Xiaomi 15 Ultra vs. Xiaomi 15 Unboxing, Specs, and In-Depth Comparison for 2025

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 are Xiaomi’s flagship offerings for 2025, blending cutting-edge technology with premium design. Launched in India on March 11, 2025, these smartphones cater to different audiences: the Xiaomi 15 Ultra targets photography enthusiasts and power users with its massive camera module and top-tier specs, while the Xiaomi 15 appeals to those seeking a compact yet powerful device. This blog post dives into the unboxing experience, design, performance, camera capabilities, and more, drawing from a detailed first-look video. With a focus on the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, we’ll compare it to the Xiaomi 15 to help you decide which suits your needs. Let’s unpack everything you need to know!

Introduction

Xiaomi continues to push boundaries with its 2025 flagships, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra stands out with its Leica-tuned quad-camera system, including a 200MP periscope lens, and a premium two-tone design, making it a dream for photographers and tech enthusiasts. Priced at around ₹99,999 with offers, it’s a high-end investment. The Xiaomi 15, at ₹59,999–₹64,999, offers a compact form factor with solid performance, ideal for everyday users. Both phones feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and HyperOS 2.0, but their differences in cameras, design, and accessories set them apart. This article breaks down each aspect, emphasizing the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, to guide your purchase decision in India’s competitive smartphone market.

Specifications Table

Feature	Xiaomi 15 Ultra	Xiaomi 15
Price (India, 2025)	₹1,09,999 (16GB+512GB); ~₹99,999 with offers	₹64,999 (12GB+512GB); ~₹59,999 with offers
Display	6.73″ WQHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz, 3200 nits, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Xiaomi Shield Glass 2.0	6.36″ 1.5K AMOLED, 120Hz, 3200 nits, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Xiaomi Shield Glass
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm)	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm)
RAM & Storage	16GB LPDDR5X, 512GB UFS 4.1	12GB LPDDR5X, 512GB UFS 4.0
Rear Camera	50MP (1-inch, f/1.63) + 50MP ultrawide + 50MP telephoto + 200MP periscope (4.3x)	50MP (LightHunter 900) + 50MP ultrawide + 50MP telephoto (3.2x)
Front Camera	32MP (f/2.0)	32MP (OmniVision OV32B40)
Battery	5410mAh, 90W wired, 80W wireless	5240mAh, 90W wired, 50W wireless
OS	HyperOS 2.0 (Android 15), 4 years OS updates, 6 years security	HyperOS 2.0 (Android 15), 4 years OS updates, 6 years security
Weight	228.8g	194.9g
Build	Vegan leather + fiberglass back, metal frame, IP68, Corning Gorilla Glass 7i	Glass back, metal frame, IP68
Connectivity	5G (22 bands), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, IR Blaster, eSIM + dual nano-SIM	5G (22 bands), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, IR Blaster, eSIM + dual nano-SIM
Sensors	Ultrasonic fingerprint, face unlock, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, proximity	Ultrasonic fingerprint, face unlock, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, proximity
Additional Features	Quad mics, Dolby Atmos, Legend Photography Kit (optional, free with pre-booking)	Quad mics, Dolby Atmos

Unboxing Experience

Explanation: The unboxing experience sets the tone for a smartphone’s premium feel, revealing accessories and build quality. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 cater to India’s market with chargers included, unlike some global variants, but differ in packaging flair.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Box Contents:
    • Smartphone (Silver Chrome, 16GB+512GB).
    • 90W fast charger (included in India).
    • USB-A to USB-C cable.
    • Hard protective case.
    • SIM ejector tool.
    • Documentation (manuals, warranty).
  • Experience:
    • The Indian variant’s compact box reflects Xiaomi’s focus on essentials, with a premium charger included—a rarity in 2025 flagships.
    • The hard case feels sturdy, offering immediate protection for the vegan leather and fiberglass back.
    • Unboxing feels straightforward but lacks the wow factor of ultra-premium brands, aligning with the ~₹99,999 price after offers.
  • Unique Aspect:
    • Pre-booking offers include the Legend Photography Kit (₹11,999 value), enhancing the camera experience with a detachable shutter button and grip.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Box Contents:
    • Smartphone (Black, Green, or White, 12GB+512GB).
    • 90W fast charger (India-specific).
    • USB-A to USB-C cable.
    • Hard protective case.
    • SIM ejector tool.
    • Documentation.
  • Experience:
    • Similar compact packaging to the Ultra, with the same charger and case, ensuring consistency across the series.
    • The case complements the glass back, though it’s less luxurious than the Ultra’s vegan leather aesthetic.
    • Feels practical for a ₹59,999–₹64,999 device, prioritizing functionality over extravagance.
  • Unique Aspect:
    • Pre-booking offers a free Xiaomi Care Plan (₹5,999), adding value for repairs and support.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra offers a slightly more premium unboxing with its Photography Kit perk, appealing to camera lovers. The Xiaomi 15 matches it in essentials, making both feel thoughtful for Indian buyers, but the Ultra’s kit gives it an edge.

Design and Build Quality

Explanation: A phone’s design influences its in-hand feel, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra embraces a bold, camera-centric look, while the Xiaomi 15 opts for understated elegance.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Materials:
    • Vegan leather and fiberglass back, paired with a heavy-duty aluminum frame.
    • Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protects the camera module, with Xiaomi Shield Glass 2.0 on the front.
  • Design:
    • Two-tone aesthetic (Silver Chrome) exudes class, with a massive circular camera module dominating the back.
    • At 228.8g, it’s top-heavy due to the camera, but the 161.3 x 75.3 x 9.48mm body feels balanced.
    • IP68 rating ensures dust and water resistance, surviving drops (tested in video with no damage).
  • In-Hand Feel:
    • The large module makes it front-heavy, noticeable when holding, but the textured vegan leather adds grip.
    • Clicky buttons (volume rocker, power) and a metal frame with antenna lines enhance premium tactility.
  • Durability:
    • Survived drop tests from multiple angles, with the periscope lens rattling but functioning perfectly, showcasing the Xiaomi Guardian Structure’s robustness.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Materials:
    • Glass back with a metal frame, protected by Xiaomi Shield Glass (first generation).
    • Lighter at 194.9g, with a compact 152.3 x 71.2 x 8.08mm footprint.
  • Design:
    • Square-ish camera module differs from the Ultra’s bold circle, offering a minimalist look in Black, Green, or White.
    • IP68 rating matches the Ultra, ensuring durability.
  • In-Hand Feel:
    • Feels gorgeous and lightweight, ideal for one-handed use, with a less intrusive camera bump.
    • The glass back is prone to fingerprints but feels sleek, with tactile buttons similar to the Ultra.
  • Durability:
    • Not drop-tested in the video, but the IP68 rating and Shield Glass suggest comparable resilience.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra screams premium with its unique two-tone vegan leather design, though its weight may deter some. The Xiaomi 15 is more practical for compact lovers, balancing style and comfort.

Display Features

Explanation: The display is crucial for multimedia, gaming, and daily use. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra boasts a larger, sharper screen, while the Xiaomi 15 prioritizes compactness.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Specs:
    • 6.73″ WQHD+ AMOLED, micro-quad-curved, 3200×1440 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate.
    • 3200 nits peak brightness (25% area), Dolby Vision, HDR10+, 1920Hz PWM dimming.
    • Three TÜV Rheinland certifications (Low Blue Light, Flicker-Free, Circadian-Friendly).
  • Performance:
    • Stunning for movies and games, with vibrant colors and deep blacks, enhanced by Dolby Vision.
    • High brightness ensures visibility in sunlight, while eye-care features reduce strain during long sessions.
    • The quad-curved design minimizes bezels (1.38mm), offering an immersive 94% screen-to-body ratio.
  • Experience:
    • Multimedia shines with Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, making it ideal for Netflix or YouTube.
    • Wet-touch technology ensures usability in rain, a practical touch for India’s monsoons.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Specs:
    • 6.36″ 1.5K AMOLED, 2670×1200 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate.
    • 3200 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, similar TÜV certifications.
  • Performance:
    • Compact yet vivid, perfect for one-handed scrolling or gaming, with identical brightness to the Ultra.
    • Colors pop, though the lower resolution is slightly less sharp than the Ultra’s 2K.
  • Experience:
    • Equally great for media, but the smaller size suits users who prefer portability over cinematic scale.
    • Same speaker quality ensures rich audio, though less immersive due to size.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra excels for multimedia enthusiasts with its larger, sharper display, while the Xiaomi 15 is better for compact usability without sacrificing quality.

Camera Performance

Explanation: Cameras define flagship phones, and the Xiaomi 15 Ultra leverages Leica optics for DSLR-like results, outpacing the capable but simpler Xiaomi 15.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Setup:
    • Quad-camera: 50MP (1-inch LYT-900, f/1.63, OIS), 50MP ultrawide (115°), 50MP telephoto (3x, OIS), 200MP periscope (4.3x, Samsung HP9, OIS).
    • 32MP selfie (f/2.0).
  • Photo Quality:
    • The 1-inch primary sensor delivers creamy bokeh, vibrant Leica skin tones, and exceptional low-light performance, rare in 2025 flagships.
    • The 200MP periscope shines at 4.3x–100x zoom, capturing usable details even at extreme ranges (e.g., boat photos from Barcelona MWC).
    • Ultrawide and telephoto maintain consistency, with Leica Authentic and Vibrant modes adding creative flair.
  • Video:
    • Supports 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps (primary and periscope), and 4K@60fps across all lenses, including log format.
    • Quad mics ensure clear audio, ideal for vlogging or interviews.
  • Features:
    • Leica filters, classic shutter sound, AI enhancements (ProFocus, Lightning Burst), and the optional Legend Photography Kit mimic a Leica M11 camera.
    • Tested with 1500–2000 photos, showcasing unmatched detail and zoom prowess.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Setup:
    • Triple-camera: 50MP (LightHunter 900, OIS), 50MP ultrawide, 50MP telephoto (3.2x, OIS).
    • 32MP selfie.
  • Photo Quality:
    • Excellent for a compact phone, with sharp images and good low-light performance, but lacks the Ultra’s 1-inch sensor depth.
    • Telephoto reaches 3.2x, solid for portraits but falls short of the Ultra’s zoom range.
    • Leica tuning ensures similar color profiles, though less pronounced.
  • Video:
    • 4K@60fps across all lenses, including front, with 4K@120fps on the primary.
    • Quad mics match the Ultra for audio clarity.
  • Features:
    • Similar Leica modes and AI tools, but no periscope or Photography Kit limits versatility.
    • Tested with 200–250 photos, delivering reliable but less spectacular results.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a photography powerhouse, with its 200MP periscope and 1-inch sensor setting it apart as 2025’s potential camera king. The Xiaomi 15 is great for casual shooters but can’t match the Ultra’s zoom or low-light finesse.

Performance and Software

Explanation: Performance drives multitasking and gaming, while software shapes usability. Both phones share the latest chipset and OS, but storage variants differ.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Hardware:
    • Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm), AnTuTu score ~2.7M (up to 2.8M in ideal conditions).
    • 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, 512GB UFS 4.1 storage.
  • Software:
    • HyperOS 2.0 (Android 15), with 4 years of OS updates (up to Android 19) and 6 years of security patches.
    • Fluid interface with AI features: AI Eraser, AI Expansion, AI Writing, AI Subtitles, and more.
  • Performance:
    • Handles gaming (90FPS, upgradable to 120FPS) with minimal throttling, thanks to the Ice Loop Vapor Cooling Chamber.
    • Haptic feedback is refined, and lock screen customizations add personalization.
    • Multitasking is seamless, ideal for heavy apps or editing.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Hardware:
    • Same Snapdragon 8 Elite, similar AnTuTu score.
    • 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, 512GB UFS 4.0 storage (slightly slower than UFS 4.1).
  • Software:
    • Identical HyperOS 2.0 with the same update promise and AI suite.
  • Performance:
    • Matches the Ultra in gaming and multitasking, with no noticeable lag.
    • Cooling is equally effective, keeping temperatures below 43–44°C during stress tests.
    • Compact size doesn’t compromise power, though less RAM may limit extreme multitasking.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra edges out with faster storage and more RAM, ideal for power users. The Xiaomi 15 delivers identical core performance, perfect for most users at a lower price.

Battery and Charging

Explanation: Battery life and charging speed are critical for daily use. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra offers a larger capacity, while both support rapid charging.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Battery: 5410mAh, lasting 1–1.5 days under heavy use.
  • Charging:
    • 90W wired (full charge in ~35 minutes, charger included).
    • 80W wireless, plus reverse wireless charging.
  • Performance:
    • Supports long shoots or gaming sessions, with the cooling system preventing overheating.
    • Wireless charging is a premium perk, rare at ~₹99,999.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Battery: 5240mAh, slightly smaller but still 1–1.5 days.
  • Charging:
    • 90W wired (similar charge time), 50W wireless.
    • Includes charger, like the Ultra.
  • Performance:
    • Nearly identical endurance, though lighter use may stretch it further due to the smaller display.
    • Wireless charging is slower but sufficient.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra has a slight battery advantage, ideal for intensive tasks. The Xiaomi 15 matches it closely, offering excellent longevity for its size.

Connectivity and Sensors

Explanation: Connectivity ensures seamless networks, while sensors enhance functionality. Both phones are future-proof with robust options.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Connectivity:
    • 5G (22 bands, including India’s Band 40), Wi-Fi 6 (not Wi-Fi 7 as in global variants), Bluetooth 6.0 (first in 2025).
    • NFC, IR Blaster, eSIM + dual nano-SIM (new eSIM support over Xiaomi 14).
  • Sensors:
    • Ultrasonic fingerprint (3D, flexible unlocking), face unlock, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, proximity, ambient light, barometer.
  • Highlights:
    • Quad mics improve video audio, and Bluetooth 6.0 enhances audio device pairing.
    • IR Blaster adds utility for controlling appliances.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Connectivity:
    • Identical to the Ultra: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, IR Blaster, eSIM + dual nano-SIM.
  • Sensors:
    • Same sensor suite, ensuring no compromises.
  • Highlights:
    • Matches the Ultra’s connectivity, making it equally versatile for India’s networks.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 are tied, offering top-tier connectivity and sensors, with Bluetooth 6.0 and eSIM standing out in 2025.

Pricing and Value

Explanation: Price determines accessibility, and value reflects features versus cost. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a premium buy, while the Xiaomi 15 targets affordability.

• Xiaomi 15 Ultra:
  • Price: ₹1,09,999 MRP, ~₹99,999 with ₹10,000 ICICI Bank cashback or offers (16GB+512GB).
  • Value:
    • Includes the Legend Photography Kit (free with pre-booking, ₹11,999 otherwise), transforming it into a Leica-like camera.
    • Unmatched camera, display, and build justify the cost for creators and enthusiasts.
    • Competes with iPhone 16 Pro or Galaxy S25 Ultra, offering better zoom and battery at a lower price.
  • Target Audience:
    • Photographers, videographers, and tech lovers willing to invest in quality.
• Xiaomi 15:
  • Price: ₹64,999, ~₹59,999 with ₹5,000 ICICI Bank cashback (12GB+512GB).
  • Value:
    • Free Xiaomi Care Plan (₹5,999) adds repair peace of mind.
    • Compact design, flagship performance, and Leica cameras rival pricier phones like the Pixel 9.
    • Best value for users wanting premium features under ₹60,000.
  • Target Audience:
    • Everyday users, compact phone fans, and budget-conscious buyers.

Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra delivers exceptional value for its camera and premium features, worth stretching the budget. The Xiaomi 15 is a steal for compact flagship seekers.

Pros and Cons

Xiaomi 15 Ultra

Pros:

• Best-in-class 200MP periscope and 1-inch sensor for photography.
• Premium two-tone vegan leather design, IP68, and durable build.
• Large 6.73″ 2K AMOLED with Dolby Vision, 3200 nits brightness.
• 5410mAh battery with 90W wired, 80W wireless charging.
• Legend Photography Kit enhances camera experience (free with pre-booking).

Cons:

• Heavy at 228.8g, top-heavy due to camera module.
• ₹99,999 price may feel steep for non-photography users.
• No Wi-Fi 7 in India (Wi-Fi 6 instead).

Xiaomi 15

Pros:

• Compact 6.36″ AMOLED, ideal for one-handed use.
• Flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite at ~₹59,999, unmatched value.
• Solid Leica triple-camera for versatile shooting.
• 5240mAh battery with 90W charging, lasting 1–1.5 days.
• Free Xiaomi Care Plan adds value.

Cons:

• No 200MP periscope, limiting zoom capabilities.
• Glass back attracts fingerprints.
• Slightly lower resolution (1.5K vs. 2K).

Conclusion

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a masterpiece for 2025, redefining mobile photography with its Leica quad-camera, 200MP periscope, and 1-inch sensor. Priced at ~₹99,999, its premium design, vibrant 6.73″ AMOLED, and robust performance make it ideal for creators who demand the best. The Legend Photography Kit seals its appeal as a DSLR alternative. However, its weight and cost may not suit everyone.

The Xiaomi 15, at ~₹59,999, is a compact powerhouse, delivering near-identical performance and decent cameras for everyday users. Its lightweight build and value-driven price make it a top pick for those prioritizing portability without breaking the bank.

Choose the Xiaomi 15 Ultra if you’re a photography buff or want a cinematic experience; go for the Xiaomi 15 if compact design and affordability are key. Both are available via Amazon, mi.com, and retail stores, with sales starting April 3, 2025, and early access on March 18. Which one’s your pick?