Ultimate cameras
Thanks to a massive 1-inch camera and overhauled tuning, the Xiaomi 13 Pro takes phenomenal photos and videos in just about any situation. Combine that with a gorgeous design, the latest hardware, fast wired and wireless charging tech, and you get one of the best phones of the year.
For
- Trio of 50MP cameras take outstanding photos
- Premium design with great in-hand feel
- Amazing battery life with 120W wired and 50W wireless charging
- Excellent hardware with no overheating issues
- All the extras you need
Against
- Won’t get as many software updates as OnePlus 11
- Not launching in North America
- Costly
Ultimate value
The OnePlus 11 borrows a lot of features from erstwhile Pro models, including a QHD+ panel and flagship cameras. It also rocks the latest hardware, and while there’s no wireless charging, it doesn’t miss out on much else, and the value on offer makes it one of the best deals of 2023.
For
- Excellent value
- Best cameras on a OnePlus phone
- Stellar battery life with 100W wired charging
- Clean software with four guaranteed Android OS updates
- Vibrant 120Hz AMOLED panel
- Latest Qualcomm hardware and polished design
Against
- Software isn’t as distinctive as legacy OxygenOS
- Base model has slower storage module
- No wireless charging
- Ingress protection limited to IP64
Xiaomi 13 Pro vs OnePlus 11: Design
It’s easy to see that both phones have a distinct design language that’s centered around the camera modules at the back. I like the consistency that OnePlus offers on its devices; sure, the camera housing at the back is different to what we got last year, but the overall aesthetic – including the dimensions and the smooth flowing curves – are intact from previous generations.
This design consistency gives the OnePlus 11 a level of familiarity that you just don’t get with Xiaomi. If anything, Xiaomi is known for trying out a new design aesthetic with every new generation, and that’s the case with the Xiaomi 13 Pro as well. The phone is made out of ceramic, and has a large squarish camera housing that does a good job highlighting the trio of cameras at the back.
While there isn’t any design similarity to the Xiaomi 12 series, the 13 Pro thankfully retains a curvy aesthetic with symmetric curves at the front and back where both sides meet the mid-frame, and it makes holding and using the phone a little easier.
But what’s unmistakable is that both devices are catered toward the premium segment; you won’t find any plastic here. Of the two phones, I much prefer the feel of the 13 Pro — the ceramic back just gives the device much better presence. Of course, there’s the fact that it is a magnet for smudges and needs constant cleaning, but it just feels more elegant and has an excellent in-hand feel.
