Xiaomi is very pleased with the snapshots taken with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. They even offer a ‘Photography Kit’ that transforms the smartphone into a compact camera. In this Xiaomi 14 Ultra camera review, you can find out what to expect.
In our reviews, we always pay close attention to the cameras, especially with more expensive smartphones. We use automatic settings as much as possible, as it provides an honest view of how most people take photos.
However, some devices encourage more creativity. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is one such device. Not only is the camera app filled with options to customize your photos to your liking, but there is also a Photography Kit available for purchase. Priced at 199.99 euros, it includes several components.
For instance, there is an extra thick cover in the box where you can attach the handgrip. This makes the smartphone look like a compact camera and is much easier to handle. With a physical shutter button, you can take photos just like with a real camera. Half-press to focus and fully press to capture the image.
There is also a button to start video recording and a lever for zooming in and out. Additionally, there is an exposure adjustment gear. However, its proximity to the shutter button sometimes leads to accidental adjustments, resulting in lighter or darker photos. This inconvenience can be rectified by customizing the button functions in the settings.
The grip feels robust and stays secure when the lock button is in use. It’s nice that an extra 1500 mAh battery is integrated into the grip, extending the battery life of your Xiaomi 14 Ultra. This is a bonus if you take many photos throughout the day.
Filters on a Smartphone?
Filters can be attached to many ‘real’ camera lenses. Variants include polarization filters for deeper colors and gray filters that block light, necessitating longer shutter speeds for capturing usable photos. These filters are commonly used to capture ‘frozen’ water or clouds, creating a sense of movement in the photo.
You can mount a filter holder (supplied) on the case from the Photography Kit, which accommodates filters with a 67-millimeter diameter. However, filters need to be purchased separately as they are not included. Despite this, it’s a worthwhile investment as it offers excellent options.
You probably won’t keep the filter holder on the case at all times. For this reason, Xiaomi provides two decorative rings (silver and gold-colored) to add an attractive accent to the cover.
While 200 euros for the Photography Kit is a significant investment, we recommend it for photography enthusiasts without a standalone camera. The grip improves the weight balance of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, making it more comfortable to use. Without this accessory, the smartphone may feel top-heavy.
Editing Options
As previously mentioned, we typically use automatic settings for photos in our reviews. However, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra encourages photography enthusiasts to experiment. The main camera, wide-angle lens, and two telephoto lenses boast a 50-megapixel resolution. While pixel binning generates 12.5-megapixel photos by default, full resolution can also be utilized.
Of particular interest is the ability to shoot in ‘Ultra Raw’ with the Xiaomi. These files contain extensive image data, resulting in a wider dynamic range than standard RAW files. This provides enhanced transitions between light and dark areas in photos.
To work with Ultra Raw files, manual editing in programs like Lightroom Mobile is necessary. The results, with a bit of effort, are remarkable. For example, the photo below of a unique art installation showcases accurate reproduction of bright fluorescent elements and shadow details, akin to an image captured with a high-end system camera.
Capturing photos in Ultra Raw demands robust hardware and occasionally tests patience. Nevertheless, the results make the effort worthwhile, especially when using the main camera. Unfortunately, the quality gap between the main camera and other lenses observed in the standard Xiaomi 14 Ultra review persists in Ultra Raw mode.
Images captured with the wide-angle lens showcase dynamic perspectives but exhibit softness in the corners.
Zooming in accentuates the issue as noticeable distortions and lack of detail become evident in the corners. While corner distortion is common with such lenses, the compromised detail is disappointing. In comparison, devices like the Google Pixel 8 Pro feature superior wide-angle lenses.
The two telephoto lenses exhibit less distortion and corner softness. However, they fall short in detail and dynamic range compared to the main camera.
Conclusion
The main camera of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra delivers outstanding performance. Paired with the premium Photography Kit, it transforms into a high-end compact camera offering unparalleled possibilities. The filter integration feature is particularly impressive.
For future models, we hope Xiaomi focuses on enhancing the performance of other lenses. The main camera is already exceptional. The significant quality gap between different cameras remains the biggest drawback of the 14 Ultra.