Xiaomi 17T
Xiaomi 17T vs 17T Pro: Which one to get?
Pros
- Offers better thermal management with less throttling during stress tests
- Features sharper 5x telephoto zoom for both photos and videos
- Main camera captures well-exposed footage in low light
- Presents a more compact device design
- Is a less expensive option compared to the Pro model
Cons
- Provides lower raw performance compared to the Pro model
- Has shorter battery life than the Pro model
- Features slower wired charging and lacks wireless charging
- Video recording maxes out at 4K 60FPS
- Offers fewer storage options compared to the Pro model
The Xiaomi 17T stands out as a solid upper mid-range smartphone, offering a more compact design and a more attractive price point than its Pro sibling. It excels in thermal management, outperforming the Pro in sustained performance, and delivers notably sharper 5x telephoto zoom for both photos and videos, especially in low light. The device shares the Pro's impressive OLED display quality and commitment to long-term software support.
However, some compromises include a less powerful chipset, shorter battery life, and slower wired charging without wireless capabilities. Additionally, its video recording is capped at 4K 60FPS, and storage options are more limited.
Despite these differences, the Xiaomi 17T is highly recommended for users seeking a well-rounded and affordable device with strong camera performance and stable operation, making it a compelling choice in its category.
“If you want a cheaper or more compact version, the Xiaomi 17T is still a solid upper mid-ranger that's worth recommending.”
Xiaomi 17T review: Going the distance
Pros
- Excellent OLED display with high brightness and advanced color support.
- Versatile camera setup, particularly the main and telephoto lenses, performs well in various conditions.
- Solid battery life from its large 6500 mAh battery.
- Good performance for its class with effective thermal management.
Cons
- Charging speed is not competitive (67W) and lacks wireless charging.
- Chipset is upper mid-range, not flagship tier.
- High price point for a mid-range device.
- Selfie camera lacks autofocus and has lower than expected detail.
The Xiaomi 17T stands out as a strong high-end mid-ranger, featuring an excellent OLED display that offers impressive brightness and advanced color support. Its camera system, particularly the main and upgraded 5x telephoto lenses, delivers high-quality photos and videos in various lighting conditions, positioning it among the best in its class. The phone also provides solid battery life from its large 6500 mAh battery and good performance for its segment with efficient thermal management.
However, at around $750, it's not a budget-friendly option and comes with a few compromises. These include a mid-range chipset rather than a flagship, a less competitive 67W charging speed, and the notable absence of wireless charging, alongside a selfie camera that lacks autofocus and detail.
Despite these shortcomings, if users are willing to overlook them, the Xiaomi 17T is a commendable mid-range device that could be an even more attractive option if its price drops.
“So, that was the Xiaomi 17T. It's a nice high-end mid-ranger with an excellent display, good battery life, and a camera setup which is among the best in its class.”
“This phone isn't cheap, though, at around 750 bucks. And there are a couple of shortcomings. The chipset isn't flagship tier, and the charging isn't that fast. There's no wireless charging, either.”
Xiaomi 17T Pro proves Ultra is not necessary!
Pros
- Features a massive 6,500 mAh battery.
- Includes a capable 5x telephoto lens.
- Expected to receive four generations of Android updates.
- Offers good value if priced competitively around £549.
Cons
- Ultrawide camera is weak, especially in low light.
- Main camera has less detail and poorer low light performance compared to the Pro model.
- Display refresh rate is limited to 120Hz.
- Overall value is uncertain if the price increases significantly.
The Xiaomi 17T is presented as a very good phone, particularly if its pricing aligns with last year's model at around £549. It boasts a massive 6,500 mAh battery and is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 chip, with a promise of four Android updates. The device features a shared 5x telephoto lens that performs well, alongside a weaker ultrawide camera, and its main camera is slightly less capable than the Pro version.
Despite its strengths, including a 6.5-inch 120Hz display, the reviewer ultimately suggests opting for the Pro model due to its superior chip, longer software support, and slightly better main camera performance. The overall value proposition hinges heavily on its market price.
“When you look at these phones, both the 17T and the 17T Pro are very good phones depending on how they're priced”
“I would still go for the Pro.”
“Xiaomi told me it gets five generations of Android updates compared to the four of the regular.”