Launched in March 2022, the Xiaomi Black Shark 5 Pro targets gamers looking for high performance in mobile gaming. Featuring top-of-the-line specifications like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and up to 16GB of RAM, it positions itself as a leading choice in the gaming smartphone market. With its robust build and vibrant display, it appeals to hardcore gamers as well as casual users seeking a reliable device.
This review is based on multiple sources, including expert analyses from GSMArena, Notebookcheck, and Geekbench scores, in addition to user feedback from the Xiaomi Community. These insights provide a comprehensive overview of both the technical aspects and practical usage experiences of the device.
Overall, the Xiaomi Black Shark 5 Pro excels in performance and gaming capabilities, thanks to its powerful hardware and advanced cooling systems. However, some users have reported issues with its camera performance and overall software experience, which may deter potential buyers looking for well-rounded functionality.
How does the Black Shark 5 Pro perform in gaming and benchmarks?
The Black Shark 5 Pro features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, along with up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, which allows for seamless multitasking and ultra-smooth gaming experiences. It scored a Geekbench single-core score of 1207 and a multi-core score of 4179, placing it significantly above average compared to other smartphones on the market.
In addition to performance, the device offers advanced cooling solutions to manage heat during intensive gaming sessions, which is a common issue in many high-performance smartphones. Its split storage utilizes both UFS 3.1 and NVMe technology, optimizing data speeds and application responsiveness.
What features does the display offer for gamers?
The Black Shark 5 Pro features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals whether for gaming or streaming. The responsive touch sampling rate of 720Hz is particularly beneficial for fast-paced gaming, providing an edge over competitors.
Additionally, the display supports HDR10+, enhancing the color accuracy and contrast in games and videos. However, some users reported reflections in bright environments can affect visibility.
Is the Black Shark 5 Pro durable and user-friendly?
Built with a premium design, the Black Shark 5 Pro is both sturdy and stylish. It features a glass back with a metal frame, which adds to its durability while maintaining a lightweight feel.
However, the placement of buttons and triggers, which are designed for gaming, may not be intuitive for all users, particularly those who primarily use their phones for general purposes.
How does the camera perform in everyday situations?
The smartphone comes equipped with a triple-camera setup, including a 108MP main sensor. While it performs adequately in good lighting conditions, user feedback indicates that low-light photography leaves much to be desired.
Moreover, features such as video stabilization are not as effective, which could be disappointing for users valuing high-quality photography alongside gaming.
Does the software enhance or hinder the gaming experience?
Running on MIUI tailored for gaming, the software offers various features designed to optimize performance, such as customizable game settings and a dedicated gaming mode. However, some users have expressed concerns regarding bloatware and a lack of regular updates, which can affect user experience over time.
The software experience can be inconsistent, with reports of lag in certain applications when not actively gaming.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor for top-tier gaming performance.
- ✅ Impressive 144Hz AMOLED display for smooth visuals and high responsiveness.
- ✅ Advanced cooling technology reduces throttling during extended gaming sessions.
- ❌ Camera performance is subpar in low-light conditions compared to competitors.
- ❌ Software may include bloatware and lack timely updates.
- ❌ Button placement for gaming triggers can be awkward for non-gaming use.
How It Compares to the Competition
- Asus ROG Phone 6 Pro — Features a similar Snapdragon processor with an emphasis on gaming-focused features.
- Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 — Offers a dual cooling system for sustained performance under load.
- ZTE nubia Red Magic 7 — Provides a competitive cooling system and gaming design aesthetics.
Who Should Buy This & Who Should Skip It
Buy it if: Gamers looking for a high-performance device specifically designed for gaming will find the Black Shark 5 Pro appealing. Its robust specifications and features cater to serious mobile gamers who prioritize performance and display quality.
Skip it if: Casual users or those who prioritize photography and software stability may be better served by more well-rounded alternatives. If your primary use is not gaming, phones like the Xiaomi 12 Pro may offer a better overall experience.
Search Purchase Options
Use these links to search for Xiaomi Black Shark 5 Pro on trusted marketplaces. The links open in new tabs; if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
* Affiliate links: you pay the same price either way.