Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 5G Review | An affordable alternative?

Reviewing the Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 5G, the most affordable 5G smartphone of 2019, after a week of using it full-time.

This upgraded version of the original Mi Mix 3 still boasts premium specs, a feature-packed dual-lens camera and full-view display, courtesy of the sliding design. At just £499 in the UK SIM-free, it's the cheapest option right now compared with the OnePlus 7 Pro and Galaxy S10 5G, although that next-gen contract won't exactly be cheap.

I've been using this handset as my own daily driver for a week now and while I love the premium performance, dependable battery life and gorgeous Samsung AMOLED screen, the software can be rather irritating. Xiaomi's MiUI is still a bit of a mess, even though it adds some worthy features to the Mi Mix 3 such as a dedicated one-handed mode. And while the camera tech is good for everyday shots, you can find more flexible and capable smartphone snappers out there.

All the same, if your budget can't stretch to the OnePlus or Samsung alternatives, the Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 5G is a powerful and affordable choice.

Vodafone is offering this phone right now, from £56 per month for unlimited data:

www.vodafone.co.uk/mobile/phones/pay-monthly-contracts/xiaomi/mi-mix-3-5g