Xiaomi 17T review: Compact, Competent but Costly
The Xiaomi 17T has made its debut in the smartphone market, boasting some impressive features and upgrades from its predecessor. With a focus on camera quality, design, performance, and battery life, the 17T aims to appeal to users looking for a powerful yet affordable device.
Design & Build:
The Xiaomi 17T follows a similar design language to its predecessor, with a sleek and modern aesthetic. The phone features an aluminium frame and a composite fibre back, making it durable and lightweight. The device is IP68 rated, offering protection against dust and water damage.
The 17T comes in a variety of colors, including violet, blue, opal white, and black, giving users plenty of options to choose from. The phone’s 6.59-inch OLED display offers vibrant colors and sharp detail, with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth performance.
Cameras:
One of the standout features of the Xiaomi 17T is its camera system. The device boasts a 50MP main camera, a 50MP 5x telephoto lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 32MP selfie camera. The upgraded telephoto lens allows users to zoom in further without losing image quality, making it a versatile option for photography enthusiasts.
The main camera excels in low-light conditions, capturing clear and detailed images even in challenging environments. The selfie camera delivers sharp and vibrant selfies, with portrait mode adding a professional touch to photos.
Battery Life & Charging:
The Xiaomi 17T is equipped with a massive 6500mAh battery, providing long-lasting power for all-day use. The device supports 67W wired charging, allowing for quick and efficient charging times. While wireless charging is not available on the 17T, the fast wired charging makes up for this omission.
Performance & Software:
Under the hood, the Xiaomi 17T is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8500-Ultra chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM for smooth multitasking and performance. The device runs on HyperOS 3, based on Android 16, offering a feature-packed and user-friendly experience.
The software includes AI features for photo editing, transcription, translation, and more, adding a layer of intelligence to the user experience. With 5 years of Android upgrades and 7 years of security patches promised, the 17T ensures longevity and support for years to come.
Price & Availability:
The Xiaomi 17T is priced at £649 for the 256GB model and £699 for the 512GB model, making it a competitive option in the mid-range smartphone market. The device is widely available in Europe and other regions, excluding the US.
Overall, the Xiaomi 17T offers a compelling package of features, including a top-notch camera system, long battery life, fast charging, and impressive performance. While facing stiff competition in its price range, the 17T stands out as a solid choice for users looking for a well-rounded and affordable smartphone.
