Why Xiaomi’s 14 Ultra Could Shake Up the 2024 Flagship Race — But Still Can’t Beat Samsung
Xiaomi 14 Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Which 2024 Flagship Wins?
PhotoCredit: Xioami.com
PhotoCredit: Samsung.com
In 2024, two top-tier smartphones are battling for the best-in-class title: the new Xiaomi 14 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra, with its fresh HyperOS software and powerful specs, aims to challenge the reigning champion, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. But does it have what it takes to unseat Samsung's flagship?
First Impressions and Build Quality
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets a high standard with its unboxing experience. It includes a protective case and a pre-installed screen protector, which are thoughtful additions. Samsung also includes a 90W fast charger, doubling the wattage of what Xiaomi provides. These small but meaningful details demonstrate Samsung's focus on user experience right out of the box.
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra doesn't match Samsung's out-of-the-box generosity, but it does offer a unique, separately sold photography kit. This kit includes a specialized case, a grip with hardware camera controls, and other accessories that cater directly to photography enthusiasts.
Design and Ergonomics
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra features a leather-like finish that's both stylish and easy to grip. However, its massive, centrally-placed camera module makes the phone top-heavy and can interfere with wireless charging.
In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a more balanced design. Its camera module is less intrusive, resulting in a more comfortable and stable feel during everyday use.
Display: A Tale of Two Screens
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra features an eye-catching "liquid display" where the glass curves into all four edges. This creates a visually stunning and futuristic look. However, the curved edges can make gesture controls less precise.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra opts for a flat display, which offers better usability for gestures and screen interactions. It also boasts superior outdoor visibility thanks to its world-class anti-reflective coating and higher real-world brightness.
Software and User Experience
After years of MIUI, Xiaomi introduces HyperOS on the 14 Ultra. While it promises a fresh, efficient experience, it still has some rough edges. The software is visually clean and lightweight, taking up less storage than Samsung's One UI. However, it still includes pervasive advertisements—on the lock screen, in apps, and in notifications—that can be frustrating for users.
Samsung's One UI offers a more polished and intuitive experience. It provides smooth gesture controls, flexible notifications, and extensive customization options through its Good Lock suite. The software and hardware work together seamlessly, creating a satisfying and refined feel.
Performance and Thermals
Both phones are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. Samsung uses a custom-tuned version of the chip, while Xiaomi compensates with more RAM (up to 16GB).
A key difference is thermal management. In a stress test, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra reached an uncomfortable 52°C, with its metal sides becoming noticeably hot. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra remained much cooler, maxing out at 44°C. While the Xiaomi 14 Ultra might offer slightly better peak performance, the Samsung S24 Ultra provides a cooler, more comfortable user experience during heavy use.
Battery and Charging
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a significant advantage in charging speed, with 90W wired charging versus the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra's 45W. However, when it comes to battery life, Samsung unexpectedly pulls ahead. The S24 Ultra lasts 10-15% longer in real-world use, making it a more reliable choice for users who need their phone to last a full day.
Cameras: Xiaomi's Biggest Advantage
This is where the Xiaomi 14 Ultra truly shines. Its camera system, co-engineered with Leica, features a massive 50-megapixel sensor on every rear lens. This setup captures more light and produces stunning, filmic photos with natural background blur—especially on portrait shots. Its video quality is also exceptional, and it features innovative additions like a variable aperture and a special grip accessory.
While the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra takes excellent, sharp, and vibrant photos, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera system feels more like a professional-grade tool. However, Samsung maintains an edge in focusing speed and precision, which is crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects.
The Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a more complete and refined package. It excels in design, display usability, software polish, and battery life. It's a reliable and user-friendly flagship that delivers on all fronts.
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is a compelling alternative for those who prioritize photography above all else. Its cutting-edge, Leica-backed camera system and unique accessories make it a dream device for enthusiasts willing to trade a bit of polish for an unmatched photographic experience.
