Xiaomi Mi A3 smartphone

Photo: Rix Morales via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Xiaomi

Xiaomi Mi A3

July 24, 2019 6/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Xiaomi Mi A3, launched in July 2019, is an Android One smartphone known for its clean software experience and guaranteed updates from Google. It features a 6.08-inch Super AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 665 processor, and a versatile triple camera system with a 48MP main sensor, all powered by a substantial 4030mAh battery.
Display6.08-inch HD+ Super AMOLED
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 665
Main Camera48MP Triple Camera
Battery4030 mAh
Starting from $879

💰 Xiaomi Mi A3 Price

The Xiaomi Mi A3 lowest price is $879, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeSuper AMOLED
Size6.08 inches
Resolution720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~282 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 5
FeaturesDot Drop display

Platform

OSAndroid 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 11, Android One
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 665 (11 nm)
CPUOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver)
GPUAdreno 610

Memory

Card slotmicroSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)
Internal64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM

Main Camera

Triple48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2", 0.8µm, PDAF (Sony IMX586 sensor); 8 MP, f/2.2, 13mm (ultrawide), 1/4", 1.12µm; 2 MP, f/2.4, (depth)
FeaturesLED flash, HDR, panorama
Video4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, EIS

Selfie Camera

Single32 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/2.8", 0.8µm
FeaturesHDR, panorama
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeLi-Po 4030 mAh, non-removable
Charging18W fast charging (10W charger in box)

Body

Dimensions153.5 x 71.9 x 8.5 mm
Weight173.8 g
BuildGlass front (Gorilla Glass 5), glass back (Gorilla Glass 5), plastic frame
SIMHybrid Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, BDS
NFCNo
RadioFM radio
USBUSB Type-C 2.0

Launch

Announced2019, July
StatusAvailable. Released 2019, July 24

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Clean Android One software with timely updates
  • Excellent battery life from 4030mAh capacity
  • Versatile triple camera setup with a high-resolution 48MP main sensor
  • Includes a 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Expandable storage via microSDXC

Cons

  • HD+ display resolution is lower than many competitors
  • History of problematic Android 11 updates, including bricking issues
  • Plastic frame, despite glass front and back
  • Lacks NFC for contactless payments
★ Our Verdict

Despite its clean Android One experience and capable camera, the phone was held back by its lower-resolution display and problematic software updates.

As an older Android One device, the Xiaomi Mi A3 offers a pure Android experience with timely updates, making it a good choice for users who prioritize software over cutting-edge hardware. Its 48MP triple camera and large 4030mAh battery are still respectable for casual photography and all-day usage. However, potential buyers should be aware of its HD+ display resolution, which is lower than many contemporaries, and the historical issues with its Android 11 update that caused some devices to brick. If found at a very low price, it could serve as a secondary device or for users with basic smartphone needs, but newer budget phones offer better displays and more reliable software update paths. Consider its age and the availability of official support and spare parts before purchasing.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Mi A3 handset
  • Adapter (10W)
  • USB Type-C cable
  • SIM eject tool
  • User guide
  • Soft case
  • Warranty card

Standard manufacturer warranty applies, typically for one year from the date of purchase.

❓ Questions & Answers

What operating system does the Xiaomi Mi A3 run?

The Xiaomi Mi A3 launched with Android 9.0 (Pie) as part of the Android One program, and was upgradable to Android 11.

Does the Xiaomi Mi A3 have a good camera?

Yes, it features a triple camera setup with a 48MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor, capable of capturing detailed photos and 4K video. It also has a 32MP AI selfie camera.

What is the battery life like on the Xiaomi Mi A3?

The Xiaomi Mi A3 is equipped with a large 4030 mAh battery, which generally provides excellent battery life, often lasting a full day on a single charge. It also supports 18W fast charging.

Is the display on the Xiaomi Mi A3 high resolution?

The Xiaomi Mi A3 features a 6.08-inch Super AMOLED display with an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1560 pixels, which is considered lower resolution compared to many other smartphones released around the same time.

Does the Xiaomi Mi A3 support expandable storage?

Yes, the Xiaomi Mi A3 supports expandable storage via a microSDXC card.

Does the Xiaomi Mi A3 have an in-display fingerprint sensor?

Yes, the Xiaomi Mi A3 features an optical in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking.