Smartphone Comparison: Asus Zenfone 8 vs. Xiaomi Redmi 10
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Xiaomi Redmi 10 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 148 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm | Zenfone 8 is significantly more compact and easier to handle one-handed. Redmi 10 is larger, potentially less pocketable. |
| Weight | 169g | 181g | Zenfone 8 is slightly lighter, which may be noticeable during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.5" | Redmi 10 offers a larger screen for immersive media consumption and gaming. Zenfone 8 is better for users who prefer smaller phones. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both offer the same level of sharpness; no visual difference due to resolution. |
| PPI | 446 | 405 | Zenfone 8 will appear slightly sharper due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Zenfone 8’s AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better viewing angles. The Redmi 10's panel type is unspecified. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Zenfone 8 provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations, making the user experience feel more responsive. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Zenfone 8 is significantly more visible in bright sunlight. Redmi 10 brightness is unknown and assumed to be much lower. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12 nm) | Zenfone 8 has vastly superior performance. Expect much faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming experiences. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 253,600 | Zenfone 8's performance is significantly superior, translating to better overall speed and responsiveness. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Zenfone 8's GPU will handle graphics-intensive tasks much better, including gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Standard | 64MP (f/1.8, 1/1.7") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76") | Zenfone 8's larger sensor and higher megapixel count generally result in better low-light performance and more detail, but this doesn't always translate to better quality. |
| Front Selfie | 12MP (f/2.45, 1/2.93") | 8MP (f/2.0) | Zenfone 8 captures more detailed selfies. Redmi 10's wider aperture can let more light in, but the impact on the final image is dependent on many factors. |
| Wide Angle | No | 8MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8") | Redmi 10 has a dedicated ultrawide lens, offering more versatile photography options. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | No | 2MP (f/2.4) | Redmi 10 has a depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | No | 2MP (f/2.4) | Redmi 10 offers a dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55") | No | Zenfone 8 has a Wide Angle + Macro lens |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, 4K@120fps | 1080p@30fps | Zenfone 8 offers much higher video recording capabilities, suitable for advanced video creators. |
| DXOMark | 116 | N/A | Asus Zenfone 8 scores significantly higher than the Redmi 10 (not tested) in camera testing. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi 10 has a significantly larger battery for longer usage, although actual runtime depends on usage and software optimization. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Zenfone 8 charges quicker than the Redmi 10. |
| Battery Features | Non-Removable | Reverse Charging, Non-Removable | Redmi 10 can be used as a power bank for other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradeable to 13 | Android 11 | Zenfone 8 offers a newer version of Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 5 | Zenfone 8 supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | Zenfone 8 has a newer Bluetooth version with better features. |
| GPS | More systems (L1+L5) | Fewer systems | Zenfone 8 provides more precise location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | Zenfone 8 offers higher maximum storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16GB | 4/6GB | Zenfone 8 has considerably more RAM, for better multitasking and gaming performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD card expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone | Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 8 provides superior audio output and microphone quality for calls and recordings. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted | Redmi 10 has a side-mounted fingerprint reader which may be more convenient |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | Zenfone 8 has superior scratch and drop resistance for the display. |
| Sensors | |||
| Proximity | Proximity, Gravity, Hall | Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Asus Zenfone 8 has more sensors |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers a massive performance advantage. This makes the phone much more responsive for multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps.
- Superior Display: AMOLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness offers better visual quality, smoother animations, and excellent visibility in sunlight.
- Advanced Camera Capabilities: While it has fewer lenses, the Zenfone 8 excels in video recording and has higher quality sensors.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging is notably quicker than the Redmi 10's 18W.
- Superior Connectivity: Supports newer WiFi and Bluetooth standards.
- Higher Quality Audio: Hi-Res audio, noise cancellation microphone, and 3 microphones offer better experience.
- Better Build Quality: Offers more durable Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection
Xiaomi Redmi 10 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers longer battery life.
- Versatile Camera System: Offers a wide-angle, macro, and depth lens which gives more shooting flexibility.
- Reverse Charging: Can act as a portable power bank to charge other devices.
- Lower Price Point: Generally more affordable, appealing to budget-conscious users.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Zenfone 8: Sacrifices battery capacity and versatility in camera lenses for high performance, a top-tier display, and build quality.
- Redmi 10: Prioritizes battery life, camera lens versatility, and affordability over high-end performance, display quality, and overall build.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 Ideal Users:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Gamers and users who need a fast and responsive phone for demanding tasks.
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos and want the best viewing experience with great brightness and display.
- Those Who Value Compact Size: Users seeking a powerful smartphone that is easy to handle in one hand.
- Mobile Photographers/Videographers: People who need top tier camera quality with 4k/8k video recording capabilities.
Specific Use Cases for Zenfone 8:
- High-end gaming with demanding 3D titles
- Video Editing and creation
- High quality media consumption
- Working remotely and multi-tasking
Xiaomi Redmi 10 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for a capable smartphone at a more affordable price point.
- Users Who Prioritize Battery Life: Those who need a phone that can last through the day.
- Casual Photographers: Users who want a versatile camera system with multiple lenses but don't need professional-grade quality.
- Users who prefer a large display.
Specific Use Cases for Redmi 10:
- Day-to-day social media usage and web browsing
- Casual gaming and light productivity
- Media consumption for casual viewing
- Users who need a "workhorse" phone that will last all day
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, media, camera, basic tasks)
- How important is battery life vs performance? (Long battery vs smooth and fast performance)
- What's your budget? (High-end, mid-range or budget)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance is Key: If you are a gamer, a power user, or need the absolute best performance, choose the Asus Zenfone 8.
- Scenario 2: Battery and Price are Top Priorities: If you prioritize long battery life, versatile cameras and are on a strict budget, choose the Xiaomi Redmi 10.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Experience: If you desire a balance of battery life, features and a reasonable price, the Redmi 10 is suitable. For those who value better performance and a better display without worrying about price the Asus Zenfone 8 is ideal.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would pick the Asus Zenfone 8. While the Xiaomi Redmi 10 is a good budget-friendly option with a larger battery and a versatile camera system, the Zenfone 8 offers a much superior experience in areas that are more important to me.
Here's why:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers a significantly smoother and faster experience, making the phone feel more responsive overall. I often multitask and play demanding games, so this is a critical factor for me.
- Display: The AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate provides superior visual quality, making everything from web browsing to video viewing more enjoyable.
- Build Quality: The Gorilla Glass Victus on the Zenfone 8 provides much better scratch and impact protection.
- Connectivity: The newer WiFi standard is important to future-proof the phone.
- Size: I prefer the compact size of the Asus Zenfone 8, as it's easier to handle one-handed and more pocketable.
While the Redmi 10's battery life is appealing, the fast charging on the Zenfone 8 somewhat mitigates this advantage. Although I do value the extra lenses of the Redmi 10, I value overall camera quality and especially the 4k/8k video capabilities of the Zenfone 8 a lot more.
In summary, the Zenfone 8 offers a premium experience with its focus on performance, display, connectivity and build quality, making it the better choice for my needs despite the slightly smaller battery and different camera lens setup.
