After two weeks of daily use, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra proves to be a formidable flagship, particularly with its camera system that makes competitors like the Galaxy S26 Ultra feel obsolete. The software experience, once a weak point for Xiaomi, is now reliable on Android 16, with only minor app crashes and a need for better update policies.
The hardware is where the phone truly excels. It features a 50MP main camera with a 1-inch sensor, a groundbreaking 200MP telephoto lens with continuous optical zoom (3.2x to 4.3x), and a 50MP ultra-wide. The Leica-tuned cameras deliver true-to-life colors, excellent low-light performance, and superb 4K60 Dolby Vision video. While Vivo's tuning is slightly preferred for portraits, the technical quality is top-tier.
The design is premium with a flat, satin-finish body and improved ergonomics. The 6.9-inch AMOLED display is vibrant and bright. Performance is flawless with the latest chipset, 16GB RAM, and a 6,000mAh battery offering all-day life with 90W fast charging. Despite a high price point, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra stands as one of 2026's best camera phones, rivaling the Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro.