Mi 9 – Quick Review and Handy Tips
If you’re scrolling through phone options and the Xiaomi Mi 9 pops up, you probably wonder whether it’s still worth a look. Launched in 2019, the Mi 9 was Xiaomi’s answer to premium flagships with a Snapdragon 855, a triple‑camera setup and a sleek design. In this guide we break down the most useful facts, share a few tricks to squeeze out extra performance, and help you decide if the Mi 9 fits your budget today.
Key Specs at a Glance
The Mi 9 packs a 6.39‑inch AMOLED screen that hits 1080p resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate. That means scrolling feels smooth and videos look crisp, even if the panel isn’t a full‑HD+ as you’d find on newer phones. Under the hood sits the Snapdragon 855 paired with 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM, so everyday apps launch instantly and gaming runs without noticeable lag.
The camera trio includes a 48 MP main sensor, a 13 MP telephoto lens (2× optical zoom) and a 13 MP ultra‑wide lens. In good light the main shooter captures decent detail, while the ultra‑wide is handy for landscape shots. Low‑light performance is okay but not on par with the latest models – you’ll see some noise, but the built‑in Night mode does a respectable job.
Battery life is a solid 3300 mAh. With moderate use you’ll get through a day, and the 27 W fast charger replenishes the charge in about an hour. The phone runs MIUI 12 on top of Android 9, and you can upgrade to Android 11 through Xiaomi’s update program.
Pricing has dropped sharply since launch. As of 2025 you can find brand‑new units for around $250‑$300, while good‑condition used models go for even less. That price point makes the Mi 9 an attractive option for anyone who wants a flagship‑level feel without splurging on the latest flagships.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Mi 9
First, enable the 90 Hz display mode in Settings → Display. It uses a bit more power but the smoother scrolling is worth it for most users. If you’re chasing longer battery life, switch to the standard 60 Hz mode when you’re on the move.
Take advantage of the “Game Turbo” feature. It allocates extra RAM to games, reduces background activity and can boost frame rates in popular titles like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile.
For camera lovers, turn on the “Pro” mode. It lets you adjust ISO, shutter speed and white balance, giving you more control over tricky lighting. Even the default Night mode can be improved by stabilizing the phone on a surface – the integrated AI will still enhance the shot.
Keep the software fresh. Xiaomi’s update schedule still pushes security patches to older devices, so check Settings → About phone regularly for the latest MIUI builds. A newer MIUI version can improve battery optimization and add useful tweaks.
Finally, protect the glass. The Mi 9’s front panel is Gorilla Glass 6, but it’s still vulnerable to drops. A simple clear case and a tempered‑glass screen protector add cheap insurance and keep the phone looking fresh.
Overall, the Mi 9 offers a solid mix of performance, camera versatility and premium design at a price that feels like a bargain today. If you don’t need the absolute latest 5G speeds or a 120 Hz screen, the Mi 9 still holds its own for everyday tasks, media consumption and casual gaming. Give it a try – you might end up with a flagship experience without breaking the bank.
