Xiaomi 17 Ultra vs Leica Edition: 3 exclusive features for extra $100
The arrival of the series known as Xiaomi 17 Ultra has presented an intriguing predicament for those who purchase top-end smartphones. Xiaomi has divided its high-end product into two separate entities: the regular Xiaomi 17 Ultra, crafted for general luxury aficionados, and the second, called the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition, created for aficionados and professionals alike. Even though both possess the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 soul, they possess separate natures altogether. Here’s the complete distinction on why the latter warrants its premium price tag.
1. Design: Modern Flow vs. Mechanical Grip
The visual language used in both devices has different aims. The standard Xiaomi 17 Ultra comes with an all-new 2D flat screen and ultra-narrow equal bezels and an 8.29mm thin body. The device is made to be elegant and comfortable and comes in glass and eco-leather materials such as Starry Green.
The Leica Edition, however, is a tank when it comes to construction. The camera is ever so slightly thicker, at 8.5mm, to house the mechanical components inside. The design boasts a characteristic knurled mid-frame design that copies the design of a manual focus camera lens, with fantastic grip to show for it. The back is skinned with a customized vegan leather design that comes as a tribute to the Leica M line, complete with the legendary Leica Red Label design as well. This is a camera that phones home.
2.The Master Zoom Ring
The biggest noticeable difference is in the way the controls are handled. The conventional model uses the touchscreen for all camera settings. The Leica Edition features Mechanical Master Zoom Ring.
This features a physical, turnable ring that is incorporated in the camera module. This gives a photographer the ability to change the focus length or even focus in a way that does not conceal the screen. This offers a great sense of feel as well as accuracy that software sliders can never offer.
3. Imaging Software: The “Leitz” Look
Both cameras feature the exact same top-of-their-class hardware: the 1-inch Light Hunter 1050L sensor, along with the 200MP periscope zoom. The Leica Edition is treated to a one-of-a-kind software experience.
It comes with the Leica Professional System, which allows modes not available with the regular version of the camera:
- Leica M9 Model: Offers a nostalgic CCD-sensor color science like in the M9 model body.
- Leica M3 + MONOPAN 50: A specific contrast-rich monochrome camera mode for artistic monochrome photography.
- Classic 3:2 Aspect Ratio: Natively recorded format that simulates 35mm film frames.
Verdict
A slim, powerful, and IP69 waterproof flagships-section Xiaomi 17 Ultra is what I can call a perfect buy if one needs a device for daily use. For a professional who would rather use hardware-based privacy encryption features as well as the pleasure of a mechanical zoom ring, there is nothing better than a Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition. These two models are well-integrated with the Apple ecosystem.




















































































































