Smartphone Comparison: Asus Zenfone 8 vs. Xiaomi 14T
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Xiaomi 14T | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-05-13 | 2024-09-26 | Xiaomi 14T is significantly newer, with potential for longer software support |
| Dimensions | 148 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm | 160.5 x 75.1 x 7.8 mm | Zenfone 8 is more compact and easier to handle one-handed; Xiaomi 14T is larger but thinner |
| Weight | 169g | 193g | Zenfone 8 is significantly lighter and more comfortable for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.67" | Xiaomi 14T offers a much larger display, better for media consumption and gaming |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1220x2712 | Xiaomi 14T has a sharper display with more detail |
| Pixel Density | 446 PPI | 446 PPI | Both displays are equally sharp |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Similar vibrant colors and deep blacks on both |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz | Xiaomi 14T has slightly smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 4000 nits | Xiaomi 14T is significantly brighter and more readable outdoors |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 | Mediatek Dimensity 8300 Ultra | Xiaomi 14T has a significantly more powerful processor, offering faster app loading, better multitasking and better gaming performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 1,526,328 | Xiaomi 14T has much higher benchmark scores indicating superior performance |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali G615-MC6 | Xiaomi 14T's GPU offers significantly improved gaming performance and smoother graphics |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Xiaomi 14T offers potentially longer battery life due to a larger battery |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Xiaomi 14T charges significantly faster, reducing downtime |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable, Xiaomi P2 fast charging chip, Xiaomi G1 battery management chip | Xiaomi 14T has additional battery features including reverse charging for powering other devices |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX686, 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.7, 1/1.56", Sony IMX906, 1.0µm | Xiaomi 14T has a larger sensor and wider aperture, potentially better low-light performance despite lower megapixel count. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93", Sony IMX663, 1.22µm | 32MP, f/2.0, sensor model unspecified, pixel size unspecified | Xiaomi 14T has significantly higher resolution and wider aperture, for potentially sharper and better low-light selfies; Pixel size is unknown |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/2.76", Samsung S5KJN1, 0.64µm | Xiaomi 14T has a dedicated telephoto lens for zoom capabilities while Zenfone 8 does not |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX363, 1.40µm (also macro) | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", Omnivision OV13B10, 1.12µm | Xiaomi 14T has a dedicated wide angle lens, whereas the Zenfone 8 combines a wide-angle with a macro lens |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Zenfone 8 can shoot higher resolution video at 8k, while Xiaomi 14T provides 4k video |
| DxOMark Score | 116 | 134 | Xiaomi 14T has a significantly better camera system overall, according to DxOMark scores |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K Video, OIS, EIS, PDAF, RAW | Flicker sensor, Noise reduction, Optical zoom, OIS, EIS, PDAF, Night Mode | Xiaomi 14T offers more versatile photography features including optical zoom and night mode |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | Xiaomi 14T ships with a newer version of Android, with an unkown software support period |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | Xiaomi 14T supports newer Wi-Fi standard offering faster speeds and lower latency |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.4 | Xiaomi 14T has a newer version of bluetooth |
| GPS | More Satellite Systems | Fewer Satellite Systems | Asus Zenfone 8 has a more comprehensive array of satellite systems for more precise location tracking |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano/eSIM) | Xiaomi 14T offers eSIM support for more flexible carrier options |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB | Xiaomi 14T offers up to 512GB of storage; Zenfone 8 maximum of 256GB |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16GB | 12GB | Zenfone 8 offers a higher capacity 16GB RAM option |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, Noise Cancellation Microphone, 3 Microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both phones offer Hi-Res audio, but the Zenfone 8 includes noise cancellation mics while the 14T has Dolby Atmos support for better spatial audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both phones use basic fingerprint technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Asus Zenfone 8 offers a higher-grade of screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity, Hall | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Asus Zenfone 8 has a more complete sensor package |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- More Compact and Lighter: Easier to handle with one hand and more comfortable to carry around.
- Higher Video Resolution: Supports 8K video recording, useful for professional videography needs.
- More comprehensive GPS: Supports a larger array of GPS systems for more precise location.
- Higher RAM Configuration: Offers up to 16GB of RAM for the heaviest multitasking.
- More Advanced Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus provides more durable scratch protection.
- 3 Microphones with Noise cancellation: Provides better audio capture and noise suppression.
- More Complete Sensor Suite Includes more sensor options such as a gravity and hall sensor
Xiaomi 14T Advantages:
- Newer and Significantly More Powerful Chipset: Provides superior performance in daily use and demanding games.
- Larger and Sharper Display: Better for multimedia and immersive gaming experiences.
- Much Brighter Display: Offers much better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Larger Battery and Much Faster Charging: Longer battery life and less time spent plugged in.
- Better Main Camera Performance: Larger sensor and better low-light performance.
- Dedicated Telephoto and Wide Angle Lens: Greater flexibility in shooting scenarios.
- Better Overall Camera Quality: Higher DxOMark scores confirm superior image quality.
- Newer Software: Ships with a more recent version of Android with unkown long-term software support.
- eSIM Support: Offers more flexibility in carrier management.
- More Storage Options: Offers up to 512GB of storage
- Dolby Atmos: Provides more advanced spatial audio.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Asus Zenfone 8: The older chipset lags behind the Xiaomi 14T in performance and gaming. It lacks telephoto and wide-angle camera lenses and a significantly dimmer display.
- Xiaomi 14T: It is larger and heavier, making it less comfortable for one-handed use and may not be suited for those seeking a compact phone. It lacks support for recording 8k videos and has less complete GPS satellite support than the Zenfone 8.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 Ideal Users:
- Users Prioritizing Compactness and Portability: Individuals seeking a phone that's easy to use with one hand and pocket-friendly.
- Video Professionals Seeking 8k Recording: Users who need the highest video resolution output for content creation.
- Users Prioritizing Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Individuals looking for a phone that uses a large array of sensors.
- Users Prioritizing Audio Capture: People who need high quality recording for voice memos, meetings, or calls.
Use Cases:
- Everyday Carry: Fits easily in a pocket or small bag.
- Professional Videography: High quality 8k video output for cinematic needs.
- Precise GPS Tracking: Use when location accuracy is vital
- Audio Recording: Use as a portable digital audio recorder.
- Demanding Multitasking: Use cases where the highest ram configuration is needed
Xiaomi 14T Ideal Users:
- Multimedia Consumers and Gamers: Users who prioritize a large display, fast performance, and good battery life.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users looking for a versatile camera system with a telephoto lens, wide-angle lens, and night mode.
- Users needing Long Battery Life and Fast Charging: Those who need their phone to last all day and recharge quickly.
- Users who need a bright screen outdoors: Ideal for those who spend a significant amount of time in direct sunlight
Use Cases:
- Mobile Gaming: Handles demanding games with ease due to the powerful processor and GPU.
- Media Consumption: Provides a large, high-resolution display for watching videos and browsing.
- Travel Photography: Versatile camera system ideal for capturing various scenes and situations.
- Outdoor Use: The bright screen makes the phone easy to use on sunny days.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Size and Comfort: Do you prioritize a compact phone that's easy to use with one hand, or a larger screen for better media consumption?
- Performance Needs: Do you need top-tier performance for gaming and demanding tasks, or is moderate performance sufficient?
- Camera Requirements: Do you need advanced camera features like a telephoto lens and night mode, or is a basic camera setup sufficient?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Compact Phone with Good Audio
- Recommendation: Asus Zenfone 8. Its small form factor, higher RAM and microphone quality are more compelling than raw power.
- Scenario 2: Heavy Gamer and Media Consumer
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 14T. The larger screen, superior processor, and better graphics make it the better choice for gaming and media viewing.
- Scenario 3: Photography Focus
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 14T. The telephoto lens, wide angle lens and better sensor performance makes it the superior camera phone.
- Scenario 4: Outdoor use
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 14T. The much brighter display makes it more readable in direct sunlight.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would select the Xiaomi 14T. While the Zenfone 8's compact size and better screen protection are appealing, the Xiaomi 14T's advantages in key areas like performance, display brightness, battery life and camera versatility are too significant to ignore. The significantly faster processor and dedicated lenses offer a much improved user experience. My use case leans heavily towards performance, photography and media, so the Xiaomi 14T fits better for my needs. While it is larger and heavier, the increased screen real estate and superior performance are a compelling trade-off.
