Xiaomi Mi 9: Which version is better – a comparison of all models of 2019

Choosing a Xiaomi Mi 9 in 2026 is not an easy task. Despite the fact that the line was released in 2019, these devices are still relevant thanks to powerful hardware, quality screens and affordable price in the secondary market. But which modification would you prefer: the basic Mi 9, compact Mi 9 SE, flagship Mi 9 Pro or exclusive Mi 9 Transparent Edition?

In this article, we will break down all versions of the Xiaomi Mi 9 into key parameters: performance, camera, autonomy and design, you will learn which model is suitable for gaming, which is for taking photos, and which will be the best choice for everyday tasks, and we will analyze current prices for 2026 and give recommendations for buying used devices.

Spoiler: If you want a balanced version, look at the basic Mi 9. For those who like compact gadgets, the Mi 9 SE is ideal, and gamers and photographers should consider the Mi 9 Pro or Transparent Edition.

All versions of Xiaomi Mi 9: a brief overview of the model range

Xiaomi Mi 9 range includes five main modifications, each of which is focused on different tasks and budgets.

• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9 (base version) – flagship with Snapdragon 855, triple camera and AMOLED-The best choice for most users.
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9 SE — «compact version with Snapdragon 712, smaller screen (5.97) and a weaker camera.
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro – improved version with Snapdragon 855+, fast-charging 40W And a bigger battery, better choice for gamers.
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9 Transparent Edition - exclusive with a transparent body, 12 GB of RAM and a unique design. Collector's model.
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite (in some regions – Mi) CC9) — A budget version with a Snapdragon 710 and a simplified camera.

It's important to understand that the Mi 9 Lite and Mi 9 SE are not the same thing! The first model is weaker in performance, but has a more modern design. The second is smaller and more powerful, but with a smaller screen.

Comparison of technical characteristics: table

To see the differences between the models, we've put together a comparison table on key parameters, and you can look at the processor, the amount of RAM and the capacity of the battery, which are the main criteria.

Critical note: Mi 9 SE is the only model in the lineup with a mid-level processor (Snapdragon 712), which makes it unsuitable for modern games at maximum settings. If you care about gaming, choose Mi 9 Pro or basic Mi 9.

Which version to choose for the games in 2026?

If gaming performance is your priority, the best options are the Mi 9 Pro and Mi 9 Transparent Edition, both of which feature a Snapdragon 855+ processor that is 15% more powerful than the standard Snapdragon 855 in the base Mi 9.

Here's what to consider:

• 🎮 Mi 9 Pro is the best choice for gamers thanks to: A more capacious battery (4000 mAh vs 3300 mAh in the base version). 40W (Full charge in 45 minutes. Better cooling (graphite heat tube).
• 🎮 Mi 9 Transparent Edition is the same Mi 9 Pro, but with 12 GB of RAM and a unique design.
• ⚠️ Mi 9 SE — Not recommended for gaming due to the weak Snapdragon 712 processor. Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile will have lags at high settings.

Testing in PUBG Mobile (Ultra + 60 FPS settings) showed the following results:

• Mi 9 Pro: stable 55-60 FPS, heated to 42°C.
• Mi 9: 40-50 FPS, heating to 45°C (cooling case required).
• Mi 9 SE: 25-30 FPS, severe drawdowns in long sessions.

Make sure the battery holds ≥80% capacity (checked via ##4636##)

Check the processor heating in the stress test (use the CPU Throttling Test app)

View the screen for broken pixels and yellow spots (typical AMOLED problem)

Check the operation of all cameras (especially wide-angle)

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Which model is better for photography?

All versions of the Xiaomi Mi 9 come with a triple main camera, but there are nuances. The base Mi 9, Mi 9 Pro and Transparent Edition all have the same module: 48 MP (main, Sony IMX586) + 12 MP (telephoto, 2x zoom) + 16 MP (wide-angle).

Mi 9 SE is inferior in quality of shooting: 48 MP (Samsung GM1) + 8 MP (telephoto) + 13 MP (wide-angle).

Sony IMX586 sensor in basic models better conveys colors and details in low light conditions.

Comparison of key scenarios:

If photography is your priority, choose between Mi 9, Mi 9 Pro or Transparent Edition. There is no difference in quality between the two, only in the additional features (for example, the Pro supports 960 FPS video shooting).

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Before buying, check the autofocus in the camera – some Mi 9s have a problem with the lens shaking when focusing.

Autonomy and charging: which version lives longer?

The weakest battery in the Mi 9 SE (3070 mAh), which when used actively gives only 3-4 hours of screen. the Basic Mi 9 with 3300 mAh lasts 20-25% longer, and the Mi 9 Pro and Transparent Edition with 4000 mAh – even better.

Real tests of autonomy (at mixed load):

• 🔋 Mi 9 SE: 10-12 hours without games).
• 🔋 Mi 9: 14-16 hours.
• 🔋 Mi 9 Pro: 18-20 hours.

The leader in charging speed is the Mi 9 Pro with 40W support:

• 0-100% in 45 minutes.
• 0-50% in 15 minutes.

The base Mi 9 charges twice as slowly (20W).

⚠️ Note: If you buy a used Xiaomi Mi 9, Check the battery status through the engineering menu (##4636## → "Battery information. " Capacity below 80% The value of the battery means that the battery will soon have to be changed (the cost of replacement — ~1500-2000 ₽).

Design and Ergonomics: Which Model Is More Convenient?

It all depends on your preferences:

• 📏 Mi 9 SE — The most compact (5.97, 155g) is convenient to control with one hand, but the screen is not enough for video.
• 📏 Mi 9/Pro/Transparent is the same size (6.39), but the Transparent Edition is heavier (196g vs 173g for the base version) due to the glass body.

From the material:

• Mi 9 SE and base Mi 9 - matte glass (do not slide, but collect prints).
• Mi 9 Pro - glossy glass (beautiful, but branded).
• Mi 9 Transparent Edition is a transparent plastic with backlighting (unique but fragile).

Important: the Mi 9 Transparent Edition does not have official service repair of the case – if the transparent panel is damaged, it will be extremely difficult to replace it.

Prices for 2026 and where to buy?

The cost of Xiaomi Mi 9 in the secondary market varies depending on the condition and configuration.Average prices (according to Avito, Yula and Facebook Marketplace):

Where to buy:

• 🛒 Avito/Yula is the biggest choice, but the risk of getting killed is high. Always ask for a photo of the engineering menu (#4636##) and a screen test.
• 🛒 Facebook Marketplace — often sold by tech enthusiasts, and you can find rare versions (like Transparent Edition).
• 🛒 Service centers – sometimes sell refurbished appliances with a warranty (for example, after replacing the screen or battery).

⚠️ Be careful with offers like the new 5000 ₽" — Often under them hide devices with switched boards (IMEI It doesn't match the box, or a broken display glued together with superglue. IMEI via imei.info.

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If you want maximum reliability, look for machines with the original box, checks and warranty stickers, even if they are more expensive than the price tag. 20-30%, This is justified: such devices are less likely to have hidden defects.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi 9