From 4599 Yuan down to 2696 Yuan, the Xiaomi 13 is now much more accessible, equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, a Leica triple-camera setup, and IP68 rating. When it comes to Chinese brands inspired by Apple, Xiaomi often tops the list. CEO Lei Jun often speaks of “learning” from Apple, which really translates into design homage. From the “One More Thing” slogan at Xiaomi’s events to flat icon styles and even product naming, Apple has long inspired Xiaomi’s approach. However, though Xiaomi has moved away from directly copying Apple’s look, its flagship models still align closely with Apple’s philosophy. Take the Xiaomi 13, for instance—a compact flagship designed to compete with the iPhone 15, offering significant features beyond mere homage to Apple.
Compact but Premium Display
The Xiaomi 13 has a 6.36-inch screen, slightly larger than the iPhone 15’s 6.1-inch, but with similar overall dimensions due to Xiaomi’s extremely narrow bezels. The seamless edge design creates a near-true full-screen experience. The display uses a Samsung 120Hz OLED panel, delivering excellent visuals and smooth performance. Despite being compact, the Xiaomi 13’s visual quality feels premium, embodying a “small but refined” design philosophy.
Powerful Performance
In terms of performance, the Xiaomi 13 doesn’t fall short. It uses the high-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, known for its impressive efficiency and performance. This chipset is a favorite among Android enthusiasts, offering the smoothest experience even during multitasking. As a powerhouse in the Android world, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 guarantees an effortless gaming and app experience.
Battery and Charging
The Xiaomi 13 packs a 4500mAh high-density battery. While it may not reach the 5000mAh of some competitors, its high-density build provides impressive endurance. Even with heavy use, the battery easily lasts an entire day, easing “battery anxiety.” Additionally, the device supports 50W wireless fast charging—a rare feature at this price point—making it highly convenient for users who prefer wireless charging.
Premium Build and Water Resistance
The Xiaomi 13 also focuses on premium build quality, with a high-gloss metal frame that is both smooth to the touch and scratch-resistant. Notably, it features IP68-rated dust and water resistance, a high-end feature among Chinese smartphones, giving users added confidence in its durability.
Impressive Leica Camera Partnership
In the camera department, the Xiaomi 13 impresses as well. It uses a 54MP Sony IMX800 sensor with a 1/1.49-inch large aperture, supported by HyperOIS stabilization, making it much easier to get clear shots even with shaky hands. The Leica partnership adds a unique artistic quality to photos, as users can take advantage of Leica’s distinct dual-image modes, offering vibrant, professionally styled images.
Unbeatable Value with a Major Price Drop
The Xiaomi 13’s 12GB + 256GB version initially launched at 4599 RMB but has now dropped to 2696 RMB—a significant shift from high-end to mid-range pricing. Given its strong specs, high-quality design, and Leica branding, the Xiaomi 13 currently stands as an exceptional value.
Conclusion
Overall, while Xiaomi 13’s design still reflects its admiration for Apple, its overall performance exceeds mere homage. With impressive features in display, processor, battery, and camera, especially at this new lower price, the Xiaomi 13 is a compelling choice. It’s perfect for those wanting a portable flagship experience or a compact powerhouse with the benefits of premium photography and efficient performance.
