Xiaomi is well-known for providing cutting-edge features and powerful specifications at a reasonable price. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra, their most recent flagship, is no exception to this trend. This powerful smartphone features an advanced camera system, cutting-edge capabilities, and a complete Android experience.
However, does the Xiaomi 14 Ultra stand out in the congested smartphone market? Here is my in-depth analysis as a professional blogger with more than ten years of experience, exploring if this device deserves the esteemed moniker of “ultimate Android flagship.”
Xiaomi 14 Ultra Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Network | |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G |
| Launch | |
| Announced | 2024, February 22 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, February 22 |
| Body | |
| Dimensions | 161.4 x 75.3 x 9.2 mm (6.35 x 2.96 x 0.36 in) |
| Weight | 219.8 / 224.4 / 229.5 g (7.76 oz) |
| Build | Glass front (Shield Glass), glass or eco-leather back, titanium (grade 5) or aluminum alloy frame |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) |
| Display | |
| Type | LTPO AMOLED, 68B colors, 120Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, 1000 nits (typ), 3000 nits (peak) |
| Size | 6.73 inches, 108.9 cm2 (~89.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~522 ppi density) |
| Protection | Xiaomi Shield Glass / Xiaomi Longjing Glass |
| Platform | |
| OS | Android 14, HyperOS |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (1×3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3×3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2×3.0 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2×2.3 GHz Cortex-A520) |
| GPU | Adreno 750 |
| Memory | |
| Card slot | No |
| Internal | 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM UFS 4.0 |
| Main Camera | |
| Quad | 50 MP, f/1.6 or f/4.0, 23mm (wide), 1.0″-type, 1.6µm, multi-directional PDAF, Laser AF, OIS 50 MP, f/1.8, 75mm (telephoto), 1/2.51″, 0.7µm, dual pixel PDAF (10cm – ∞), OIS, 3.2x optical zoom 50 MP, f/2.5, 120mm (periscope telephoto), 1/2.51″, 0.7µm, dual pixel PDAF (30cm – ∞), OIS, 5x optical zoom 50 MP, f/1.8, 12mm, 122˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.51″, 0.7µm, dual pixel PDAF TOF 3D, (depth) |
| Features | Leica lenses, Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama, 67mm filter ring holder (optional) |
| Video | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@24/30/60/120fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240/480/960/1920fps, gyro-EIS, Dolby Vision HDR 10-bit rec. (4K@60fps, 1080p) |
| Selfie Camera | |
| Single | 32 MP, f/2.0, 22mm (wide), 1/3.14″, 0.7µm |
| Features | HDR, panorama |
| Video | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS |
| Sound | |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| 3.5mm jack | No 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res & Hi-Res Wireless audio |
| COMMS | |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7, tri-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Bluetooth | 5.4, A2DP, LE, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, LHDC |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BDS (B1I+B1c+B2a), GALILEO (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1+L5), NavIC (L5) |
| NFC | Yes |
| Infrared port | Yes |
| Radio | No |
| USB | Type-C 3.2 Gen 2, DisplayPort, OTG |
| FEATURES | |
| Sensors | Sensors Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, proximity, gyro, compass, color spectrum, barometer Two-way satellite communication |
| BATTERY | |
| Type | 5000 mAh, non-removable – International 5300 mAh, non-removable – China only |
| Charging | 90W wired, PD3.0, QC4, 100% in 33 min (advertised) 80W wireless, 100% in 46 min (advertised) 10W reverse wireless |
| MISC | |
| Colors | Black, Blue, White, Titanium Gray |
| Price | € 1,499.90 / £ 1,299.00 |
Design and Build Quality
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s exquisite design and painstaking craftsmanship radiate elegance. Its elegant glass face, with choices for eco-leather or glass back, is framed in strong titanium or elegantly polished aluminum. For further peace of mind, the device’s remarkable IP68 dust and water resistance provides a layer of endurance.
Although a curved display seems more opulent, some people may find it less ergonomic than a flat panel. Nevertheless, the device is well-made and fits nicely in the hand. And for the true enthusiast, Xiaomi offers the versatility of choosing between a lighter glass back for everyday use or a more durable titanium frame for that extra bit of resilience.
Display: A Visual Delight
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s 6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED display is amazing. With a breathtaking peak brightness of 3000 nits, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and an exceptionally sharp 1440 x 3200 resolution, entertainment leaps off the screen. The customizable refresh rate of 120Hz ensures seamless transitions and animations. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra doesn’t disappoint when playing visually intensive games, editing images, or viewing high-definition films.
Performance: A Snapdragon Powerhouse
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is powered by the newest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which delivers lightning-fast performance. Paired with generous RAM options, this phone tackles everything you throw at it with ease. Multitasking, gaming, and running demanding apps are a breeze, with no visible lag or stutter.
On Android 14, Xiaomi’s well-tuned HyperOS UI offers a snappy and fluid user experience. In comparison to some other Android interfaces, it is quick, light, and free of bloatware.
Camera: A Partnership with Leica
Xiaomi’s collaboration with legendary camera maker Leica significantly enhances the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera system. Here’s what you get:
- Main Camera: A 50MP, 1-inch sensor, multi-directional PDAF, laser autofocus, and OIS deliver fantastic image quality in a variety of lighting conditions. Expect incredible detail, rich colors, and an excellent dynamic range.
- Telephoto Cameras: The dual telephoto cameras (75mm and 120mm) offer 3.2x and 5x optical zoom, respectively. Images maintain sharpness, even when zoomed in, with outstanding clarity and color accuracy.
- Ultrawide Camera: The 50MP ultrawide camera captures a stunning field of view, perfect for expansive landscapes and architecture shots.
- 3D ToF Sensor: This assists with depth sensing, enabling more natural bokeh and improved portrait mode photos.
- Video and More: Enjoy 8K video recording at up to 30fps, 4K up to 120fps, and the ability to attach Leica-certified 67mm filters (sold separately).
Xiaomi’s camera app offers an abundance of shooting modes and manual controls, giving you full creative freedom. The “Master Portrait” mode applies softer contrast for more flattering portraits when desired. While not flawless, the camera system on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is certainly one of the best on any Android phone.
Battery Life and Charging
The generous 5000 mAh battery (5300 mAh in some regions) comfortably lasts a full day, even with extensive use. Xiaomi’s fast-charging technology is a major selling point. The 90W wired charging replenishes the battery remarkably fast, while the 80W wireless charging offers flexibility. Reverse wireless charging for topping up accessories is another convenient addition.
Audio: A Pleasant Surprise
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra delivers a surprisingly satisfying audio experience. Its stereo speakers pack a punch, producing rich sound with decent clarity and volume. While they lack the depth of a dedicated speaker, they’re great for watching videos or listening to music casually. The support for Hi-Res and Hi-Res wireless audio is a great bonus for audiophiles.
Connectivity: Future-proofed
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with the latest connectivity options. It boasts super-fast Wi-Fi 7 (tri-band), Bluetooth 5.4, and a full range of positioning satellite support, including comprehensive GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and others. NFC and infrared ports add practicality to the mix. Additionally, two-way satellite communication could prove invaluable in emergencies.
Software: A Refined Experience
Running on Android 14, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s HyperOS delivers a customizable, bloat-free experience. Its interface is clean, intuitive, and remarkably zippy. The absence of intrusive, pre-installed apps is refreshing. Xiaomi’s commitment to providing regular software updates adds value to your investment.
Extras: Features Beyond the Essentials
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra packs extra features that enhance the overall experience. These include:
- In-display Fingerprint Sensor: The secure optical fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable.
- Color Spectrum Sensor: This adjusts the display’s white balance for optimal color accuracy under various lighting conditions.
- Barometer: It’s a niche feature, but useful for certain applications.
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is priced at €1,499.90 / £1,299.00, positioning it as a true premium flagship. While expensive, it delivers powerful specs and groundbreaking features that justify the cost for discerning users. The device is available globally, offering wider accessibility than previous Xiaomi Ultra models.
Pros
- Camera Excellence: The Leica-powered camera system is a major highlight, delivering exceptional photo and video quality in various lighting conditions.
- Blazing-Fast Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and ample RAM ensure smooth operation for everything from everyday tasks to demanding apps and games.
- Premium Design and Durability: Meticulous build quality with luxurious material options and IP68 water resistance.
- Stunning Display: The AMOLED display is bright, vibrant, and incredibly responsive.
- Lightning-Fast Charging: Both wired and wireless charging replenish the battery exceptionally quickly.
- Feature-Packed: Includes a wide range of connectivity options, sensors, and extra features.
Coins
- High Price Point: It's a significant investment and might not be the most value-oriented choice.
- Some Bloatware: While less intrusive than many, HyperOS still comes with some pre-installed apps.
- Large and Slightly Bulky: The impressive features come with some heft, which might be less comfortable for some people.
- Curved Display: Although visually appealing, it might be less ergonomic for certain users.
The Verdict: Should You Buy It?
So, does the Xiaomi 14 Ultra live up to its “ultimate Android flagship” tagline? For many, the answer is emphatically yes. Here’s why.
- Outstanding Camera Performance: For those who enjoy smartphone photography and cinematography, the camera system co-engineered with Leica is the highlight of the show.
- Unmatched Performance: Whether it’s gaming or professional work, this phone does it all with ease.
- Blazing-Fast Charging: Say goodbye to extended charging sessions.
- Premium Design and Build: The attention to detail shows.
- Features Galore: There’s something for everyone.
However, if you want an exceptional value offer or are on a tight budget, this may not be the greatest option. Similarly, those who prefer a stock Android experience will find HyperOS somewhat customized for their taste.
The Ultimate Upgrade
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is a remarkable phone that sets a new standard for Android flagships. If you’re looking for the best Android has to offer with no compromises on features and performance, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is the definitive choice.
