Xiaomiβs flagship 12 is still one of the brandβs most sought-after devices, despite the release of newer models. Users are actively wondering when it will finally be possible to buy this device at an adequate price β whether it is new copies with a warranty or used options in perfect condition. In this article, we have gathered all the relevant information about when Xiaomi 12 will go on sale in 2026, where it will be first to purchase, and what to look for when buying it is not to run into a fake or βgrayβ imports.
It is important to understand that Xiaomi 12 was released in December 2021, and official deliveries to Russia have long been discontinued. However, the demand for this model remains consistently high due to its balanced characteristics, compact size and support for updates. Today we will tell you where else you can find the original devices, how to distinguish them from replicas, and whether you should wait for a second official release (spoiler: unlikely), and we will analyze alternative options from hand-to-hand purchase to order from abroad, taking into account all the risks and nuances.
Xiaomi 12 official release in Russia: what is known for 2026
Xiaomi 12 smartphone debuted on the global market on December 28, 2021, and entered Russia in January 2022. However, after the company left the Russian market in 2022, official deliveries were curtailed.Today, it is impossible to buy a new Xiaomi 12 with a Russian warranty from the manufacturer - all remaining stocks have long been sold out, and Xiaomi service centers in Russia no longer serve this model under warranty.
However, there are still some on the market:
- π¦ New unpacked copies from old batches (most often in online stores selling "remains").
- π The device is in excellent condition (from the 9/10 before 10/10 sellers' assessment).
- π "Gray imports from Europe or Asia (with the risk of lack of Russian or incompatibility with local networks).
- β οΈ Fakes and replicas (especially common on sites such as Avito or AliExpress).
If you're looking for a new device, the odds are slim, and most of the products on the market are either used devices or gray phones that come from abroad without a formal warranty, and they can vary significantly depending on the configuration, region and condition.
β οΈ Note: Buying Xiaomi 12 in 2026 automatically deprives you of the official warranty from the manufacturer in Russia.
Where to buy Xiaomi 12 in 2026: proven sites
Despite the lack of official shipments, there are several reliable ways to buy Xiaomi 12 today, and letβs take a closer look at them, pointing out the pros and cons of each option.
1. Sites for the purchase of used equipment
The most popular way is to search on specialized sites. Here are the top options:
- π Avito is the biggest choice, but it is highly likely to run into scammers or phones with hidden defects.
- π Yula β slightly fewer offers, but often come across devices in perfect condition from private sellers.
- π± Sotmarket β a proven site with a return guarantee, but prices are above average.
- π‘οΈ Refurbed is a European service of refurbished devices delivering to Russia (12-month warranty, but high price).
When buying from hand must be:
βοΈ What to check before buying Xiaomi 12 b/w
2. Online stores with "residues"
Some online stores still store unpacked Xiaomi 12s in warehouses, including:
- π’ Connected β sometimes there are single copies at an inflated price.
- ποΈ M. Video - you can try ordering through "Search for all stores".
- π Allo.ua β Ukrainian store delivering to Russia (compatibility with local networks should be specified).
Prices in these stores are usually 20-30% above the market, but you get a check and at least a minimum guarantee from the seller.
3.Order from abroad
If you're willing to take a chance, you can order Xiaomi 12 from Europe or Asia.
- πͺπΊ Amazon DE/ES/IT β There are often new copies, but you need a foreign bank card.
- π¨π³ AliExpress β cheaper, but high risk of getting a fake or phone with unofficial firmware.
- π°π· Gmarket is a Korean store where you can find new Xiaomi 12 at an adequate price.
β οΈ Note: When ordering from abroad, check the support of Russian LTE-Xiaomi 12 model for China (code) 2201122C) It does not support some local frequencies, which can cause problems with mobile Internet.
Prices for Xiaomi 12 in 2026: how much is the new and used
The cost of the Xiaomi 12 varies greatly depending on the condition, configuration and region. Below is the current price table for June 2026 (in rubles).
| Status. | 8/128 GB | 8/256 GB | 12/256 GB | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New (unpacked) | 45 000 β 55 000 | 50 000 β 60 000 | 60 000 β 70 000 | Most often, βgrayβ imports without a guarantee |
| B (9-10/10) | 25 000 β 35 000 | 30 000 β 40 000 | 35 000 β 45 000 | With a battery of 85%+ And without scratching the screen. |
| B (7-8/10) | 18 000 β 25 000 | 22 000 β 30 000 | 25 000 β 35 000 | There may be small scratches or battery wear |
| Fake/remark | 8 000 β 15 000 | 10 000 β 18 000 | β | It is most often sold as a βnewβ at a lower price. |
As you can see from the table, the price range is huge. 9/10 With a proven history (preferably with a check and an original box), it is irrational to buy new copies - for this money you can take a more recent flagship, for example, Xiaomi. 13 or POCO F5 Pro.
How to distinguish the original Xiaomi 12 from a fake: 7 key signs
Xiaomi's fake smartphone market is huge, and Xiaomi 12 is no exception. Fraudsters are skilled at copying the look, but the stuffing of such devices is usually far from the original.
- IMEI Check them through the official Mi Verify website. IMEI It is not tested or it belongs to another model.
- Build quality: The original Xiaomi 12 has perfect gaps between the body and the screen, and the buttons are pressed with a clear click. Counterfeiters often have parts that are backlit.
- The firmware and the software. MIUI Fakes are usually run on Android naked or custom firmware with errors.
- Cameras. Fakes are often equipped with weak modules (for example, the main camera is 12 MP instead of 50 MP). EXIF-data.
- Charging.The original Xiaomi 12 supports 67W If the phone charges slowly, it's a reason to be alert.
- The box and the package. The original has a box with holographic stickers, and the package comes with a proprietary cable. USB-C power supply.
- Price: If the seller offers a new Xiaomi 12 post 15-20 Thousands of rubles. 100% fake.
If in doubt, ask the seller to do:
- πΈ Photo Photo IMEI (sticker under the battery and in settings).
- π Screenshot of battery information (in Settings) β Battery status).
- π Video with the test of cameras and sensors (gyroscope, compass, NFC).
What to do if you have already bought a fake?
Should you buy Xiaomi 12 in 2026: pros and cons
Despite its age, the Xiaomi 12 remains an attractive device due to its compact size, powerful hardware and support for upgrades. However, the purchase in 2026 has serious drawbacks, letβs see who should consider this model and who should look towards newer smartphones.
β The advantages of buying Xiaomi 12 today
- π It's a compact size, one of the latest flagships with a 6.28 diagonal, which is comfortable in your hand.
- π Performance.Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 still pulls all modern games and apps.
- π· Cameras. 50 MP main module (Sony) IMX766) It is not worse than many new smartphones.
- π Fast charging. Support. 67W wired 50W wireless.
- π Updates. Xiaomi 12 got MIUI 14 and Update to Android 14 (last major update).
β Cons of buying in 2026
- β οΈ Even if the seller promises a "store guarantee," it does not amount to factory support.
- π Battery wear. Used devices often drop battery capacity to 70-80%, What affects autonomy.
- π‘ Network problems: Some grey versions may not work well with Russian operators.
- π° The price is not justified. You can buy a new one for the same money. POCO F5 Or the Redmi Note 13 Pro.+ better-characterized.
- π οΈ Parts are becoming scarce, and official service centers are not repairing.
π‘
Xiaomi 12 in 2026 should only be bought if you are critically important compact flagship with good cameras and you are willing to put up with the lack of warranty and possible problems with the battery.
Xiaomi 12 Alternatives in 2026: What to Buy Instead
If you're disappointed with the prospect of buying Xiaomi 12 in 2026, look for alternatives.We've picked up a few models that offer similar or better specs at a comparable price.
| Model | Pluses | Cons | Price (June 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 13 | Newer chipset (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2), better cameras, official support | Expensive, but you can find used for the price of the new Xiaomi 12 | 40,000 to 50,000 (b/o) |
| POCO F5 Pro | Similar performance, 120W charging, new | Not everyone likes the design, there are no official sales in Russia | 35 000 β 45 000 |
| Redmi Note 13 Pro+ | Fresh Dimensity 7200 Ultra, 200 MP camera, official warranty | Plastic case, no wireless charging | 30 000 β 40 000 |
| Google Pixel 7 | Best cameras in class, clean Android, long updates | Weak battery, no official sales in Russia | 45,000 - 55,000 (b/y) |
If you want a compact flagship, look for the Asus Zenfone 10 (but itβs significantly more expensive) or the Sony Xperia 5. IV. If the priority is the price/quality ratio, POCO F5 Pro or Redmi Note 13 Pro+ will be the best choice.