iPhone 15 Vs Xiaomi 13T Pro

iPhone 15
iPhone 15
Starting at

Refurbished price:397.00

Versus €879.00 new

See options
Xiaomi 13T Pro
Xiaomi 13T Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:245.00

Versus €900.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 15, released in September 2023, and the Xiaomi 13T Pro, also launched in September 2023, are contemporary smartphones offering distinct experiences. While the iPhone 15 operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Xiaomi 13T Pro runs on Android with Xiaomi's HyperOS interface. Key differentiators include their display technologies, camera philosophies, and approaches to software longevity.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of a smartphone, factors like software support, physical resilience, and ease of repair are important. Both devices offer robust build quality and water resistance, but their software update policies and repairability approaches differ.

  • Software Support: Apple has committed to a minimum of five years of software updates for the iPhone 15 series from its release date, ensuring regular iOS feature and security updates. The Xiaomi 13T Pro typically receives three to four years of Android OS updates and five years of security patches, which is standard for many Android devices.
  • Physical Durability: Both the iPhone 15 and Xiaomi 13T Pro carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in water. The iPhone 15 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, designed for enhanced drop performance, while the Xiaomi 13T Pro uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection.
  • Repairability: The iPhone 15 initially received a lower repairability score from some independent evaluators due to part pairing, though subsequent software updates have aimed to improve the process for authorized repairs. The Xiaomi 13T Pro's repairability is generally considered to be in line with other Android flagships, with components that are often more accessible for independent servicing.

Year of Release

2023

2023

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the iPhone 15 and Xiaomi 13T Pro are equipped with powerful internal components designed to handle demanding applications and multitasking with efficiency. Their performance characteristics cater to different user expectations within their respective operating systems.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 15 delivers consistently smooth performance across its iOS ecosystem, ensuring quick app launches and fluid navigation. The Xiaomi 13T Pro, powered by a current-generation processor, also provides a highly responsive experience, adept at managing complex tasks and graphically intensive games.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The iPhone 15 comes with ample storage options, supporting efficient multitasking within its optimized software environment. The Xiaomi 13T Pro offers a wider range of storage configurations, including options with higher RAM capacities, which can benefit users who frequently switch between many applications or handle large files.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 15 is designed to provide a full day of typical use, with optimized power management from its operating system. The Xiaomi 13T Pro features a larger battery capacity and supports very fast wired charging, allowing for quick power replenishment.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

16 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both devices is a highlight, with each offering a vibrant and clear display, though they employ different technologies and specifications to achieve this.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 15 features a Super Retina XDR OLED display, known for its deep blacks, high contrast, and accurate color reproduction. The Xiaomi 13T Pro utilizes an AMOLED panel, which also delivers rich colors and excellent contrast, often with a slightly higher pixel density for sharp visuals.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: Both phones offer high peak brightness levels, ensuring good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The iPhone 15 can reach up to 2000 nits peak outdoor brightness, while the Xiaomi 13T Pro boasts a peak brightness of up to 2600 nits.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The iPhone 15 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth experience for most users. The Xiaomi 13T Pro features a higher 144Hz refresh rate, which results in noticeably smoother scrolling and more fluid animations, particularly beneficial for gaming and fast-paced content.

Resolution

1179 x 2556

1220 x 2712

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer advanced camera systems capable of capturing high-quality images and videos, though they approach photography with distinct hardware and software philosophies.

  • Main Camera Capabilities: The iPhone 15 features an advanced dual-camera system with a 48MP main sensor that captures detailed photos, often outputting 24MP images by default, and includes a 2x telephoto option through sensor cropping. The Xiaomi 13T Pro boasts a triple camera setup, co-engineered with Leica, featuring a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, designed to deliver images with distinct color science.
  • Versatility and Low-Light Performance: The iPhone 15 excels in various lighting conditions, utilizing its Photonic Engine for improved low-light performance and detailed portraits. The Xiaomi 13T Pro includes a 50MP telephoto lens for optical zoom and a 12MP ultrawide lens, offering a broader range of photographic perspectives, with its Leica tuning contributing to its low-light capabilities.
  • Video Recording and Audio: The iPhone 15 supports 4K video recording at various frame rates, including Cinematic mode for depth effects. The Xiaomi 13T Pro can record up to 8K video and offers advanced video features like 10-bit LOG recording, appealing to users seeking more control over their video output. Both devices provide clear audio recording and stereo speakers for media consumption.

Miscellaneous

Beyond their core features, both devices offer a range of practical elements that enhance daily usability and connectivity.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both the iPhone 15 and Xiaomi 13T Pro support 5G for fast mobile data. The iPhone 15 includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. The Xiaomi 13T Pro supports newer standards like Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, offering potentially faster and more stable wireless connections.
  • Ports and Biometrics: The iPhone 15 has transitioned to a USB-C port, allowing for more universal charging and data transfer, and features Face ID for secure facial recognition. The Xiaomi 13T Pro also uses a USB-C port and incorporates an in-display optical fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone 15 features an aluminum design with a color-infused glass back, offering a refined feel and a compact form factor. The Xiaomi 13T Pro has a slightly larger display, which may appeal to users who prefer more screen real estate, and comes in various finishes including glass and a leather-like texture.

Weight

171 g

206 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback for the iPhone 15 often highlights its seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, consistent performance, and significant camera improvements, particularly the new 48MP main sensor and the Dynamic Island feature. Some common criticisms include the 60Hz display refresh rate, which some users feel is outdated compared to competitors, and the continued reliance on Apple's proprietary repair ecosystem.

The Xiaomi 13T Pro is frequently praised for its vibrant 144Hz AMOLED display, very fast charging capabilities, and the capable camera system co-engineered with Leica, offering a strong photography experience. Users also appreciate its powerful performance for gaming and demanding applications. Occasional concerns revolve around the MIUI software experience for some users and the consistency of camera processing in all scenarios.

Users prioritizing a highly optimized software experience, long-term software support, and a compact design with robust camera features may find the iPhone 15 well-suited to their needs. Those who value a high refresh rate display, extremely fast charging, a versatile camera system with specific photographic styles, and a more open Android ecosystem might lean towards the Xiaomi 13T Pro. Both devices offer compelling features for different user preferences, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be a sustainable choice for informed buyers.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons