Mi Max 2 Camera Test

Smartphones are doing great replacing basic cameras in day-to-day shooting. They may not be ready to crash professional-level cameras yet, but the ambition is high. And one does not need to look very widely to find a confirmation for that.

Let's take Mi Max 2. Going on the spec sheet is rather overwhelming:

• display size: 6.44 inches;
• screen resolution: 1920×1080 pixels;
• processor: 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 paired with Adreno 506 graphics;
• RAM memory: 4GB;
• ROM memory: 64/128GB (depending on the modification);
• primary camera: 12MP, Sony IMX386 sensor with 1.25μm pixel size;
• battery: 5300 mAh and QC 3.0 fast charging support;
• navigation: GPS, GLONASS;
• OS: MIUI 8.2 (on top of Android Nougat);
• connectivity port: USB Type-C;
• additional features: fingerprint scanner, all-metal body.

Well, is not it an all-purpose device? Yes, it is. However, let’s dwell on the camera more.

Mi Max 2 has a 12MP Sony lens with an aperture of f/2.2 on the rear. When you shoot in low lighting the smartphone produces high-quality photos, which are a lot better than photos from many phones you will find at this price point. On top of that, the camera boasts an HDR mode that makes your images more vibrant. If you want to end up with pictures like that all the time, do not forget to switch on the mode right after you get the phone. And that is still not all. The main camera sports a phase detection autofocus to make your image or video clear. And if you like to shoot videos, it offers 4K and 1080p video recording. 

The primary shooter is joined by a 5MP selfie camera that delivers  85-degree  wide angle images, which makes including a group of your friends in a selfie a no-problem thing.

The camera app on the Mi Max 2 is easy to use. The interface is straightforward and does not take much time to get the hang of.

Without further ado, here are the samples of photos taken by the main 12MP camera of Mi Max 2.

And here is a quick overview what Xiaomi serves us in the box outside of the gadget itself.

As is always the case with the company’s devices, the packaging is really well-made and stylish looking. Although the components are pretty standard: USB Type-A/USB Type-C cable, power adapter, a SIM-card tool and a user manual.