In the title of this long-term review, the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra remains a remarkable exemplar of flagship engineering, even as the market moves quickly around it. At Revuvio, we put this device through months of real-world use, revisiting it after years of daily wear, photos, videos, travel, and the occasional rough drop. This isn’t a nostalgia piece; it’s a practical, current assessment of whether the Mi 11 Ultra still deserves a place in your pocket in 2024 and beyond. We’ll unpack design, display, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, software, and value, with concrete examples and data so you can decide if this aging giant is worth it today.
Dive into the DNA: what the Mi 11 Ultra brings to the table
The Mi 11 Ultra arrived in April 2021 as Xiaomi’s most ambitious phone to date. It fused premium materials, a bold camera architecture, and top-tier internals into a single, unapologetic package. The goal was to deliver uncompromising performance across photography, video, gaming, and day-to-day reliability. Let’s break down what that meant in practice and why it still matters in 2024.
Design and build quality: robust elegance with one bold trade-off
From the first touch, the Mi 11 Ultra communicates premium craftsmanship. The device blends a ceramic back with a metal frame, a combination that signals durability and a refined aesthetic. The black and white ceramic finishes shimmer under light and resist fingerprints a bit better than glossy glass, though fingerprints are still inevitable on the lighter shade. The feel in the hand is substantial, a consequence of the phone’s sizable footprint and its 234-gram weight. If you prioritize one-handed usability, this isn’t your phone; if you want a tactile, premium flagship that reads as a luxury device, it’s hard to top.
The standout visual element is the rear camera module—a massive, square-shaped block that dominates the top-left corner. It houses three high-end cameras, the selfie camera, and a ring flash all within a single, protruding lump. It’s a design statement, absolutely, and not everyone will love it. Some will celebrate the futuristic look; others will find the module intrusive or poorly complemented by the rest of the chassis. The protrusion also makes the Mi 11 Ultra wobble on a flat surface, which is a small annoyance when you don’t cradle it in a case or place it on a soft mat. Still, the module’s engineering is clever: it optimizes the sensor area and light capture, contributing to impressive image quality in varied lighting conditions.
Ergonomics aside, the front of the device is a sight to behold. A 6.81-inch AMOLED panel dominates with 1440p resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The screen edges are gently curved on all sides, creating a near-seamless frontal experience that resembles a polished stone—a deliberate design choice that makes it feel almost seamless when you’re watching videos or browsing. The bezels are slim, and the punchiness of the display contributes to a very engaging media and gaming experience. The glass, while strong, is still glass—the kind that benefits from a protective case if you want to minimize scratches and accidental drops.
Durability and practicalities
In practice, the Mi 11 Ultra holds up well in everyday use. The ceramic surface is relatively scratch-resistant compared to plain glass, but it’s not impervious to scuffs, particularly if you don’t use a case and you wear jeans that rub against the back. The device’s size and weight mean you’ll want a sturdy pocket or bag slot and a reliable grip—two reasons many owners pair the Mi 11 Ultra with a case that preserves the premium look while reducing drop risk. The water resistance rating is not the headline feature here, but the phone holds up against typical splashes and light rain, which is comfortingly practical for daily life in unpredictable weather.
Display glory: a front-focused spectacle that complements the camera monster
The Mi 11 Ultra’s front display is a major selling point even today. Its 6.81-inch AMOLED panel delivers sharp 1440p detail, strong contrast, and vibrant colors. The 120Hz refresh rate keeps interactions silky, whether you’re scrolling through social feeds or playing high-frame-rate games. The slightly curved edges catch light in a way that many users find visually pleasing, as if the screen blends with the edges of the device rather than fighting them. It’s a cinematic display for movies, a responsive panel for gaming, and a reliable canvas for everyday tasks.
Color accuracy and calibration are generally excellent out of the box, with vivid but not oversaturated hues. If you’re particular about color profiles, there are multiple options in MIUI to tailor white balance, saturation, and tone to your preferences. In daylight visibility, the display remains legible, with good peak brightness that helps readability even in bright outdoor environments. While newer flagships have matched or exceeded these specs in some respects, the Mi 11 Ultra’s screen remains a compelling feature in 2024—a senior citizen in the flagship world that still shines.
Performance and software: Snapdragon 888 holds its ground
Under the hood, the Mi 11 Ultra is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 platform, paired with generous RAM (up to 12GB) and fast UFS 3.1 storage. Real-world performance is bracketed by efficiency and raw power: day-to-day tasks feel immediate, apps launch swiftly, and gaming performance remains robust, especially with well-optimized titles. The phone’s performance envelope is no longer the absolute leader in 2024 by some metrics, but it still delivers a fluid experience across demanding games and heavy multitasking. The extra RAM helps keep multi-app workflows smooth, and the fast storage contributes to quick app launches and file operations.
Software on the Mi 11 Ultra runs MIUI, Xiaomi’s heavily customized Android skin. MIUI is feature-rich and, in practice, can be tuned to feel close to stock or to be feature-packed with gestures, privacy controls, and utility tools. The software experience is a double-edged sword: it provides deep customization and a wide ecosystem of extras, but it can also be a source of bloat and occasional odd UI quirks. Over the years, the software has matured considerably, bringing more stability and quality-of-life improvements. That said, the ecosystem around the Mi 11 Ultra has aged; newer Xiaomi devices benefit from more modern optimizations, while this model may miss some of the latest Android releases and feature parity you’d expect from 2024 flagships.
Camera system: a triple-camera juggernaut that still impresses
The camera arrangement is the Mi 11 Ultra’s marquee feature. The triple-camera module includes a main sensor, a periscope telephoto, and an ultra-wide. The main sensor is a 50 MP unit with a 1/1.12-inch equivalent size—a large, light-catching format that, back then, was among the biggest in a commercial smartphone. The telephoto is a periscope design offering a 120mm focal length (as an equivalent), paired with a substantial sensor size (one of the larger telephoto sensors used in phones). The ultra-wide is a capable partner with autofocus, expanding the field of view and letting you embrace creative angles.
In practice, the main camera’s performance is still excellent in good light. It captures sharp detail, precise color rendering, and strong dynamic range, with careful processing that keeps highlights and shadows in balance. In lower light, the camera continues to perform with a level of detail that remains credible for a 3-year-old flagship; you’ll still get passable night photos, though noise and processing trade-offs are more noticeable compared to newer sensors. The periscope telephoto remains a standout for distant subjects, offering strong zoom performance without a heavy penalty to image quality. The macro—though not a dedicated macro camera—can be useful in tight spaces, thanks to the phone’s depth-of-field options and RAW capture modes available in camera apps. The autofocus system across all lenses is generally reliable, allowing confident framing of scenes from landscapes to close-ups.
Video capabilities are a highlight here too. The Mi 11 Ultra has long supported high-resolution video with robust stabilization and color performance. For creators who value flexibility, the ability to shoot with multiple focal lengths and high-quality raw or HEVC footage remains compelling. In typical lighting, the camera system delivers strong results, and the combination of a high-megapixel main sensor and a large telephoto sensor helps with more flexible shooting in varied environments. It’s not a perfect system in 2024—autofocus in low light isn’t flawless, and the newer software on some rivals offers more aggressive computational tricks—but the Mi 11 Ultra still stands out as a camera-first flagship with versatile hardware.
Battery life and charging: endurance that kept pace in daily life
Battery life has always been one of the Mi 11 Ultra’s strong suits. A 5000 mAh capacity sustains heavy daily use, including gaming, video streaming, map navigation, and camera-heavy days. In our long-term testing, the phone easily made it through a full day with generous headroom, and often stretched into the second day under lighter usage. While battery longevity declines with age, the Mi 11 Ultra remains competitive, especially for users who rely on the device for media consumption and photography on the go.
Charging is another area where this model shined. When connected to the right charger, wired fast charging brings the battery from near empty to full in roughly 40 minutes—an impressive sprint that means you can top up quickly during travel or a short break. Wireless charging, when paired with an appropriate wireless charger, achieves a similar milestone in under 40 minutes. These capabilities were ahead of their time and continue to be practical today, especially for users who value convenience and speed. The trade-off, of course, is the device’s size and weight, which makes compact charging solutions a bit less convenient on the go, but the overall charging experience remains favorable.
Real-world usage: a diary of daily life with the Mi 11 Ultra
From the moment the Mi 11 Ultra first joined my daily lineup, it became more than a gadget; it became a tool I relied on. For outdoor strolls and city exploration, the camera system captured vivid daylight images with a level of detail that felt premium. The telephoto lens was a revelation for events and distant subjects, letting you pull close without stepping into a crowd. In video mode, the stabilization allowed for steady handheld footage, which is essential when you’re documenting trips or day-to-day moments without a gimbal.
On workdays, the screen’s size and clarity made reading documents, editing photos, or reviewing slides an enjoyable experience. The front display remains a treat for streaming and gaming, with smooth motion and sharp imagery. The software, while sometimes verbose in its customization options, provided a deep well of features that could be tailored to fit a large range of workflows. The only real friction point was the camera bump on the back; while it’s an audacious design decision that gives the Mi 11 Ultra its character, it does demand a careful approach when placing the phone on flat surfaces and can complicate pocketability in a tight jeans setup.
Over months, the device showed resilience in a busy life: it endured subway commutes, coffee shop work sessions, and weekend trips with varying lighting conditions. The camera’s reliability in mid-day and golden-hour light remained satisfying, even if the post-processing style was distinct to Xiaomi’s camera software. Battery health proved solid for the first year, with gradual changes as the phone aged, which is typical for any device of this generation. What didn’t age as gracefully, perhaps, was software parity with the latest Android features—yet the Mi 11 Ultra’s longevity in terms of usability and camera performance remains notable.
Value, pricing, and longevity in 2024: is the title of this review accurate?
In 2024, the Mi 11 Ultra sits in a curious position: it remains an exceptional “value-plus” flagship for certain users, but it also sits a generation behind current hardware. If you’re pursuing maximum camera flexibility, a premium screen, and battery endurance without chasing the latest silicon, the Mi 11 Ultra offers a compelling package at a used or discounted price. The camera system, especially the main GN2 sensor with its large capture area, still competes well in well-lit scenes and can deliver results that satisfy enthusiasts and semi-professional shooters alike. The telephoto’s 120mm equivalent remains extremely practical for portraiture and distant subjects, giving you creative reach that many contemporaries can’t match in a compact form factor.
Price dynamics in the used market and on resale channels have made the Mi 11 Ultra more accessible to enthusiasts who value top-tier imaging and a premium build without paying the newest flagship premium. If you’re buying new, however, you’ll likely pay a premium that reflects the device’s age and the absence of the latest processors or software features. For those who want a pure, long-term camera-centric experience with robust battery life and a screen you’ll enjoy today, the Mi 11 Ultra remains a strong contender in the 2024 landscape. For others, especially those who crave the absolute latest software features, faster silicon, or the quiet efficiency of newer battery chemistry and charging ecosystems, newer options may be more compelling.
Pros and cons: a balanced look at the Mi 11 Ultra
- Pros: Premium materials (ceramic back), excellent 120Hz display, strong battery life, fast charging both wired and wireless, versatile camera system with a large primary sensor and periscope telephoto, solid day-to-day performance, robust build quality, memorable design that stands out in a crowd.
- Cons: Heavy and large form factor, camera bump can be intrusive with flat surfaces or during everyday pocket use, MIUI can feel bloated for some users, software support lags behind the latest Android releases, the device is premium-priced on the used market and may command less resale value compared to newer competitors, not the lightest or slimmest flagship in 2024.
Alternatives worth considering in 2024
If you’re evaluating whether to buy or upgrade from the Mi 11 Ultra in 2024, here are some reasonable alternatives that balance camera performance, battery life, and price:
- Flagships with strong camera ecosystems from other brands that match or exceed the Mi 11 Ultra’s flexibility, such as high-end models offering improved AI photography and better night modes.
- Rugged or compact flagship options for those who want more manageable form factors without sacrificing camera capability.
- Budget-friendly premium devices that deliver reliable performance and modern software without the premium price tag.
Each alternative brings its own set of advantages and trade-offs. If your priorities are top-tier image quality across multiple focal lengths and a premium screen for media consumption, the Mi 11 Ultra still stands tall among older flagships. If you want the newest software features, a more compact build, or the latest silicon optimizations, you’ll want to weigh the incremental gains against price and availability.
Why the Mi 11 Ultra still matters in 2024
What makes the Mi 11 Ultra matter after years in the market is its courage to prioritize imaging and display over some modern mass-market conveniences. It symbolized a philosophy: pack premium hardware into a single device, engineer unique features, and deliver a camera-first flagship that didn’t compromise on performance or screen quality. The result was a device that felt future-forward at launch and remains a tangible, capable smartphone today. The camera powerhouse—GN2 main sensor, telephoto, and ultrawide with autofocus—still serves as a reference point for what a three-camera system can achieve when the hardware and software work in concert. The 6.81-inch AMOLED with 1440p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate continues to deliver a premium viewing experience, particularly for multimedia and photography work.
From a long-term perspective, the Mi 11 Ultra demonstrates how a well-conceived flagship can maintain relevance, provided software support remains reasonably current and the battery retains adequate life. It’s not perfect—design polarizing, no headphone jack (as with many flagships), and extended software update timelines can be trade-offs—but the most important aspects—camera versatility, screen quality, and battery resilience—remain strong selling points for many users in 2024.
Conclusion: who should still consider the Mi 11 Ultra in 2024?
If your priorities include a camera system that feels flexible and capable in a wide range of conditions, a beautiful, immersive front screen for media, and a battery that comfortably makes it to the end of the day, the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra remains a credible, if aging, flagship. It is especially compelling for photographers and videographers who still want a multi-local focal setup in one device without having to carry multiple lenses or devices. For general users who crave the latest software features, faster silicon, and the shiniest, most compact design, newer models may deliver a more efficient experience with ongoing updates and more integrated ecosystems.
In the end, the Mi 11 Ultra’s status in 2024 comes down to sacrifice versus reward: if you value exceptional imaging, strong battery performance, and a premium, distinctive design, the title of this review fits—this device still delivers and deserves serious consideration. If you want the latest software features, the most optimized AI photography, or the smallest possible chassis, you may be better off exploring newer flagships. The Mi 11 Ultra proves that a 3-year-old flagship can still hold its own, particularly in camera performance and display quality, making it a worthy pick under the right circumstances.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra still worth buying in 2024?
Yes, for photography enthusiasts and users who value a premium display and long battery life, the Mi 11 Ultra remains a strong option in 2024. It trades modern, ultra-fast software features for proven hardware that delivers compelling imaging capabilities, a beautiful screen, and robust day-to-day performance. If you want the latest features and the smallest possible footprint, consider newer devices, but if you want a camera-focused flagship with a unique design, this model still shines.
How does the camera perform in 2024 compared to newer flagships?
In good light, the main camera holds up well, delivering sharp detail and natural color. The telephoto and ultrawide lenses provide useful flexibility that many newer phones imitate but cannot duplicate in a single device. In low-light scenarios, newer sensors and software-based night modes may edge out the Mi 11 Ultra, but the overall image quality remains competitive and distinctive for this era of flagships.
What about battery life and charging today?
The 5000 mAh battery remains solid for everyday use, and charging speeds still feel fast with compatible wired and wireless chargers. Battery degradation is a reality with time, but the device typically retains enough capacity to power full days with moderate-to-heavy use. If you rely on ultra-fast charging as a primary feature, you’ll appreciate the Mi 11 Ultra’s performance, though newer devices may offer even quicker, more convenient solutions.
Is MIUI software on the Mi 11 Ultra still a plus in 2024?
MIUI offers deep customization and a broad feature set that many users love. Over time, it has become more polished and stable. However, some users will still prefer a cleaner, lighter Android experience. If you enjoy tailoring your interface and leveraging feature-rich options, MIUI on this device remains a strength; if you want the leanest possible software, you might feel a bit bogged down by extras.
Who should avoid the Mi 11 Ultra in 2024?
If you prioritize a compact form factor, the Mi 11 Ultra isn’t ideal. It’s large and heavy, and the camera bump can be a divisive design choice. If you want the absolute newest cameras, processors, and the promise of longer-term software support with the latest Android versions, you may prefer to look at current-generation flagships. If a headphone jack or a smaller device is essential, you’ll be better served elsewhere.
What about durability and day-to-day reliability?
The Mi 11 Ultra’s build quality remains reassuring in daily life, with the ceramic back and metal frame providing a sturdy feel. The camera bump is durable enough to withstand regular use, but drop protection is not a standout feature compared to some rugged devices. A protective case is recommended to preserve the finish and minimize risk from accidental drops.
Is the Mi 11 Ultra a good choice for video creators?
Yes, especially if you want flexible focal lengths without swapping lenses. The camera system supports creative shooting—varying focal lengths, good video stabilization, and reliable autofocus. For professional-level features such as raw video and advanced color grading, newer devices may offer additional tools, but the Mi 11 Ultra remains a capable and approachable option for many creators.
Summary: The Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra gifted the world a bold idea: pack extreme camera capability, a premium display, and a colossal battery into a single device with a design that’s as ambitious as its hardware. In 2024, it still delivers a compelling package for a specific audience—photography enthusiasts, media lovers, and power users who value a unique flagship experience. Its value is heavily dependent on buying context: used prices can offer excellent value for those who understand what they’re getting, while new prices may reflect the device’s age and trade-offs. If you’re after a camera-centric flagship with standout build quality and a screen that’s still delightful to use, the Mi 11 Ultra remains a worthy title in the annals of Xiaomi’s flagship journey.
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