Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S

amazon Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S reviews

Advantages

– Luxury and different designs.

– Excellent display.

– Great performance in the segment.

– Comfortable battery life 1 day.

– MIUI many customizable, smooth.

– Camera improves, removes fun fonts.

Defect

– Poor recording quality of video recording

– Easy to scratch camera border.

– Remove 3.5mm headphone port.

– Non-waterproof IP67 / 68.

Design and separate screen between all copies

Holding the XiaoMi MIX 2S in the palm, the flat back and the monolithic feel of the ceramic material gives a different feel, compared to any flagship currently on the market, unless you have used the MIX previous life.

This Mi MIX 2S version is a black ceramic material with a gold-plated camera border, it is difficult to scratch when used on a daily basis, but quite slippery when placed on the table if it falls, it will surely break. It is best to use the protective case included in the box, while ensuring safety and limiting the affected camera border.

Through each lifetime, MIX with square-plated frame with the feeling of hand, MIX 2 bo curves and more but not really perfect. Then MIX 2S completes almost everything from the frame, the level of machining, both in terms of weight and hand tightness.

However, the machine still has unpleasant points such as smooth, easy to stick fingerprints, especially the machine “attracts” dust in the camera position, frame connection – back, speaker, … Xiaomi has omitted the water resistance IP67 / 68, which should have been the standard on 2017 flagships.

Continuing to maintain the version 2.0 overflow screen, not “rabbit ears”, still more compact than many other smartphones, the screen on Mi MIX 2S is still very beautiful as the first time we saw MIX.

The 6-inch aspect ratio of 18: 9, with FullHD + resolution on the IPS LCD panel is more than enough for the daily experience. Xiaomi has never disappointed users with the quality and clarity of the display panels, everything seems to float on the glass.

Performance never bothered

Xiaomi has always been like that, equipping its super products with the most quintessential things with the powerful Snapdragon 845, along with 6GB of RAM – 64GB ROM, making this the best performance device in the genuine segment current time.

With the top configuration, choosing Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S to meet all the needs of heavy graphics gaming, handling complex tasks is too reasonable for at least 2 years.

However, the only minus point during the experience is probably because of the Android device. Sounds funny? But with this super product, sometimes use still has a status of app stop suddenly, jerking lag. Although it happened occasionally, it made me a few unsatisfied points.

where can you get a Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S online

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S (64GB, 6GB RAM) 5.99″ FHD+ Display, Snapdragon 845, AI Dual Camera, Global 4G LTE Dual SIM GSM Factory Unlocked (White): Buy it now

The interface is smooth, simple and full-featured

Once opened, the device is pre-installed with Android 8.0 Oreo version and the latest MIUI V9.5 interface and fresh updates such as edge screen swipe gestures, UX / UI for better optimization, effective software management Results, multitasking split screen useful, …

In the process of use, many of you seem to like gestures to swipe back, home or multitasking on MIUI V9.5, personally, I find it quite inconvenient in some situations because Android is not really optimal for swipe like this.

Significant upgrade camera in MIX series

Mi MIX 2S is the first high-end device from Xiaomi equipped with tele dual camera cluster to erase fonts, and also carries the mission to overcome the disadvantages of camera image quality in the previous generation.

Thanks to the larger sensor size, combined with improved focus, adding a little bit of A.I makes the image quality in full light and backlit conditions very impressive.

With the ability to identify more than 200 different scenes, depending on the situation, AI will provide parameters such as saturation, contrast, exposure, etc. But most of the cases, it seems that The picture only makes it more colorful and richer than the original image, but AI does not have too many changes.

The difference of MIX 2S comes from dual camera cluster that supports capturing accurate fonts. If Mi 6 is Xiaomi’s response when proving that it can also make dual telephoto cameras to erase good fonts, MIX 2S is an eloquent war declaration to Apple iPhone X and Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus.

When updating to MIUI V9.6, the camera section will come with a few features such as adjusting the background blur, changing the bokeh.

In addition to having an extra sub-removal camera, the ability to capture night on Mi MIX 2S is a lot of tech magazine said that is long jump compared to Xiaomi MIX 2 brother.

MIX 2S completely improved the ability to focus, noise reduction as well as reproduce the underexposed detail area much better.

The photo has a good balance – good at a decent level, good detail and color doesn’t wash away too much.

The only dissatisfaction is probably due to the ability to record video when shooting on Mi MIX 2S, the sound of noise and wind filter is not really good, if not bad for such segment.

Camera

The camera setup on the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, with a focus on enhancing both hardware and software capabilities. The device features a dual-camera system on the rear, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens with an f/1.8 aperture and a 12MP telephoto lens with an f/2.4 aperture. The wide-angle lens is equipped with 4-axis optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps in reducing blur in photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.

The primary 12MP wide-angle sensor, the Sony IMX363, is a capable performer in a variety of lighting conditions. In daylight, the Mi MIX 2S captures detailed and vibrant photos with accurate color reproduction. The dynamic range is impressive, with the HDR mode effectively balancing highlights and shadows to produce well-exposed images. The telephoto lens offers 2x optical zoom, allowing users to get closer to their subjects without sacrificing image quality. The portrait mode, enabled by the dual-camera setup, produces pleasing bokeh effects, with good edge detection and natural background blur.

Low-light performance is where the Mi MIX 2S shows its strength. The wide f/1.8 aperture, combined with large 1.4µm pixels and OIS, allows the camera to capture more light, resulting in brighter and clearer images in challenging lighting conditions. The noise levels are well-controlled, and the details remain sharp, making the Mi MIX 2S one of the better low-light performers in its class.

The front-facing camera, a 5MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture, is adequate for selfies and video calls. However, the placement of the front camera on the bottom bezel can be awkward, requiring users to adjust their hand position or flip the device for a more conventional angle. The image quality is decent, with good color reproduction and skin tones, although it lacks the detail and low-light capabilities of the rear cameras.

Video recording on the Mi MIX 2S is also impressive, with support for 4K resolution at 30fps. The videos are sharp, with good color accuracy and smooth stabilization, thanks to the OIS. The device also supports slow-motion video at 1080p and 240fps, offering creative possibilities for capturing fast-moving subjects.

The camera software on the Mi MIX 2S is feature-rich, with a variety of modes and settings to enhance the photography experience. The AI scene detection is a notable addition, automatically recognizing different scenes and adjusting the camera settings accordingly. This feature is particularly useful for novice users, as it simplifies the process of taking great photos in different environments.

Overall, the camera performance of the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S is commendable, offering a versatile and capable setup that excels in a variety of conditions. The improvements in low-light performance, combined with the addition of AI-driven enhancements, make it a strong contender in the camera department.

Software and User Experience

The Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S runs on MIUI, Xiaomi’s custom Android skin, based on Android 8.0 Oreo out of the box, with updates available to later versions of Android. MIUI is known for its extensive customization options, user-friendly interface, and a wealth of features that cater to both casual users and enthusiasts. However, MIUI also tends to be polarizing, as it diverges significantly from the stock Android experience.

MIUI Interface and Customization: MIUI on the Mi MIX 2S is visually distinct, featuring a clean, vibrant interface with a focus on aesthetics and functionality. The absence of an app drawer by default is one of the most noticeable differences compared to stock Android, with all apps placed on the home screens. This design choice mimics the iOS interface, which some users may appreciate, while others might miss the organization that an app drawer offers. However, Xiaomi allows for considerable customization, and users can install third-party launchers if they prefer a different look and feel.

MIUI offers a plethora of customization options, from themes and wallpapers to icon packs and fonts. Xiaomi’s theme store provides access to a wide variety of themes, allowing users to personalize their devices to their liking. The notification shade and quick settings panel are also customizable, and users can rearrange tiles to suit their preferences.

Features and Functionality: MIUI is packed with features designed to enhance productivity and convenience. One notable feature is the Second Space, which allows users to create a separate, secure environment on the device. This is particularly useful for those who want to keep their personal and work data separate, or for sharing the device with family members.

Another feature is the Dual Apps functionality, which enables users to run two instances of the same app simultaneously. This is especially useful for social media and messaging apps, where users might want to manage multiple accounts on the same device.

MIUI’s gesture navigation system is well-implemented, offering a smooth and intuitive alternative to traditional on-screen buttons. The gestures are similar to those found on iOS, with swipes from the bottom of the screen used to go home, access recent apps, or switch between tasks. The learning curve is minimal, and the gestures quickly become second nature.

Pre-Installed Apps and Bloatware: One downside of MIUI is the presence of bloatware, or pre-installed apps that may not be useful to all users. While some of these apps can be uninstalled, others are deeply integrated into the system and cannot be removed. This can be frustrating for users who prefer a cleaner software experience with minimal pre-installed apps. However, Xiaomi has made strides in reducing the amount of bloatware in recent updates, and users have the option to disable or hide apps they do not wish to use.

Updates and Support: Xiaomi has a mixed reputation when it comes to software updates. While the company is known for providing regular MIUI updates, these updates do not always correspond to the latest version of Android. For example, while the Mi MIX 2S received updates to MIUI 12, it may not always run the most current version of Android. However, Xiaomi’s frequent updates do bring new features and optimizations, ensuring that the device remains relevant even as new models are released.

User Experience: The overall user experience on the Mi MIX 2S is smooth and responsive, thanks to the combination of powerful hardware and well-optimized software. MIUI is designed to be fast and fluid, and it shows in day-to-day usage. Animations are smooth, app launches are quick, and the system handles multitasking with ease.

However, the experience is not without its quirks. Some users may find MIUI’s aggressive memory management to be overly restrictive, as the system tends to close background apps more quickly than other Android skins. This can be adjusted in the settings, but it may require some tweaking to find the right balance between performance and background app retention.

In summary, MIUI on the Mi MIX 2S offers a rich and feature-packed experience, with a high level of customization and several productivity-oriented features. While it may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer a stock Android experience, MIUI is well-suited for users who enjoy tinkering with their device and making it their own.

Battery Life

The Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S is equipped with a 3,400mAh battery, which, while not the largest capacity in its class, offers a balanced performance considering the device’s hardware and software optimizations. Battery life is a crucial aspect for any smartphone user, and the Mi MIX 2S manages to strike a good balance between endurance and performance.

Daily Usage: In real-world usage, the Mi MIX 2S is capable of lasting a full day on a single charge with moderate to heavy usage. This includes activities such as browsing the web, streaming videos, using social media, and occasional gaming. On days with lighter usage, the device can easily stretch into the second day, making it reliable for users who may not always have access to a charger.

One of the factors contributing to the efficient battery performance is MIUI’s aggressive power management. The system automatically restricts background processes and optimizes power consumption based on usage patterns. However, as mentioned earlier, this may result in more aggressive app closures, which can be adjusted in the settings if needed.

Screen-On Time and Standby: Screen-on time (SOT) for the Mi MIX 2S typically ranges between 5 to 7 hours, depending on the usage scenario. Activities such as video streaming or gaming will naturally consume more power, while tasks like reading or messaging are less demanding on the battery. Standby performance is also commendable, with minimal battery drain when the device is not in use, thanks to MIUI’s efficient background management.

Charging: The Mi MIX 2S supports both Quick Charge 3.0 and wireless charging, a first for the Mi MIX series. Using the included 18W fast charger, the device can charge from 0% to around 50% in just under 30 minutes, with a full charge taking approximately 90 minutes. Wireless charging, while slower than wired charging, is a convenient feature that adds to the overall premium experience of the device. It supports 7.5W wireless charging, which is standard for most Qi-compatible chargers.

In conclusion, the battery life of the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S is solid, offering a full day of usage on a single charge with support for fast charging and wireless charging. While it may not have the largest battery capacity, the device’s efficient power management ensures that it can comfortably handle the demands of daily usage.

Connectivity and Audio

The Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S offers a comprehensive set of connectivity options, making it a versatile device for both communication and media consumption.

Cellular and Wireless Connectivity: The Mi MIX 2S supports a wide range of 4G LTE bands, making it compatible with most carriers globally. This is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who need reliable connectivity across different regions. The device also supports dual-SIM functionality, allowing users to manage two phone numbers simultaneously, which is convenient for separating work and personal communication or for using local SIM cards while traveling.

Wi-Fi connectivity is robust, with support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, ensuring fast and stable internet connections. Bluetooth 5.0 is included, offering improved range, speed, and the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, such as wireless headphones and fitness trackers.

NFC is also supported, enabling mobile payments via services like Google Pay, as well as quick pairing with compatible devices. The presence of NFC is a welcome addition, as it expands the functionality of the device, particularly in regions where contactless payments are widely used.

Audio Quality: Audio performance on the Mi MIX 2S is generally good, although it does have some limitations. The device features a single bottom-firing speaker, which produces loud and clear sound with minimal distortion at higher volumes. However, the lack of stereo speakers is noticeable, particularly when consuming media content like videos or games. The audio output is adequate for casual listening, but users who prioritize sound quality may prefer using headphones or external speakers.

As mentioned earlier, the Mi MIX 2S does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack, which may be a drawback for users with wired headphones. However, Xiaomi includes a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter in the box, allowing users to connect their wired audio accessories. The USB-C port also supports digital audio output, providing a higher-quality listening experience when paired with compatible headphones.

For wireless audio, the Mi MIX 2S supports high-quality audio codecs like aptX and LDAC, which deliver improved sound quality over Bluetooth when used with compatible devices. This is a significant advantage for users who prefer wireless headphones or earbuds, as it ensures that the audio experience is not compromised.

In summary, the connectivity and audio capabilities of the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S are strong, offering a wide range of options for communication, media consumption, and mobile payments. While the audio performance is not groundbreaking, it is more than adequate for most users, with the added convenience of wireless audio support.