If photography is your top priority, there’s no better phone than the Xiaomi 15 Ultra right now. When it comes to stills, the handset is in a league of its own.
Alongside a trio of 50Mp lenses (main, ultrawide and 3x telephoto), you also now get a 200Mp periscope with 4.3x optical zoom. That enables some of the best zoom shots you’ll find on any phone, though the loss of variable aperture on main lens makes it slightly less flexible when the subject is closer.
Still, with the optional Photography Kit accessory, it comes closer to replacing a DSLR than any other handset. A very capable 32Mp selfie camera is the icing on the cake.
However, you won’t be taking photos all the time, so it’s good to know that the Xiaomi 15 Ultra boasts top-tier performance, a gorgeous display and strong battery life (plus 90W fast charging), all with a durable yet chunky design.
Its main drawback is on the software side, where Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2 skin doesn’t feel particularly intuitive and AI features aren’t always flawless.
Given the high price tag, there are better options out there if you’re happy with photos that are just ‘very good’. But if you want the absolute best photography experience out there, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is the phone for you.
However, it’s also worth considering the regular? Xiaomi 15, which is more compact and affordable but retains dual-SIM support. Neither are available in the US, though.
Who should buy the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
Anyone who wants next-level cameras above any other feature – it’s like having a DSLR in your pocket.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra: Further considerations
Xiaomi’s take on Android still falls behind the experience you’ll find on Samsung, Nothing and OnePlus phones.