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Cell phones xiaomi mi mix 2. Information about the make, model and alternative names of the specific device, if available. Mobile device batteries differ from each other in their capacity and technology. They provide electrical

Apple was far from the first company to release such a smartphone.

Samsung's Galaxy S8 arrived last spring, but even it wasn't a first mover. Chinese Xiaomi company six months earlier, it introduced the Mi Mix device. It was more of a conceptual device, but now the Chinese manufacturer is releasing a second-generation device, with which it is beginning to move into European markets.

Smartphone Xiaomi Mi Mix 2

Mi Mix 2 has a 5.99-inch screen, made in metal case with ceramic at the back. Powered by Snapdragon 835 and has the capacity random access memory from 6 GB. You can buy it either in our country or order it by mail from stores like GearBest.

Specifications

Unboxing video:

Design and screen

The first Mi Max was a real monster, although the bezel-less screen reduced the size on three sides. Now Xiaomi has changed the design of the device to make it easier to operate with one hand. The diagonal size has decreased from 6.4 to 5.99 inches.

Of course, this is still a tablet phone, but compared to other 6-inch Mi Mix 2 devices, it is smaller. The LCD screen fills almost the entire front side of the device; there is still a frame at the bottom, but it is smaller than in the first generation model.

The rounded edges of the device are reminiscent of the iPhone style. The back uses ceramic, which attracts fingerprints, but still makes the smartphone more beautiful. In addition, this material does not leave scratches, but you should not drop your smartphone on the floor. The ceramic will break immediately, so a protective case is included in the package.

Very fast scanner The fingerprints are located on the back, there is also a 12 megapixel camera with a gold bezel. On the bottom edge you will find USB-C interface and one of the two speakers, the other is part of the auricle. The volume control and power button are located on right side housings. On the opposite side there is a SIM card compartment that can simultaneously accept two nano cards.

Metal and ceramic make the Mi Mix 2 heavy, but it's well balanced and feels solid. If you were told that this was a Samsung or Apple smartphone, you would not doubt it for a second, the quality is so high.

Unfortunately, the Chinese manufacturer does not offer any protection against water and dust. In addition, the 3.5 mm headphone jack has disappeared; instead, an adapter has been included in the package.

The IPS LCD panel is protected by durable Gorilla Glass 4. The resolution is 1080 x 2160, pixel density is 403 ppi, so the image is very clear. The screen is bright, colors are rich, viewing angles are excellent, as is visibility in the sun. The 18:9 ratio allows the smartphone to be not too wide so that it can be held comfortably with one hand.

Performance

Thanks to the Snapdragon 835 chip, the device works at lightning speed. The base model has 6 GB of memory, and there is an even more expensive version with 8 GB of memory.

Video review:

The result is a smartphone that can handle any task thrown at it. Switching between applications is fast and smooth, heavy 3D games also do not force the smartphone to capitulate. In terms of performance, this is a true uncompromising flagship.

It may not be immediately noticeable, but the device has stereo speakers, one of which is inside the ear. Apple does the same with its smartphones. The main difference is in this case is that the speakers are noticeably weaker. There is no bass, the speaker in the ear is quite quiet. As a result, it seems that there is only one speaker.

At least this time a real ear is used. The first Mi Mix device used piezoelectric technology; the vibration of the device was converted into sound. Sounds interesting, but the volume during telephone conversations was low. This problem is now a thing of the past thanks to the traditional speaker.

Software

Like many other Android smartphone manufacturers, Xiaomi installs on top Android own shell. MIUI has existed for several years, it is one of the most extreme branches of pure Android versions. In the past it was called a copy of iOS, because in terms of appearance, the developers borrowed a lot from Apple.

This has changed over the last few updates, but the similarities still remain. The most obvious one is the lack of an app list. The shell has its own innovations, as well as the deep customization that Android is famous for.

You can download home screen and icon packs, create a second space to install more than one copy identical applications, change the wallpaper on the lock screen, taking them from Xiaomi servers, so that the device looks different every day.

The review copy ran on MIUI 8.5 on top of Android 7.1.1. MIUI 9 is out now and is gradually rolling out to devices, although it is also based on Android Nougat. Despite this, there are some useful innovations here, such as the ability to run two instances of the same application with different accounts.

Xiaomi works with user feedback to remove bugs and add popular features. This is what makes MIUI such an interesting interface. If you don't like it, you can install the bootloader at any time Google Now and get close to stock Android appearance

The model in question worked on Chinese version MIUI, which means availability pre-installed applications for a given country. There may also be problems with services that rely on location. No official support Google applications, although you can install the necessary components yourself. At the same time, the smartphone tries to return to the Xiaomi digital store every time.

With some effort, you can install the international version of MIUI, which eliminates all these shortcomings. This is a rather complicated procedure; it requires unlocking the smartphone's bootloader and installing several firmware updates using a computer.

Cameras

The device has a single rear camera based on a Sony IMX368 sensor with a resolution of 12 megapixels. There is phase detection autofocus and 4-axis optical stabilization. When the lighting is good, it can produce great photos.

Unfortunately, things aren't so good in low light, with the sensor having trouble collecting light even when using the appropriate shooting mode. A quick double flash doesn't help much in these situations, blurring the images even more. Compared to photos from the iPhone 8 or Galaxy S8, photos are compressed more aggressively, resulting in a significant loss of detail when the image is enlarged.

It is unknown why the Chinese manufacturer decided not to install a dual camera, as it did on the Xiaomi Mi6. A secondary wide-angle sensor could be useful here. It supports 4K video recording at 30fps, but the sound is quite poor.

When such big screen fills the entire front of the smartphone, you need to think carefully about where to fit the front camera. The developers made a non-trivial choice and placed it in the lower right corner, so that when taking a selfie you need to turn the device over. Fortunately, software at the same time it also turns over and you see everything as it should. They can’t boast about the same third party applications, which turn out to be upside down.

Autonomous operation

The Mix 2 comes with a 3,400 mAh battery, up from 4,400 mAh before. The battery had to be sacrificed to reduce the size of the device, but the smartphone still works for quite a long time.

With a relatively heavy load, the device can work all day without recharging. If the load is light, it lasts for a day and a half. Thanks to the support Quick Charge 3.0, the smartphone charges from almost zero to 85% in just over an hour. Unfortunately, there is no wireless charging.

The base model received 64 GB flash memory, and 128 and 256 GB options are also available. Need to do it right away right choice, since microSD cards are not supported.

Conclusion

From a design point of view, Mi Mix 2 has become an excellent device. Xiaomi has launched luxury smartphones in the past, but this one might be the best among them. The ceramic back and gold frame camera give it a high-end feel.

Among the disadvantages are the lack of protection against water and dust, which all modern flagships have, as well as poor camera performance in low light. However, at such a low price, all these are minor nuances that you can ignore.

Pros: Great screen, powerful components, beautiful design.
Cons: no protection against water and dust, camera could be better.

    Appearance 5.0

    Screen 5.0

    Performance 5.0

    Water and dust protection 3.0

    Camera 3.0

    4.2 Total

You can say as much as you like that the first frameless smartphones were made by Sharp, but this does not cancel the wow effect of the first Xiaomi Mi Mix. But Mi Mix 2 no longer evokes such feelings after the Samsung Galaxy S8, LG G6 and iPhone X. Now it's just another frameless smartphone. And nothing more.

However, the gadget looks good and, what is important for many, expensive. There is a metal frame around the perimeter, and at the back there is a perfectly smooth ceramic panel that can be used as a mirror. It's beautiful, but it quickly becomes covered with fingerprints. And it scratches over time no worse than glass.

Move the slider to view your smartphone from different angles

Reducing the screen diagonal from 6.44 to 5.99 inches has benefited Mi Mix 2 - holding the phone in your hand has become much more convenient. The fingerprint scanner is located at the back - your index finger can easily reach it. It works quickly and accurately, almost the same as in Huawei flagships.

The screen is normal, although not flagship

Xiaomi managed to make a mistake with the “frameless” display of the Mi Mix 2 right during the presentation of the device in Beijing. The thickness of the frames in the press renderings turned out to be much smaller than in real life. The deceived public immediately began to rightly and noisily be indignant at the entire Internet.

Well, if we talk about the quality of the 5.99-inch display itself, then it is... just normal. It’s appropriate to see something like this in mid-range smartphones, but you can’t help but expect more from a flagship. The screen is based on an IPS matrix with a resolution of 2040x1080 pixels, that is, actually Full HD.

The clarity of the picture is normal; individual pixels are not visible due to the density of more than 400 dots per inch. The color rendition is natural, but maximum brightness even lower than in the first Xiaomi Mi Mix, and the depth of black color is not impressive. Night mode there are, however, flexible adjustments color tone they were not brought into the shell. There are only a few preset options available. However, manual correction for each channel (RGB) is not really needed here.

Under bright light, the image on the display is visible. However, if with a smartphone with AMOLED matrices you just walk down the street on a clear sunny day and calmly scroll through instant messengers and social networks, then with Mi Mix 2 in your hand you want to stop somewhere in the shade.

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One of the most powerful Android smartphones

What the Chinese have learned to do well is negotiate with mobile chipset manufacturers. So Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 received the “top” Qualcomm Snapdragon 835, and even as much as 6 GB of RAM. Moreover, there are even modifications of Mi Mix 2 with 8 GB of RAM, but this is completely outright overkill. Xiaomi's logic, obviously, is that it needs to somehow stand out among its competitors' flagships, which are still generally prudently limited to 4 GB of RAM.

As a result, the iPhone 8, as Apple has always been, is far ahead in terms of performance, and the Mi Mix successfully plays on the same field with the Android giants: Samsung Galaxy S8, LG V30, Sony Xperia XZ1, OnePlus 5 and others.

Nothing more powerful than the Snapdragon 835 has yet been invented for smartphones with a “green robot,” so smile, wave, and launch any mobile games without any problems or slowdowns. And the system, by the way, works very well, although Android 8.0 has not yet been released for it.

No firmware glitches were noticed; after all, the product is aimed at the international, not the local market. With heating, everything is also tip-top. If you look at the smartphone screen, the processor is located in the upper right part of the case - exactly where the user’s fingers are least likely to hit. As a result, the right side of the metal frame may become warm, but everything is within reason.

Be careful when choosing the amount of memory. The basic version has 64 GB, which seems good, but there is no slot for microSD in the device. At all. And this is bad. So it's better to focus on 128 or 256 GB.

Photos are good during the day, but at night there is a lot of noise

Impressions from the 12-megapixel photos of the main camera of Mi Mix 2 are mixed. On the one hand, there is natural color reproduction and surprisingly accurate auto-exposure. The device extremely rarely overexposes or underexposes frames. On the other hand, night photos are frustrating with a huge amount of noise.

At the same time, the algorithms diligently try to make the pictures as sharp as possible, and they succeed quite successfully. Mainly due to the presence of a good image stabilizer. But the autofocus system failed. It is difficult for her to aim at small objects at close range. Macro photography on Mi Mix 2 is a tedious task.

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2

Samsung Galaxy S8+

As a result, we can say that compared to the frankly terrible camera of last year's Mi Mix, this is a noticeable step forward. But in comparison with other Android flagships, the results are mediocre. Many “middle peasants” for 20-25 thousand can do at least no worse.

Videos can be recorded in 4K, but it’s better not to try this and limit yourself to reasonable Full HD. The matrix is ​​noisy, the optics are dark (f/2.0). During the day the result is acceptable, at night it is sad.

The front camera is a separate sad song. As before, it is located in the lower right corner of the front panel. If you want a selfie, turn your smartphone upside down. And if only this were okay, the quality of the 5-megapixel self-portraits is such that you want to hug yourself and cry bitterly. They film it about the same way budget smartphones about 10-12 thousand.

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The sound was disappointing, but everything was fine with the wireless modules

Last year, Xiaomi developers tried to surprise everyone with a piezoelectric earpiece speaker: the sound was created using vibration of the display. And the result was complete nonsense - quiet and muffled audio.

In Mi Mix 2, they hastened to forget about the failed super-technology and installed a standard speaker in the phone, but it was also disappointing with the quality of voice transmission. And also because at a volume above average, not only you, but also everyone standing nearby can hear your interlocutor.

A similar bleak story with external speakers. Mi Mix 2 is proudly “stereo”, but the second speaker is the same one that is used during conversations. Music and calls end up sounding quiet, everything rattles unpleasantly.

Login for wired headphones For some reason the Chinese removed it, and instead they offer to use an adapter with microUSB of absolutely disgusting quality. These are just right to be sold for half a dollar on Aliexpress, and not put in a box with a gadget for 500 bucks.

If good sound in headphones is important to you, then we recommend passing by this smartphone or using decent Bluetooth solutions with aptX support. Fortunately, Mi Mix 2 supports this codec, as well as Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC. GPS works quickly and accurately enough that you don’t have to worry about it.

Runs less than its predecessor

The Xiaomi Mi Mix had a battery with a respectable capacity of 4400 mAh, in the new Mi Mix 2 it was reduced to 3400 mAh. This is sad, but not fatal. The gadget lasts its honest day from morning until late evening under medium load.

In mono tests, a full charge lasted for 4 hours and 50 minutes mobile games and a little over 7 hours in Full HD video playback mode. The brightness in both cases was maximum. We previously carried out similar tests with the previous model: the lag is not dramatic, but very noticeable.

Fast charging has accelerated from 2 to 1.5 hours. In 15 minutes, Mi Mix 2 can be charged from 0 to 25%, and in 30 minutes – up to 50%. Well, to achieve 90%, 60 minutes of connecting to an outlet via the proprietary adapter included in the package will be enough.

Competitors

IN China Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 costs about 33-34 thousand rubles. Since it is impossible to officially buy the device in Russia, it is logical to compare it with competitors’ smartphones imported through the same “gray” routes.

If you add a couple of thousand on top, then for 36,000 rubles you can buy a much more “frameless” Samsung Galaxy S8, which doesn’t really need any introduction. It looks no worse, the screen is better, the camera is better and larger, battery life is better, plus normal sound, plus a microSD slot, plus wireless charging and water protection. Killer combo!

For 32,000 rubles you can get an LG G6 with a screen that occupies almost the entire front panel and is of much higher quality dual camera and protection from water. But there is a minus here - the previous generation Snapdragon 821 chipset. However, it is still wow.

The speed with which Chinese brands are progressing is pleasantly surprising and creates intrigue. What is the opposite of smartphones? Xiaomi competitors this time? In appearance, this is the same Xiaomi Mi MIX 2, but let’s not rush to conclusions.

Specifications

  • Screen: 5.99”, IPS, 1080x2160 pixels, 403 ppi, 18:9, 2.5D, Corning Gorilla Glass 4;
  • Operating system: Android 8 Oreo (MIUI 9.5);
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, 4 x 2.8 GHz Kryo 385, 4 x 1.8 GHz Kryo 385;
  • GPU: Adreno 630;
  • RAM: 6 GB (8 GB);
  • Built-in memory: 64 GB, (128 GB, 256 GB);
  • Cameras: 12 MP f/1.8, 21mm, 1/2.55", 1.4µm, 4-axis OIS/12 MP f/2.4, 26mm, 1/2.9", 1.0µm, 2x optical zoom, dual flash, 5 MP, f /2.0, 1.4µm;
  • Battery: 3400 mAh (non-removable);
  • Dimensions: 151 x 75 x 8.1 mm;
  • Weight: 191 g;
  • SIM slots: 2 Nano-SIM;
  • Communication: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, 3G: 800/850/900/1800/1900/2100 MHz, LTE 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/17/18/ 19/20/25/26/27/28/29/30/34/38/39/40/41, NFC, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, LE, GPS, GLONASS, BDS, USB 2.0, USB-OTG;
  • Sensors: fingerprint, accelerometer, electronic compass, proximity, illumination, barometer, pedometer;
  • Available colors: black, white;
  • Cost at the time of testing: approximately 35,000 rubles.

Equipment

Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s is neatly packaged in black velvety cardboard. A box with gold accents looks profitable and expensive. Under the cover there is an insert with a message from the company’s management, and only when you lift it do you finally see the smartphone.

On the right, the adapter for charging from the mains and the USB cable are laid out in the recesses. Under the monoblock there is a separate box for a plastic back case and an adapter for connecting headphones with a 3.5 mm jack.

Appearance

In terms of design, Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s does not imply radical changes and it is difficult to distinguish it from Mi Mix 2 from the front. The main change was the dual camera module, which moved to the left and received a vertical orientation. There is a dual flash located between the lenses. The fingerprint sensor is located in the center of the back panel at a convenient height.

The glossy ceramic back panel of the smartphone is crossed by a golden inscription. It looks better than the large corporate logo that previously adorned the company’s smartphones. I don’t even want to pack such beauty in a complete case, but in the case of a black candy bar, the glass turns out to be very easily soiled and instantly becomes covered with fingerprints. It cleans up just as quickly, though.

Mechanical keys embedded in the aluminum frame of the smartphone on the right, do not dangle or play. Opposite there is a hole for the SIM card tray. All that can be found on the top edge of the device is the microphone hole for the noise reduction system. Below are located: a speaker, a conversational microphone and a single symmetrical universal USB-C connector.

The decision not to make changes to the front panel of the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s has its pros and cons. On the one hand, against the backdrop of the ubiquitous “bangs,” a frameless screen without such a hairstyle looks advantageous and even original. The way the speaker was able to fit into the thinnest strip on the very curve of the glass is completely surprising.

There was no room left for anything else on top. If the installation point of the light and proximity sensors is not so important and the LED indicator directly above the charging connector is even in place, then the front camera in the lower right corner of the front panel is at least a controversial solution, but we will talk about it in detail in a separate section of the review

Display

Almost the main component of a smartphone, IPS display Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s defines the experience of the new product even more than other devices in this class. Judge for yourself, with minimal framework, rounded corners and 5.99” diagonal, this screen has a thin frame, 1500:1 contrast ratio and DCI-P3 color gamut. No wonder it attracts the eye. With an aspect ratio of 18:9, the matrix has a resolution of 2160×1080 pixels, and individual pixels on it can only be seen under a magnifying glass.

Display coating – protective glass Corning Gorilla Glass 4 with rounded edges and excellent anti-reflective and oleophobic properties. Combined with the high brightness of the backlight, these qualities make the smartphone easy to use under the bright summer sun. The wide range of brightness adjustment also means that you will not experience discomfort when reading from the screen in complete darkness. In addition, in this case in one of the menus operating system filter provided of blue color. The display contrast is adjusted automatically depending on the lighting.


True, there are some shortcomings that should also be mentioned to complete the picture. The matrix with excellent illumination uniformity has a pronounced Glow effect, which is typical for IPS technology. With viewing angles actually equal to 90 degrees in all planes and the absence of color inversion, characteristic even of high-quality IPS matrices, Xiaomi screen Mi MIX 2s, when viewed from the side, loses in brightness and contrast. The colors seem to fade slightly, but even this does not spoil the overall impressions of the smartphone screen. As before, Xiaomi Mi MIX 2 is designed at the flagship level.

Iron


The latest hardware is the main thing that makes Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s the current flagship of spring 2018. The smartphone is powered by a system based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 chip – a 10-nanometer flagship eight-core chip with an Adreno 630 graphics core. The amount of RAM and internal memory of the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s varies depending on the model.


The test sample is a relatively junior version with a “modest” 6 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. Of these, 56.4 GB of memory is available for user needs. At the same time, it will not be possible to install an SD card into a smartphone; the design does not provide a slot.







The performance is excellent - we wouldn't expect anything less from Qualcomm's flagship processor. Computing power sufficient with reserve for all operations that a smartphone can perform, up to working with augmented and virtual reality, for which the chip is specially optimized.


Testing the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s in games was a real pleasure. The smartphone consistently delivers high frame rates regardless of the number of objects on the screen. The heating is moderate, concentrated in the zone just to the right of the double chamber. It is even more strange that in the AnTuTu stress test, the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s cannot withstand and reduces the processor speed due to heating. We cannot say with certainty what is causing this behavior of the chip. It is unlikely that in real use you will be able to overheat the processor so much, but the fact remains that the Snapdragon 845 in the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s is not very stable.

The built-in fingerprint sensor, manufactured by Goodix, recognizes the owner of the smartphone without problems, quickly and accurately. With its help, you can not only block your smartphone, but also additionally protect individual applications, limit access to personal data and confirm payments.

Software

Xiaomi continues to systematically improve its proprietary MIUI add-on based on Android 8.0 Oreo. The latest, at the time of writing these lines, version of this shell is installed on the smartphone - 9.5. Among the innovations in it are pure cosmetics, such as new system sounds, and more useful options, such as a widget viewing screen, an updated notification center and the long-awaited quick replies to messages.


MIUI is still one of the most sophisticated shells and various additional options in its menu, which is called a carriage and a small cart.


Face recognition, advanced desktop settings with the ability to zoom, convenient gestures that replace on-screen navigation buttons, creating a separate workspace for other users, cloning applications, themes, various gestures, one-handed control and so on and so forth.

Connection

Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s can work simultaneously with two SIM cards using the Dual SIM Dual Standby scheme. Both slots for telecom operator cards fully work with LTE, the set of frequencies corresponds to that of the Mi MIX 2, you will not have any problems with communication. Cards are managed through special menu operating system. The quality of sound transmission over the cellular network is high. The noise reduction system contributes to the clarity and intelligibility of speech, and is also responsible for the occasional reverberation effect.


Naturally, Wi-Fi module Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s works in two bands, as befits the second most important one communication channel smartphone. From others wireless interfaces on board Bluetooth 5.0 with support for the aptX music codec and an NFC chip.
If with wireless headphones Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s plays better than most Chinese smartphones, but the same cannot be said about a wired connection, at least if you use the included adapter.


No matter how expensive the headset or headphones are, the sound remains dull and inferior to smartphones with a dedicated audio chip, despite the equalizer in which presets are selected for the company’s proprietary headsets. The USB-C connector, by the way, transmits data via the USB 2.0 protocol.


Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s supports three navigation GPS systems, GLONASS, BDS. The geopositioning accuracy is high, navigation starts instantly, even in difficult conditions urban development.

Battery

The built-in battery of the smartphone has a capacity of 3400 mAh, which is not bad. In addition, Qualcomm engineers promised to optimize power consumption in the new line of processors and, it seems, they did not deceive.

Editorial battery test results:

LG X-Power

Pocophone F1

Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus

Samsung A7 (2017)

Xiaomi Mi6

Huawei P10

Meizu M3s mini

Xiaomi Mi 5s

Xiaomi Redmi 3 Pro

Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s

Samsung Galaxy Note 8

BQ Aquaris U Plus

Meizu M5c

Meizu PRO 6Plus

Huawei Honor 5A

Samsung Galaxy S6

Huawei P9 Plus

At least in our traditional autonomy test, simulating web surfing with Chrome help, Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s worked for 10 hours 52 minutes.


The smartphone supports Quick Charge 4.0 fast charging, as well as Qi wireless charging. Using the supplied adapter (5V 2.5A/9V 2A/12V 1.5A) a new Xiaomi flagship Fully charges in 1 hour 25 minutes.

Camera

Xiaomi has worked hard on the photographic capabilities of the Mi MIX 2s. Even at the presentation, a lot of attention was paid to this aspect of the smartphone’s characteristics and, I must say, it was largely deserved. The rear camera of this smartphone is a combination of two 12-megapixel matrices, where one sensor is a wide-angle Sony IMX363 with an f/1.8 aperture. He is assisted by the Samsung S5K3M3 with an f/2.4 aperture and 2x optical zoom.













Whether it’s due to the artificial intelligence that supposedly controls the viewfinder, selecting the optimal presets for shooting, or simply fine-tuning the software, the pictures turn out to be high-quality. Any quibbles here are either a matter of taste or features inherent in all advanced camera phones of the current generation. Mi MIX 2s is an excellent choice for “shoot and forget” style photography, without shortcuts with manual selection shooting parameters, but if you suddenly want to get the most out of the camera, install a third-party application.

Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s can shoot in RAW, but for some reason this option is not provided in the standard viewfinder. Even with video shooting - a task more complex than single frames, and even in 4K resolution with shaking, the smartphone copes well with it. The weak point here is the sound recording, which is inferior to the flagships of other manufacturers.


But the selfie camera may even disappoint against this background, although in fact it is a good 5 MP mid-level sensor with an f/2.0 aperture that works best in bright daylight. In addition, the unusual placement of the lens forces the user to turn the smartphone over before shooting, which, you see, is simply inconvenient.

Let's sum it up

From a consumer point of view, this is not an ideal smartphone. It has lost the 3.5mm jack and memory card slot. In addition, the manufacturer still saved on the front camera. The smartphone body is easily soiled, and latest chipset Qualcomm seems to require more optimization for long work at maximum frequency. If it weren't for all these minuses, we would declare the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s a true flagship killer, but even with them, the Mi MIX 2s is a strong bid from Xiaomi for leadership among other Chinese manufacturers, a gadget that offers first-class user experience for a reasonable price.

Great build, top-notch cameras, top performance, highly customized OS, decent time battery life and bright high quality display. Thanks to these parameters, Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s will definitely find users and there will probably be a lot of them.

Pros:
  • High-quality frameless IPS screen;
  • High performance;
  • Excellent dual camera;
  • Full set modern wireless interfaces.
Minuses:
  • Stainless body;
  • No SD card slot;
  • The location of the front camera and the average quality of its images.
May not like:
  • No 3.5mm jack;
  • Sound recording.

In the “improved and expanded” second edition, the beautiful Chinese smartphone with a ceramic back panel has not only refreshed the design, but also made the case more compact. The advanced hardware features a powerful processor and large amounts of memory. Other features of this flagship include an edgeless screen, a camera with optical stabilization, a fingerprint scanner, an NFC interface and support fast charging. Vesti.Hi-tech took a detailed look at all the advantages and disadvantages of Xiaomi Mi Mix 2.

Let us remember that the main “highlight” of the conceptual Xiaomi Mi Mix, which was released last year, was the unusual design, which practically eliminated frames on three sides of the screen. As you know, the famous designer Philippe Starck had a hand in the appearance of this device. His team also worked on the exterior of Mi Mix 2, which, having gotten rid of the “childhood diseases” of the concept, became more convenient and practical. The new product embodies such fashion trends as a screen with an aspect ratio of 18:9, “frameless” and the absence of a 3.5 mm connector for an audio headset. Unlike its predecessor, .

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 review: technical specifications

  • Model: Mi Mix 2
  • OS: Android 7.1.1 (Nougat) with MIUI 8.5.2.0/9.1.1.0 proprietary shell
  • Processor: 8-core 64-bit Qualcomm processor Snapdragon 835 (MSM8998), ARMv8-A architecture, 4 Kryo 280 cores (2.45 GHz) + 4 Kryo 280 cores (1.9 GHz), Hexagon 682 DSP coprocessor
  • Graphics subsystem: Adreno 540 (710 MHz)
  • RAM: 2-channel LPDDR4X, 6 GB
  • Storage memory: 64 GB/128 GB/256 GB, UFS 2.1
  • Screen: 5.99 inches, IPS FHD+ (2160x1080 pixels), 18:9 aspect ratio, pixel density per inch 403 ppi, contrast ratio 1500:1, DCI-P3 color gamut, Corning Gorilla Glass 4 protective glass
  • Main camera: 12 MP, IMX386 (1.25 µm pixel), 5-element wide-angle lens, 4-axis optical stabilization, f/2.0 aperture, PDAF autofocus, dual LED flash, 4K@30 fps video, 720p@120 slow motion fps
  • Front camera 5 MP, f/2.0 aperture, wide-angle lens
  • Interfaces: Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac/b/g/n (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), 2x2 MIMO, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Display, NFC, USB Type-C
  • SIM card slot: nanoSIM (4FF) + nanoSIM (4FF)
  • Network: 2G, 3G (HSPA+, up to 42 Mbit/s), 4G, LTE band (3, 7, 20...)
  • Navigation: GPS/GLONASS/BDS, A-GPS
  • Sensors: accelerometer, light and proximity sensors (ultrasonic), gyroscope, electronic compass, Hall sensor, fingerprint scanner
  • Battery: non-removable, lithium-ion, 3,400 mAh, supports Quick Charge 3.0 fast charging
  • Dimensions: 151.8x75.5x7.7 mm
  • Weight: 185 grams
  • Black color

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 review: design, ergonomics

The main recipes for the originality of Mi Mix 2 are mentioned just above, including the minimal frames around the screen (which, alas, turned out to be not so narrow). Due to a change in the design concept, in the standard modification of the smartphone, ceramics were no longer given to the entire body, as was the case with its predecessor, but only the back panel, which now rests on a frame made of aircraft-grade aluminum.

The “aristocratic” nature of the new product is emphasized by the prim black color, as well as the gilded (18 carat) “Mix designed by Xiaomi” inscription and the bezel of the main camera lens. Ceramic is more than willing to collect all kinds of imprints, so the original external gloss of a premium model is quickly lost. In addition, this material, reminiscent of black jade, is very slippery, which forces you to constantly take care that the smartphone does not “move away” somewhere on its own, even on a relatively horizontal surface.

Note that the corners and edges of the body are neatly smoothed. I just don’t want to think about the possibility of such a jeweled “remnant” falling from a height. Even the fact that Corning Gorilla Glass 4, which covers the entire front surface of the device, protects twice as much as its competitors is no consolation. True, the kit includes a clip case (covering the perimeter and back of the smartphone) made of matte black plastic.

The case slightly changes the dimensions of the case, but the appearance is no longer so impressive, although it is practically non-marking.

The aspect ratio of the display (18:9) made it possible to fit the front panel of the new smartphone into a rectangle measuring 151.8x75.5 mm, the area of ​​which (with a 5.99-inch screen diagonal) is smaller than, for example, that of an average 5.5-inch (with a screen aspect ratio of 16:9) smartphone. Considering the ambitions of Mi Mix 2, it is clear whose garden this stone is in. Indeed, the 5.5-inch one is noticeably inferior in terms of compactness (151.8x75.5 mm versus 158.2x77.9 mm).

But no measures are provided to protect the new product from dust and moisture. Note that for top-end devices from leading manufacturers, such protection has simply become a “rule of good manners.”

Unlike its predecessor, the speaker on Mi Mix 2 is very ordinary. The developers decided to abandon the piezoelectric transducer, which caused complaints from users, by placing a hole for the dynamic emitter at the junction of the protective glass and the metal frame.

But the “eye” of the front camera and the LED charging indicator still take their place on a small plate under the screen. By the way, Xiaomi says that its size has decreased by almost 12% compared to its predecessor. Touch buttons The "Back", "Home" and "Recent Apps" control panels are on-screen here.

The left edge is occupied by a closed slot with a tray with two spaces intended for subscriber identification modules of the nanoSIM (4FF) format.

The volume rocker and the power/lock button are quite traditionally located together on the right edge.

USB Type-C connector on bottom end found himself surrounded by two decorative grilles, under one of which (viewed from the side of the screen) a “multimedia” speaker (on the right) is hidden, and under the other there is a “conversational” microphone (on the left). Note that, according to the fashion trend, the Mi Mix 2 does not have a 3.5 mm audio headset connector. Its functions are assigned to USB Type-C.

At the top end we placed a hole for the second microphone (noise reduction).

A 2-tone LED flash is placed at the top of the ceramic rear panel, next to the main camera lens.

But the round platform of the capacitive fingerprint scanner is located just below.

Despite the compact size of Mi Mix 2, the settings of this smartphone did not forget about the option for one-handed control.

The weight of the device will not seem small (185 g), although, given the slippery surface of the case, this may not be so bad.

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 review: screen

Unlike the 6.4-inch conceptual "shovel", the new product has a 5.99-inch screen, which, however, retains a resolution of 2160x1080 pixels (aspect ratio 18:9), changing the pixel density per inch to 403 ppi. The quality of the display does not raise any special complaints - it is quite a flagship-level IPS matrix, with adequate colors (DCI P3 color gamut), good contrast (1500:1) and acceptable brightness (though with a very moderate reserve).

Judging by the results of the AnTuTu Tester program , The capacitive touch screen recognizes up to ten simultaneous presses. The brightness level can be adjusted manually or using the Auto Adjust switch. The corresponding option allows you to double-tap to turn on the screen backlight.

In the settings you can decide on the color tone (warm, natural, cool) and contrast settings (standard, increased, automatic). It also offers stepwise adjustment of the size of text and icons on the screen. But the vision protection mode, activated at a specified time, reduces the level of ultraviolet radiation and is designed to relieve eye fatigue. At the same time, the color temperature can be adjusted independently. The 2.5D Gorilla Glass 4 protective glass is coated with a high-quality oleophobic coating.

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 review: cameras

For the photo module Mi Mix 2 settled on 12-megapixel Sony sensor IMX386 Exmor RS (optical size 1/2.9 inches, pixel size 1.25 microns). The wide-angle lens with 4-axis optical stabilization (OIS) has 5-element optics, f/2.0 aperture and phase detection autofocus. The main photo module is complemented by a 2-tone LED flash. The maximum resolution is achieved with the classic aspect ratio of 4:3 and is 4000x3000 pixels (12 MP). It is possible to shoot in “wide” format (16:9, 4000x2000 pixels).

The front camera with a 5-megapixel sensor (2592x1944 pixels, 4:3) and a wide-angle lens (f/2.0 aperture), apart from its unusual location under the display, is essentially unremarkable.

The main camera can record video not only in Full HD (1920x1080 pixels, 16:9) at 30 fps, but also in 4K mode (3840x2160 pixels, 16:9), and at the same frame rate. In turn, slow motion (120/30 fps) is available only in HD resolution (1280x720 pixels). For "time lapses" there is a set of time intervals - 0.12; 0.3; 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 8; 10; 15 and 30 seconds. At the front camera best quality recordings - Full HD (1920x1080 pixels, 16:9) at 30 fps. All content is saved in MP4 container files (AVC - video, AAC - audio).

The proposed set of shooting modes, including panoramic, manual, night, etc., does not include portrait mode. On the main screen of the Camera application, you can activate the HDR option, select the appropriate filter, change the main camera to the front one (or vice versa), decide on the flash and camera mode (photo/video), or go to the additional modes. With the help of filters it is easy to get quite interesting effects on the image. The format and quality of photos/videos are set in the settings, which can be accessed from the additional modes screen. There you can also assign an exposure metering mode (center-weighted, spot, average). At the same time, one of seven steps (from lowest to highest) is set for contrast, saturation and sharpness. The brightness of the image (exposure compensation levels from -2 to +2) is changed using vertical swipes on the viewfinder. In manual mode, you will have to choose the shutter speed, ISO, focus and white balance parameters yourself.

The front camera provides selfie “beautification” tools and a group self-portrait mode, in which the final photo is created from several frames. To avoid an unusual angle (bottom-up) for a regular crossbow, the smartphone should be turned upside down. True, only the proprietary Camera application understands this position of the device.

The main camera of Mi Mix 2 clearly does not reach the shooting quality of A-brands, so it is unlikely to satisfy all the needs of picky mobile photography lovers. Examples of pictures can be viewed.

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 review: sound

Of course, the return to the usual “conversational” speaker turned out to be advantageous, where, according to the manufacturer, a new generation cylindrical emitter is used. Together with a much louder “multimedia” speaker, which, however, is difficult to distinguish with its special sound quality, they even try to implement some semblance of stereo.

The pre-installed set of applications includes a Music audio player with support for audio formats high resolution. For headphones (in advanced settings), it is proposed not only to automatically improve the sound by determining specific type wired accessory, but also take advantage of the 7-band equalizer with presets. This option, of course, does not work for wireless ears. As already noted, the Mi Mix 2 does not have a 3.5 mm audio headset connector.

True, the kit includes an adapter for a mini-jack to USB Type-C. Using Bluetooth headphones in this case is much more convenient, especially considering the support for the aptX codec, which for some reason is not mentioned in the technical specifications.

However, if you look at the Bluetooth HCI magazine, you can see that Mi Mix 2 (XiaomiCo) “agrees,” for example, with wireless headphones (our review), under the pseudonym Shenzhen, to use aptX rather than the standard SBC codec.

In the Voice Recorder application, you can select the appropriate recording mode and quality (MP3 format).

Review of Xiaomi Mi Mix 2: hardware, performance

The top-end performance of Mi Mix 2 is largely due to the flagship mobile platform Qualcomm Snapdragon 835. Let us recall that the eight computing cores of its processor, working in tandem with the Adreno 540 graphics accelerator, are divided into two clusters of Kryo 280 cores. At the same time, the first quartet is clocked at a frequency of up to 2.45 GHz, and the second - up to 1.9 GHz. The basic configuration of Mi Mix 2 is complemented by 6 GB of RAM (and in the Special Edition modification - 8 GB).

TestingXiaomiMiMix 2. Results in the AnTuTu benchmark

TestingXiaomi Mi Mix 2.Results in the GeekBench benchmark

TestingXiaomi Mi Mix 2. Visual test resultsEpicCitadel

For storage, Mi Mix 2 uses 64 GB (there are options with 128 GB and 256 GB) of fast UFS 2.1 memory. However, due to the lack of a corresponding slot, it is impossible to expand the available capacity with a microSD card. But a regular flash drive can be easily connected via USB Type-C (you need a USB-OTG adapter).

The manufacturer emphasizes the availability of most modern ranges cellular communications(6 modes, 43 bands), among which in 4G networks are LTE-FDD b3 (1,800 MHz), b7 (2,600 MHz) and b20 (800 MHz), which are important for domestic users. Four LTE antennas are used for one radio channel. At the same time, two subscriber identification modules of the nanoSIM format operate in DSDS mode, that is, alternately. There is also VoLTE support. Among wireless communications, it is worth noting 2-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 and 5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC.

The NFC interface will be in demand, for example, for payment Android service Pay. In addition, using the Moscow Transport Cards application, it allows you to quickly find out the balance of your Troika card.

GPS, GLONASS and BDS satellite systems are used to determine location and navigation. There is support for A-GPS technology.

Capacity non-removable battery Mi Mix 2, compared to its predecessor, has decreased quite significantly - from 4,400 mAh to 3,400 mAh. This could not but affect the autonomy of the new product. Fortunately, the 18-watt Quick Charge 3.0 fast charging adapter takes care of quickly filling the battery.

For Mi Mix 2 battery test AnTuTu program Tester showed a result of 7,275 points. A test set of videos in MP4 and Full HD quality played continuously at full brightness for just under 7.5 hours. As you can see, the result is quite average.

In the smartphone settings, you can take care of reducing battery consumption, including by limiting the activity of applications, as well as disabling irrelevant consumers.

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 review: software features

During testing, the Mi Mix 2 smartphone was running the operating system Android systems 7.1.1 (Nougat), the interface of which was hidden branded shell MIUI 8.5.2.0.

Despite the rather compact size of Mi Mix 2, the advanced settings provide an option that makes it easier to control the smartphone with one hand. The so-called “touch assistant” serves the same purpose - a translucent ring, tapping on which opens a menu with icons for emulating control buttons, as well as taking a screenshot and locking the smartphone. In addition, control buttons can be assigned additional functions at a certain holding time (for example, closing the current application, or Google launch Now).

A fingerprint scanner with a capacitive sensor allows you to register up to five papillary finger patterns. The response speed is quite high. Using stored fingerprints, you can not only lock your screen, but also protect your personal data and applications.

Literally at the final stage of testing, an update to the MIUI launcher to version 9.1.1.0 arrived over the air. Subjectively, all the software began to spin even faster. Among the notable changes, it is worth noting, for example, the ability to split the screen between two applications, the definition of a time period for the “silent” and “do not disturb” modes, as well as advanced image editing functions directly in the “Gallery”. It may be useful to swipe on the locked screen, which opens the “flashlight” icon (flash mode), or double taps by the "Recent applications" icon, when the last two programs in this list are opened in turn.

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 review: purchase, conclusions

In its appearance, Mi Mix 2 (until it was touched by hands) resembles an expensive piece of jewelry. Particularly impressive back panel in black ceramic with gold accents. The beautiful appearance is consistent with the maximum performance available for an Android smartphone, which is ensured by a powerful processor and a large amount of RAM. In addition to the “frameless” display, it is also worth noting the optical stabilization of the camera, a fast fingerprint scanner, the presence of an NFC interface and support for fast charging.

But some of the shortcomings of the Mi Mix 2 were literally a continuation of its advantages. Thus, the case turned out to be very easily soiled, which quickly negates the “jewelry” appearance of the smartphone. Due to the large and fast storage, they abandoned the microSD slot, which would have been quite in demand (for example, for video recordings). And it seems that only blind adherence to fashion led to the loss 3.5 mm connector for audio headset. It is also difficult to explain the lack of dust and moisture protection of the case at least at the level of protection against splashes. In turn, the elegant body entailed a decrease in battery capacity and, as a result, autonomy. Optical stabilization is, of course, a good thing, but in general, the photo capabilities still do not reach the flagship level.

However, Mi Mix 2 also has an undeniable advantage. In 6 GB/64 GB configuration official online store they asked for 34,990 rubles. At the same time, large retail chains offered the promoted flagship (4 GB/64 GB) for 49,990 rubles. As a more affordable alternative, you can pay attention to (our review), which will cost approximately 36,990 rubles. It boasts a high-quality dual camera, water protection, a bright and almost frameless display, however, its mobile platform is still of the previous generation (Snapdragon 821), and the memory volumes are 4 GB and 32 GB, respectively.

Review results Xiaomi smartphone Mi Mix 2

Pros:

  • Beautiful ceramic and aluminum body
  • Flagship Performance
  • "Frameless" display
  • Optical camera stabilization
  • Fast fingerprint scanner
  • NFC interface
  • Fast charging support

Minuses:

  • Stainless back panel
  • Average autonomy
  • Dust and moisture protection is not provided
  • No card slot microSD memory
  • Missing 3.5 mm audio headset connector
  • The main camera is slightly below flagship level

The display, the main part of the Mi Mix 2, did not disappoint. Xiaomi did not get carried away with high resolution, so it is only slightly higher than standard Full HD, namely 2160x1080, which still gives a decent pixel density per inch - 402 ppi. The matrix is ​​the usual IPS, but with good characteristics and perfectly calibrated, as our testing showed. The contrast is high and the brightness too. Gamma and color temperature are close to ideal. There is nothing to complain about.

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 can play in stereo, although one of the speakers is a conversational one, which is therefore quieter. The speakers handle simple compositions, like the soundtrack to the first Mafia, confidently. But it’s worth including something more intense, some electronic music, and the power is already barely enough - the detailing is so-so, the music begins to choke a little. In general, the quality is average. As for headphones, the Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 does not have a 3.5 mm port, but the kit includes an adapter, so there is nothing to be afraid of.

Cameras

Let's be honest, the camera is one of the weakest points of the Mi Mix 2. It cannot be called bad, but against the backdrop of the overwhelming performance of the platform and the huge supply of RAM, its capabilities look a little ordinary. If even the fairly inexpensive Xiaomi Mi A1 keeps up with the times and has a dual camera and a fashionable ability to blur the background in portrait photographs, then the Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 has, firstly, one rear camera, and secondly, there are not enough stars from the heavens. In principle, in automatic mode, if you adjust the exposure (in my opinion, “automatic” itself often overexposes photographs), then you can take nice pictures. Then it will be difficult, but doable, to take a frankly bad picture during the day.