Xiaomi 15 vs Xiaomi 15 Ultra: In-Depth Comparison

Comparing the flagship smartphones Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra reveals two devices that share many core features yet cater to different user needs. Both emphasize advanced camera systems, sleek designs, and top-tier performance. However, each model brings unique characteristics to the table, so choosing the right one depends on what matters most to you—be it compact form factor, photography prowess, or all-around power.

Design and Display

At a glance, the Xiaomi 15 stands out for its compact build and fluid design. Its micro-curved aluminum frame, ultra-thin bezels, and relatively light weight make it ideal for one-handed use. It also comes in four colors, including the eye-catching Liquid Silver. Despite its smaller form factor, the Xiaomi 15 remains robust thanks to Xiaomi Shield Glass and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. By contrast, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra adopts a more pronounced camera-inspired aesthetic, drawing on classic camera design cues. Available in Black, White, and Silver Chrome, it features an aluminum frame with Xiaomi Shield Glass 2.0 for enhanced durability. The slightly larger form factor accommodates a bigger display—a 6.73-inch WQHD+ AMOLED panel with a higher pixel density—ensuring vibrant visuals and sharper details. If you frequently watch videos or play graphics-intensive games, the 15 Ultra’s screen size and resolution may prove advantageous.

Camera Capabilities

When it comes to photography, the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra both partner with Leica for lens design and image tuning. The Xiaomi 15 offers a triple-camera setup, highlighted by a 50MP main sensor (Light Fusion 900), along with telephoto and ultra-wide options. It’s versatile enough for most everyday situations, capturing high-quality images and supporting features like macro photography and 8K video recording. However, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is where photography enthusiasts really perk up. Equipped with a 1-inch Sony LYT-900 main sensor, a 200MP periscope telephoto camera, and advanced optics, it offers greater focal length range and better low-light performance. Whether you’re shooting cityscapes at night or capturing distant subjects with the periscope lens, the Ultra delivers professional-level detail and clarity. It also includes more robust video options, such as 4K Dolby Vision at 60fps across all focal lengths and a 10-bit Log mode for serious videography projects.

Performance, Battery, and Software

Under the hood, both models run on the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform built on a 3nm process, ensuring fast processing and improved power efficiency. The Xiaomi 15 comes with LPDDR5X memory paired with UFS 4.0 storage, while the Xiaomi 15 Ultra steps up to UFS 4.1 and higher RAM options. For intensive tasks—like gaming, multitasking, or complex image processing—either device should perform smoothly, though the Ultra’s expanded memory configurations might give it a slight edge in extreme scenarios. Battery life remains solid on both phones, thanks to Xiaomi’s Surge Battery Management System. The Xiaomi 15 packs a 5240mAh (typ) battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging, while the 15 Ultra’s 5410mAh (typ) battery supports the same 90W wired but boosts wireless charging for convenience. Both devices run on Xiaomi HyperOS 2, which includes enhancements like Xiaomi HyperCore (optimizing system performance), Xiaomi HyperConnect (seamless cross-device connectivity), and Xiaomi HyperAI (a suite of AI-powered productivity tools). These features help streamline daily tasks, whether you’re editing photos, collaborating across devices, or simply trying to reduce the number of steps in your workflow.

Conclusion

Overall, the Xiaomi 15 is a more compact flagship that still delivers excellent performance, high-quality photography, and a user-friendly design—making it a great choice for most users. On the other hand, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra focuses on advanced photography features and a larger, higher-resolution display, appealing to power users and camera enthusiasts. Both models are available in multiple configurations, and their pricing reflects the differences in hardware, particularly in camera technology and memory options. Whichever you choose, you’ll be getting a device that combines modern design, robust performance, and the latest Xiaomi software innovations.