Apple iPhone 13 mini vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date September 24, 2021 January 10, 2024
Release Year 2021 2024

Physical

Volume 65.01 cm³ 91.83 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.83 "/g 3.82 "/g
Weight 141 g 174.5 g
Height 131.5 mm 161.1 mm
Width 64.2 mm 75 mm
Thickness 7.7 mm 7.6 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Red
  • Blue
  • Green
  • Pink
  • Starlight
  • Midnight
  • Arctic White
  • Ocean Teal
  • Graphite black (Stealth Black)
  • Prism Gold

Display

Screen Size 5.4 " 6.67 "
Resolution 1080 x 2340 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 84.8 % 88.9 %
Pixel Density 476 PPI 395 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 800 nits N/A
Peak Brightness 1200 nits 1000 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 83.61 mAh/in² 112.39 mAh/in²
Battery Density 37.5 mAh/cm³ 54.45 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 2438 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) Mediatek Dimensity 6080 (6 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x3.23 GHz Avalanche + 4x1.82 GHz Blizzard) Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Apple GPU (4-core graphics) Mali-G57 MC2

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features Lightning 2.0 USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 15 13
Maximum OS Version 18 16

Comparison Summary

Okay, let's dive deep into this comparison between the Apple iPhone 13 mini and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13. I'm going to break it down like I'm explaining it to a friend over coffee, focusing on what really matters to you as a user.

1. Specifications Breakdown

Here's a detailed look at the key specifications, alongside their practical implications for you:

FeatureApple iPhone 13 miniXiaomi Redmi Note 13Real-World Implications
Design
Launch Date2021-09-242024-01-10The Redmi Note 13 is a newer device.
Dimensions131.5 × 64.2 × 7.7 mm161.1 × 75 × 7.6 mmThe iPhone 13 mini is significantly smaller, great for one-handed use, while the Redmi Note 13 is larger, offering more screen real estate.
Weight141g174.5gThe iPhone 13 mini is much lighter, more comfortable for long-term holding.
Display
Size5.4"6.67"The Redmi Note 13’s screen is much larger, better for media consumption, while the iPhone 13 mini is more pocketable.
Resolution1080x23401080x2400Both have good sharpness, but the difference is minimal.
Pixel Density (PPI)476395The iPhone 13 mini has a sharper display due to the smaller screen.
TechnologyOLEDAMOLEDBoth offer vibrant colors and deep blacks.
Refresh Rate60Hz120HzThe Redmi Note 13 has a smoother display for scrolling and gaming.
Brightness (nits)12000The iPhone 13 mini has much better outdoor visibility.
Performance
ChipsetApple A15 Bionic (5 nm)Mediatek Dimensity 6080 (6 nm)The A15 Bionic is significantly more powerful, offering smoother performance and faster app loading.
AnTuTu Score1,250,240448,036The iPhone 13 mini dominates in raw performance and graphics, best for gaming and heavy tasks.
GPUApple GPU (4-core graphics)Mali-G57 MC2The iPhone's GPU is far more powerful, ensuring better graphics performance for demanding tasks
Camera
Main Camera12MP, f/1.6, 1.70 µm pixels108MP, f/1.7, 0.64 µm pixelsThe Redmi Note 13 has much higher resolution but the iPhone 13 mini's larger pixels mean better low-light performance in a smaller sensor size.
Front Camera12MP, f/2.216MP, f/2.4The Redmi Note 13 has slightly higher resolution, but the iPhone has a wider aperture for better low light.
Wide Angle Camera12MP, f/2.48MP, f/2.2The iPhone has slightly higher resolution, while Xiaomi has a wider aperture.
Portrait ModeNo2MP, f/2.4Xiaomi has a dedicated depth sensor, though the iPhone uses software to create portrait mode.
VideoUp to 4K@60fps with HDR, stereo sound1080p@30fpsThe iPhone offers much higher-quality video recording and advanced features.
DxOMark (Mobile)Photo:133, Video:144, Overall: 125N/AThe iPhone has an excellent camera system that's been rigorously tested.
DxOMark (Selfie)Photo:127, Video:143, Overall: 134N/AThe iPhone provides a high-quality selfie camera with great results.
Camera FeaturesOIS, 4K Video, RAW, Night modeDigital Stabilization, Triple CameraThe iPhone offers more advanced camera features, while Xiaomi has a triple-lens system.
Battery Life
Capacity2438mAh5000mAhThe Redmi Note 13 has a much larger battery for potentially longer battery life.
Charging20W Fast Charging, Li-Ion33W Fast Charging, Li-PolymerThe Redmi Note 13 has faster charging, and a newer battery tech.
FeaturesMagSafe 15W Wireless charging, Qi 7.5W Wireless chargingNoneThe iPhone offers convenient wireless charging options.
Software
OSiOS 15 (upgradable to 18)Android 13 (upgradable to 16)Different operating systems with distinct ecosystems and user interfaces.
Connectivity
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)802.11acThe iPhone supports newer WiFi technology for faster speeds.
Bluetooth5.05.3The Redmi Note 13 has a newer version of Bluetooth with additional codecs.
GPSGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, GalileoGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, BeidouThe iPhone supports more satellite systems for location accuracy.
SIMDual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + eSIM)Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM)The iPhone offers the convenience of eSIM.
Storage
Internal Storage128GB/256GB/512GB128GB/256GBThe iPhone 13 mini offers a higher storage option for those who need it.
RAM4GB6GB/8GB/12GBThe Redmi Note 13 offers more RAM for smoother multitasking.
Expandable StorageNoNoNeither phone supports storage expansion.
AudioDolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS / DTS X, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphonesDolby AtmosThe iPhone has better audio with more advanced features and microphones.
SecurityBasicSide-mounted fingerprint sensorThe Redmi Note 13 has an additional biometric security feature.
Build QualityUnknownCorning Gorilla Glass 5The Redmi Note 13 offers better screen protection.
SensorsProximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, BarometerFingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, GyroscopeThe phones offer different sensors that enable distinct functionalities.

2. Key Insights

  • Apple iPhone 13 mini: This phone is all about power and portability. Its standout features include its small, pocketable design, the immensely powerful A15 Bionic chip, a high-quality display with excellent brightness, and a top-tier camera system with superior video recording. It's a premium device for those who prioritize performance and a compact form factor.
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 13: The Redmi Note 13 is a budget-friendly powerhouse. It offers a large, smooth 120Hz AMOLED display, a big battery for long-lasting usage, faster charging capabilities, and a high-resolution main camera. Its focus is on delivering a great overall experience without breaking the bank.
  • Performance Disparity: The iPhone 13 mini's A15 Bionic chip is in a different league than the Redmi Note 13's Mediatek Dimensity 6080, leading to significant differences in app loading speed, gaming, and heavy multitasking.
  • Display Preference: The iPhone 13 mini offers a sharper display with higher pixel density, whereas the Redmi Note 13 has a larger display with a higher refresh rate for smoother visuals.
  • Battery Trade-off: The Redmi Note 13 has a much larger battery capacity, but the iPhone 13 mini offers wireless charging, something that the Redmi lacks, and battery optimization for its smaller cell.
  • Camera Considerations: While the Redmi Note 13 boasts a higher megapixel count, the iPhone 13 mini generally excels in low-light performance and video recording, also backed by DxOMark camera scores.
  • Ecosystem and Software: iOS on the iPhone 13 mini offers a seamless, tightly integrated experience within the Apple ecosystem, whereas the Redmi Note 13 runs on Android, which is more customizable and open.
  • Build and Durability: The Redmi Note 13 has a more durable screen thanks to Corning Gorilla Glass 5, while the iPhone has an unknown screen protection.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

  • Apple iPhone 13 mini:

    • Ideal User: Someone who prioritizes a compact phone that's easy to use one-handed, loves photography, values seamless performance, is already in the Apple ecosystem, and is willing to pay a premium price.
    • Use Cases: Perfect for on-the-go individuals, content creators who need excellent video quality, and those who enjoy quick and responsive apps.
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 13:

    • Ideal User: A budget-conscious consumer who needs a big screen for media consumption, wants long battery life, enjoys a smooth display for casual gaming, and doesn't need top-tier processing power.
    • Use Cases: Ideal for students, avid media consumers, and those who need a reliable phone for everyday use without breaking the bank.

4. Buying Decision Framework

Here are three questions to help you decide:

  1. Do you prioritize a small, pocketable phone with top-tier performance or a larger screen with longer battery life?

    • If you value portability and raw power, the iPhone 13 mini is the better choice.
    • If you prefer a larger screen and longer battery life on a budget, choose the Redmi Note 13.
  2. Are you heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem or do you prefer Android's flexibility?

    • If you already use other Apple products and enjoy the seamless integration, the iPhone 13 mini makes sense.
    • If you prefer customization and open-source options, the Redmi Note 13 is a better fit.
  3. Is top-tier camera and video quality important to you, or is a decent camera good enough?

    • If you need best-in-class camera quality and high-end video recording, the iPhone 13 mini is the way to go.
    • If you are satisfied with a decent camera for everyday use, the Redmi Note 13's camera will likely be sufficient.

My Pick and Why

If it were me making the choice, I'd go with the Apple iPhone 13 mini. Here's why:

  • Performance: The A15 Bionic chip is just in another world compared to the Mediatek chip in the Xiaomi. I value smooth, snappy performance for both everyday tasks and occasional gaming, something the iPhone delivers effortlessly.
  • Camera: I'm a bit of a photo and video enthusiast, and the iPhone's camera system, even with its lower megapixel count, produces more consistently great results, especially in challenging lighting conditions, plus the top quality video recordings. The DxOMark scores confirm this.
  • Portability: I often find myself out and about, and having a genuinely small and light phone is a big plus. The iPhone 13 mini fits perfectly into my pocket and is comfortable to use one-handed.
  • Ecosystem: I’m already immersed in the Apple ecosystem, and the seamless integration with my other Apple devices is a huge benefit.
  • Build Quality: The overall build and quality feel of the iPhone is a plus for me.

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 is a fantastic phone, especially if you are on a budget, and I can completely understand why someone would choose it if price and battery life is your priority. However, for my specific needs, the iPhone 13 mini's mix of performance, camera quality, and portability make it the better choice.

I hope this deep dive helps you make the right choice for your specific needs! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.