iPhone 15 Plus Vs Xiaomi 13T

iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Plus
Starting at

Refurbished price:421.00

Versus €979.00 new

See options
Xiaomi 13T
Xiaomi 13T
Starting at

Refurbished price:183.00

Versus €630.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 15 Plus, released in September 2023, and the Xiaomi 13T, launched in September 2023, are both modern smartphones offering distinct user experiences. While the iPhone 15 Plus operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Xiaomi 13T runs on Android with Xiaomi's custom interface. Key differentiators between these two devices include their display refresh rates, camera philosophies, and overall software approaches.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of a smartphone, software support and physical resilience are important factors. Both devices offer robust build quality and a commitment to software updates, though their approaches differ.

  • Software Longevity: Apple is known for providing extensive iOS updates, typically supporting iPhones for around five to seven years with major OS upgrades and even longer for security patches. The iPhone 15 Plus is expected to receive updates until approximately 2035. Xiaomi has committed to four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security patches for the Xiaomi 13T, offering a solid, though shorter, support period compared to the iPhone.
  • Physical Durability: Both the iPhone 15 Plus and the Xiaomi 13T feature an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. This means they are designed to withstand submersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, with the iPhone 15 Plus specifically rated for up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone 15 Plus also incorporates a Ceramic Shield front cover for enhanced screen protection, while the Xiaomi 13T uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
  • Repairability: While specific repairability scores can vary by region and independent assessments, both manufacturers offer repair services. The availability of quality-assured refurbished options for both models can extend their practical lifespan, offering a sustainable choice for users.

Year of Release

2023

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from casual browsing to demanding applications and gaming. Both the iPhone 15 Plus and the Xiaomi 13T are equipped to handle a wide range of activities, though they achieve this with different underlying architectures.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 15 Plus is powered by a capable processor that ensures smooth operation across applications, efficient multitasking, and responsive gaming experiences. Users can expect consistent performance even with graphically intensive games and complex productivity apps. The Xiaomi 13T features a processor designed for power efficiency and strong performance, capable of handling various tasks from web browsing to intensive gaming without noticeable lag.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The iPhone 15 Plus comes with ample internal storage options, typically ranging from 128GB to 512GB, providing significant space for apps, photos, and videos. Its system is optimized for efficient memory management, contributing to fluid app switching. The Xiaomi 13T offers storage configurations, often including 256GB, and is paired with sufficient RAM to support smooth multitasking and app performance.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 15 Plus is recognized for its extended battery life, often lasting more than a full day of heavy use and potentially up to two days with moderate usage. This makes it well-suited for users who prioritize long periods away from a charger. The Xiaomi 13T, with its large battery capacity, generally provides a full day of mixed usage, though heavy users might find themselves needing to charge it by the evening.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and both devices offer vibrant and clear viewing experiences, albeit with some key differences in technology and refresh rates.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 15 Plus features a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and a high resolution of 2796 x 1290 pixels at approximately 460 pixels per inch. This results in sharp and detailed visuals. The Xiaomi 13T sports a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2712 x 1220 pixels, providing a clear and immersive viewing experience with good color reproduction and deep blacks.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: Both phones offer excellent brightness levels. The iPhone 15 Plus can reach a peak outdoor brightness of up to 2000 nits, ensuring good visibility even under direct sunlight. The Xiaomi 13T also boasts high peak brightness, reaching up to 2600 nits, making it comfortable to use in bright outdoor conditions.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A notable difference lies in the refresh rate. The iPhone 15 Plus has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which provides a consistent but less fluid scrolling experience compared to higher refresh rate displays. In contrast, the Xiaomi 13T features an adaptive refresh rate of up to 144Hz, which dynamically adjusts to content, offering a noticeably smoother experience for scrolling, gaming, and general interface navigation.

Resolution

1290 x 2796

1220 x 2712

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Both the iPhone 15 Plus and the Xiaomi 13T offer capable camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, each with its own strengths and features.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 15 Plus features a dual-camera system with a 48-megapixel main sensor and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens. The main camera supports super-high-resolution photos and includes sensor-shift optical image stabilization for sharper images, even in challenging conditions. It also offers a 2x telephoto option through the main sensor. The Xiaomi 13T comes with a versatile triple camera setup, including a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. Its cameras are co-engineered with Leica, offering distinct photographic styles.
  • Photography Performance: The iPhone 15 Plus excels in everyday photography, producing detailed images with accurate colors and good dynamic range, and offers enhanced low-light performance. The Xiaomi 13T also delivers impressive results, particularly in well-lit conditions with vivid colors and ample detail. Its low-light performance is strong, especially with the dedicated Night mode.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The iPhone 15 Plus supports 4K video recording at various frame rates, offering high-quality video capture. Its 12-megapixel front camera provides clear selfies and supports features like autofocus. The Xiaomi 13T allows for 4K video recording across all focal lengths and features a 20-megapixel front camera that captures good details and accurate skin tones.

Main camera

48 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

20 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical features contribute to the overall user experience and daily convenience of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone 15 Plus marks a significant shift by adopting a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, replacing the proprietary Lightning port. It supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3. The Xiaomi 13T also offers modern connectivity, including 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4, providing fast wireless performance. It uses a USB-C port for charging and data.
  • Biometric Security: The iPhone 15 Plus relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition, offering a convenient and robust biometric authentication method. The Xiaomi 13T features an in-display optical fingerprint sensor for quick and reliable unlocking, alongside 2D facial recognition.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone 15 Plus features an aluminum design with a color-infused glass back and Ceramic Shield front, contributing to its premium feel and durability. It weighs around 201 grams. The Xiaomi 13T comes in various finishes, including glass and a vegan leather option, and weighs between 193g and 197g depending on the material. Its dimensions make one-handed use potentially challenging for some users.

Weight

171 g

193 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C (USB 2)

USB-C

The iPhone 15 Plus and the Xiaomi 13T cater to users with differing priorities, each offering a compelling set of features. User feedback often praises the iPhone 15 Plus for its exceptional battery life, which is frequently cited as one of the best among smartphones, and its large, vibrant OLED display. Its consistent performance and long-term software support are also common points of appreciation. Some users, however, note the 60Hz refresh rate as a potential drawback compared to competitors.

The Xiaomi 13T is often lauded for its smooth 144Hz AMOLED display and its versatile camera system, particularly the Leica-tuned optics that offer distinct photographic styles. Its fast charging capabilities are also a highlight. Criticisms sometimes point to its battery life, which, while generally good for a full day, may not match the longevity of some rivals for very heavy users.

Users prioritizing extended battery life, a highly integrated ecosystem, and a long software support window may find the iPhone 15 Plus well-suited to their needs. Conversely, individuals who value a high refresh rate display for smoother interactions, a versatile camera system with unique photographic modes, and faster charging might lean toward the Xiaomi 13T. Both devices represent strong options in their respective categories, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be an eco-friendly alternative for making an informed choice.

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