Mi Max Global Stable 9.1.1.0 Download and Installation Guide

The new update remedies bugs, supplementing the performance of the obsolete versions the ROM.

Major Updates in MIUI 9 Global beta ROM

• Permission to use quick reply on the lock screen of Whatsapp, without unlocking the smartphone.
• Bluetooth connection issues resolved.
• Transfer applications with or without app data
• Exclusion of SMS keywords by adding them in the exceptions column
• Recorded call icon now shows up in call history

Caution:

Before applying the update, ensure that the battery level is above 60 percent. Also, ascertain that backup of vital data has been done prior to the update.

Download Links for Mi Max / Prime Global Stable MIUI9

Xiaomi Mi Max Global Stable 9.1.1.0

MIUI 9 Fastboot ROM – V9.1.1.0.NBCMIEI

• Xiaomi Mi Max MIUI 9 Fastboot ROM

MIUI 9 Recovery ROM – V9.1.1.0.NBCMIEI

• Xiaomi Mi Max MIUI 9 Recovery ROM

Xiaomi Mi Max Prime Global Stable 9.1.2.0

MIUI 9 Fastboot ROM – V9.1.2.0.NBDMIEI

• Xiaomi Mi Max Prime MIUI 9 Fastboot ROM

MIUI 9 Recovery ROM – V9.1.2.0.NBDMIEI

• Xiaomi Mi Max Prime MIUI 9 Recovery ROM

Steps of Installation

Mi Flash tool Version 7.4.25

The latest version of Xiaomi’s Mi Flash tool is the perfect choice for flashing Fastboot and Recovery ROMS. Mi Flash tool V7.4.2.5 makes flashing as easy as it can be. Several bugs that frustrated users in the previous versions have been resolved ― paving the way for a seamless flashing process.

You can download it here: MiFlashSetup_eng.msi

Important tips for Flashing

• In order to install a new MIUI on your phone from scratch, flash your device with the Fastboot ROM. Keep in mind that all your data will be lost in the process, as this a clean install.

• If you’re simply in the mood to update, and don’t want to go through the cumbersome process of a clean install, flash your device with Recovery ROM.

The post MIUI 9 Global Stable ROM for Mi Max, Mi Max Prime appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

Please, pay attention that this is a MIUI 9 Beta version so there’s a chance that you might stuck with some bugs or issues (these can be reported to Xiaomi and fixed in the future versions). So, it’s recommended to advanced users only. If you’ll proceed with update, don’t forget to backup your current system to avoid loosing your data.

MIUI 9 China Beta ROM 7.8.17 for Xiaomi Phones

Mi MIX MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Mi MIX | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Mi Note 2 MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Mi Note 2 | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Xiaomi Mi5 MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Xiaomi Mi5 | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Xiaomi Mi5S MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Xiaomi Mi5S | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Mi5S Plus MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Mi5S Plus | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Xiaomi Mi5C MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Xiaomi Mi5C | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Xiaomi Mi Max 2 MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Mi Max 2 | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Xiaomi Mi Max MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Mi Max | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Mi Max Prime MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Mi Max Prime | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Xiaomi Mi 4S MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Xiaomi Mi4S | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Xiaomi Mi 4C MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Xiaomi Mi4C | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Mi Note Pro MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Xiaomi Mi Note Pro | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Redmi 4X MIUI 9 Developer ROM 7.8.17

Xiaomi Redmi 4X | MIUI 9 | China Developer ROM 7.8.17 | Beta | Android 7 | fastboot | Download

Check out the official thread on MIUI forum for more information: http://en.miui.com/thread-751928-1-1.html

The post Download MIUI 9 China Developer 7.8.17 Beta ROM appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

Latest Custom ROMs for Xiaomi Mi Max

Android 7 Custom ROMs for Xiaomi Mi Max Helium 3 / 64 / 128

• CYPHER OS 4.0.5 BETA | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• XPERIA OPEN SOURCE PROJECT | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• LineageOS 14.1 | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• RESURRECTION REMIX 5.8.3 | Android 7.x | Official XDA Thread | Download | Firmware
• Pure Nexus | Android 7.1.2 | Download

Android 6 Custom ROMs for Xiaomi Mi Max Helium 3 / 64 / 128

• DirtyUnicorns v10.6 | Android 6.0.x | Official XDA Thread | Download
• AICP (Android Ice Cold Project) ROM | Android 6.0.x | Official XDA Thread | Download
• Unofficial CyanogenMod CM13.0 | Android 6.0.x | Official XDA Thread
• Resurrection Remix 5.7.4 | Android 6.0.1 | Official XDA Thread | Download

Android 7 Custom ROMs for Xiaomi Mi Max Hydrogen 2 / 16 / 32

• CYPHER OS 4.0.5 BETA | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• XPERIA OPEN SOURCE PROJECT | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• AIM ROM v2.0 | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• Ground Zero ROMs – Validus, Tesla and Tipsy | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread
• ViperOS | Android 7.1.x | Official XDA Thread
• AospExtended ROM V4.2 | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread
• Candy7 | Android 7.1.x | Official XDA Thread
• PURE NEXUS PROJECT | Android 7.1.1 | Official XDA Thread
• Mokee Rom for Xiaomi Mi Max Hydrogen | Official website
• Android Ice Cold Project 12.1 | Android 7.1 | Official XDA Thread
• Lineage OS 14.1 | Developed by aggarwalace | Android 7.1.1 | Official XDA Thread
• Lineage OS 14.1 | Developed by TheStrix | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread
• Lineage OS 14.1 | Developed by nijel8 | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread
• XOSP – Xperia Open Source Project | Android 7.1.1 | Official XDA Thread
• RESURRECTION REMIX 5.8.3 | Android 7.1.2 | Official XDA Thread
• Nitrogen OS N | Android 7.1.1 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• Slim7 – Mi Max | Android 7.1.0 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• crDroidAndroid | Android 7.1.x | Official XDA Thread | Download

Android 6 Custom ROMs for Xiaomi Mi Max Hydrogen 2 / 16 / 32

• Resurrection Remix M v5.7.4 | Developed by karthick111 | Download | CM 3G FIX
• DirtyUnicorns v10.6 | Android 6.0.x | Official XDA Thread | Download
• AOSP-CAF | Android 6.0.1 | Official XDA Thread | Download
• Android Ice Cold Project 11.0 (AICP ROM) | Android 6.0.x | Official XDA Thread | Download
• Cyanogenmod CM13.0 | Android 6.0.x | Official XDA Thread
• Mokee Rom for Xiaomi Mi Max Hydrogen | Official website

The post Download Custom ROMs for Xiaomi Mi Max appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

Download MIUI 8.2 ROM for Xiaomi Mi Max Pro

Official MIUI forum for Mi Max / Prime: click here

Latest Xiaomi Mi Max/Prime ROMS: click here

Download Global Stable V8.2.3.0 MIUI 8.2 ROM for Xiaomi Mi Max

Global Stable 8.2.3.0 for Recovery or System: Download

Global Stable 8.2.3.0 for MiFlash or fastboot: Download

The post [Download] Global Stable 8.2.3.0 MIUI ROM for Xiaomi Mi Max Pro appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

Flash MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM on Xiaomi Mi Max

How to flash MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM via fastboot method on Mi Max

When flashing it is strongly recommended to use rear USB ports. Avoid long folder names and sub-folders. Try to make path to ROM files as short as possible. For example save extracted ROM files in “C:\mirom” (Note! Remember to avoid sub-folders after extracting ROM files!). In some cases it is recommended to turn off your antivirus and firewall software.

1. Install MiFlash software. Accept driver installation. Skip this step if you’ve already got MiFlash installed.
2. Enable “Developers Options”. Go to “Settings” > “About” and tap a few times on device version to enable “Developer options”.
3. Enable “USB Debugging”. Go to “Settings” > “Additional settings”  > “Developer options” > enable “USB Debugging”.
4. Start MiFlash.
5. Insert USB cable in PC.
6. Turn off your device. Press and hold volume up and volume down buttons together.
7. Connect USB cable to your device (make sure device battery charge is at least at 60%).
8. After short vibration signal release the volume up and down buttons.
   1. In case there’s not vibration signal:
      
   2. First hold volume up and volume down buttons and then press power button (keep holding both volume buttons). Wait for vibration signal and release power button (keep holding both volume buttons). Wait for the second vibration signal and then release volume buttons.
9. In MiFlash press “Refresh”. You should see available USB port, COM20 for example.
10. In MiFlash press “Select” to select path to extracted Official Global Stable ROM. “C:\mirom” for example.
11. Select “Clean ALL” (clean installation with data wipe).
12. In MiFlash press “flash” to start installation process. If everything was right in the end you’ll see “success” message. Installation could take around 15-20 minutes.
13. Now disconnect your smartphone from PC and turn on.

Downloads:

• MiFlashTool: MiFlashSetup-Beta.zip
• Download ROM: MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM for Mi Max

MIUI 8.2 Fastboot ROM For Mi Max Mirror links:

Mi Max 32G

• fastboot MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link
• recovery MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link
  

Mi Max 64G / 128G

• fastboot MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link
  
• recovery MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link
  

The post How to install MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM on Mi Max appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

Download MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM February Release

As reported the following devices will get updates: Mi Max, Mi Max Prime, Mi 4i, Mi 3, Mi 4, Mi Note, Redmi 1S, Redmi Note 4G. Other devices will most probably also get their software updated, but a little bit later and we don’t know the exact date.

We’re exactly interested in MIUI 8.2 ROM for Mi Max. It will receive a new gallery text editing module feature as well as a few bug fixes. We really hope to receive a great working ROM. You can check the full change log here.

Stay tuned because we’re about to post a download link to MIUI 8.2 ROM as soon as possible.

Update! MIUI 8.2.1.0 Global Stable ROM has been officially released and now available for download!

MIUI 8.2 Global Stable For Mi 3 / Mi 4

Mi 3 / Mi 4 Fastboot ROM – cancro_global_images_V8.2.1.0.MXDMIDL_20170111.0000.00_6.0_global_d3d0820b62.tgz

Mi 3 / Mi 4 Recovery ROM – miui_MI3WMI4WGlobal_V8.2.1.0.MXDMIDL_3bc7c657b8_6.0.zip

MIUI 8.2 Global Stable For Redmi Note 4G

Redmi Note 4G Fastboot ROM – dior_global_images_V8.2.1.0.KHIMIDL_20170111.0000.00_4.4_global_75350c18a6.tgz

Redmi Note 4G Recovery ROM – miui_HMNoteLTEGlobal_V8.2.1.0.KHIMIDL_196c30cbf8_4.4.zip

MIUI 8.2 Global Stable For Redmi 1S

Redmi 1S Fastboot ROM – armani_global_images_V8.2.1.0.KHCMIDL_20170111.0000.00_4.4_global_38141329ff.tgz

Redmi 1S Recovery ROM – miui_HM1SWCGlobal_V8.2.1.0.KHCMIDL_0e98e6e5ff_4.4.zip

MIUI 8.2 Global Stable For Mi Note

Mi Note Fastboot ROM – virgo_global_images_V8.2.1.0.MXEMIDL_20170111.0000.00_6.0_global_64190c2ca0.tgz

Mi Note Recovery ROM – miui_MINoteGlobal_V8.2.1.0.MXEMIDL_f291f931cf_6.0.zip

MIUI 8.2 Global Stable For Mi Max 32G

Mi Max 32GB Fastboot ROM – hydrogen_global_images_V8.2.1.0.MBCMIDL_20170116.0000.00_6.0_global_b0c46349cd.tgz

fastboot MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link

Mi Max 32GB Recovery ROM – miui_MIMAXGlobal_V8.2.1.0.MBCMIDL_ad2db3ac36_6.0.zip

recovery MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link

MIUI 8.2 Global Stable For Mi Max 64G / 128G

Mi Max 64G / 128G Fastboot ROM – helium_global_images_V8.2.1.0.MBDMIDL_20170117.0000.00_6.0_global_93c4b2ee23.tgz

fastboot MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link

Mi Max 64G / 128G Recovery ROM – miui_MIMAX652Global_V8.2.1.0.MBDMIDL_9060ae09fa_6.0.zip

recovery MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM: Mirror link

Read full guide on how flash MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM on Mi Max using fastboot method.

Meanwhile you can download previous ROM versions for Xiaomi Mi Max below:

Download Global Recovery ROMS for Mi Max

• 8.1.6.0 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_V8.1.6.0.MBCMIDG (MIUI 8)
• 6.12.22 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_6.12.22 (MIUI8)
• 6.12.8 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_6.12.8 (MIUI8)
• 8.1.4.0 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_V8.1.4.0.MBCMIDG (MIUI 8)
• 8.1.3.0 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_V8.1.3.0.MBCMIDG (MIUI 8)
• 6.12.1 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_6.12.1 (MIUI8)
• 6.11.17 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_6.11.17 (MIUI8)
• 8.1.2.0 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_V8.1.2.0.MBCMIDG (MIUI 8)
• 6.11.10 Recovery ROM – MIMAXGlobal_6.11.10 (MIUI8)

Download BETA Android 7 ROMS for Mi Max

• Recovery ROM 7.1.19 – MIMAXGlobal_V7.1.19 (beta)
• Recovery ROM 7.1.12 – MIMAXGlobal_V7.1.12 (beta)
• Fastboot – hydrogen_global_images_V7.1.12 (beta)

The post [News] MIUI 8.2 Global Stable ROM is getting released! appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

With this guide you can also easily restore your Xiaomi Mi Max to factory settings. Just in case of a failed experiments with installing custom ROM, or you just need to have to start all over again. Using XiaoMiFlash you can also flash Xiaomi Mi Max from China Stable to Global Stable ROM.

Note! Only for unlocked bootloader!

Flashing fastboot ROM on Xiaomi Mi Max with ulocked bootloader

You can download latest Xiaomi Mi Max Fastboot File here – http://en.miui.com/a-234.html

1. Download and install XiaoMiFlash on your PC.
2. Download and unpack required fastboot ROM .rar archive.
3. Extract ROM files in C:/xiaomimax (or any other, but use short folder name).

   

4. Start XiaoMiFlash, start your device in fastboot mode and connect to PC.
5. Select downloaded ROM folder on C:/ drive.

   

6. Press “Refresh” to check if device is connected properly.
7. Select “Clean all” (will result to format of all partitions). “Save user data” can also be used, but only if you’re flashing to the same version of ROM.

   

8. Press “flash” to start ROM installation. After installation device will automatically reboot.

The post How to flash Xiaomi Mi Max Fastboot ROM using MiFlash appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

How to put MIUI 8 Xiaomi Mi Max into EDL mode?

Note, that you must have unlocked device to continue.

Just in case, you can check bootloader starus by typing this line in CMD window from ADB tools folder:

fastboot oem device-info

If “Device unlocked: true” you can continue following these steps to boot into EDL mode.

Put Xiaomi Mi Max into EDL mode using keys

You’ll need to download Minimal ADB and Fastboot Tool (tools.rar) and extract it to your PC. Open folder with Minimal Fastboot Files, press right mouse button + “shift” key and select “Open command window here”.

1. Turn off your device.
2. Press & hold “Volume Up”, “Volume Down” and “Power” buttons. As soon as device will start, release the “Power” button and keep holding both volume buttons. Release all buttons after vibration signal.
3. Watch your phone boots into EDL mode.
4. Your device should be recognized as “relink hs-usb QDLoader 9008 (COM4)” or similar.
5. Now start MiFlash to check if your device is found and identified successfully.

Put Xiaomi Mi Max into EDL mode using fastboot

1. Open command window from Minimal ADB and Fastboot Tool folder.
2. Check connection to PC by typing this line in CMD:

   fastboot devices

3. Put your device in EDL mode by typing fastboot oem edl:

   fastboot oem edl

4. Now go to “Device Manager” and find “relink hs-usb QDLoader 9008 (COM4)” under “Ports”.
5. You’ve successfully booted into EDL mode!

The post [Guide] How to boot Xiaomi Mi Max into EDL Mode appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

Note! This guide is written only for unlocked devices. To unlock your Mi Max follow to official website.

This guide was tested and written using TWRP_Hydrogen_3.0.2.2_All_061816.zip and UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.76-20160630161323.zip. It probably might also work with other versions.

Flash Global ROM on Xiaomi Mi Max

After this method your device will not be accessible to get updates via OTA. Updates are possible by manually downloading updates and flashing them with TWRP and SuperSU.

Remember to backup your personal data!

• • Download TWRP_Hydrogen_3.0.2.2 and boot your device in recovery mode.
    • In case you’ve just unlocked your device, install TWRP through fastboot mode.
    • In case you’ve got previously installed versions of TWRP, download and extract TWRP_Hydrogen_3.0.2.2_All. Move the folder to your phone storage and flash the image using already installed TWRP recovery. Don’t forget to reboot after flashing and voila, the new TWRP is installed.
  • Download UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.76-20160630161323.zip and move this archive to your phone storage.
  • Download Global ROM for Recovery and also move it to the phone storage.
  • Don’t forget about data backups, and also don’t forget to disable fingerprint or pin locks.
  • Wipe Data, Cache and Dalvik partitions.
  • Flash Global ROM.
  • Clear all caches after successful flashing.
  • Don’t reboot now and return to “Flash zip” menu and install Super SU by selecting .zip archive.
  • Press “Reboot in OS” and wait for system to start.
  • Now we’ve got Global ROM flashed, with root and TWRP. All data on flash memory is saved, including backup.

How to flash Xiaomi Mi Max To Global ROM and have working OTA updates

Working only unlocked devices!

In this guide we will show how to flash Mi Max to Global ROM from any ROM version you currently have flashed (doesn’t matter if you have Official, Chinese, Custom localized MultiROM or xiaomi.eu version). All personal data, including installed applications, call history and messages will be saved. We will get ROOT along the way and also show you solution how to restore ability to receive and install updates via OTA.

Flashing Global ROM on Mi Max without removing personal DATA

• Download latest stable version of Global ROM, unzip to C:\ and rename the unzipped folder to make the name shorten.
• Download & install Xiaomi Mi Flash Tool Version 6.8.30 – MiFlashSetup-Beta.zip
• Run this app after installing. Start your phone in fastboot mode (turn off your device first, then hold power button and volume button down).
• Now connect your device to PC via USB cable and in XiaoMiFlash select the folder where’s your downloaded ROM is located.
• Now pay attention to this steps:
  1. Check if your device is connected by pressing “Refresh”
  2. Select mode: clear all – format of every partition, this will lead to absolutely “clear” installation of Global ROM (Note! This is actually the most recommended and easy way for newbies to flash). save user data – save everything from DATA partition (we’ll choose this method during this guide). clean all and lock – this option will delete data from every partition and lock the bootloader (we’ll stay away from this option).
  3. Press “Flash” to start flashing process. At the end of installation, the phone will reboot itself into the system.
  4. That’s it! You’ve installed Global ROM on your Redmi 4. And all your personal data has been saved! This including all your previously installed software (with backup).

Getting ROOT and OTA updates on Redmi 4 Global ROM

For this tutorial we’ll need:

• Tools for adb/fastboot: tools.rar
• TWRP image: TWRP_Hydrogen_3.0.2.2_All_061816.zip
• SuperSU: SuperSU-v2.79-SR2.apk or UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.76-20160630161323.zip
• OTG flash card (you can get these pretty cheap at aliexpress)

So let’s start:

1. Extract the tools.rar in C:\tools and copy TWRP image there. Press Shift + RMB and run the command window.
2. Start your device in “fastboot”, connect device to PC and check the connection by typing this command:

   fastboot device

3. Just in case you may want to check bootloader status (remember, this guide is only for devices with unlocked bootloader):

   fastboot oem device-info

4. Boot your phone in TWRP (this way we won’t install TWRP, but just boot it once).

   fastboot boot twrp-3.0.2-2-hydrogen.img

5. It will take around 3-5 minutes to boot in TWRP.
6. You should be asked to “Enter Password”, press “Cancel” here.
7. Accept with file system changes by doing right swap.
8. Now you’re in main menu. Press “Mount”.
9. Connect OTG flash card and select these options: System, Cache, Cust, Firmware, Persist, USB OTG.
10. Press “Enable MTP” first and then press “Select Drive”.
11. In the modal menu select “USB OTG”.
12. Now select the required SuperSU from flash card and install it. Reboot after installation process is completed.
13. Congratulations! Now you’ve got Global ROM with stock recovery, root and working OTA updates on your Xiaomi Mi Max.

Download links

• TWRP_Hydrogen_3.0.2.2: TWRP_Hydrogen_3.0.2.2_All_061816.zip
• SuperSU v2.76: UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.76-20160630161323.zip
• SuperSU v2.79: SuperSU-v2.79-SR2.apk
• Xiaomi Mi Flash Tool Version 6.8.30: MiFlashSetup-Beta.zip
• Tools for adb/fastboot: tools.rar

The post How to flash Xiaomi Mi Max to Global ROM + ROOT with TWRP appeared first on Xiaomi Firmware.

It’s quite fascinating to see meteoric rises and dramatic falls in the tech world. Until a year ago, the term ‘Xiaomi’ would have been rebuked as an obscure name from a third world Asian country by most people outside Asia. Cut to the present, the smartphone manufacturer dubbed as the ‘Apple of the east’ has already beaten Apple and Samsung in China and is now among the top 10 smartphone manufacturers in the world. It was in the top 5 until a month ago.

And now folks, Xiaomi has its eyes set on Uncle Sam himself. If experts are to be believed, it is all set to deliver a sucker punch to the extremely volatile Android market in the US with its feature packed phones at ridiculously low price points.

America and the west can’t stop drooling but very little is known about Xiaomi’s phones in this part of the world. If you have been contemplating getting yourself a Xiaomi smartphone but had no idea which model to buy or what separates one from the other, then this guide is going to help you understand the basics of Xiaomi including its various smartphone ranges like MI and Redmi.

What makes Xiaomi smartphones so popular?

For a long time, the market for smartphones in China was dominated by phones in the two extreme ends of the price point. At one end, there were the Apples and the Samsungs fighting it out for dominance and at the other end, there were unnamed pirated phones which had no quality control or guarantees.  If it refused to work out-of-the-box, the best you could do was bear it with a smirk. What China (and the rest of the world to be honest) needed was a smartphone brand that could club quality components, a user friendly UI and rock-bottom prices without tradeoffs.

Xiaomi’s entry filled that void to such an extent, that the company has been setting new records for preorders.
There are two ranges of phones from Xiaomi that you need to be aware of.

1. MI Range: Often dubbed as the premium range of smartphones from Xiaomi, the MI range was the flagship range for the company in its initial years. The features of these phones include super fast processors, great quality cameras and an incredibly sleek design with a camera that nests inside the casing and does not protrude. The MI 1 was the first phone in this range and the most recent addition has been the MI 5.
2. Redmi: The Redmi range which became an overnight rage following the success of the Redmi Note is focused on the budget-minded customer without cutting too many corners. Everything from the MIUI interface to the customer-focused features, Redmi will give you the user friendliness of an Apple at less than half the price.

Today, we take a look at the best of Xiaomi’s offerings in the market circa 2017. These include smartphones from both the ranges that we spoke about and are considered to be the best smartphones at these price points even when compared against much higher priced brands like Google, Apple, Samsung and Motorola.

#1 – Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro 32Gb

The Redmi Note 3 is the smartphone that put Xiaomi in the spotlight at a global level. The world suddenly sat up and took notice for here was a phone that boasted of a 5.5 inch full HD display, a hexa-core Snapdragon 650, Xiaomi’s own MIUI 7, a 16 MP rear camera, a 5 MP front camera and yet, was priced just over $150.

There had to be a catch. But naysayers were soon disappointed due to the apparent lack of nits to pick as the Note 3 became one of Xiaomi’s bestselling phones ever.

Metallic Body

How many times have you seen an all-metal chassis in a budget priced smartphone? Xiaomi officially enters the turf that was reserved for high end smartphone models from Sony with the aluminum Ingot casing that weighs a feeble 164 grams.

Super fast processor

The Redmi Note 3 stays true to its brand promise and packs in a 1.4GHz hexa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 which not only ensures super fast applications but also ensures that there are no lags while playing resource intensive games.

Excellent battery life

The recently launched Samsung S7 Edge which retails for over $750 has a 3600 mAH battery while the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 has a 4000 mAH battery. Need we say more?

Crisp and vibrant pictures

The 16 MP rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture produces razor sharp images with excellent color reproduction. The 4 MP front camera is not the best feature of the phone but the quality is good enough for both selfie crazies as well as business video calls. The HD display with the 1,920 x 1,080 and 403ppi make a vivid combo that results in crystal clear viewing.

Verdict: Unbeatable package! Until Xiaomi or some competitor manages to surpass the impeccably high standards set by the Note 3, this offers unbeatable value for money. Save yourself a few hundred dollars and grab the Redmi Note 3 while it is still available for purchase.

#2 – Xiaomi Redmi 3S 16Gb

With the Redmi 4 popping its head over the horizon, it was expected to be a bumpy ride for the Redmi 3S to carve a position for itself in the market. The fact that it is the last phone from the third generation of Redmi didn’t seem reassuring either. But as always Xiaomi pulled a rabbit out of the hat and the Redmi 3S has been a roaring success.

Available in two versions, the Redmi 3S and the Redmi 3S Prime, the smartphone boasts of Redmi’s trademark metal shell, an all new MIUI 8 and a whopping 4100 mAh battery.

A worthy upgrade to the Redmi 3

When you are working to upgrade a successful smartphone, you are treading a thin line. But Xiaomi’s Redmi 3S is every bit worth the upgrade. They have tweaked the design a tad, added a swanky new processor and a fingerprint scanner. At the price point, this is a steal.

The 5 inch HD screen remains unchanged in the 3S and despite the lower resolution, the IPS tech delivers a great viewing experience with realistic color representation and flawless viewing angles.

Good battery, Responsive performance

A review of the Redmi 3S would be incomplete without mentioning the 4100 mAh battery. There’s more juice in the phone than most $1000 smartphones in the market. You wont be left groping for your power bank in the middle of performing important tasks for sure.

The all-new Snapdragon 430 with the 64-bit octa-core chip and the 2GB RAM make this one of the fastest smartphones. The apps load fast, the camera responds at a touch and there are no jitters or delays during games. Cannot ask for more.

Verdict: The best smartphone under $100! That’s what GSM Arena rated it too. Do yourself a favor and gift yourself one of these. It will be the best $100 you will ever spend on a smartphone.

#3 – Xiaomi Redmi Pro 64GB

Just when we thought that Xiaomi couldn’t better itself, it comes up with the Redmi Pro, which is a beast of a phablet by any standards. This is as feature rich as they come but yet, is surprisingly different from most of Xiaomi’s Redmi and MI range of smartphones. At the forefront of the laundry list of features is a dual camera, 5.5in OLED display, 10 cores and USB-C connectivity, once again at a mid budget range.

A commanding presence

The Redmi Pro is not petite. But it was never intended to be so. The brushed metal chassis is 8.2mm in thickness and it weighs 174 grams. But the beautiful curves which is retained from the Xiaomi MI 5 ensures that the ergonomics are taken care of. You can hold, lift and click pictures with ease without the risk of the phone fumbling out of your hands. Also, despite the size, it slips effortlessly into your pockets.

The iPhone Turf

When HTC started the dual camera trend, it quickly caught on and the latest one to sport it is the iPhone 7. Redmi Pro is Xiaomi’s first phone to feature this with a 13 MP main camera and a 5 MP second camera which club to give you excellent pictures with depth of field. You can mimic the bokeh effect that DSLR cameras are famed for.

There’s ample scope for playing around with the images to achieve the results that you desire. This alone is one reason to put this on your wish list.

Also, this is Xiaomi’s first foray into the world of AMOLED screens and we are certainly not complaining. The 1,920 x 1,080 resolution delivers an excellent viewing experience for both streaming videos as well as games.

Last but not the least; the MediaTek Helio X20 with 3GB and 10 cores delivers a smooth and fluid experience with apps and games.

Verdict: If you wanted a phablet that is packed with featured but priced under $300, you’ve just found your best choice. The Xiaomi Redmi Pro 3 is truly a beast.

#4 – Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 64Gb

To push the envelope on a premise that has been a wild success is no mean feat. But count it on Xiaomi to make it happen every single time. The Redmi Note 4 is another amazingly feature rich smartphone from their stable with a very desirable price tag.

The feature set is highlighted by 64GB storage and 3GB RAM, a 5 megapixel front camera with f/2.0 aperture, an IR blaster and 4,100mAh battery.

Sturdier metal body

Ever since the Note 3, there has been an upgrade in the manufacturing procedure at Xiaomi which is evident in the metallic body (solid aluminum ingot) which is clearly better quality. The trade off is that it’s slightly heavier too at 175g but the difference is only meager. And it is still lighter than the iPhone 7 Plus.

Crisp and colorful display

The 5.5-inch display with the 2.5D arc glass makes for a pleasurable viewing experience with great colors and perfect angles. Even when tested in bright outdoor sunlight, the display is on par with what you’d normally expect from high end phones.

Fast processor

On the 3GB Ram version, the MediaTek Helio X20 processor is lightning fast. Everything from multi-tabbed browsing to multitasking with apps is a breeze. You wont experience lags or delays even while enjoying graphic-heavy games.

Mediocre camera

We hate to say this, but the camera on the Redmi Note 4 is a letdown especially when you pit it against the amazing camera on some of its predecessors. That’s despite the dual LED flash. But if clicking photographs is not your primary use of your smartphone, you’d have no nits to pick with the Redmi Note 4.

Verdict: The Redmi Note 4 is a worthy successor to the Note 3. The beefed up storage, the faster processor and the improved design make it a great buy for a few dollars more.

#5 – Xiaomi Mi Max 32Gb

The Mi Max is Xiaomi’s entry into official Tablet territory that was for long dominated by Samsung’s Tab series. It sports a massive 6.44 inch HD display, dual LED flash, a fingerprint sensor, hexa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 and 3GB of RAM.

It borrows some of the specifications from the immensely popular Redmi Note 3 and amps it up to create one beefy phablet that you’d love to carry for both professional as well as leisure uses.

Practical Design with a great display

The all-metal construction clubbed with the massive screen make the Mi Max a beefy phone. It is a tad heavier than normal smartphones too at 203g.

But to make up for the bigger size, Xiaomi gives it a minimalistic design and slim profile (7.5mm) with rounded edges that make for comfortable carrying and one-handed typing. Xiaomi has integrated a ‘One handed mode’ in the settings which makes it easier to type with one hand by shrinking the contents of the screen to a smaller area.

The display with Xiaomi’s Sunlight Display tech makes for crystal clear viewing even on a bright and sunny day outdoors.

4K video recording and a massive battery

Both, the rear 16 MP camera as well as the 5 MP front cameras deliver amazing picture quality. The images are sharp with excellent detailing around the edges. Xiaomi has clearly put some work behind this, which was one of the features where it was found lacking.

Powering this huge phone is a massive 4850mAh battery which will keep the phone running for two to three days even with active usage. On the usage front, both the MIUI 7 and the Snapdragon 650 keep things pleasing and blazing fast.

Verdict: With an excellent build quality, great display and a massive battery, the Mi Max is a dream come true for people looking for a big sized phablet with a budget price tag.

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