Xiaomi 15 Review: I Tested Every Feature for 30 Days (2025 Verdict)

The Xiaomi 15 has established itself as a serious competitor in the premium smartphone segment since its release on October 29, 2024, analysis suggests. The device weighs just 189g while housing the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with configurations offering up to 16GB of RAM. Technical evaluations highlight its 6.36-inch LTPO AMOLED display, which reaches 3200 nits of peak brightness—placing it among the brightest screens currently available in the market.

Distinguished by its triple 50MP camera system that scored 169 in DXOMARK tests, the Xiaomi 15 represents a significant advancement in mobile photography capabilities. The device also features an innovative silicon-carbon battery with 5240mAh capacity, supporting 90W wired and 50W wireless charging technologies.

Despite these high-end specifications, the Xiaomi 15 starts at approximately $834 for the 256GB model. Availability remains limited, however, as the device is not officially distributed in the US or Australian markets.

Extensive testing over a 30-day period reveals the device's real-world performance across multiple scenarios, from photography to gaming applications, providing a comprehensive assessment of its capabilities for potential buyers in 2025.

Xiaomi 15 specifications reveal premium hardware in compact form factor

The Xiaomi 15 packs substantial technical capabilities into a relatively compact frame, analysis of the hardware specifications suggests. The device offers several notable advancements that position it among leading smartphones in 2025.

Display technology delivers exceptional brightness and efficiency

The device features a 6.36-inch LTPO AMOLED panel that combines screen size with practical one-handed usability. Technical testing confirms the display produces accurate colors with deep blacks characteristic of OLED technology.

The adaptive refresh rate system automatically adjusts between 1Hz and 120Hz based on displayed content, conserving battery during static viewing while providing fluid motion when scrolling or gaming. The panel reaches 3200 nits peak brightness, ensuring visibility even in direct sunlight conditions - particularly beneficial for outdoor photography and content consumption.

Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides the screen with protection against everyday scratches and impacts, according to durability assessments.

Processing performance shows substantial generational improvements

Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset forms the processing core of the Xiaomi 15, representing a significant advancement over previous models. The 3nm chip architecture includes an octa-core CPU configuration with two Phoenix cores running at 4.32GHz alongside six efficiency cores.

The integrated Adreno 830 GPU delivers approximately 35% improved graphics performance compared to its predecessor. In practical application, this hardware configuration enables near-instantaneous app launches, seamless multitasking, and consistent performance during demanding tasks.

The device incorporates an advanced vapor chamber cooling system that manages thermal output during extended intensive use periods, with performance implications examined in detail in later sections.

Storage configurations offer multiple capacity options

The Xiaomi 15 is available in several storage and memory configurations:

• 256GB with 12GB RAM (base model)

• 512GB with 12GB RAM

• 512GB with 16GB RAM

• 1TB with 16GB RAM (premium model)

All variants employ UFS 4.0 storage technology, which provides twice the data transfer speeds of the previous UFS 3.1 standard. This improvement becomes particularly noticeable when transferring large files or installing complex applications. The LPDDR5X RAM ensures consistent performance when running multiple applications simultaneously.

The absence of expandable storage options through microSD represents a limitation, suggesting most users should consider at least the 512GB model for long-term usage scenarios.

Build quality emphasizes durability and ergonomics

The Xiaomi 15 demonstrates refined engineering through its aluminum frame and matte glass rear panel. Despite housing a large-capacity battery, the device maintains a slim 8.3mm profile and weighs 189g, facilitating comfortable extended use.

Durability features include IP68 water and dust resistance certification, tested under real-world conditions including accidental submersion. The device incorporates Xiaomi's proprietary Shield Glass protection on both front and back surfaces, which reportedly offers 30% improved impact resistance compared to previous generations.

Additional quality indicators include responsive physical buttons and a precise haptic feedback system. The in-display fingerprint sensor demonstrates reliable performance with near-instantaneous response times during authentication testing.

Xiaomi 15 camera system achieves precision with Leica collaboration

"At its price point, it competes well with the likes of the Samsungs and iPhones of this world, offering generally better shooting specifications at a similar price." — Amateur Photographer, Photography review publication

Image Source: Leica Rumors

"At its price point, it competes well with the likes of the Samsungs and iPhones of this world, offering generally better shooting specifications at a similar price," says Amateur Photographer, a photography review publication.

Leica's collaboration with Xiaomi has resulted in one of the most versatile camera systems available on current smartphones. The triple 50MP configuration delivers consistent results across various photographic scenarios based on extended testing.

Main sensor combines large aperture with advanced stabilisation

The primary imaging component of the Xiaomi 15 uses a 23mm main camera with the Light Fusion 900 sensor. This 1/1.31" sensor works alongside a Leica Summilux optical lens with an f/1.62 aperture, creating an effective combination for everyday photography. The large aperture proves particularly capable in challenging lighting environments.

Technical specifications confirm the main camera incorporates 7P lens elements and optical image stabilisation, providing essential stability for low-light photography. The sensor delivers 13.5 EV high dynamic range and native 14-bit color depth, allowing it to capture detailed information in both shadow and highlight areas simultaneously.

Leica's color science establishes a distinctive visual signature for the device. Users can select between two photographic profiles: Leica Authentic for accurate color reproduction and Leica Vibrant for enhanced color presentation.

Telephoto lens offers portrait capabilities with close focusing

The 60mm equivalent telephoto represents a significant advancement over previous iterations. This 50MP component features a floating lens design allowing focus distances from 10cm to infinity, effectively functioning as both portrait and macro lens.

The f/2.0 aperture works together with optical stabilisation to produce sharp images in moderate lighting conditions. Digital zoom extends to 60x, though quality analysis indicates optimal results remain between 2.6x and 10x zoom ranges.

Ultra-wide maintains consistency with primary lens

Completing the triple-lens configuration, the 14mm ultra-wide camera incorporates a 50MP sensor with f/2.2 aperture and 115° field of view. While lacking optical stabilisation, electronic image stabilisation (EIS) provides compensation when shooting without support.

The ultra-wide can handle 5cm super macro photography, activating this mode automatically when positioned near subjects. Technical assessment reveals slightly softer edge performance compared to the main sensor—a common characteristic of wide-angle smartphone optics.

Video recording reaches professional standards

Video capabilities position the Xiaomi 15 among the most advanced smartphone recording systems currently available. Key specifications include:

• 8K video recording at 24fps or 30fps

• 4K Dolby Vision video recording at up to 60fps across all lenses

• 10-bit Log video format for professional color grading

• 4K slow-motion at 120fps

The main camera utilises 4-axis OIS combined with EIS for stabilised footage. Dedicated recording modes include Movie mode for cinematic results and ShootSteady mode for shake reduction during movement.

The Xiaomi 15 camera system achieves a notable balance between technical capabilities and practical functionality. Its consistent performance across all three lenses creates an integrated imaging experience rather than isolated components of varying quality.

Performance benchmarks reveal Xiaomi 15's processing capabilities

The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor in the Xiaomi 15 demonstrates significant performance advantages over previous generations, technical analysis shows. This 3nm chip architecture delivers exceptional results across both synthetic benchmarks and practical usage scenarios after extended testing.

Benchmark scores place device among top performers

The Snapdragon 8 Elite features an octa-core CPU configuration with two 4.32GHz Oryon V2 Phoenix L cores working alongside six 3.53GHz Oryon V2 Phoenix M cores. This arrangement produces notable benchmark results:

• AnTuTu: 2,677,100 points, ranking among the highest-performing Android devices

• Geekbench 6: Single-core score of 3023 and multi-core score of 9119

• 3DMark Wild Life: 20,790 with 124 FPS and 90% stability

• 3DMark Solar Bay: 10,236 with 39 FPS average

These measurements correspond with practical performance advantages, including immediate application launches and seamless multitasking capabilities.

Gaming performance maintains stability at maximum settings

Tests demonstrate the Xiaomi 15's gaming capabilities across popular titles. Call of Duty Mobile operates at maximum graphics settings while maintaining stable frame rates during intensive gameplay sequences. Technical measurements recorded consistent 120 FPS performance without significant drops or visual stuttering.

The display enhances gaming functionality by improving visibility of opponents while rendering detailed environments. Additional demanding applications such as PUBG Mobile maintained performance levels between 70-75 FPS at Ultra graphics settings, confirming the device's processing strengths.

Thermal design shows mixed results during extended use

Thermal management becomes particularly important given the processing power contained within the device's compact frame. The Xiaomi 15 employs a wing thermal design that increases contact between heat pipe and frame, though performance results vary under different conditions.

Extended gaming sessions cause the device to warm noticeably, with temperature measurements showing hotspots reaching 47°C near the camera module. This heating affects sustained performance, as the processor reduces speed under prolonged demanding tasks.

Battery testing during intensive gaming showed a 15% capacity reduction after 65 minutes, suggesting approximately 7 hours of continuous gameplay on a single charge—a notable achievement considering the processing demands involved.

Battery life outpaces competitors with silicon-carbon technology

The Xiaomi 15's battery performance stands among the most impressive aspects of the device, technical testing reveals. Extensive evaluation across various usage scenarios demonstrates consistent endurance capabilities that exceed many similarly-priced alternatives.

Battery endurance reaches 16.5 hours in active use

The global Xiaomi 15 model incorporates a substantial 5240mAh battery, representing a 630mAh increase over its predecessor. Under standardized testing conditions, the device achieved an Active Use Score of 16:28 hours, positioning it among the top performers in its class.

PCMark's battery simulation between 80% and 20% charge showed the device lasting 17 hours, confirming its impressive stamina. During typical usage patterns involving messaging and content consumption, the battery consistently finished the day with reserve capacity remaining.

Media consumption tests further highlighted this efficiency advantage. During YouTube video playback at 50% brightness, the Xiaomi 15 lost only 10% battery capacity after three hours—significantly outperforming competitors like the Pixel 9 Pro, which dropped 21% under identical testing conditions.

Charging capabilities balance speed with compatibility challenges

The Xiaomi 15 supports 90W wired charging through its proprietary HyperCharge technology, complemented by 50W wireless charging capabilities. In practical testing, a full charge using Xiaomi's 67W HyperCharge adapter required approximately 49 minutes, with the battery reaching 46% capacity after just 15 minutes and 81% at the 30-minute mark.

Charging compatibility presents notable limitations, however. Third-party USB-PD chargers typically deliver lower power—approximately 26W according to measurement tests. This power reduction results in significantly extended charging times of 75+ minutes when using non-Xiaomi adapters. Similarly, the 50W wireless charging feature requires Xiaomi's proprietary charging stand to achieve its full 85-minute complete charge cycle.

Silicon-carbon battery technology offers efficiency advantages

The device employs advanced silicon-carbon battery technology, enabling greater energy density within its relatively compact 8.3mm profile. This innovation allows for substantially higher capacity without increasing the physical dimensions of the battery compartment.

Silicon-carbon battery cells provide multiple advantages over traditional lithium-ion technology: they store more power per unit volume, handle higher charging currents for faster recharging, and typically demonstrate superior longevity characteristics. According to Xiaomi's technical specifications, the battery maintains approximately 80% of its original capacity even after 1,600 charging cycles, suggesting exceptional durability over the device's expected lifespan.

This battery technology also generates less heat during demanding computational tasks, complementing the device's thermal management system during gaming sessions or processor-intensive applications.

Xiaomi models compared: Standard, Ultra and iPhone alternatives show key differences

"Personally, I also like the fact that it fits more neatly in my hand and my pocket – so if I had to choose between the two models, all things considered, I might in the end plump for this one and save the cash for something else." — Amateur Photographer, Photography review publication

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Image Source: YouTube

"Personally, I also like the fact that it fits more neatly in my hand and my pocket – so if I had to choose between the two models, all things considered, I might in the end plump for this one and save the cash for something else," notes Amateur Photographer, a leading photography review publication.

Camera capabilities vary significantly across premium models

The camera systems represent the most substantial differences between these devices. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra features a quad-camera setup with a massive 1-inch main sensor, while the standard Xiaomi 15 incorporates three 50MP lenses. The iPhone 15 Ultra, meanwhile, offers a triple-camera array with a 48MP main sensor.

Zoom performance varies considerably across models. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra dominates this category with its 200MP periscope telephoto at 4.3x optical zoom, delivering exceptional results at up to 10x magnification. The iPhone 15 Ultra's 12MP periscope provides 5x optical zoom, whereas the standard Xiaomi 15 includes a 50MP 2.6x telephoto.

For low-light photography, both Xiaomi models deliver warm white balance and impressive noise reduction. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra performs better with its larger 1-inch sensor gathering more light, though in practical application, the difference appears less pronounced than specifications suggest.

Performance metrics show clear technical advantages

Regarding processing capabilities, both Xiaomi devices utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which outperforms the iPhone's A17 Pro in benchmarks—scoring 2,544,373 in AnTuTu compared to the iPhone's 1,733,210.

Display specifications vary across the three devices. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra features a 6.73-inch panel with 1440x3200 resolution (522 ppi), compared to the standard Xiaomi 15's 6.36-inch screen. The iPhone offers a 6.7-inch display at 1290x2796 resolution (460 ppi). All three reach exceptional brightness levels, with the Xiaomi models achieving 3200 nits.

Price points reflect significant variations in value proposition

Price considerations reveal substantial differences between models. The Xiaomi 15 offers the most competitive value starting around $834, while the Xiaomi 15 Ultra begins at €1,163 for the 512GB model. The iPhone 15 Ultra commands a premium at approximately $1,062.

For photography enthusiasts, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra represents the superior choice thanks to its exceptional camera system that achieved the highest DXOMARK results of any Xiaomi device. For everyday users, however, the standard Xiaomi 15 delivers nearly identical performance at a lower price point. The iPhone offers better software longevity with seven years of updates versus four for the Xiaomi devices.

Xiaomi 15 offers competitive value despite limited global availability

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Image Source: YouTube

"Personally, I also like the fact that it fits more neatly in my hand and my pocket – so if I had to choose between the two models, all things considered, I might in the end plump for this one and save the cash for something else." — Amateur Photographer, Photography review publication

Comparative analysis of the Xiaomi 15, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and iPhone 15 Ultra reveals significant differences that may influence purchasing decisions.

The camera systems represent the most substantial point of differentiation between these devices. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra features a quad-camera configuration with a 1-inch main sensor, while the standard Xiaomi 15 utilizes three 50MP lenses. The iPhone 15 Ultra, by comparison, incorporates a triple-camera array with a 48MP main sensor.

Zoom capabilities vary considerably across models. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra's 200MP periscope telephoto provides 4.3x optical zoom, delivering exceptional results at up to 10x magnification. The iPhone 15 Ultra offers a 12MP periscope with 5x optical zoom, while the Xiaomi 15 includes a 50MP 2.6x telephoto lens.

Both Xiaomi models demonstrate similar performance in low-light conditions, producing images with warm white balance and effective noise reduction. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra's larger 1-inch sensor provides theoretical advantages in light gathering capacity, though practical differences remain minimal in everyday usage.

Processing performance data shows both Xiaomi devices utilizing the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which outperforms the iPhone's A17 Pro in benchmark tests—scoring 2,544,373 in AnTuTu compared to the iPhone's 1,733,210.

Display specifications differ across the three devices. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra features a 6.73-inch panel with 1440x3200 resolution (522 ppi), while the standard Xiaomi 15 incorporates a 6.36-inch screen. The iPhone offers a 6.7-inch display at 1290x2796 resolution (460 ppi). All three devices achieve exceptional brightness levels, with the Xiaomi models reaching 3200 nits.

Price considerations may prove decisive for many consumers. The Xiaomi 15 represents the most affordable option at approximately $834, while the Xiaomi 15 Ultra starts at €1,163 for the 512GB configuration. The iPhone 15 Ultra commands a premium price of approximately $1,062.

For photography enthusiasts, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra offers superior capabilities, having achieved the highest DXOMARK results of any Xiaomi device. For typical users, however, the standard Xiaomi 15 delivers nearly identical performance at a significantly lower price point. The iPhone provides better long-term software support with seven years of updates compared to four years for the Xiaomi devices.

FAQs

Q1. What are the key AI features of the Xiaomi 15? The Xiaomi 15 incorporates advanced AI capabilities, including real-time speech-to-text conversion with speaker recognition, summary generation, and translation. It also features an AI Interpreter for real-time translation during face-to-face interactions, phone calls, and online meetings.

Q2. How long will the Xiaomi 15 receive software updates? Xiaomi has committed to providing software updates for the Xiaomi 15 for four years from its release date. This ensures that users will receive the latest features, security patches, and improvements until 2029.

Q3. Is the Xiaomi 15 suitable for long-term use? Yes, the Xiaomi 15 is designed for long-term use. It features durable construction with IP68 water and dust resistance, Xiaomi Shield Glass protection, and a high-capacity silicon-carbon battery that retains approximately 80% capacity even after 1,600 charging cycles.

Q4. What unique AI-powered photo editing feature does the Xiaomi 15 offer? The Xiaomi 15 includes an AI-powered erase tool in its photo editor. This feature allows users to remove unwanted objects, people, or elements from photos with just one tap, resulting in cleaner and more polished images.

Q5. How does the Xiaomi 15's camera system compare to other flagship smartphones? The Xiaomi 15 boasts a versatile triple 50MP camera system with Leica optics. It offers excellent performance across various scenarios, including low-light conditions and zoom capabilities. While it may not have the 1-inch sensor of its Ultra counterpart, it delivers consistent quality across all lenses and competes well with other flagship devices in its price range.