The Xiaomi 13 Ultra, a powerful smartphone flagship initially designed for the Chinese market, has proven to be one of the best Android smartphones in 2023. While it is currently only available through import, it still offers an impressive set of features and specifications that make it a compelling option for tech enthusiasts. In this article, we will delve into the test verdict on the Xiaomi 13 Ultra and explore why importing this smartphone might be a worthwhile endeavor.
One of the standout features of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is its excellent camera setup, which delivers outstanding photography capabilities. The smartphone flagship combines very good cameras with extensive hardware equipment, allowing users to capture stunning photos and videos. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply enjoy taking high-quality pictures, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra won't disappoint in this regard.
In terms of display, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra features a large 6.73-inch OLED panel, developed in collaboration with TCL. While it falls slightly short of its advertised values in our measurements, it still stands as one of the best LTPO panels available in the smartphone market. The vibrant colors, deep blacks, and impressive contrast ratio contribute to an immersive visual experience, whether you're watching movies, playing games, or browsing content on your device.
However, it's important to note that the Chinese version of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra does make compromises in terms of LTE bands. This limitation might affect the device's compatibility with certain networks, particularly in regions where bands 20 and 28 are essential. If you reside in such a region, it is crucial to consider this factor before importing the device. That being said, if LTE band compatibility isn't a concern for you, the price difference of more than 400 Euros compared to the yet-to-be-released global version of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra might be a significant incentive to go ahead with the import.
Speaking of pricing, while the Chinese manufacturer has yet to announce official prices for the European market, we can estimate the price range based on the pricing of the 13 Pro sibling model. The Xiaomi 13 Pro has been available from European vendors since March 2023, with a hefty MSRP of 1,299 Euros ($1,436). Considering the Xiaomi 13 Ultra's superior specifications, it is reasonable to expect a suggested retail price between 1,400 and 1,500 Euros ($1,548 - $1,658) in German-speaking countries.
On the other hand, importing the Xiaomi 13 Ultra from reputable sources such as Trading Shenzhen can provide significant cost savings. At present, the imported device is priced at less than 1,100 Euros (~$1,216) from Trading Shenzhen, which also provided our test unit. Moreover, by purchasing the device with the xoaimi.eu firmware, you can remove the language barrier and enjoy a more localized user experience. This price difference of more than 400 Euros can be an attractive proposition for those willing to compromise on LTE band compatibility.
It's worth noting that there may be some challenges for those interested in using the Xiaomi 13 Ultra with Android Auto. As an imported device, compatibility issues might arise when connecting to the infotainment systems of certain cars. This consideration is particularly important for individuals who heavily rely on Android Auto functionality and use it frequently while driving.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra stands out as a powerful smartphone flagship that offers an exceptional camera setup and an impressive array of features. While LTE band compatibility is a potential limitation for the Chinese version, the option to import the device at a significantly lower price than the anticipated global version makes it an enticing choice for many.
