Network
The Xiaomi Mi 3 is equipped with GSM and HSPA technologies. The 2G bands include GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900, while the 3G bands comprise HSDPA 850, 900, 1900, and 2100. This allows the device to support a decent range of networks, ensuring connectivity in various regions across the globe. The device's speed capability reaches up to HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, providing a good balance between older network standards and usability.
Launch
Announced in September 2013 and released in December of the same year, the Xiaomi Mi 3 was a notable entry in Xiaomi's smartphone lineup. Despite its discontinuation, the device paved the way for future innovations and remains a part of Xiaomi’s history for delivering high-quality specs at a budget-friendly price.
Body & Build
The Mi 3 measures 144 x 73.6 x 8.1 mm and weighs approximately 145 grams, offering a device that is manageable in terms of size and weight. The build comprises a glass front protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, with a plastic back and frame, which was standard for phones at the time. It uses a Mini-SIM card, fitting seamlessly into the device's design.
Display
Featuring a 5.0-inch IPS LCD screen, the Xiaomi Mi 3 delivers vibrant colors and clear images thanks to a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This translates to a pixel density of approximately 441 ppi, ensuring sharp visuals for the user. Additionally, the screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which helps safeguard against scratches and minor impacts.
Platform
The Mi 3 initially runs on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean and is upgradable to Android 6.0 Marshmallow coupled with MIUI 5. Its chipset is the Qualcomm MSM8274AB Snapdragon 800, built on a 28 nm process. The CPU is a quad-core 2.3 GHz Krait 400, paired with an Adreno 330 GPU. This combination provides a smooth performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
Memory
The device comes with either 16GB or 64GB of internal storage, accompanied by 2GB of RAM. However, it lacks a card slot for expandable storage, which is a consideration for those who require more space for apps and media.
Main Camera
The Xiaomi Mi 3 features a single 13 MP rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture and a 28mm wide lens. It also comes equipped with autofocus and a dual-LED flash, supporting HDR for enhanced image quality. The camera is capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps, with HDR support for video capture as well.
Selfie Camera
The front-facing camera of the Mi 3 is a 2 MP shooter with an f/2.2 aperture. It supports 1080p video capture at 30fps, allowing for decent quality selfies and video calls.
Sound
The device is equipped with a loudspeaker for calls and media playback and retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that remains appreciated by many users for its compatibility with a wide range of audio devices.
Communications
The Mi 3 supports various communication options including Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, and hotspot capabilities, enabling quick and reliable internet access. Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, GPS, GLONASS, NFC, FM radio, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG support provide a comprehensive suite of connectivity options.
Sensors
The device is equipped with an array of sensors including an accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and barometer, all of which contribute to its functionality in different applications.
Battery
Xiaomi Mi 3 houses a non-removable Li-Ion 3050 mAh battery, supporting 18W fast charging via QC2. This setup promises up to 500 hours of standby time, up to 25 hours of talk time, and up to 50 hours of music play, making it a solid choice for users seeking long battery life.
Miscellaneous
The smartphone was available in a wide range of colors namely White, Gray, Black, Yellow, Pink, Blue, Gold, and Green. When launched, it was priced at approximately 200 EUR, offering excellent value for the features it packed.
Tests & Performance
Display tests showed a contrast ratio of 907 (nominal) and 2.001 under sunlight, ensuring visibility in various lighting conditions. Audio quality tests resulted in a noise level of -91.5dB and crosstalk measured at -44.2dB. The device also demonstrated an endurance rating of 66 hours, confirming its efficient battery consumption over extended usage.
Key Features of Xiaomi Mi 3
- 5.0-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, offering sharp visuals.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection for enhanced screen durability.
- Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 chipset and Quad-core 2.3 GHz Krait 400 CPU for robust performance.
- Adreno 330 GPU for smooth graphics rendering.
- Available in 16GB and 64GB internal storage variants, both with 2GB RAM.
- 13 MP rear camera with dual-LED flash and HDR, capable of recording 1080p video at 30fps.
- 2 MP front camera, also supporting 1080p video recording at 30fps.
- Comprehensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, and GPS.
- Features a non-removable 3050 mAh Li-Ion battery with Quick Charge 2.0 support.
- Includes essential sensors like accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and barometer.
Disadvantages of Xiaomi Mi 3
- No support for 4G/LTE networks, only GSM and HSPA.
- Discontinued model, may have limited support and updates.
- Plastic back and frame may reduce the premium feel.
- Mini-SIM is used, which is less common today compared to micro and nano-SIMs.
- No expandable memory; lacks a card slot for additional storage.
- Front camera is only 2 MP, limiting selfie quality.
- Non-removable battery which restricts easy replacement.
- MIUI version is outdated, initially comes with Android 4.3.
- Initial Android version (Jelly Bean) is significantly outdated, despite being upgradable to Marshmallow.
- Loudspeaker volume is moderate with voice at 69dB, which may be low for some users.
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