Table of Contents
I. Introduction
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra are two of the most anticipated flagship smartphones of 2024. Both devices boast impressive specifications and features, making it difficult to choose between them. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of these two powerhouses, including their design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, software, and more.
II. Design and Build Quality: A Closer Look
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra boasts a sleek and modern design that exudes premium craftsmanship. The device features a glass front and back, protected by Xiaomi’s Shield Glass, ensuring durability against scratches and drops. The frame is crafted from either titanium (grade 5) or aluminum alloy, providing a sturdy and luxurious feel. The rounded corners and smooth edges contribute to a comfortable grip.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra also showcases a premium design with a glass front and back, shielded by Corning Gorilla Armor for enhanced protection. The frame is made from titanium (grade 2), offering a durable and sophisticated look. The device’s slightly curved edges and smooth finish provide a comfortable hold.
Key Differences
| Feature | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Glass front and back, titanium or aluminum alloy frame | Glass front and back, titanium frame |
| Dimensions | 161.4 x 75.3 x 9.2 mm | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm |
| Weight | 219.8 g (7.76 oz) | 232 g (8.18 oz) |
| Protection | IP68 dust/water resistant | IP68 dust/water resistant |
| Overall Design | Sleek and modern | Sleek and modern |
| Finish | Glass or eco-leather back | Glass back |
| Color Options | Black, Blue, White, Titanium Gray | Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Violet, Titanium Yellow, Titanium Blue, Titanium Green, Titanium Orange |
Color Options: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers a wider range of color options, including black, blue, white, and titanium gray. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is available in titanium black, titanium gray, titanium violet, titanium yellow, titanium blue, titanium green, and titanium orange.
Materials: While both devices feature glass and metal construction, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers the option of a titanium frame, which is generally considered more durable and premium than the titanium used in the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Design Aesthetics: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s design is slightly more angular and minimalist, while the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has a slightly more rounded and curved aesthetic.
III. Display: A Visual Feast
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra boasts a stunning 6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED display that delivers exceptional visuals. With a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels, the screen offers sharp and crisp details. The LTPO technology enables a variable refresh rate, ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, optimizing power consumption while maintaining smooth animations and scrolling.
The display supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+, ensuring vibrant colors, deep blacks, and enhanced contrast. The peak brightness of 3000 nits guarantees excellent outdoor visibility, even in bright sunlight. The Xiaomi Shield Glass protection also provides added durability against scratches and accidental drops.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra features a slightly larger 6.8-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display, offering a more immersive viewing experience. The resolution of 1440 x 3120 pixels delivers exceptional clarity and detail. Similar to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, the LTPO technology enables a variable refresh rate, optimizing power efficiency.
The display supports HDR10+ and boasts a peak brightness of 2600 nits, ensuring excellent outdoor visibility. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology further enhances color accuracy and contrast, resulting in more realistic and vibrant visuals. The display is also protected by Corning Gorilla Armor, providing added durability.
Key Differences
| Feature | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Type | LTPO AMOLED | Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X |
| Size | 6.73 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 pixels | 1440 x 3120 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Peak Brightness | 3000 nits | 2600 nits |
| Color Gamut | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | HDR10+ |
| Protection | Xiaomi Shield Glass | Corning Gorilla Armor |
| Additional Features | 68B colors, 1000 nits (typ) | Always-on display |
- Size: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has a slightly larger display compared to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
- Peak Brightness: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a slightly higher peak brightness, offering better outdoor visibility in extreme conditions.
- Technology: Both devices feature LTPO AMOLED displays, but the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra‘s Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology provides additional enhancements for color accuracy and contrast.
IV. Performance: A Powerhouse Showdown
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, a flagship-grade chipset that delivers exceptional performance for demanding tasks. The octa-core CPU, consisting of 1x Cortex-X4, 3x Cortex-A720, and 4x Cortex-A520 cores, ensures smooth multitasking and efficient power management.
Paired with the Adreno 750 GPU, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra can handle graphics-intensive games and applications with ease. The device offers ample RAM and storage options, allowing for seamless app switching and storage of large files.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is also equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, ensuring top-tier performance. The octa-core CPU architecture and Adreno 750 GPU provide similar capabilities to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, enabling smooth multitasking and handling demanding tasks.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra also offers various RAM and storage options, providing flexibility for different user needs. Samsung’s One UI 6.1 software optimizations further enhance performance and efficiency.
Key Differences
| Feature | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| CPU Cores | Octa-core (1×3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3×3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2×3.0 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2×2.3 GHz Cortex-A520) | Octa-core (1×3.39GHz Cortex-X4 & 3×3.1GHz Cortex-A720 & 2×2.9GHz Cortex-A720 & 2×2.2GHz Cortex-A520) |
| GPU | Adreno 750 | Adreno 750 |
| RAM | 12GB, 16GB | 12GB, 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Benchmark Scores | AnTuTu: 2014262 (v10), GeekBench: 7060 (v6), 3DMark Wild Life: 17244 (offscreen 1440p) | AnTuTu: 1453497 (v9), 1823822 (v10), GeekBench: 7076 (v6), 3DMark Wild Life: 17931 (offscreen 1440p) |
| Software Optimizations | MIUI 15 | One UI 6.1 |
- Software Optimizations: Samsung’s One UI 6.1 software optimizations may provide a slight edge in terms of overall performance and efficiency compared to Xiaomi’s MIUI 15.
- RAM Options: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers slightly more RAM options, potentially providing a slight advantage for heavy multitasking.
V. Camera: A Photographic Masterpiece
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra boasts a quad-camera setup that is designed to capture stunning photos and videos. The primary camera features a 50MP sensor with a large 1.0″-type sensor size and a variable aperture ranging from f/1.6 to f/4.0. This versatile aperture allows for capturing more light in low-light conditions or creating a shallow depth of field for portrait shots.
The second camera is a 50MP telephoto lens with a 3.2x optical zoom, enabling you to capture subjects from a distance without losing detail. The third camera is a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with a 5x optical zoom, providing even more powerful zooming capabilities for capturing distant subjects.
The fourth camera is a 50MP ultrawide lens with a 122° field of view, perfect for capturing landscapes and group photos. Additionally, the device features a TOF 3D sensor for accurate depth sensing and improved bokeh effects.
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera system is enhanced by Leica lenses, which are renowned for their optical quality and color accuracy. The device also supports various camera features, including HDR, panorama, and 67mm filter ring holder for creative photography.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra also features a quad-camera setup that is capable of capturing impressive photos and videos. The primary camera is a 200MP sensor with a 1/1.3″ sensor size and an f/1.7 aperture. The large sensor size and wide aperture allow for capturing more light and detail, especially in low-light conditions.
The second camera is a 10MP telephoto lens with a 3x optical zoom, providing a versatile option for capturing subjects from a distance. The third camera is a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with a 5x optical zoom, offering even more powerful zooming capabilities.
The fourth camera is a 12MP ultrawide lens with a 120° field of view, perfect for capturing landscapes and group photos. The device also features an LED flash, auto-HDR, and panorama mode for enhanced photography.
Key Differences
| Feature | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 50MP, f/1.6-f/4.0, 1.0″-type, 1.6µm | 200MP, f/1.7, 1/1.3″, 0.6µm |
| Telephoto Lens | 50MP, f/1.8, 75mm (3.2x optical zoom), OIS | 10MP, f/2.4, 67mm (3x optical zoom), OIS |
| Periscope Telephoto Lens | 50MP, f/2.5, 120mm (5x optical zoom), OIS | 50MP, f/3.4, 111mm (5x optical zoom), OIS |
| Ultrawide Lens | 50MP, f/1.8, 12mm, 122˚ | 12MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 120˚ |
| Additional Sensors | TOF 3D sensor | None |
| Video Recording | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@24/30/60/120fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240/480/960/1920fps | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60/120fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps |
| Special Features | Leica lenses, Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama, 67mm filter ring holder | LED flash, auto-HDR, panorama |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.0, 22mm (wide) | 12MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide) |
| Selfie Video Recording | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30fps |
- Main Sensor: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s main sensor is slightly larger and offers a variable aperture, while the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra‘s main sensor has a higher resolution.
- Leica Lenses: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera system is enhanced by Leica lenses, which may provide a unique photographic style.
- Additional Features: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers a TOF 3D sensor for improved depth sensing and bokeh effects.
VI. Battery: Powering Through the Day
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, which provides ample power to last through a full day of moderate usage. The device supports 90W wired charging, allowing for a quick recharge in just 33 minutes. Additionally, the 80W wireless charging capability offers convenient wireless charging without the need for cables.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra also features a 5000mAh battery, ensuring sufficient power for daily use. The device supports 45W wired charging, allowing for a relatively fast recharge. Wireless charging is also supported at 15W, providing a convenient option for charging without cables.
Key Differences
| Feature | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh |
| Charging Type | Wired and wireless | Wired and wireless |
| Wired Charging Speed | 90W | 45W |
| Wireless Charging Speed | 80W | 15W |
| Battery Life | Excellent | Excellent |
| Additional Features | Reverse wireless charging | Reverse wireless charging |
- Wired Charging Speed: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers slightly faster wired charging at 90W compared to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra‘s 45W.
- Wireless Charging Speed: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra also offers faster wireless charging at 80W compared to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra‘s 15W.
VII. Software and Features: A Rich User Experience
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra runs on Android 14, the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system, with Xiaomi’s MIUI 15 skin on top. MIUI 15 offers a clean and intuitive user interface with customizable features and themes.
Some notable features of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra include:
- Leica-Tuned Camera System: The device’s camera system is enhanced by Leica’s expertise in optics and color science, providing a unique photographic experience.
- Two-Way Satellite Communication: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra supports two-way satellite communication, allowing you to send and receive messages even in areas with no cellular coverage.
- Dedicated Camera Shutter Button: The device features a physical camera shutter button, providing a tactile and convenient way to capture photos.
- Xiaomi Shield Glass: The display is protected by Xiaomi’s Shield Glass, ensuring durability against scratches and accidental drops.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra runs on Android 14 with One UI 6.1, Samsung’s customized user interface. One UI 6.1 offers a clean and intuitive design with a focus on productivity and customization.
Some notable features of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra include:
- Samsung DeX: The device supports Samsung DeX, allowing you to connect it to a monitor or TV and use it like a desktop computer.
- Samsung Wireless DeX: The device also supports Samsung Wireless DeX, enabling you to connect it to a compatible TV or monitor wirelessly.
- S Pen Stylus: The Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with a built-in S Pen stylus, allowing for precise drawing, note-taking, and interaction with the device.
- Samsung Health: The device integrates with Samsung Health, providing comprehensive health tracking and fitness features.
Key Differences
| Feature | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 14 with MIUI 15 | Android 14 with One UI 6.1 |
| User Interface | Clean and intuitive | Clean and intuitive |
| Customization Options | Extensive | Extensive |
| Unique Features | Leica-tuned camera system, two-way satellite communication, dedicated camera shutter button | S Pen stylus, Samsung DeX and Wireless DeX, Samsung Health |
| Ecosystem Integration | Xiaomi ecosystem | Samsung ecosystem |
| Additional Features | Xiaomi Shield Glass, MIUI Gallery | Always-on display, Samsung Pay |
- User Interface: Both MIUI 15 and One UI 6.1 offer clean and intuitive user interfaces with customization options, but they have different design philosophies and features.
- Unique Features: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers unique features like a Leica-tuned camera system and two-way satellite communication, while the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra focuses on productivity features like Samsung DeX and the S Pen stylus.
VIII. Connectivity and Sensors: Staying Connected and Informed
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers comprehensive connectivity options, including:
- 5G Connectivity: Supports the latest 5G network technology for fast and reliable internet speeds.
- Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7: Provides high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity with support for tri-band frequencies.
- Bluetooth 5.4: Enables seamless connections with Bluetooth devices, including headphones, speakers, and wearables.
- GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS, NavIC: Supports various global navigation satellite systems for accurate location tracking.
- NFC: Allows for contactless payments and data sharing with other NFC-enabled devices.
- Infrared Port: Enables remote control of compatible devices like TVs and air conditioners.
In terms of sensors, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra features:
- Fingerprint (under display, optical): Provides convenient and secure biometric authentication.
- Accelerometer, proximity, gyro, compass, color spectrum, barometer: Offers various sensors for tracking movement, orientation, and environmental conditions.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra also provides robust connectivity options, including:
- 5G Connectivity: Supports the latest 5G network technology for fast and reliable internet speeds.
- Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7: Provides high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity with support for tri-band frequencies.
- Bluetooth 5.3: Enables seamless connections with Bluetooth devices, including headphones, speakers, and wearables.
- GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS: Supports various global navigation satellite systems for accurate location tracking.
- NFC: Allows for contactless payments and data sharing with other NFC-enabled devices.
- Ultra Wideband (UWB) support: Enables precise location tracking and proximity-based interactions with other UWB-enabled devices.
In terms of sensors, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra features:
- Fingerprint (under display, ultrasonic): Provides convenient and secure biometric authentication.
- Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer: Offers various sensors for tracking movement, orientation, and environmental conditions.
Key Differences
| Feature | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS, NavIC, NFC, infrared port | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS, NFC, Ultra Wideband |
| Sensors | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, proximity, gyro, compass, color spectrum, barometer | Fingerprint (under display, ultrasonic), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Additional Features | Two-way satellite communication | Samsung DeX, Samsung Wireless DeX |
- Ultra Wideband: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra supports Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, which enables more precise location tracking and proximity-based interactions.
- Infrared Port: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra features an infrared port for remote control of compatible devices.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Flagship Showdown
Both the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra are exceptional flagship smartphones that offer a premium experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
If you prioritize camera performance and a unique camera system, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra may be the better option. However, if you prefer a larger display, a built-in S Pen stylus, and Samsung’s ecosystem of features, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra might be a better fit.
Ultimately, both devices are excellent choices, and you can’t go wrong with either one.
FAQ
- Which device has a better camera? Both the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra have excellent camera systems. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers a unique Leica-tuned camera system and a periscope telephoto lens, while the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has a 200MP main sensor for exceptional detail.
- Which device has a better battery life? Both devices offer excellent battery life, and there is no significant difference between them.
- Which device has a better display? Both devices have stunning LTPO AMOLED displays with high refresh rates. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has a slightly larger display and a higher peak brightness.
- Which device is better for gaming? Both devices are capable of handling demanding games thanks to their powerful processors. However, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra may have a slight edge due to its larger RAM options.
- Which device is better for multitasking? Both devices are capable of handling multitasking with ease. However, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra‘s software optimizations may give it a slight advantage.