The Xiaomi Mi 8 is the smartphone celebrating the brand's anniversary, becoming a true benchmark among high-end Android phones. This device boasts a modern design, cutting-edge specs, and a competitive price for its category, appealing to those seeking a balance between innovation and affordability. Below, we offer a complete guide with the Xiaomi Mi 8's price, all its technical specifications, camera reviews, a comparison with the competition, and much more. If you want to know if it's the right phone for you, keep reading and discover everything this unique device has to offer.
Design and display: elegance and modernity in every detail
The new Xiaomi Mi 8 stands out at first glance for its elegant design , which combines premium materials like aluminum and glass to give it a sophisticated and robust look. Its screen is one of its most striking features: a 6,21-inch AMOLED panel with an 18,7:9 aspect ratio, FHD+ resolution (2248 x 1080 pixels), and a pixel density that delivers crisp images and vibrant colors. Corning Gorilla Glass protection ensures resistance against scratches and accidental bumps.
The screen-to-body ratio reaches an impressive 88,5% of the front, meaning minimal bezels and maximum visual immersion. This is complemented by the popular notch at the top, which houses the front-facing camera, infrared sensors, and the advanced facial recognition system. In standard versions, the fingerprint reader is located on the back, allowing for quick and secure unlocking, while the Explorer Edition innovates with an in-display fingerprint reader, a feature reserved for the most exclusive models.
The Mi 8 maintains an aesthetic clearly inspired by the best phones on the market, but adds its own personality thanks to curved lines and outstanding ergonomics. Its weight of only 172 grams and thickness of 7,6 mm make it comfortable even during extended use.
Power and hardware of the Xiaomi Mi 8
Beneath the striking exterior of the Xiaomi Mi 8 lie cutting-edge components . The chosen processor is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 , a 10nm octa-core chip that reaches frequencies of up to 2,8 GHz, paired with the powerful Adreno 630 GPU. This allows for smooth operation of demanding applications and graphics-intensive games. In performance tests, the Mi 8 achieved excellent scores in benchmarks like AnTuTu, placing it among the fastest smartphones of its generation.
Regarding memory, there are versions with 6 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and a more advanced one, the Explorer Edition , which boasts 8 GB of RAM . Internal storage is offered in 64, 128, and 256 GB options , allowing users to choose the one that best suits their needs. It does not include a microSD card slot, so it's advisable to select the appropriate capacity from the outset.
Connectivity includes 4x4 MIMO WiFi , Bluetooth 5.0 , NFC , dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5) for ultra-precise location tracking, and a USB Type-C port . Despite omitting the headphone jack, Xiaomi includes an adapter for those who wish to continue using traditional headphones.
Xiaomi Mi 8 cameras: quality and technology at the service of photography
The Mi 8's camera system is one of its strongest selling points. On the back, there's a dual-camera setup with two 12MP sensors. The main sensor has an f/1.8 aperture , four-axis optical image stabilization, 1,4-micrometer pixels, and Dual Pixel technology for ultra-fast and precise focusing, even in low light. The secondary sensor, with an f/2.4 aperture, is optimized for optical zoom and portrait mode with background blur, enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI).
The photo quality is outstanding and has been recognized by industry experts, achieving high scores in independent tests such as DxOMark. Advanced features include:
- Portrait mode and bokeh enhanced with AI
- 4K video recording at 60fps
- Simultaneous optical and electronic stabilization
- Automatic scene detection with intelligent parameter adjustment
The front camera features a 20MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture and large pixels (1,8 microns), ideal for selfies with high detail and excellent light capture. It includes features such as HDR, beauty mode, and infrared face recognition, ensuring excellent results and accurate unlocking even in the dark. Thanks to AI, the phone can apply natural beautification effects and take portraits with blurred backgrounds.
Facial recognition, biometric security, and unlocking innovations
One of the Xiaomi Mi 8's major advancements is its facial recognition system . It uses a front-facing camera paired with an infrared sensor and an infrared emitter, achieving accurate and secure 3D recognition , very similar to technologies seen in premium devices. This system works even in low-light or no-light environments, making it reliable for all types of users.
The Mi 8 Explorer Edition goes a step further, adding an in-display fingerprint reader for even more convenient and futuristic unlocking. The transparent back theoretically reveals the internal components, but it's actually a printed design, which generated some controversy due to its visually striking but not entirely authentic appearance.
Both options, traditional fingerprint biometrics and advanced facial recognition, offer flexibility and security when it comes to protecting our personal data.
MIUI OS & Experience: Customization & Performance
The Xiaomi Mi 8 arrived on the market with MIUI 10 , the brand's latest Android-based customization layer, although it is fully updatable and includes new features and optimizations with each version. Its main features include:
- Xiao AI: your own virtual assistant to control your phone with your voice (initially available in some markets)
- Gesture navigation: for more intuitive control
- Advanced resource management to maximize autonomy and performance
- Optimized interface, updated icons and greater customization
- AI optimizations to improve the photography experience and everyday use
MIUI provides a user-friendly and fast interface with a wide range of customization options, allowing each user to personalize their device. Furthermore, notification management, security, and privacy have been significantly improved compared to previous versions. For more information on battery life, you can consult how to limit battery charging to 80%.
Battery and autonomy: optimization and fast charging
The Xiaomi Mi 8 features a 3.400 mAh battery (some versions show 3.300 mAh, depending on the region and model) combined with Quick Charge 4.0+ fast charging . Thanks to the optimized operating system and efficient processor, it achieves up to a full day of heavy use without any major issues. Fast charging allows you to recover more than 50% of the battery in less than 30 minutes, ideal for demanding users or those who don't spend much time near a charger. If you want to extend battery life even further, you might be interested in...
Although the battery isn't the largest on the market, the good hardware-software integration allows for satisfactory results. Some user reviews indicate an average screen-on time of between 5 and 7 hours, depending on personal usage and settings.
Connectivity, sensors and other notable specifications
The Xiaomi Mi 8's connectivity options are among the most comprehensive in its segment. These are the main features to consider:
- Dual SIM (Nano SIM), to combine two simultaneous mobile lines
- WiFi 802.11ac (supports 2,4 and 5 GHz networks)
- Bluetooth 5.0 for greater speed and lower consumption
- Dual-band GPS (L1+L5), providing more accurate and faster geolocation
- NFC for mobile payments and fast transfers
- USB Type-C port with OTG support
- Infrared sensor which allows you to use the Mi 8 as a remote control for a multitude of electronic devices
- Gyroscope, accelerometer, compass and proximity sensor
- Splash resistance for greater durability
This device includes a virtual RAM feature in some recent updates, allowing for optimized resource allocation for multitasking and smoother performance in demanding apps. Also, if you want to stay up-to-date on the latest news, check out Xiaomi's new high-end devices.
Full technical sheet of the Xiaomi Mi 8
- Display: 6,21" AMOLED; 2248 x 1080 pixel resolution; 18,7:9 aspect ratio; Gorilla Glass
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Octa-core (up to 2,8 GHz)
- GPU: Adreno 630
- RAM: 6GB / 8GB (Explorer Edition)
- Internal storage: 64, 128, 256 GB (without microSD)
- Rear camera: Dual 12 + 12 MP sensor (f/1.8 + f/2.4), OIS optical stabilization, optical zoom, 4K recording
- Frontal camera: 20 MP, f/2.0, 1,8 μm pixels, AI, facial recognition
- Battery: 3.400 mAh / 3.300 mAh, Quick Charge 4.0+ fast charging
- Operating system: MIUI 10 based on Android, upgradeable
- Dimensions and weight: 154,9 x 74,8 x 7,6 mm; 172 grams
- Connectivity: WiFi 4×4 MIMO, Bluetooth 5.0, dual GPS, NFC, USB type C
- Others: Rear fingerprint reader (on-screen on Explorer Edition), infrared sensor, Dual SIM, splash resistant
Xiaomi Mi 8 Explorer Edition: Innovations and "Transparent Lies"
The Explorer Edition of the Mi 8 is a true technological gem, featuring exclusive functions such as an in-display fingerprint reader and advanced 3D facial recognition. Its "transparent" back cover doesn't actually reveal the internal components, but rather a screen-printed design that simulates the circuitry, giving the device a cutting-edge and distinctive look. This detail sparked controversy, as many users believed they were actually seeing the phone's interior, when in reality it's just a visual effect.
Beyond this visual trick, the Explorer Edition adds 8GB of RAM and enhances the user experience with premium finishes and high-end features, making it the ideal choice for those seeking distinction and cutting-edge technology within the Mi 8 family.
Xiaomi Mi 8 price: how much each version costs
The Xiaomi Mi 8 is known for offering exceptional value for money . While prices may vary depending on the store, version, and region, typical ranges are as follows:
- Mi 8 6GB RAM / 64GB: from 360 Euros (approx. 2.699 yuan at launch)
- Mi 8 6GB RAM / 128GB: 400 Euros approx.
- Mi 8 6GB RAM / 256GB: 440 Euros approx.
- Mi 8 Explorer Edition 8GB RAM / 128GB: 493 Euros approx.
In Europe and America, prices may differ due to taxes, distribution, and special offers, as well as the current exchange rate. It's advisable to consult official distributors and reputable stores to ensure a legitimate product with a warranty.
Comparison with the competition and user opinions
Compared to other high-end Android smartphones, the Xiaomi Mi 8 offers outstanding performance , a high-quality screen , and a versatile camera system that rivals more expensive models. It particularly stands out for its integration of technologies such as advanced facial recognition , dual-frequency GPS , and the option to choose between various internal storage capacities. Many users appreciate the phone's durability, efficient power management, and Xiaomi's consistent update support.
Regarding battery life, some users feel the battery capacity could be higher, but the fast charging system and MIUI's efficiency compensate for this in most everyday scenarios. Additionally, the lack of a headphone jack might be a drawback for some, although the included adapter facilitates the transition to a USB-C port. For more information, you can check out the new features of the Xiaomi CC9 Pro.
The presence of portrait mode on both the rear and front cameras, AI video editing, and the overall quality of the photos make the Mi 8 a particularly attractive option for those seeking creativity and versatility in mobile photography.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Xiaomi Mi 8
- Is it possible to expand the memory using microSD? No, the Xiaomi Mi 8 doesn't have a microSD card slot. It's important to choose the right capacity from the start.
- Does the camera support 4K recording? Yes, both the Standard Edition and Explorer Edition can record 4K video at different frame rates.
- What is the main difference between the Explorer Edition? It features an under-screen fingerprint reader, improved 3D facial recognition, 8GB of RAM, and a "transparent" rear design.
- Can the MIUI system be updated? Yes, Xiaomi provides regular updates to improve performance and add new features.
- Is it waterproof? The Mi 8 is splash resistant, but not certified waterproof.