In a world dominated by oversized smartphones, Xiaomi dares to be different with the Xiaomi 17 – a compact powerhouse that challenges the status quo. But is it enough to dethrone the likes of Samsung, Apple, and Google? Let’s dive into this review and find out.
Pricing and Availability
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick look at the pricing. The Xiaomi 17 is available in several configurations, with one of the best offers from our affiliate partners being the 512GB storage with 12GB RAM variant, priced at €1,044.90. Disclaimer: We may earn a commission from qualifying sales. For a full list of prices, check out this link.
And this is the part most people miss... While the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Pro models steal the spotlight in China, the global release of the smaller Xiaomi 17 is a big deal for those craving a compact yet powerful device. But here's where it gets controversial – is Xiaomi’s decision to keep the Pro models exclusive to China a missed opportunity, or a strategic move to cater to specific markets? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Design and Display: Compact Yet Premium
The Xiaomi 17 continues the tradition of offering a flagship experience in a smaller form factor. Measuring 151.1x71.8x8.1mm and weighing just 191g, it’s a device that feels as good as it looks. The Dragon Crystal Glass front, glass back, and aluminum frame exude premium quality, while the IP68 rating ensures it’s dust-tight and water-resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
The 6.3-inch LTPO AMOLED display is a standout feature, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, HDR Vivid, and HDR10+ support. With a peak brightness of 3500 nits and a 19.59:9 aspect ratio, it’s a screen that’s both vibrant and versatile. But here’s a thought – in an era of foldable and oversized screens, does a 6.3-inch display still hold its ground? Share your opinions below!
Performance: A Beast in Disguise
Under the hood, the Xiaomi 17 packs the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, built on a 3nm process. This octa-core processor, coupled with the Adreno 840 GPU, ensures smooth performance whether you’re gaming, multitasking, or binge-watching your favorite shows. With memory options ranging from 256GB/12GB to 1TB/16GB, there’s something for everyone.
Camera: Consistency Meets Innovation
The camera setup remains largely unchanged from its predecessor, featuring a triple 50MP rear camera system. However, the dedicated 2.6x telephoto lens with close focusing capabilities is a game-changer for macro photography enthusiasts. The front camera gets a much-needed upgrade, replacing the 32MP sensor with a 50MP unit with autofocus. But is this enough to compete with the camera giants like the iPhone 17 Pro? Let the debate begin!
Battery and Charging: A Significant Leap
One of the most notable upgrades is the battery. The global variant now houses a 6330mAh battery, a significant improvement over the Xiaomi 15’s 5240mAh. While it doesn’t match the Chinese model’s 7000mAh, it’s still impressive, especially considering the compact form factor. Wired charging has been bumped up to 100W, and reverse wireless charging now supports up to 22.5W. However, the European retail package doesn’t include the 100W charger, which is sold separately. Is this a cost-cutting measure or a strategic decision? Weigh in below!
Unboxing and Extras
Opening the box, you’ll find a USB-C to USB-A cable and a transparent hard case as a bonus. While the absence of the 100W charger might be a downside, the inclusion of the case is a nice touch. But here’s a question – should flagship devices come with all necessary accessories, or is it fair to sell them separately?
Final Thoughts
The Xiaomi 17 is a testament to Xiaomi’s commitment to delivering a compact flagship experience without compromising on performance. With its powerful chipset, stunning display, and improved battery life, it’s a strong contender in the global market. However, the decision to keep certain features exclusive to China and the lack of a bundled charger might leave some users divided. What’s your take? Is the Xiaomi 17 a worthy alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S26, iPhone 17 Pro, or Pixel 10 Pro? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments!
