Danny Weber
03:13 17-11-2025
© A. Krivonosov
Discover the best used Xiaomi phones in 2025. Compare Snapdragon 778G, 865/870 and 855/860, software support, custom ROMs, updates, and what to avoid.
In 2025, picking up an older Xiaomi smartphone has become one of the most affordable ways to save money without sacrificing convenience and functionality. For the price of brand-new budget models, you can get hardware with far more punch, and the real value is no longer about gigahertz — it’s about how long the phone stays compatible with modern software. Some devices run steadily and demand nothing from the owner; others deliver high performance with minor effort; a third group invites those willing to tinker with firmware. Knowing how much involvement you’re ready to invest is what helps you choose a used Xiaomi wisely and get the most for the least.
Meanwhile, the idea of a “used smartphone” has changed. Today a device’s lifespan is determined less by raw power and more by software support, API levels, and security requirements. Hardware can carry a phone for four, five, sometimes six years without issue, but it’s the software that ultimately decides how long the device remains practical.
Older Xiaomi models on the Snapdragon 778G still feel straightforward and dependable. They handle daily tasks with consistency and remain true “switch on and get to work” devices. In this tier, the Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE and POCO X5 Pro stand out as they continue to receive updates and don’t require user intervention. For most people, that combination looks like the most hassle-free route to a solid experience.
The Snapdragon 865/870 series remains capable, but it already asks for some effort. Many models can run modern apps only through custom ROMs. On the hardware side they rival today’s mid-range phones, yet software constraints can turn into a stumbling block for the average user. If you’re comfortable tweaking the software, the payoff is speed; if not, this tier can feel less forgiving.
Devices on Snapdragon 855/860 have shifted into enthusiast territory. Smartphones like the Mi 9T Pro, Redmi K20 Pro, and POCO X3 Pro keep going thanks to active communities building custom ROMs on Android 15–16. Running them takes skill: unlocking the bootloader and applying third-party patches can break certain apps, especially banking. It’s an engaging playground for tinkerers, while casual users will likely prefer something less demanding.
In 2025, older Xiaomi phones remain relevant, but success depends on the balance of hardware, updates, and user attentiveness: 778G — a reliable pick for savings and stable operation; 865/870 — suited to users ready to work with the software; 855/860 — for technical enthusiasts prepared to deal with custom ROMs.