The original Xiaomi Mix is actually larger than the Mix 2, featuring a massive 6.4-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2040 pixels, with an aspect ratio of 17:9. In contrast, the Xiaomi Mix 2 has a smaller 5.99-inch IPS LCD display, but with a higher resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels. Additionally, the Mix 2 has an 18:9 aspect ratio, which means the device boasts a borderless design, similar to the first generation Mix with its full-screen display.
In terms of hardware, the specifications of the Xiaomi Mix 2 are fully upgraded compared to its sibling Mix. The Mix runs on Android 6.0, while the Mix 2 uses Android 7.1. Moreover, the Mix 2 is powered by the Snapdragon 835 chip instead of the traditional Snapdragon 821 processor.
Regarding memory, the Mix 2 offers 6GB or 8GB of RAM, along with three ROM options of 64/128/256GB. The original Mix, however, came with either 4GB + 128GB or 6GB + 256GB memory combinations. Both phones lack a microSD card slot, which means we cannot further expand the storage space.
In terms of versions, the previous generation Xiaomi Mix had two versions, while the new generation Xiaomi Mix 2 offers three versions to choose from, plus a full ceramic premium version with a Unibody ceramic body, 8GB + 128GB memory, priced at 4699 yuan, which will be released in November. Therefore, strictly speaking, the Xiaomi Mix 2 has four versions available, significantly expanding the options compared to its predecessor.
Speaking of photography technology, the Xiaomi Mix 2 is equipped with a 12MP rear camera, which is lower than the original Mix’s 16MP. However, it utilizes a large 1.25μm pixel size to capture more light. For selfies, both smartphones feature the same 5MP sensor, but the Xiaomi Mix 2’s front camera has an f/2.0 aperture, while the Mix has an f/2.2 aperture.
However, in terms of battery, the Xiaomi Mix is a clear winner, boasting a huge 4400 mAh battery, while its successor, the Mix 2, only has 3400 mAh.
The starting price for the Xiaomi Mix is 3499 yuan, while the starting price for the Xiaomi Mix 2 is 3299 yuan. Thus, it seems that the Mix 2 offers more for the same price; however, with the launch of the Mix 2, the Mix will also face price cuts and discontinuation. The Xiaomi Mix was released in 2016, and the Xiaomi Mix 2 was released in September 2017.
Overall, the Xiaomi Mix 2 has optimized its configuration based on the Xiaomi Mix, achieving a comprehensive upgrade. Mi fans may consider adding it to their collection.