Xiaomi is big on variety, which means there is a stack of different lines to choose from when you’re looking for a new phone. The brand has several distinct lines made up of numbered phones – such as the Mi 11 – and each of these devices may have several offshoots at higher or lower prices. Looking at the entire catalog as one can make things a bit confusing, but once you familiarize yourself with each line, it becomes clear how much freedom you have to choose based on your preferences. 

Mi series

Xiaomi’s Mi series is the brand’s core offering and includes most of their biggest releases, giving you the flagship experience that’s easier on the pocket. Most premium Mi phones come with Lite, Pro and Ultra variants, often with a series of ‘T’ variants released at a later date. You can expect phones in the Mi series to come with the best cameras, displays and processors, along with 5G compatibility in newer models. 

Mi Note

Xiaomi’s Mi Note series is a selection of mid-range phones offering lower cost alternatives to the primary Mi range. While Mi Note phones generally have fewer features than the more premium models, it’s reflected in the price – which makes them a win for the budget-conscious crowd. 

Mi MIX

Mi Mix is a unique flagship series of smartphones and phablets focused on breaking new ground with daring designs. Though they aren’t released as frequently as phones in the core Mi series, devices like the Mix 3, Xiaomi’s slide phone with a camera hidden under the display, have made big headlines over the years. The likely release of the first Xiaomi foldable phone may also come under this line, paving the way for more versatile handheld devices.

Mi Max

For fans of the phablet, the Mi Max is where it’s at. The Mi Max 3 came close to being the first Xiaomi 7-inch phone, with an enormous display measuring 6.9 inches. Max phones are impressive on the spec sheet given the sheer size of their screens, often boasting big batteries, stereo speakers and powerful processors. 

Mi A

Most Mi phones run on MIUI, the brand’s custom Android skin. For users who love the classic Android experience, Xiaomi launched the Mi A series with mobile phones that run on Android One – a near-stock version of the operating system. Models in this line vary from budget-friendly phones to more flashy devices too.

Redmi, Poco and Black Shark

Xiaomi owns a number of offshoot brands that also offer some great phones. Redmi began as the cheapest line from Xiaomi but has since evolved with a wider range of models, and the Pocophone selection has also featured some strong releases over the years. Black Shark is Xiaomi’s gaming phone brand, focused on powerful hardware that can drive the latest Android games with great performance – though the brand’s main lines still have something to offer in this regard.