Comparing Xiaomi’s ultimate flagship with Redmi’s best value powerhouse

The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max and the Redmi K90 Pro Max represent two sides of the same brand’s strategy — one aims to redefine premium innovation, while the other delivers near-flagship performance at a more affordable price. Both phones share cutting-edge hardware, but they target different users. This face-off highlights where each device shines and what kind of buyer each one is best suited for.

The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max was launched as the company’s most advanced smartphone to date, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. It features a massive 6.9-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering exceptional brightness and color accuracy. Xiaomi has also introduced a unique rear “Dynamic Back Display,” which doubles as a notification panel and selfie preview screen — a bold innovation that sets it apart from typical flagships.

In contrast, the Redmi K90 Pro Max carries the same flagship-level chipset and performance credentials but is positioned as a value-oriented powerhouse. It offers a 6.9-inch 2K OLED screen with the same 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring an equally smooth experience. Redmi focuses on practicality and affordability, dropping some luxury extras in favor of aggressive pricing, making it one of the most competitive flagship killers of 2025.

When it comes to cameras, both devices feature triple 50MP sensors, including a periscope telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max, however, benefits from advanced image processing and larger sensor optics, which enhance low-light performance and color accuracy. The Redmi K90 Pro Max delivers strong results as well, though it leans more toward balanced performance rather than pro-grade output. For photography enthusiasts, the Xiaomi still holds the edge with better hardware tuning.

Battery life and charging speed are strong on both sides. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max houses a 7,500mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. Redmi slightly surpasses it with a 7,560mAh battery and the same charging speeds, adding 22.5W reverse wireless charging — allowing users to power accessories like earbuds or smartwatches on the go. Despite the near-identical battery performance, Xiaomi’s software optimization gives it a small advantage in efficiency.

Design and materials mark the clearest distinction between the two. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max uses premium metal and glass construction with a curved display, thinner bezels, and refined ergonomics. The Redmi K90 Pro Max opts for a more functional design with a flat display and a slightly thicker frame. It also features a Bose-tuned dual-speaker system with a built-in woofer, making it a delight for audio lovers. While Xiaomi’s build feels more luxurious, Redmi’s emphasis on entertainment and value cannot be ignored.

In terms of user experience, both phones run on HyperOS, Xiaomi’s latest software platform built on Android 15. The system is optimized for better power management, customization, and app responsiveness. The 17 Pro Max benefits from deeper integration with premium features like AI-powered photo editing and performance modes, while the K90 Pro Max delivers a clean, fast experience with fewer preloaded extras. Software updates are expected for up to four years on both devices.

Price is where the two diverge significantly. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max sits firmly in the premium tier, with a UK price equivalent of around £1,100, while the Redmi K90 Pro Max undercuts it by nearly 40%. This makes the Redmi a strong choice for users who want flagship-level performance without stretching their budget. Xiaomi’s flagship, however, remains ideal for buyers who value craftsmanship, innovation, and the brand’s best hardware execution.

For connectivity, both phones support full 5G band coverage, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and NFC. However, the Xiaomi’s global variant offers wider carrier certification, ensuring stronger network compatibility across the UK and Europe. The Redmi K90 Pro Max, primarily released in Asia, may require manual network setup when imported.

In conclusion, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max stands as the ultimate expression of premium technology — combining luxury design, superior camera performance, and innovative features like the rear display. The Redmi K90 Pro Max, on the other hand, redefines value by offering nearly identical performance, a massive battery, and immersive audio for far less money.

For those who want the best that Xiaomi has to offer, the 17 Pro Max is a statement of cutting-edge engineering. But if you’re after flagship-level performance at an unbeatable price, the Redmi K90 Pro Max is the smarter, more practical choice in 2025’s flagship value showdown.