Xiaomi Black Shark 4

Overview & Display

The Xiaomi Black Shark 4 presents a compelling package with its substantial 210g weight, hinting at a robust build. Its Nano-SIM dual-SIM capability offers flexibility, while the inclusion of physical pop-up gaming triggers suggests a focus on mobile gaming. The expansive 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display dominates the front, boasting a vibrant HDR10+ certification and a blistering 144Hz refresh rate. This promises a fluid and immersive visual experience, especially for fast-paced games and multimedia content, with a peak brightness of 1300 nits ensuring clarity even in bright conditions. The screen-to-body ratio of 85.8% further enhances the viewing experience, maximizing the usable display area.

Powering the Black Shark 4 is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G chipset, paired with configurations offering 6GB, 8GB, or 12GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage. This combination ensures smooth performance and responsive multitasking. Running Android 11 with Joy UI 12.5, the device provides a familiar and customizable software experience. The Octa-core CPU, coupled with the Adreno 650 GPU, delivers impressive performance as indicated by the AnTuTu score of 617456, making the Xiaomi Black Shark 4 well-equipped for demanding tasks and gaming.

Camera & Battery

The rear camera system of the Xiaomi Black Shark 4 comprises a versatile triple-lens setup. The primary 48MP wide lens, alongside an 8MP ultrawide and a 5MP macro lens, provides options for various shooting scenarios. Video recording capabilities extend to 4K resolution at 30/60fps, and even offer slow-motion recording up to 1080p at 960fps. The 20MP front-facing camera captures detailed selfies, supported by HDR for balanced exposure. While specifications don't detail image quality beyond the hardware, the sensor sizes and aperture values suggest potential for good performance in well-lit conditions.

A substantial 4500 mAh battery fuels the Xiaomi Black Shark 4, promising extended usage times. The device supports incredibly fast 120W wired charging, capable of achieving a 100% charge in just 17 minutes. This rapid charging capability is a significant advantage for users who prioritize quick top-ups. The endurance rating suggests a solid battery life, and the inclusion of stereo speakers, combined with Hi-Res audio support, enhances the multimedia experience. Daily usage should be comfortable thanks to the combination of battery capacity and efficient charging.

Who Should Buy This

The Xiaomi Black Shark 4 is ideally suited for mobile gamers and those who appreciate a high refresh rate display and powerful performance. The dedicated gaming triggers and robust hardware make it an excellent choice for immersive gaming experiences. Users who prioritize fast charging and a large, vibrant display will also find this device appealing. However, those seeking a more compact device or a focus on camera capabilities beyond video recording might want to consider alternatives. The Black Shark 4 caters primarily to users who value performance and gaming features above all else.

Pros

• 144Hz Super AMOLED display
• Blazing-fast 120W charging
• Powerful Snapdragon 870 5G processor
• Physical pop-up gaming triggers
• Stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio

Cons

• No expandable storage via microSD card
• Relatively large and heavy design
• Camera details beyond specifications are unavailable
• No headphone jack

Verdict

The Xiaomi Black Shark 4 delivers a potent combination of performance and gaming-centric features. Its standout strength lies in its rapid charging and high refresh rate display, providing a premium mobile experience for gamers. While the lack of expandable storage and a somewhat bulky design might be drawbacks for some, the device’s powerful internals and optimized gaming features make it a compelling option. Overall, the Black Shark 4 is a well-rounded device that excels in its intended niche, offering a solid recommendation for mobile gaming enthusiasts.