Xiaomi 15 Ultra Review: A Personal and In-Depth Perspective

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a 2025 flagship that redefines premium smartphones, blending bold design, cutting-edge camera technology, and a smooth user experience. Here’s a comprehensive, hands-on review that highlights both expert insights and my personal experience with the device.

Design & In-Hand Feel

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra stands out as one of the best-looking smartphones available, especially in the Leica Silver Black or Leica Green Silver finishes. The craftsmanship is exceptional, and the rounded edges make it far more comfortable to hold than the boxy, rectangular Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. Despite its large size, the ergonomic curves and high-quality materials ensure it feels secure and premium in hand.

Display

  • 6.73-inch WQHD+ AMOLED: The display is bright, vibrant, and easily readable even in direct sunlight.

  • 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate, Dolby Vision, HDR10+: These features make the screen perfect for media consumption and gaming.

  • Thoughtful Touches: Animation quality is top-tier, and even the flashlight power is adjustable with a slick animation-showing Xiaomi’s attention to detail.

Performance & Software

  • Snapdragon 8 Elite Chip & 16GB RAM: Delivers ultra-smooth performance, whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or editing photos.

  • Advanced Cooling: The phone remains cool even during extended gaming or video recording, thanks to innovative heat management.

  • Battery Life: Easily lasts a full day of heavy use; the Chinese version’s 6,000mAh battery is particularly impressive for power users.

  • Fast Charging: 90W wired and 80W wireless charging ensure you’re never tethered for long.

  • Haptics: Among the best on Android-precise, strong, and satisfying.

Software Experience

  • Quick Ball: This feature is a game-changer, offering easy, customizable access to five apps or shortcuts from anywhere on the screen, boosting productivity. In my case this becomes the easiest way to take a screenshot. There are plenty of third party apps that offer something similar to quick ball but none come close in terms of execution.

  • Google App Compatibility: All Google apps and services work flawlessly on the global version-a major advantage over some other Chinese phones.

  • HyperOS: Fast and stable, but feels a bit plain and uninspired compared to some competitors.

  • Edge Panel & Floating Window: Present, but not as intuitive or user-friendly as those on rival Chinese flagships.

  • Flashlight Animation: The ability to control flashlight power with smooth animation is a small but delightful detail.

Camera System

  • Quad Leica Cameras: The camera system is the star of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, delivering industry-leading detail, color, and dynamic range.

  • Versatility: Macro shots, portraits, and telephoto zoom are all excellent.

  • Video Performance: Strong overall, though stabilization and exposure adaptation are just a step behind Apple and Huawei.

  • Camera Bulge: It’s massive-one of the largest around-but that’s the price for such advanced hardware.

  • Autofocus: Fast and reliable, though the narrow depth of field can make group shots tricky.

Audio & Media

  • Stereo Speakers: Among the best for media consumption-loud, clear, and immersive. They lack a bit of bass compared to the S25 Ultra, but it’s a minor issue.

  • Display & Audio Combo: Makes the phone a superb choice for watching videos, gaming, and listening to music.

Other Notable Features

  • Face Unlock & Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor: Both are fast and reliable.

  • Thermal Management: The phone remains cool even under heavy use.

  • Battery (Chinese Version): The 6,000mAh battery is a game-changer for power users.

Drawbacks

  • Camera Bump: Huge and may be awkward without a case.

  • Plain Software: HyperOS is smooth but lacks personality.

  • Edge Panel & Floating Window: Less refined than competitors.

  • Size & Weight: May not suit those who prefer compact devices.

  • Depth of Field: Can make group shots tricky.

Verdict: Is the Xiaomi 15 Ultra Worth It?

If you want a phone that looks stunning without a case, takes incredible photos, and delivers a smooth, reliable experience, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is hard to beat. For media consumption, gaming, and photography, it’s one of the best choices in 2025-especially if you value comfort in hand and top-tier hardware. The Quick Ball feature is genuinely useful, Google app compatibility is flawless, and the device’s battery life and cooling set it apart from the competition.


While the massive camera bump and relatively plain software are compromises, the overall package is exceptional. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a flagship that truly delivers for power users, tech enthusiasts, and anyone who wants the best in design, performance, and photography.

 

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