During the highly anticipated industry conference on the 22nd, Xiaomi officially released the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, garnering significant attention. The new product is set to be launched on February 27, with prices starting at 6,499 yuan (about $899).
Unsurprisingly, Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s configuration and appearance were “exposed” before the press conference. Understandably, everyone’s expectations for the Xiaomi 14 Ultra have not diminished at all. After all, previous generations of Xiaomi “Ultra” mobile phones have proven Xiaomi’s height in the field of mobile imaging. What height can the Xiaomi 14 Ultra reach? This is undoubtedly the issue that consumers are most concerned about.
The official description states that Xiaomi 14 Ultra stands as Xiaomi’s most potent imaging flagship. It has four full-focal-range Leica optical large-aperture cameras, featuring a second-generation one-inch stepless variable aperture main camera. Notably, it integrates the world’s first AI large-model computational photography, built on Xiaomi AISP. Furthermore, the device incorporates Xiaomi’s leading technologies, with a highlight being two-way satellite communications across the board.
How is your experience with Xiaomi 14 Ultra? Is it worth the months-long “wait” for fans and friends? Before the Spring Festival, Gizcoupon got the Xiaomi 14 Ultra in advance and had a long and in-depth experience. Next, Gizcoupon will further share the experience of this new product.
Design
Compared with the previous generation product, the overall ID design of Xiaomi 14 Ultra has not changed much, including the internal arrangement of the lens module, which is consistent with the previous generation product, so this is the first time I saw the real Xiaomi 14 Ultra machine. , but there aren’t many “surprises”. However, after getting started carefully, some changes in details will make people intuitively feel that the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is simpler.
For example, there is a high-gloss Deco metal ring around the module, and there is a gold edge at the connection with the lens module. The outer ring of the lens module cover has a delicate grid pattern. In the lens module area, the plain leather part extends upward in the shape of a “crater”, making the Dceo circle of the entire lens module more visually layered and further weakening the bulge of the lens module.
However, after the plain leather part extends upward, a circle of “folds” will appear around it, which will be slightly more obvious under the light. The author personally feels that the processing of this part is a bit “rough”. Certainly, one can consider this as “nitpicking.” Furthermore, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra features a flat design on its back panel, eliminating the convex upper part and achieving more concise body lines. In specific details, the phone incorporates a separate earpiece unit at the top, diverging from the shared top speaker, enabling directional sound.
Coming to the front, the screen shape of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has also undergone some changes. It adopts a four-curved screen design with equal depth that is closer to a straight-screen look and feel. In particular, the curvature of the curved screens on both sides is significantly weakened compared to the previous generation products. The overall look and feel of the screen are almost the same as that of the Xiaomi 14 Pro.
The flat-depth four-curved screen shape incorporates the aesthetics of both a straight and a curved screen. When the screen is turned on, it creates a compelling visual impact, appearing as if suspended above the middle frame. In my opinion, this design represents the optimal choice for the current candy bar mobile phone screen. With minimal drawbacks, aside from the inconvenience of applying a film, it stands out as an excellent option. Consequently, the two “color” manufacturers clinging to traditional curved screens on their flagship phones should consider adopting this innovative approach.
Display
The screen specifications include 6.73 inches, 120Hz VRR variable refresh rate, resolution of 3200*1440, support for HDR10+, and maximum brightness of 3000 nits. The latest C8 luminescent material is utilized in this display. Additionally, it features DC+1920Hz eye protection dimming. This display supports Dolby Vision and a super dynamic display. Xiaomi officially names it the “Master Screen.” The screen surface is covered with durable Xiaomi Dragon Crystal glass. Officials say that the drop resistance is 10 times higher than that of the previous generation.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra uses “third-generation Konapei”. According to the official description, Konapei has 5 times better wear resistance than 13 Ultra. In terms of hand feel, this plain leather feels very close to real leather, soft, oily, and delicate. The damping feeling is very strong, so you don’t have to worry about the phone accidentally falling off when you are holding it while running naked. Xiaomi 14 Ultra also supports IP68 dust-proof and waterproof, with dimensions of 161.4×75.3×9.2mm and a weight of 220 grams. Because the back panel is no longer protruding, the weight is also reduced by 7G compared to the previous generation.
The new “Xiaomi Dragon Armor Architecture” enhances Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Equipped with a high-strength aluminum alloy frame and Xiaomi Dragon Crystal glass, it stands out. Transitioning to its robustness, the body frame’s bending resistance surpasses the iPhone titanium middle frame by 8%. Moreover, the glass drop resistance sees a remarkable 10 times improvement. Maintaining a Unibody one-piece middle frame, it incorporates a flat design. In the back panel area, the metal frame extends to both sides, connecting with the plain leather part. This design enhances recognition and adds a distinctive touch to Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
When you hold your phone to shoot, this unique mid-frame flip-up design can easily be associated with the classic shape of the Leica M camera. Like previous generations of Xiaomi Ultra, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is still a purely “image-driven design” product. Especially after matching with the image package, all the designs will become more reasonable. The photography kit includes a technological nano-leather protective case, a wireless photography handle, and a lanyard. After matching, the experience is directly on par with the camera.
In terms of details, the wireless photography handle adds a customizable independent dial wheel and a customizable button. And it uses a USB-C interface to connect, eliminating the need for pairing and power on/off operations. The two-stage physical shutter design can directly wake up the camera. The wireless photography handle houses a built-in 1500mAh battery. This battery can serve as a mobile power source for mobile phones during crucial moments. Moreover, the filter adapter ring has been transformed into a button release, ensuring a more secure fixation.
Cameras
Xiaomi 14 Ultra uses a 50-megapixel Sony LYT900 main camera (23mm), a 50-megapixel 3.2x telephoto lens (75mm), a 50-megapixel 5x telephoto lens (120mm) and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens (12mm).
In terms of hardware, Xiaomi 14 Ultra has upgraded the main camera lens – LYT900, which is Sony’s latest generation one-inch sensor. Constructed through a 22nm process, it boasts a 56% decrease in power consumption. Additionally, the upgraded 16:1 dual native ISO Fusion Max can attain a 14EV single-frame dynamic range. This primary camera features an ALD ultra-low reflection coating, enhancing its optical quality performance.
In addition, Xiaomi has also equipped this one-inch main camera with a super large aperture of f/1.63. Based on the two-speed variable aperture of the previous generation, it has been upgraded to stepless switching between f/1.63-f/4.0 – Coverage Exposure range of more than three stops. The remaining three lenses are the familiar IMX858.
The ultra-wide angle and 3.2x telephoto also use ALD ultra-low reflection coating. The 120mm periscope lens has a super large aperture of f/2.5 and is currently the periscope lens with the largest amount of light in the industry. It is officially said to be 2 times that of the iPhone. It supports 10x lossless zoom through Remosaic mode and supports a minimum focusing distance of 30cm.
Note:
The upload is slightly compressed.
Sample watermarks have specific values.
Unless otherwise stated, the style is Leica Vivid by default.
Ultra-wide angle 12mm, main camera 23mm, 2X main camera 46mm, 3.2X telephoto 75mm, 5X periscope 120mm
In the author’s opinion, the combination of ultra-wide angle + main camera + portrait + super telephoto is still the most perfect flagship imaging experience. The blue factory next door has cut off the 2X lens that it is proud of, but fortunately, Xiaomi still insists on the four Photography plan.
These four cameras cover six commonly used focal lengths, perfectly covering the zoom range from 12mm to 240mm, and the three identical IMX858 sensors make the image quality, clarity, and color performance of Xiaomi 14 Ultra almost identical in various focal lengths.
This additional 3.2X medium telephoto lens has an f/1.8 aperture, a 75mm focal length, and a minimum focusing distance of 10cm. Whether you are taking portraits, landscapes, or even macro shots, they are all extremely useful. Under 5X, there is no need to crop the main camera, and the independent mid-telephoto lens brings higher imaging quality.
Large apertures will cause the problem of “shallow depth of field”. For this reason, Xiaomi has specially added a “depth of field fusion” shooting mode to this 3.2X lens. When shooting at close range, enabling “Depth of Field Fusion” can capture both the front and back of objects clearly, which is especially suitable for scenes such as shooting text at close range. In some dark light scenes, with the two telephoto lenses of 3.2X and 5X periscope, it is possible to avoid the main camera dropback problem caused by insufficient light intake or too far focusing distance. All in all, the four-camera system of Mi 14 Ultra, let alone the imaging effect, can be rated as a perfect score in terms of experience.
Additionally, while experiencing it, the author found the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s supercapture ability impressive. The new one-inch outsole main camera, unafraid of diverse light environments, left a lasting impression. Even in dim scenes with complex lighting, the capture effect remains excellent. The film is almost instantly released upon shutter release, ensuring a high film yield. These advantages seamlessly transition to Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s portrait shooting. The quick shutter clicks during portrait captures are met with rapid system responses, minimizing shutter circles or loading delays.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra stands out as the sole imaging flagship supporting 8K shooting at all focal lengths. All four lenses enable 8K, 30FPS video shooting. The main camera introduces 4K 120fps high-speed shooting, providing the flexibility to slow down the action by five times in post-production. Additionally, a “professional” mode is now available for video shooting, empowering users to manually tweak exposure, aperture, and color temperature values.
In “Movie Mode”, “Master Start” is added, which supports stepless variable aperture to dynamically adjust exposure. It has a 24-frame movie frame rate and background blur effect, which can shoot movie-like pictures. In addition, Xiaomi has also added a “parameter preset” function in the professional shooting mode, which allows you to customize the photography style. The defaults include master ink, classical film, high-contrast classic, dark-tone film, etc. Click the “Add” button, and you can even manually enter the photography style you want, which is highly professional and customizable.
For novice players, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a negative screen with preset shortcuts such as Master Start Shooting and Master Portrait. Click on the corresponding card to start shooting. After this period of experience, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra imaging system left a lot of deep impressions on the author. To put it simply, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has an extremely high image limit, but the threshold is extremely low, and the details are also meticulous. It can better help professional image masters create images and also allow novice photographers to find the joy of photography.
Performance
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a performance powerhouse, featuring the third-generation Snapdragon 8 mobile platform, LPDDR5X (8533Mbps), and UFS 4.0 flagship performance combination—a standard flagship three-piece set. Transitioning to the renowned Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, everyone is familiar with it, and Xiaomi, in particular, holds a deep understanding. Notably, Xiaomi secured the first launch, solidifying its expertise in this cutting-edge technology.
TSMC’s 4nm Process
The CPU core follows a 1+5+2 architecture. It incorporates a Cortex-X4 ultra-large core running at 3.3GHz and 5 Cortex-A720 performance cores. Among the five large cores, 3 operate at 3.2GHz. Additionally, there are 2 cores with a main frequency of 3.0GHz. Alongside these, there are 2 Cortex-A520 energy-efficiency cores with a main frequency of 2.3GHz. Overall, the CPU performance sees a 30% improvement, while energy efficiency sees a 20% enhancement.
In terms of GPU, it is Adreno 750. Officially, it claims that the performance has been improved by 25% and the energy efficiency has been improved by 25%.
In terms of other configurations, Xiaomi 14 Ultra provides three combinations of 12GB + 256GB, 16GB + 512GB, and 16GB + 1TB; the interface is USB 3.2 Gen 2 and supports DisplayPort video output up to 4K 60Hz.
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra features a built-in 5300mAh Jinshajiang battery. This battery supports 90W wired fast charging, completing 100% charging in just 34 minutes. Additionally, it boasts 80W wireless fast charging, achieving a full charge in 49 minutes. Moreover, it comes equipped with the Surge P2 smart fast charging chip and Surge G1 battery management chip. These features enhance the overall battery life, especially when in extreme battery life mode.
Xiaomi Jinshajiang Battery has reportedly achieved a significant milestone, attaining a high silicon content of 6% and reaching an energy density of 779Wh/L in a silicon-carbon negative electrode battery. In comparison to the previous generation, the capacity has increased by 300mAh, accompanied by an 8% reduction in size. According to officials, even after 1600 cycles, the battery maintains 80% of its lifespan.
In terms of heat dissipation, it uses a “dual-circuit ring cold pump” with an area of up to 4000m2, providing a heat dissipation capacity of 68mA/℃ for the whole machine, and adding a camera-specific heat dissipation loop. As usual, let’s run a simple benchmark to see the performance of Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
AnTuTu (v10.2.1)
- In the test in a normal temperature environment (room temperature is around 19°C), the Xiaomi 14 Ultra scored 2,173,298 points, of which the CPU scored 48+ million points and the GPU scored 91+ million points.
- Through the AnTuTu storage test, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a sequential read speed of 3526.3MB/s, a sequential write speed of 3111.7MB/s, a random read speed of 1849.0MB/s, and a random write speed of 850.0MB/s.
GeekBench5, 6 actual measurement
- In GeekBench 5, Xiaomi 14 Ultra scored 1717 points in single-core and 6616 points in multi-core;
- Take the highest score from multiple rounds of tests, the results are for reference only
- In GeekBench 6, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra scored 2123 points in single-core and 6792 points in multi-core.
- The above-mentioned running score performance, Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s results are in line with the positioning of the “flagship three-piece set”.
3D Mark:
In a single round of Wild Life, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra scored 18202. In 20 consecutive rounds of high-intensity Wild Life, the stability was 67.1%, and the lowest cycle score was 12220. After multiple rounds of testing, the lowest score was always above 10,000. Judging from the paper running scores, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra represents the level that the current Snapdragon 8Gen3 flagship should have. Next, Conduct actual game testing to see how the Xiaomi 14 Ultra performs.
At the highest image quality + 60 frames of the “Genshin Impact” game, turn on the performance mode of the phone and conduct a 30-minute actual test. During the test, we mainly ran the map near Liyue Port and fought against monsters when encountering them. As shown in the figure above, in a 30+ minute game, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra achieved an average frame rate performance of 60.09fps. During the game, there were not many fluctuations above 10fps.
About 15 minutes into the game, while running the map of Liyue Port, I encountered a situation where the map environment was loading. At this time, the load was heavy and the frame dropped. At this time, the body was slightly warm and the core mobilization was more active. However, the frame rate fluctuates around 5fps, which does not affect the gaming experience.
In terms of power consumption, Xiaomi 14 Ultra “Genshin Impact” is about 4.4W, which is the normal level of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. After playing “Genshin Impact” for 30 minutes, we conducted a test on heat dissipation. The temperature control performance met our expectations. The maximum temperature of the phone is only 41°C, located on the upper left side of the camera on the back of the phone, and it feels warm to the touch. Overall, the temperature control performance of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is very satisfactory.
Next, let’s briefly test the mobile game “Ni Shui Han”. The image quality settings are as shown below, the frame rate is selected as the highest (60FPS), and the test scene is the “Hongqiao” running chart.
Based on the data, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra maintained a frame rate of approximately 55fps-60fps in the “Backwater Cold” test, with acceptable fluctuations. This occurred primarily due to frame drops and slight lag during the loading of players in the running map.
Certainly, the game imposes exceptionally high-performance demands. This is evident in the temperature control as well. In the game “Backwater Cold,” the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s front reached a maximum temperature of 43.5°C, surpassing “Genshin Impact” by 2°C. The heat is palpable during the experience, primarily concentrated in the metal middle frame area, with the plain leather part remaining relatively cool.
Others
Xiaomi 14 Ultra is Xiaomi’s first flagship phone to support Tiantong satellite communication, supporting satellite communication with a distance of 36,000km. Regarding satellite communications, in the author’s opinion, its significance has gone beyond the level of “I can use it but you can’t live without it”. It is also a technical symbol of high-end flagship machines. Just like the periscope lenses of the past, without this lens, how can it be called an imaging flagship? The same is true for satellite communications. More importantly, on the road to hitting the high end, one more configuration is always better than one less.
Of course, for users in need, satellite communication can even save lives at critical moments. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra features satellite communication. Additionally, using this phone to capture and gather outdoor photos enhances security. Satellite communication uses an independent MODEM for efficient signal modulation. Moreover, it comes equipped with the “Pengpai T1 Satellite Edition” chip. This chip simultaneously receives control signals from both satellite MODEM and Qualcomm MODEM.
The way to start Xiaomi 14 Ultra satellite communication is also very simple. Slide down the control bar and click on the satellite icon. It should be noted that to use satellite communication, a telecom phone card is required, and this function needs to be activated in advance for a monthly fee of 10 yuan. From the experience point of view, Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s star search speed is very fast. It almost only takes 2-3 seconds to complete the star search. The connection speed depends on the environment. When measured near a rural bungalow, the connection speed was about 30-120 seconds.
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra now features the Xiaomi Surge T1 antenna control chip. This chip, as described officially, simultaneously controls Wi-Fi and cellular antennas, ensuring optimal performance. The cellular network performance sees an improvement of up to 37%, while Wi-Fi performance sees an improvement of up to 16%.
In terms of the system, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with the new Thermal OS (1.0.2.0). HyperOS is a people-centered operating system for the entire ecosystem of people, cars, and families. It is based on the integration of deeply evolved Android and the self-developed Vela system, completely rewriting the underlying architecture, and preparing everything for the future of tens of billions of devices and billions of connections. Internet-connected public base.
In terms of system UI and interaction, ThePaper OS continues the style and logic of the previous MIUI. On Xiaomi 14 Ultra, the new lock screen wallpaper brought by HyperOS is very interesting. When the screen is locked, long press the screen, and a new lock screen style interface will appear. Swipe up and down to switch to different themes, and slide left and right to switch to different styles. Click Customize to set different text styles and wallpaper effects for the clock. The matching methods are very rich. What’s more important is that this brand new lock screen wallpaper aesthetic is online, which is quite rare.
In addition, ThePaper OS has added a new device fusion center, which allows mobile phones to quickly discover smart devices around them. When there are other Xiaomi smart devices around, the corresponding products will appear by pulling down the notification bar, and you can quickly connect by clicking on them.
Verdict
In last year’s Xiaomi 13 Ultra review, This product is “a top flagship that is completely loyal to imaging.” This time, the new Xiaomi 14 Ultra is still loyal to images, but compared with the previous generation, it adds the two additional keywords “professional” and “inclusive” in front of the four words “loyal to images”, which is a reflection of Xiaomi The icing on the cake for 13 Ultra.
As the title of the article says – the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has an extremely high image limit, but the threshold is extremely low.
From professionals to professional players, Xiaomi 14 Ultra can easily find the style of filming they want. The experience of static and dynamic shooting is extremely high, and image creativity is extremely strong. From photographers to newbies, even if they don’t understand those complicated parameters. Settings, color styles, it doesn’t matter. Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s stable imaging quality and portrait experience at all focal lengths, as well as excellent capture and high film yield, also allow it to easily experience the real joy of shooting.
In addition to images, the experience of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is also versatile. Extreme performance, good screen quality, solid workmanship, satellite communications, etc. are all highlights that attract consumers.
As for how to choose, if you are a Xiaomi 13 Ultra user, have no urgent need to change your phone, and have no need for satellite communications, then you can wait a little longer.
If you need a flagship phone recently and are particularly concerned about imaging and a comprehensive experience without shortcomings, then the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is undoubtedly an ideal choice worth considering.
On sale on February 27
- 12+256GB version 6499 yuan (about $899)
- 16+512GB version 6999 yuan (about $970)
- 16+1TB version 7799 yuan (about $1,080)
- Titanium special edition (16+1TB, technological nano-skin back cover, using higher grade titanium, on sale on March 12, supports satellite communication) 8,799 yuan (about $1,225).
Read Also: Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Its Professional Imaging Kit Unboxing: Professional Mobile Imaging Flagship
