Xiaomi 14: A Compact Powerhouse for Imaging Enthusiasts

In the ever-expanding realm of smartphones, Xiaomi has consistently pushed boundaries with its innovative designs and cutting-edge technology. The Xiaomi 14 is no exception, offering a compact form factor without compromising on performance or imaging capabilities.

Design and Display: The Xiaomi 14 boasts a sleek and compact design, measuring just 152.8mm x 71.5mm x 8.20mm. Its gently curved back panel ensures a comfortable grip, making it ideal for extended periods of use. The ultra-thin bezel design, thanks to advanced FIAA technology, provides an immersive viewing experience with a slim 1.71mm bottom bezel. The 6.36″ CrystalRes AMOLED 1.5K screen delivers stunning visuals with enhanced pixel density and an outstanding peak brightness of 3000 nits, ensuring vibrant colors and clarity even under direct sunlight. With a variable refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120Hz, the Xiaomi 14 offers smooth and seamless performance across various activities.

We love the size of the Xiaomi 14 which is not too big and heavy. We love the design and feeling of holding it on our hand. The unit we tested comes with a phone case which is super comfortable and serves to protect your purchase right out of the box. The screen is bright and sharp, even in sunlight. Very smooth scrolling with the high refresh rate.

Imaging Excellence: One of the standout features of the Xiaomi 14 is its comprehensive triple-camera configuration, covering an extensive focal range from 14mm to 75mm. Equipped with Leica Summilux optical lenses and upgraded ƒ/1.6 aperture on the main camera, combined with Light Fusion 900 image sensor technology, the Xiaomi 14 delivers exceptional imaging quality with up to 13.5 EV of dynamic range. Whether capturing wide landscapes or detailed close-ups, the Xiaomi 14 ensures impressive results. Additionally, the integration of AI technology enhances the photography experience with features like AI Subtitles for real-time transcription during video conferences and AI Album Search for effortless organization.

We tested the camera and they worked perfectly. We tested the optical zoom, and the low aperture. Dynamic range is good and camera works well under low light too. One improvement I can think of is a longer zoom.

Uncompromising Performance: Under the hood, the Xiaomi 14 is powered by the leading Snapdragon®️ 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, offering significant improvements in CPU and GPU performance compared to its predecessors. Paired with Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 for high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, the Xiaomi 14 ensures seamless multitasking and gaming experiences. The IceLoop cooling system further enhances performance under demanding scenarios, keeping the device cool during intensive tasks like video recording and gaming. With the Surge battery management system, the Xiaomi 14 guarantees extended battery life, supported by fast charging technologies for quick replenishment.

The processor is fast and more than enough for casual users and even mobile game player. Even after hours of use the phone doesn’t feel hot and the battery lasts more than a day.

Xiaomi HyperOS: The Xiaomi 14 runs on the cutting-edge Xiaomi HyperOS operating system, designed for the “Human x Car x Home” smart ecosystem. With advanced file and memory management capabilities, seamless connectivity between devices, and comprehensive security features, Xiaomi HyperOS offers an elevated user experience. Integration with Google Photos allows for seamless backup and access to content, while Xiaomi HyperMind ensures proactive intelligence by learning user preferences and adapting accordingly.

Price and Availability: The Xiaomi 14 is available in Singapore starting from 9th March 2024, offered in three colours and two storage variants. Priced competitively at SGD 999 for the base model, buyers can also take advantage of promotional offers including free premium gifts and extended warranty periods.

While the price seems a bit on the high side but considering the processor used, the camera system and the collaboration with Leica, we feel that it is comparable with other smartphones. For those with higher budgets may want to look into the ULTRA version.

In conclusion, the Xiaomi 14 stands out as a compact powerhouse, combining leading-edge imaging capabilities, uncompromising performance, and seamless integration within the Xiaomi ecosystem. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a multitasking professional, or simply seeking a reliable daily companion, the Xiaomi 14 exceed expectations.