The iQOO 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra are two flagship smartphones that offer top-tier performance for mobile gaming, but they achieve this through somewhat different approaches in hardware and software, targeting serious gamers and enthusiasts.
iQOO 15 is notable for its introduction of the Q3 self-developed eSports chip, which is an independent mobile GPU designed specifically for gaming. This Q3 chip supports super-resolution, ultra-frame rates up to 144 FPS at 2K resolution, and real-time ray tracing in games, which are features usually not found in standard smartphone GPUs. The Q3 chip provides a 60% performance improvement, 40% better energy efficiency, and a massive boost in AI performance, enabling enhanced visual effects like advanced lighting and reflections in large open-world games. The iQOO 15's gaming ecosystem supports over 180 games with super-resolution and frame interpolation, making it a powerhouse for competitive and graphically intense mobile games. These features allow the iQOO 15 to deliver sustained high frame rates and better thermal management during extended gaming sessions, contributing to a smooth, immersive experience. It is positioned as a super performance flagship with hardware and software optimized for gaming, including a new motor configuration for improved haptics, wireless charging, and a high-refresh-rate 2K display.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra, on the other hand, is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a top-of-the-line processor widely regarded for its strong raw CPU and GPU performance. Xiaomi 15 Ultra features a 6.73-inch AMOLED display with 2K resolution and a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, which is excellent for fluid gameplay visuals but slightly lower in refresh rate compared to iQOO 15's 144 Hz. Xiaomi 15 Ultra has a smaller 5410 mAh battery but supports fast wireless charging and reverse charging, catering to quick power-ups during long gaming sessions. While it doesn't have a custom gaming GPU like the iQOO 15, the Snapdragon 8 Elite is highly capable with advanced AI and gaming optimizations, delivering high FPS and consistent performance across major titles. Xiaomi 15 Ultra is also packed with flagship camera technology, a robust cooling system, IP68 water and dust resistance, and supports Bluetooth 6.0, which is useful for wireless gaming peripherals.
When focusing specifically on gaming performance, the iQOO 15's unique Q3 GPU and its associated super rendering engine with real-time ray tracing give it a technological edge in graphics quality and frame rate potential. The ability to run games like CrossFire: Gun King at 2K resolution and 144 FPS for an hour demonstrates its sustained performance capability tailored for mobile eSports. The iQOO 15 also excels in terms of gaming ecosystem support, ensuring compatibility and optimization for a wide array of current and upcoming titles.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra delivers excellent gaming experience through the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset's raw power, with a slightly lower refresh rate display at 120 Hz. It also brings advantages in connectivity, wireless charging, and a balanced approach between gaming performance and flagship daily use features, including its advanced camera system. Its battery capacity, while smaller than iQOO 15's, is efficiently managed to last through gaming sessions, supported by fast-charging technology.
In summary, for mobile gaming enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in visual fidelity, ultra-frame rates, and the latest in GPU technology, iQOO 15 with its Q3 chip and ray tracing is leading-edge. For those wanting a high-performance gaming phone that also excels as an all-around flagship smartphone with balanced features including strong camera capabilities and wireless charging, Xiaomi 15 Ultra is an excellent choice. Both phones represent the cutting edge of 2025 mobile gaming hardware, catering to slightly different user preferences and priorities.