Choosing a Xiaomi smartphone with the best camera is not an easy task. The brand offers dozens of models, from budget Redmi with decent sensors to flagship Mi and Mix with professional modules from Leica or Sony. But how to tell which camera is really the best? Because megapixels are not the main criterion, and the real quality depends on software, optimization and even shooting scenarios.
In this article, we will analyze the TOP-5 Xiaomi models with the best cameras in the world 2026 So, in the year, we'll compare the specifications, the DxOMark test results, and the actual photo examples, and you'll see which smartphone is the best for shooting in the dark, which one is the best for video. 8K, We will also reveal the secret settings of Xiaomi camera, which will improve your pictures on the price / quality. 30% without buying a new phone.
Criteria for choosing the best camera in a Xiaomi smartphone
Before we get to specific models, we'll figure out what to look for when evaluating a camera. Megapixels are marketing: even 200 MPs don't guarantee quality if the sensor is small or the processing algorithms are weak. Here are the key parameters:
- 📷 Sensor size: the larger (in inches), the better the light absorption. 1/1.28".
- 🔍 Aperture (diaphragm): value f/1.6–f/1.9 Provides more light for night photography.
- 🎯 Optical stabilization (OIS): Critical for video and hand-held shooting.
- 🖼️ Software processing: Xiaomi and Leica algorithms strongly influence detailing and colors.
- 📹 Video Opportunities: Support 8K, HDR10+, Dolby Vision.
Equally important is the camera ecosystem: for example, the Mi 14 flagships have a Leica Authentic Look mode that mimics the color reproduction of classic film cameras. And the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ uses AI to enhance portraits. But how does it work in practice?
TOP-5 Xiaomi models with the best cameras in the world 2026 year
We selected models based on DxOMark tests, user reviews and independent reviews, both flagships and middle ground with excellent price/quality ratios.
| Model | Main camera. | DxOMark (photo) | Price (from) | Best for you. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 14 Ultra | 50 MP (1) + 50 MP (periscope) + 50 MP (ultra-wide) + 50 MP (telephoto) | 150 | 120 000 ₽ | Professional shooting, 8K video, macro |
| Xiaomi 13T Pro | 50 MP (1/1.28) + 50 MP (telephoto) + 12 MP (ultra-wide) | 136 | 65 000 ₽ | Universality, night photography |
| Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G | 200 MP (1/1.4) + 8 MP (ultra-wide) + 2 MP (macro) | 120 | 35 000 ₽ | Budget alternative to flagships |
| Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 | 50 MP (wide) + 10 MP (telephoto) + 12 MP (ultra-wide) + 10 MP (periscope) | 145 | 150 000 ₽ | Folding devices, multimedia |
| Poco F6 Pro | 50 MP (1/1.56) + 8 MP (ultra-wide) + 2 MP (macro) | 118 | 40 000 ₽ | Games + a good camera |
The top smartphone is Xiaomi 14 Ultra with four 50-megapixel modules and a 1-inch sensor, the only smartphone in the line with variable aperture (f/1.6–f/4.0), which allows you to adjust the depth of field like on DSLRs. But is it worth the money? Next, a detailed analysis of each model.
⚠️ Note: DxOMark's scores are not absolute truths, like the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 200 MP bypasses some flagships in detail, but loses in color processing. Always check real photo examples before buying!
Xiaomi 14 Ultra: The Best Camera for Professionals
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is not just a smartphone, but a full-fledged camera in your pocket. Its core module on the Sony IMX989 (1 inch) sensor paired with Leica optics provides the best detail and dynamic range of any Xiaomi smartphone.
- 🔄 Variable aperture: from f/1.6 (maximum of light f/4.0 (maximum sharpness).
- 🎥 Video 8K 24 fps with Dolby Vision and Leica Authentic Look.
- 🌌 Night mode: shooting the starry sky without a tripod (Astrophotography mode).
- 🔍 3.2x and 5x zoom + 10x lossless hybrid.
The downsides are the sheer size and weight (224g), and the price of mirrorless, but if you want the most versatility (from macro to telephoto), there are no alternatives in the Xiaomi lineup.
How to turn on Leica Authentic Look mode?
By comparison, even the iPhone 15 Pro Max is inferior to 14 Ultra in detail at 10x zoom, and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is inferior in night shooting. But if you don't want extreme features, look at the more affordable models.
Xiaomi 13T Pro: the best price/quality balance
Xiaomi 13T Pro is a lightweight version of the flagship, but with a camera that is not inferior to many top models. Here is the same IMX707 sensor (1/1.28) but without variable aperture and with simplified optics.
- 💰 Price is 2 times lower than 14 Ultra, with 80% of its capabilities.
- 🌃 Night mode with AI processing, which is not inferior to Samsung flagships.
- 📸 Document Mode: Automatically straightens photos of book pages.
- 🔋 120W Fast charging – full charge in 19 minutes (important for travel).
The main drawback is the lack of periscopic zoom (maximum 2x optical), but for most users this will be enough: according to the DxOMark tests, the 13T Pro is ahead of the Google Pixel 7 Pro in portrait shooting and video stabilization.
Take test pictures in the store in low light
Check autofocus (point to a nearby object)
Record a video with the movement - evaluate the stabilization
Compare colors with other models (such as iPhone or Samsung)
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If you need a camera for everyday shooting without overpaying for “professional” chips, 13T Pro is the best choice. And if you have a budget, read on to the Redmi Note 13 Pro.+.
Redmi Note 13 Pro+: budget king of detail
200 Megapixels in a smartphone behind 35 000 ₽ — This is no joke. Redmi Note. 13 Pro+ Samsung's sensor HP3 (1/1.4"), It is physically larger than many flagships. 2022 But there are nuances:
- ✅ Advantages: 📏 200 MP resolution allows you to fram a photo without loss (for example, “cut” a face from a group shot). 🌈 Color rendering is better than Poco's F5 Or the Realme 11 Pro.+. 🔋 120W Charging and battery 5000 mAh – enough for 2 days of active use.
- ❌ Deficiencies: 🌙 Nighttime is weaker than that 13T Pro (less details in the shadows). 🎥 Video 4K without stabilization (only) 1080p s OIS). 🔍 No telephoto lens (digital zoom to) 8x).
This is the perfect smartphone for people who want the most megapixels for the lowest possible amount of money, but if you want video or zoom, you might want to pay for the 13T Pro.
⚠️ Attention: Redmi Note 13 Pro+ The default is 200 MP, but it eats up a lot of space. To save memory, switch to 12.5 MP in the camera settings (Resolution) → The quality will be almost unaffected!
Xiaomi camera settings: how to improve photos by 30%
Even Xiaomi’s budget models can shoot better if you set up the software correctly. Here are 5 little-known features that will change your shots:
- Turn off AI Improvement for natural colors: Go to Camera Settings → AI → Scene Improvement and Turn off the slider. This will remove the excessive saturation and plastic faces in the portraits.
- Turn it on. HDR10+ For video: In video mode, click on the icon ⚙️ → HDR10+. This will add more detail in light and dark areas (only works on flagships).
- Use Pro Mode to manually adjust: In Pro mode, you can manually set ISO, shutter speed and white balance. For example, to capture waterfalls, set shutter speeds of 1/2 seconds.
- Activate Ultra Wide Night Mode: In night mode, tap the 3:4 icon and select Ultra Wide, which will allow you to capture nightscapes with an angle of 120°.
- Set up Leica Filters (for Mi 13/14): In the Leica settings, select the Authentic profile and adjust Contrast and Saturation to -1 for a natural look.
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To reset your camera to factory settings, go to Settings → Apps → Camera → Storage → Clear the data. This will help if the photos are worse after the update.
These settings work on all Xiaomi models, but you will get the maximum effect on flagships (Mi 13/14) and mid-budget smartphones (Redmi Note 12/13 Pro).
Which Xiaomi model with the best camera to choose in 2026?
The choice depends on your budget and tasks. Here is a brief summary:
- 💎 For professionals and enthusiasts: Xiaomi 14 Ultra (best optics, zoom, video) 8K).
- 🏆 Best Price/Quality Balance: Xiaomi 13T Pro (Flagship Camera for Half the Price).
- 💰 Budget version with maximum detail: Redmi Note 13 Pro+ (200 MP for 35,000 ₽).
- 📺 For multimedia and foldable devices: Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 (unique camera) + screen).
- 🎮 For gamers with a good camera: Poco F6 Pro (120 Hz) + 50 MP).
If you're in doubt between the two models, look at real-life photo examples on sites like GSMArena or DxOMark. For example, the 13T Pro and 14 Ultra shoot in daylight almost the same, but at dusk the difference becomes apparent.
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Before buying, check if the Dolby Vision model supports video – this is critical for shooting in HDR.