Xiaomi Mi 8: which modification to choose? full comparison of all versions

Xiaomi Mi 8 is still a legendary series of smartphones, despite the release in 2018. Even after 6 years, these devices are actively buying in the secondary market — thanks to the powerful hardware, current MIUI updates and affordable price. But how not to get confused in the modifications? Mi 8 SE, standard Mi 8, Mi 8 Pro, Mi 8 Explorer Edition and Mi 8 Lite — each version has its own features, pros and pitfalls.

In this article, we will break down all versions of the Xiaomi Mi 8 according to key parameters: performance, camera, display, autonomy and relevance in 2026, you will learn which model is suitable for gaming, which is for photography, and which is better to bypass, and we will analyze prices in the secondary market and give recommendations for choosing with the current realities.

All modifications of Xiaomi Mi 8: a brief overview

The Mi 8 series includes five main models, each of which is targeted at a different audience.

• 📱 Mi 8 SE — A compact and budget option with a Snapdragon 710 processor, perfect for those who value size and do not need flagship performance.
• 🔥 Mi 8 (standard) - balanced model with Snapdragon 845, dual camera and glass case.
• 💎 Mi 8 Pro is a “premium” version with a transparent rear panel, improved camera and 8 GB of RAM.
• 🔍 Mi 8 Explorer Edition – flagship with 3D-Face scanner, 8GB of RAM and translucent body.
• 💰 The Mi 8 Lite is a simplified version with a Snapdragon 660 and a plastic case. Cheapest, but weakest version.

It’s important to understand that all models except the Mi 8 Lite have been “out of production” but are easy to find on the secondary market, with the Mi 8 SE and the standard Mi 8 still supported by unofficial firmware, which prolongs their lives.

Comparison of technical characteristics: table

To see the differences between the models, we put the key parameters into a single table, and you can look at the processor, the amount of RAM and the type of screen, which are the main criteria.

The important point is that the Mi 8 Pro and Explorer Edition have a smaller battery capacity (3,000 mAh vs. 3400 mAh in the standard version), which is critical in 2026. If autonomy is a priority for you, you should choose the standard Mi 8 or Mi 8 Lite.

Which Xiaomi Mi 8 to choose for games in 2026?

If your goal is to play modern games (Genshin Impact, Call of Duty Mobile, PUBG), then the choice is narrowed down to three models:

• 🎮 The Mi 8 (standard) is the optimal balance of price and performance. the Snapdragon 845 still pulls most games on the mid-range settings.
• 💥 The Mi 8 Pro/Enquirer Edition is the same 8GB of RAM, but with a more premium design.However, a smaller battery (3,000mAh) reduces game time.
• ❌ Mi 8 SE mi 8 Lite – not suitable for serious gaming due to weak processors (Snapdragon) 710/660).

In practice, the standard Mi 8 with 6/128 GB is the best choice for gamers. It is cheaper than the Pro versions, but not inferior to them in performance. The main thing is to monitor the temperature: during long sessions, the Snapdragon 845 warms up, so we recommend using the Game Turbo in the MIUI settings or third-party cooling utilities.

💡

Before buying a used Xiaomi Mi 8 for games, be sure to check the battery status through the AccuBattery application. Capacity below 80% of the original will make the device unsuitable for long sessions.

Videos and photos: Which camera is better?

All Mi 8 models except Lite have dual main camera, but their capabilities are different.

• 📸 Mi 8 / Mi 8 Pro/Enquirer Edition – Identical modules: 12 MP (wide-angle, f/1.8) + 12 MP (telephoto, f/2.4) s 2-It's a multiple optical zoom, and it supports video recording. 4K@30fps and 1080p@240fps (slow-motion).
• 📷 Mi 8 SE — main chamber 12 MPP (f/1.9) + 5 MP (depth) No telephoto module, video only 4K@30fps stabilised.
• 🎥 Mi 8 Lite is the weakest camera: 12 MPP (f/1.9) + 5 MP (depth), video without 4K, no optical zoom.

For photography in 2026, the best choice is the Mi 8 Pro or Explorer Edition. Not only do they have identical cameras with the standard version, but they also support manual mode with save in RAW, allowing you to edit your shots flexibly in Lightroom or Snapseed.

Check focusing in macro mode (should work fast)

Shoot your video in 4K – there should be no artifacts or soaps

Make sure that the optical zoom works (2x without loss of quality)

Check the night mode (if you have MIUI 12+ installed)

-->

⚠️ Note: In the secondary market, Mi 8s are often found with damaged cameras (for example, after falls).Be sure to test all modules before buying - especially the telephoto lens, which most often fails.

Battery and Autonomy: What is Important to Know?

The weakest point in the Mi 8 series is batteries, and even the new devices in 2018 didn't shine with autonomy, and after 6 years, things got worse.

• 🔋 Mi 8 SE — 3120 CAH: With active use, there is enough 4-5 screen-clock.
• ⚡ Mi 8 (standard) - 3400 mAh. The best option for autonomy among the entire lineup.
• ⚠️ Mi 8 Pro/ Explorer Edition – only 3000 mAh in 2026, it is critically small.
• 🔌 Mi 8 Lite – 3350 mAh, but a weak processor compensates for the small capacity.

If you buy a Mi 8 b/d, be prepared for the fact that the battery will require replacement. The average life of lithium-ion batteries is 3-4 years, so in 2026 most of the units have a capacity of 70-80% of the original. The cost of replacing the battery in service centers is from 1500 to 3000 rubles (depending on the model).

⚠️ Note: Mi 8 Pro and Explorer Edition uses a battery of a non-standard shape (with a cutout under a transparent panel), it is more difficult to find on sale, and the replacement costs more — up to 4000 rubles.

Xiaomi Mi 8 Prices in 2026: Should You Buy?

In the secondary market (Avito, Yula, Facebook Marketplace), the prices for the Xiaomi Mi 8 vary depending on the condition, configuration and modification.

⚠️ Attention: There are many Mi 8s on the market with “gray” firmware (for example, for China without Google services). → The phone. → Version. MIUI. If there's a firmware in the name CN (China), IN (India) or RU (Russia is the official version, unless numbers (e.g., the official version, V12.5.1.0) — Most likely, a custom firmware that may work unstable.

💡

V 2026 Xiaomi Mi 8 You should only buy two things: 1) You need a compact smartphone with AMOLED-screen (Mi) 8 SE), 2) You are looking for an inexpensive flagship for games or photography 8 6/128 In all other cases, it is better to consider the Redmi Note. 12 pro POCO X5 Pro - onyche and more powerful.

Alternatives to Xiaomi Mi 8 in 2026

If you’re in doubt about buying the Mi 8, consider modern alternatives with similar specs but better support:

• 🆕 Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G — Snapdragon 732G, 120 Hz AMOLED, 5000 mAh Price: ~15 000 ₽ (new).
• 💡 POCO X5 Pro — Snapdragon 778G, 120 Hz AMOLED, 5000 mAh Price: ~18 000 ₽ (new).
• 📱 Xiaomi 11 Lite NE 5G — Snapdragon 778G, 90 Hz AMOLED, 4250mAh Price: ~20 000 ₽ (b/w in perfect condition).

All of these models are new (2022-2023), have official MIUI support until 2026-2026 and are free of autonomy problems, and if the budget allows, it is better to overpay and take something from this list.

However, if you are looking for the Mi 8 (for example, because of design or nostalgia), the standard version with 6/128 GB remains the best choice.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi 8