Smartphone Comparison: Asus Zenfone 8 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 148 × 68.5 × 8.9 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | Zenfone 8 is more compact and pocketable; Redmi Note 11 is larger and may be less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 169g | 179g | Zenfone 8 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.43" | Redmi Note 11 offers a larger viewing area, better for media consumption, gaming, and reading; Zenfone 8 is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer a sharp and detailed image. |
| Pixel Density | 446 PPI | 409 PPI | Zenfone 8 has a slightly sharper display, although the difference is not very noticeable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Zenfone 8 provides smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1000 nits | Zenfone 8 is easier to view outdoors in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Zenfone 8 offers significantly faster processing, better for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps; Redmi Note 11 is suitable for everyday tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 314,000 | Zenfone 8 has substantially higher performance capabilities. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 610 | Zenfone 8 handles graphics-intensive tasks and games more smoothly. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 11 likely has longer battery life, especially for moderate usage. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 11 charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Redmi Note 11 can charge other devices. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | Zenfone 8 has a larger sensor and higher resolution, potentially better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93" | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.1" | Redmi Note 11 has slightly higher resolution but smaller sensor size. |
| Wide Angle | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" (Wide + Macro) | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" | Zenfone 8 has the wide angle camera, but the redmi note 11 has a dedicated wide angle camera, plus macro and depth sensors. |
| Additional Lenses | None | 2MP Macro, 2MP Depth | Redmi Note 11 offers more versatility with dedicated macro and depth cameras. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | 1080p@30fps | Zenfone 8 can record much higher quality video. |
| DxOMark Score | 116 | Not Tested | Zenfone 8 offers better image quality. |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K Video, OIS, PDAF, RAW | Quadruple camera, Night Mode | Zenfone 8 offers advanced video features and stabilization, Redmi Note 11 offers enhanced low light photography. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | Both have similar software features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | Zenfone 8 offers faster and more efficient WiFi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 | Zenfone 8 has a more advanced Bluetooth version with better audio codecs. |
| GPS | More satellite systems | Fewer satellite systems | Zenfone 8 offers more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Both provide sufficient storage options. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB/12GB/16GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Zenfone 8 offers more RAM for better multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | Hi-Res Audio, Noise Cancellation, Stereo speakers | Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 8 offers a superior audio experience with Hi-Res audio and noise cancelling mics. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensors is generally considered faster and more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | Zenfone 8 is more resistant to scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity, Hall | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Asus Zenfone 8 offers a richer set of sensors for a wider range of applications. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers significantly faster processing speeds, better graphics performance, and smoother multitasking.
- Higher Refresh Rate Display: The 120Hz display provides a smoother and more responsive user experience, especially noticeable in scrolling and gaming.
- Better Camera System: Superior image quality with a bigger sensor on the main camera, more video recording capabilities including 8k.
- Advanced Audio: Hi-Res Audio, and noise cancellation for improved audio experience
- Better Build Quality: Features a more durable screen with Gorilla Glass Victus.
- More Advanced Connectivity: Supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for faster, more reliable connections and better audio codecs.
More RAM Options: Up to 16GB of RAM to handle heavy workloads.
- Practical Implication: Ideal for users who prioritize speed, gaming, high-quality media consumption, and professional-grade video capabilities.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Advantages:
- Larger Battery Capacity: The 5000mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life.
- Dedicated Camera Lenses: Macro and depth sensor, plus dedicated wide angle, provide versatility.
- Reverse Charging: Allows users to charge other devices.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Considered to be a more convenient placement.
- Cheaper: Usually much cheaper to purchase
- Practical Implication: More appealing to users who prioritize battery life, photography versatility, and a budget-friendly price point.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Asus Zenfone 8: Smaller screen and potentially shorter battery life compared to the Redmi Note 11.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11: Significantly lower performance compared to the Zenfone 8, with a less advanced camera system and connectivity.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 Ideal User:
- Mobile gamers, power users, and multimedia enthusiasts who need top-tier performance, smooth display, and advanced camera features.
- Users who prefer a more compact phone with flagship-level performance.
Professionals who need reliable performance and high-quality video recording capabilities.
Specific Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming.
- Video editing and creation on the go.
- Demanding multitasking with multiple apps running simultaneously.
- Reliable performance for productivity.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life, camera versatility, and a large display.
- Users who primarily use their phone for everyday tasks and social media consumption.
Casual photographers who want a versatile camera system.
Specific Use Cases:
- Long hours of browsing social media and watching videos.
- Taking photos in various situations with macro and depth effects.
- Extended usage throughout the day without needing to frequently charge.
- Good all-round camera with dedicated lens.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Asus Zenfone 8: Offers flagship-level performance but comes at a higher price point. It provides exceptional value for power users who require top-tier performance.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11: Provides excellent value for budget-conscious consumers. Offers reliable performance and great battery life at a very competitive price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- Performance Needs: Do you need a phone for intensive tasks like gaming and video editing, or is your use primarily for everyday activities?
- Battery Life vs. Portability: Do you prioritize long battery life over a more compact size?
- Camera Priorities: Do you prefer the best possible image quality and professional-grade video capabilities or versatile camera lenses with longer battery life?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Demanding Gamer/Power User: If gaming and top-tier performance are your priorities, the Asus Zenfone 8 is the clear winner.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious Casual User: If you need a reliable phone with great battery life and a versatile camera without breaking the bank, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 is a better choice.
- Scenario 3: Multimedia Consumption: The Redmi Note 11 is suitable with its larger display, but it's performance is not quite as good for gaming and video playback as the Zenfone 8, which also has the brighter screen,
My Choice
I would choose the Asus Zenfone 8. While the Redmi Note 11 is an excellent budget phone with great battery life, the performance of the Zenfone 8 is simply far superior. As someone who uses their phone for demanding tasks like photo editing, video consumption, and gaming, the faster processor, more RAM, better display, and superior camera system make the Zenfone 8 the better option. Although it might come at a higher price point, the overall user experience and capabilities that the Zenfone 8 provides, more than justify the cost. The smaller screen isn't a downside to me as I prefer a phone that is easier to hold in one hand and its superior audio quality is something I would appreciate.
