Xiaomi 17T Review
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Design & Build Quality
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Display
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Performance
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Battery Life & Charging
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Camera System
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Overall Value
Premium Mid-Ranger with Flagship Aspirations
The Xiaomi 17T impresses with a premium design, vibrant AMOLED display, robust battery, and a Leica-tuned camera system, offering a strong premium mid-range experience despite minor material compromises. It aims high and largely succeeds in its initial impressions.
Advantages
- Design echoes flagship Xiaomi 17, with an attractive aesthetic
- Commendable build quality, feels substantial
- Vibrant 6.59-inch AMOLED display with 2756 x 1268 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate
- Excellent screen readability even in bright sunlight
- Substantial 6500 mAh battery capacity
- Fast 67W charging capabilities
- Efficient Dimensity 8500 Ultra processor
- Leica-tuned camera system with impressive hardware (50 MP main, 50 MP 5x optical telephoto)
- Advanced, optimized camera software with Leica color science and creative filters
Disadvantages
- Material choices differ from the true premium finish of flagship models
- Not a budget-oriented device, implying a higher price point
- Some general compromises are evident upon closer inspection (though not explicitly detailed)
- Real-world performance and long-term battery longevity still require comprehensive testing
Contents
Xiaomi 17T First Impressions: A Premium Mid-Ranger?
The latest offerings from Xiaomi are set to shake up the premium mid-range smartphone segment. We recently had the opportunity to experience the more compact Xiaomi 17T, which arrived in a particularly attractive pastel blue finish. This initial hands-on review delves into what this exciting new device offers beyond its eye-catching aesthetic.
Design That Belies Its Price
The Xiaomi 17T immediately impresses with a design that echoes its more expensive flagship sibling, the Xiaomi 17. Unlike previous "T" series models, such as the Xiaomi 13T (which, two years ago, diverged significantly from the standard Xiaomi 13), the 17T embraces a near-identical aesthetic to the flagship 17. This includes its overall silhouette and the distinctive camera module layout, clearly positioning it as an extension of the series first introduced before MWC in March.
Aesthetic Appeal and Build Quality
The visual resemblance to the flagship line is striking, particularly with the captivating light blue variant we had the opportunity to review. While the overall build quality is commendable, the material choices set it apart from the premium finish of the Xiaomi 17 series. Users accustomed to a true flagship feel might notice this subtle difference. Weighing in at approximately 200 grams (7.05 ounces), the device feels substantial for its size.
Display, Performance, and Power
Vibrant Display for On-the-Go Use
Xiaomi has equipped the 17T with a generous 6.59-inch display, striking a balance between immersive viewing and comfortable single-handed use. This choice makes the device exceptionally manageable for everyday tasks and navigation.
Robust Battery Life and Rapid Charging
Powering the device is a substantial 6500 mAh battery, complemented by 67W fast charging capabilities. This, paired with the efficient Dimensity 8500 Ultra processor, promises excellent endurance throughout the day. We anticipate providing a deeper dive into its real-world performance and battery longevity in our comprehensive full review. For more insights into Xiaomi’s previous innovations, you might be interested in a retrospective on the Xiaomi Mi 9T / Redmi K20 three years after its premiere.
A Stunning AMOLED Visual Experience
Returning to the display, the 6.59-inch panel utilizes vibrant AMOLED technology, delivering a sharp resolution of 2756 x 1268 pixels. Users will appreciate the fluid scrolling and responsive interaction offered by its 120 Hz refresh rate. During a recent test run under bright May sunshine, the screen’s readability remained impressively clear, making it a reliable companion for outdoor use.
Leica-Tuned Camera System: A Photographer’s Companion
Impressive Camera Hardware
The Xiaomi 17T boasts a comprehensive camera array, enhanced by its partnership with Leica. The setup includes:
- 12 MP Ultra-wide-angle lens (f/2.2 aperture)
- 50 MP Main camera (f/1.7 aperture)
- 50 MP Telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom (f/3.0 aperture)
While these specifications might bring to mind flagship devices from a few years past, Xiaomi leverages its advanced, well-optimized software and highly effective algorithms to deliver a superior imaging experience.
Software Enhancements and Leica Color Science
The camera application on the Xiaomi 17T mirrors the sophisticated interface found on the top-tier Xiaomi 17 Ultra. This ensures users have access to a variety of practical shooting modes, an intuitive layout, and distinct color profiles developed in collaboration with Leica. For enthusiasts of monochrome photography, the 17T offers two compelling black and white filters, each with unique contrast characteristics. Initial tests show the resulting images are notably impressive. For a comparison of how different Xiaomi models handle their camera systems, consider reading our review of the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Pro Max.
Initial Verdict: Promising, Yet with Considerations
Our initial hands-on experience with the Xiaomi 17T leaves a distinctly positive impression. However, it’s important to acknowledge that this device isn’t positioned as a budget option, and some compromises are evident upon closer inspection. The crucial question remains: Is the Xiaomi 17T the ideal choice for those looking for a premium mid-range smartphone? We aim to provide a definitive answer after our comprehensive long-term testing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the main camera specifications of the Xiaomi 17T?
The Xiaomi 17T features a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens (f/2.2), a 50 MP main camera (f/1.7), and a 50 MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom (f/3.0), all enhanced by Leica collaboration.
How does the Xiaomi 17T’s design compare to the flagship Xiaomi 17?
The Xiaomi 17T boasts a design almost identical to the flagship Xiaomi 17, including its overall silhouette and camera module. However, the materials used may differ slightly from the premium finish of the flagship series.
What kind of display technology does the Xiaomi 17T use?
It utilizes a 6.59-inch AMOLED display with a high resolution of 2756 x 1268 pixels and supports a 120 Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals.
Is the Xiaomi 17T suitable for extended use based on its battery?
Equipped with a substantial 6500 mAh battery and 67W fast charging, the Xiaomi 17T is designed to offer excellent endurance and quick recharges, making it suitable for extended daily use.
Source: Original work. Opening photo: Krzysztof Wilamowski
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