Xiaomi 2020: Which smartphone to choose? Expert review of the best models

Choosing a smartphone in 2020 was a real puzzle even for power users. Xiaomi in that period released more than a dozen models — from budget devices to flagships with innovative chips. But how not to get lost in this variety and choose the smartphone that will last for years? This article will help to understand the key differences of the top Xiaomi devices of 2020, assess their relevance today and avoid typical mistakes when buying.

We analyzed the technical specifications, user reviews and market trends of the time to compile an honest ranking, focusing on performance, camera quality, battery life and price-to-quality ratio. It is important to understand that even a few years after the release of some models Xiaomi 2020 remain in demand due to balanced parameters and regular updates. MIUI.

If you're looking for a device for gaming, photography, everyday tasks or work, this guide provides comprehensive recommendations, and for those who are planning to buy a used device, we've prepared a unique checklist for checking the condition of a smartphone before buying, which will help avoid hidden defects.

Key trends of Xiaomi smartphones in 2020

2020 was a turning point for Xiaomi, as the company finally entrenched itself in the top of the world's smartphone manufacturers.

• 🔥 Mass adoption 5G — In the mid-range model (e.g., the Mi). 10T Lite)
• 📸 108-megapixel cameras in flagships (Mi 10 Pro) and improved night shooting
• ⚡ Fast charging up to 65 watts (in Mi 10 Ultra) and 33 watts in budget series
• 🎮 Game chipsets – Snapdragon 865 in flagships and Dimensity 800 in the middle segment
• 🔄 High-frequency screens 90/120 Hz even in devices up to 30 000 ₽

Interesting fact: in 2020, Xiaomi first introduced a smartphone with variable refresh rate screen — Mi 10 Ultra supported adaptive 120 Hz. This solution later became the standard for flagships of all brands. POCO, Offering powerful devices at affordable prices.

But not all of the innovations were successful, such as the retractable front cameras in the Mi 10 Youth often broke down and some models suffered from overheating due to unoptimized software, which is important to consider when buying used devices.

TOP-5 smartphones Xiaomi 2020: a comparative table

To make it easier to choose, we have ranked the best models for their relevance in 2026, and the table below shows the key parameters that will help you compare the devices by the main criteria:

Note that the prices are at the time of release in Russia. Today used devices can be found cheaper by 30-50%, but it is important to check the status of the battery and display. For example, the Mi 10 Ultra even in 2026 remains relevant for photographers thanks to the unique camera system, and the camera system is very popular. POCO F2 Pro is one of the most balanced options for gamers.

⚠️ Note: Models with Snapdragon 865 (e.g. Mi 10 Pro or Mi 10 Pro) POCO F2 Pros may be experiencing problems with modern games due to an outdated driver GPU. Before buying, check compatibility with your apps on forums. 4PDA or MIUI.

Best flagship of 2020: Xiaomi Mi 10 Ultra vs Mi 10 Pro

If the budget is not limited, the choice between the two becomes key.The Mi 10 Ultra is an absolute monster among smartphones of the time, but its benefits are not always justified for the average user.

The advantages of the Mi 10 Ultra:

• 📸 120x Hybrid Zoom (a unique feature even today)
• ⚡ 120 W charging (full charge in 23 minutes!)
• 🔄 120 Hz AMOLED-adaptive-frequency screen
• 🎮 Best Cooling of all Xiaomi 2020

The advantages of the Mi 10 Pro:

• 💰 Cheaper by 10,000-15,000. ₽ similarly productive
• 📸 108 MP main camera (better for most scenarios)
• 🔋 More reliable battery (less complaints of degradation)
• 📦 Compacter and lighter (208g vs 221g in Ultra)

Who's the option?

Mi 10 Ultra is suitable for enthusiasts of technology who want maximum performance and are ready to put up with huge dimensions (162.4×75.1×9.5 And the price. 10 Pro is a more rational choice for those who want great photos and high performance without frills. MIUI 14, Security updates have already been discontinued.

Budget champions: Redmi Note 9 Pro and POCO M2 Pro

The mid-budget segment in 2020 is represented by two sales hits: Redmi Note 9 Pro and the Redmi Note 9 Pro. POCO M2 Both models are based on the Snapdragon. 720G, But there are key differences.

Redmi Note 9 Pro is the best choice for those who appreciate:

• 🔋 Record autonomy (5020 mAh) + software-optimized)
• 📸 Four-module camera with macro lens
• 🛡️ Gorilla Glass 5 protection and a solid case
• 💧 Official spray protection (P2i covering)

POCO M2 Pro, in turn, stands out:

• 🎮 More powerful graphics (Adreno 618 vs 610 in Note 9 Pro)
• 🔊 Stereo speakers (not available in Note 9 Pro)
• 📺 AMOLED-screen IPS rivally)
• 💽 UFS 2.1 drive (faster than the 5.1 eMMC in the Note 9 Pro)

Which smartphone to choose? If you want a reliable device for everyday tasks with maximum time, take the Redmi Note 9 Pro. For games, watching videos and smoother interface work, it is better suited for the best possible solution. POCO M2 Both devices can be found on the secondary market for 10,000-15,000 ₽, Which makes them a great option for a first smartphone or spare gadget.

⚠️ Note: Redmi Note 9 Pro (Indian version) and POCO M2 The Pro used the same processor, but with different firmware. When buying used, check the region of the device using ##4636## - Indian versions may have problems with the device. LTE-nets.

Model Identifier in Settings → About the phone (whether there are fakes)

Battery status via #4636## → Battery information

The performance of all cameras and sensors

Absence of yellow pixels on AMOLED-screen (check against a black background)

Original charger (especially for fast charging models)

-->

Gaming smartphones 2020: POCO F2 Pro and Black Shark 3

For gamers, 2020 brought two outstanding devices: POCO F2 Pro and Black Shark 3. the first is a "civilian" version of the gaming smartphone, and the second is a specialized device with physical triggers.

Comparison of key parameters:

POCO F2 The Pro is a universal flagship that is suitable not only for gaming, but also for everyday use:

• 🎯 Retractable front camera (no notch on the screen)
• 🔊 Stereodynamics with Dolby Atmos support
• 💾 128/256 GB memory in the basic configuration

Black Shark 3 is aimed exclusively at gamers.

• 🎮 Physical triggers with tactile recoil
• ⚡ Shark Space Mode to Optimize Performance
• 🔋 4720 mAh + 65 W charging (charged in 38 minutes)

Today. POCO F2 The Pro remains a more relevant choice thanks to its versatility, while Black Shark 3 may disappoint with a lack of updates (the latest version). MIUI — For modern games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile, it’s better to consider newer models, but if you need a retro console for emulators or older projects, Black Shark 3 is still one of the best.

💡

Before buying a 2020 Xiaomi gaming smartphone, check out support for modern games on GameLoop.Many new titles require Vulkan API, Which may not work properly on older drivers.

Are Xiaomi’s 2020 smartphones up to date in 2026?

4 years after the release, Xiaomi 2020 devices can still be found on sale – both new (remains in warehouses) and used.

Pros of buying in 2026:

• 💰 Price 2-3 times lower than the original (flagships for 20 000-30,000) ₽)
• 🔧 Good repairability (parts are cheap and affordable)
• 📦 Support for custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience)
• 🎯 Unique features (e.g, 120x zoom in on Mi 10 Ultra)

Cons and risks:

• ❌ No security updates (last patches - 2022)
• ⚡ Outdated chipsets (Snapdragon 865 loses to modern Dimensity 9000)
• 🔋 Degraded batteries (used batteries often below 80%)
• 📸 Weak camera optimization in new versions of apps

Who will be the best smartphone Xiaomi 2020 today?

✅ Students and schoolchildren for social networks and studies

✅ Retro gamers (emulators) PS2, GameCube)

✅ Amateur photographers (Mi 10 Pro cameras still compete with public sector 2023)

✅ Secondary market (resale after short use)

❌ Not suitable for:

— Professional Mobile Shooting (No Support) RAW In the new versions of Google Camera)

— Modern. AAA-games at maximum settings

Long-term use (risk of breakdown in 1-2 years)

💡

If you are buying Xiaomi 2020 today, be sure to check the possibility of installing custom firmware, which will extend the life of the device by 2-3 years due to the latest security patches.

Where to buy and what to pay attention to?

When buying a Xiaomi 2020 smartphone in 2026, it is important to choose a reliable seller and carefully check the device.

Where to look:

• 🛒 Avito/Yula — The biggest choice but the highest risk of fraud
• 📦 Yandex Market (used) - there is a guarantee of return (14 days)
• 🌍 AliExpress – New Devices at Low Prices (But Check the Vendor)
• 🏬 Local commission shops – you can check before buying

Checklist (before purchase):

1. Check it out. IMEI via *#06# on IMEI.info (not to be blacklisted)
2. Run the screen test for broken pixels (Screen Test)
3. Check battery wear through AccuBattery (should be) < 30%)
4. Make sure all cameras are working (especially the telephoto in the Mi 10 Ultra)
5. Check for the original charger (especially for fast-charging models)

Average prices for used devices in 2026:

• Mi 10 Ultra: 25 000–35 000 ₽
• Mi 10 Pro: 20 000–30 000 ₽
• POCO F2 Pro: 18 000–25 000 ₽
• Redmi Note 9 Pro: 8 000–12 000 ₽

⚠️ Note: When buying on AliExpress, pay attention to the firmware version (CN ROM) often do not support Google Services and have language restrictions.Look for global versions (Global) ROM) or EEA ROM Europe.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi smartphones 2020 year-end