Xiaomi 13T Smartphone in review – The budget alternative to the Xiaomi 13

Compared to its predecessor, the Xiaomi 12T, Xiaomi has elevated the camera setup on the 13T in collaboration with Leica. This upgrade not only involves a partnership with Leica but also results in a more cohesive overall system. Like the Xiaomi 12T, the Xiaomi 13T features a triple camera setup at the rear. The 2 MP macro camera from its predecessor, which wasn’t particularly practical, has been omitted. Instead, the Xiaomi 13T now shares an identical camera setup with the Xiaomi 13T Pro.

The primary camera on the Xiaomi 13T is the 50 MP Sony IMX707 (f/1.9, 24 mm), equipped with optical image stabilization, and bears the Leica Vario-Summicron 1:19-2.2/15-50 ASPH branding on the back of the smartphone. Additionally, there is a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle camera (Omnivision OV13b, f/2.2, 15 mm), and as a notable feature, a 50 MP telephoto camera with a 2x optical zoom and a 20x digital zoom (Omnivision OV50D, f/1.9, 50 mm). The camera array is completed by the 20 MP punch-hole selfie camera, capable of capturing good photos but limited to recording videos in Full HD resolution at 30 frames per second.

The collaboration with Leica introduces two image modes, Leica Vivid and Leica Authentic, along with numerous photo setting options. These modes, accessible via a separate icon in the camera app, each feature slightly different color calibrations. Additionally, various Leica filters are available to enhance photos. The main camera can record videos at up to 4K at 30 frames per second.

In daylight conditions, the main camera excels at capturing excellent photos with minimal image noise, consistently maintaining sharpness thanks to optical image stabilization. The Leica Vivid mode produces strong contrasts, while Leica Authentic tends to provide softer contrasts. The main camera also performs well in capturing night shots. However, compared to the Xiaomi 13T Pro, which shares the same photo hardware, the level of detail is somewhat lower, and the photos appear less dynamic. This difference could be attributed to the distinct SoC (Xiaomi 13T Pro: MediaTek Dimensity 9200+).

The telephoto camera, also boasting a 50 MP resolution, delivers high-contrast and sharp photos at lossless zoom levels of up to 2x, demonstrating an overall commendable performance. Images get hazy rapidly while using digital zoom. The weakest link in the Xiaomi 13T’s camera ensemble is the 12 MP ultra-wide-angle camera. While it performs adequately, it doesn’t offer more than standard photo quality, comparable to that of much more affordable smartphones.