Techniques and apparatus for differential channel state information (CSI) reporting for high resolution CSI are provided. One technique includes receiving a CSI reference signal (CSI-RS). First feedback components associated with first CSI feedback for a first CSI feedback stage are determined based on the CSI-RS, and the first feedback components are reported to a base station. Second feedback components associated with at least one second CSI feedback for at least one second CSI feedback stage are determined based in part on the first feedback components, and the second feedback components are reported to the base station. A precoding for multiple input multiple output (MIMO) communications is determined based on the first feedback components and the second feedback components.