In terms of performance, the Xiaomi 17T also offers a slight improvement over its predecessor. The built-in MediaTek Dimensity 8500, together with the Mali-G720 MP8, sometimes achieves (slightly) better scores than the Dimensity 8400 – though only when the device is cool.
Once the Xiaomi 17T reaches operating temperature, it begins to throttle, so the nominal performance advantage disappears after a short time in the 3DMark stress tests. Under heavy load, the Xiaomi 17T throttles by up to 40 percent, making it less consistent than the 15T. In the Wild Life stress test, the predecessor therefore achieves a significantly better average frame rate of 66.1 fps, compared with 57.6 fps for the Xiaomi 17T.
Because of the more noticeable performance drop, the Xiaomi 17T receives a downgrade in our performance rating, which ultimately lowers its overall score. Still, for anyone who doesn’t use their smartphone for video editing or heavy gaming, the 2026 model remains the better choice.
