1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 148 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | Zenfone 8 is more compact and pocketable, while Note 11S is larger and may feel less comfortable in smaller hands. |
| Weight | 169g | 179g | Zenfone 8 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for long periods of use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.43" | Note 11S offers a larger viewing area, better for media consumption and multitasking. Zenfone 8 is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both provide the same sharpness at their respective sizes. |
| Pixel Density | 446 ppi | 409 ppi | Zenfone 8 has slightly sharper text and images due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks and energy efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Zenfone 8 provides smoother scrolling and animations, especially noticeable in games and UI interactions. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1000 nits | Zenfone 8 is slightly easier to see outdoors in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Zenfone 8 offers significantly faster performance for demanding tasks, gaming, and overall responsiveness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 302,877 | Zenfone 8 is much faster, with over 194% higher benchmark scores, translating to snappier performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Zenfone 8 has a more powerful GPU that provides smoother graphics in games and video editing. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7" | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | Note 11S has a higher resolution sensor; Zenfone 8 has a slightly wider aperture and larger pixel size. Performance may vary depending on the lighting conditions. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93" | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" | Note 11S has a higher resolution sensor and a slightly wider aperture, Zenfone 8 has a larger sensor. May result in differing performance in low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | Zenfone 8 has a wider angle + macro combination. Note 11S has a standalone wider lens with less resolution. |
| Additional Lenses | None | 2MP Depth, 2MP Macro | Note 11S has extra sensors for specific photo modes. Zenfone 8 has a combined wide-angle macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | Zenfone 8 can capture much higher quality videos, making it a better choice for videographers. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes | No | Zenfone 8 includes electronic image stabilization for smoother videos |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Note 11S will likely have longer battery life due to a larger battery capacity. |
| Charging | 30W | 33W | Both phones offer fast charging, with the Xiaomi being a tiny bit faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Note 11S can act as a power bank to charge other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 13 | Android 11 | Zenfone 8 has confirmed updates to android 13. Note 11S version of android updates may be restricted |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | Zenfone 8 has newer faster Wifi technology. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 | Zenfone 8 has a more modern bluetooth version with better audio codecs. |
| GPS | Full support, Dual frequency | Standard | Zenfone 8 has more precise location tracking due to multiple GPS bands. |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 64/128 GB | Zenfone 8 has higher storage variants for users with more media. |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16 GB | 6/8 GB | Zenfone 8 offers more memory for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No options for more storage available on either phones. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation microphone, 3 mics | Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 8 has better audio recording and playback features. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted is slightly more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | Zenfone 8 has superior scratch and shatter resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity, Hall | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Zenfone 8 has more features for games. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers much higher performance, significantly faster app loading, and smoother gaming. This makes it ideal for power users and gamers.
- Better Display: Higher refresh rate, brightness, and pixel density, providing a more visually pleasing and responsive experience.
- Better Video: Capable of recording in up to 8k resolution.
- Advanced Connectivity: Newer WiFi and Bluetooth versions offer faster speeds and better stability.
- Enhanced Audio: Noise-canceling microphone and more microphones for clearer recordings.
- Premium Build: Superior screen protection and a more durable build.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Advantages:
- Larger Battery: Provides significantly longer battery life, especially for users who are often away from a charger.
- Versatile Camera System: Offers more lenses for a wider variety of shooting scenarios, including Macro, and depth mode.
- Reverse Charging: Can be used to charge other devices.
- More Convenient Fingerprint Reader: Side-mounted fingerprint reader is quick and intuitive
- Lower Cost: Generally available at a lower price point.
Trade-offs:
- Asus Zenfone 8: Trades battery capacity and a wider array of camera lenses for performance, a better display, and higher-end features.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S: Offers a bigger battery, more camera flexibility, and lower price at the expense of overall performance, display quality, and premium features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 Ideal User:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who demand top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
- Media Consumers: Users who appreciate high-quality displays and want smooth, crisp visuals.
- Audiophiles: Users who value high-fidelity audio recording and playback.
- Users who prefer smaller, compact devices: Users with smaller hands that are looking for a comfortable phone to hold.
Use Cases:
- Gaming: Runs demanding games at higher frame rates.
- Video Editing: Faster rendering times and smoother playback.
- Professional Photography/Videography: Better image and video capture quality.
- Mobile Productivity: Smooth multitasking and responsive apps.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Users looking for a capable device without breaking the bank.
- Average Users: Users who use their phone primarily for browsing, social media, and occasional gaming.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want versatile camera options and don't need top-tier image quality.
- Users who need long battery life: Users who are away from a power source for extended periods.
Use Cases:
- Everyday Use: Browsing, social media, messaging.
- Casual Photography: Capturing everyday moments and scenic shots.
- Long Battery Life: Ideal for travel and extended use.
- Media Consumption: Enjoying videos and movies.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Asus Zenfone 8: Offers high performance and premium features at a premium price.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S: Offers decent features and good value at a lower price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, everyday use, etc.)
- How important is performance and display quality? (Top-tier performance or adequate performance for a lower price.)
- How important is battery life vs. device size? (Long battery or compact device?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Gaming/Performance User: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8 for its superior performance and display.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast on a Budget: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S for its versatile camera system and affordable price.
- Scenario 3: Long Battery Life Priority: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S for its larger battery.
- Scenario 4: Compact Device Enthusiast: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8 for its more compact size.
- Scenario 5: Premium Features and Performance at any cost: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Asus Zenfone 8. While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S offers a larger battery and more camera lenses, my priorities lean towards a smoother, more powerful overall experience. The Zenfone 8's superior performance, higher refresh rate display, better build quality and enhanced audio features align more closely with what I value in a smartphone. While the battery life may not be as long as the Xiaomi, the performance benefits are a worthwhile tradeoff for me. I'm also someone who values a smaller, more compact phone.
