect the playback of heavy files from an external hard drive.

The P1 offers a more modern set: USB 3.0 for fast data transfer, as well as HDMI 2.1 ports required for 4K signal transmission at 120 Hz. The presence of an eARC port in P1 is also a big plus for connecting premium audio systems.

• 🔌 HDMI: V 4S often 2-3 port 2.0, into P1 — before 4 port, including 2.1.
• 💾 USB: Reading speed in P1 higher up USB 3.0.
• 📡 Entrance: Present in both, but in P1 frequently improved immunity.
• 🎧 Audio output: Optical output is in both, but 3.5mm jack may be missing in thin P1.

In the 4S, they often look straight down or sideways, which can make it difficult to connect cables when wall mounted close to the wall. In the P1, engineers are more likely to provide sideways access to major ports or use rotary mechanisms for ease of connection.

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