Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G Power (2021) vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Power (2021) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 x 75.9 x 9.5 mm | 160.5 x 74.5 x 8.3 mm | The Redmi Note 10S is more compact and thinner, making it more pocketable and comfortable to hold for extended periods. The G Power is bulkier, which may feel less ergonomic. |
| Weight | 206.5g | 178.8g | Redmi Note 10S is significantly lighter, enhancing portability and reducing fatigue during prolonged use. The G Power is noticeably heavier and less comfortable for extended usage. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.43" | G Power has a marginally larger screen, which could be preferable for media consumption, although not substantially different. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 1080 x 2400 | Redmi Note 10S offers a much sharper display with finer details and crisper text, providing a noticeably better visual experience. The G Power's lower resolution results in less sharpness. |
| Pixel Density | 266 ppi | 409 ppi | Redmi Note 10S has a significantly higher pixel density, leading to a noticeably clearer and sharper image quality, a big improvement over the G Power. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Redmi Note 10S has superior display technology, offering deeper blacks, vibrant colors, higher contrast, and better power efficiency especially when using dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Both have standard 60Hz refresh rates, meaning similar smoothness in everyday use. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1100 nits | Redmi Note 10S has dramatically higher brightness, resulting in much better outdoor visibility under bright sunlight, which would be a big difference in usability. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 | Helio G95 | The Helio G95 in the Redmi Note 10S is significantly more powerful, providing faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 178,220 | 409,874 | The Redmi Note 10S has a much higher benchmark score, indicating significantly superior performance across various tasks, especially in gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G76 MC4 | The Mali-G76 MC4 in the Redmi Note 10S is a stronger GPU, resulting in better graphics performance for gaming and other graphically demanding applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have the same battery capacity, suggesting comparable battery life under normal usage. |
| Charging | 15W | 33W | Redmi Note 10S offers significantly faster charging, reducing the amount of time spent plugged in, compared to the relatively slow charging of the G Power. |
| Features | 10W Charger in-box | Reverse Charging | The G Power includes a charger in the box; the Redmi Note 10S offers reverse charging, which can be useful in some scenarios, which the G Power does not have. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 48MP, f/1.7 | 64MP, f/1.79 | The Redmi Note 10S captures higher resolution images with more detail. The G Power has a slightly wider aperture, however, this would not be significantly noticeable. |
| Selfie Lens | 8MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.45 | Redmi Note 10S has higher resolution selfies, resulting in more detailed self-portraits. The G Power has a slightly wider aperture which could result in slightly better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.2 | Redmi Note 10S has a wide-angle lens, allowing for more versatile photography, capturing wider landscapes and group shots, something the G Power lacks. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both phones have comparable 2MP depth sensors for portrait mode, resulting in similar portrait quality. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both phones feature 2MP macro cameras, with similar macro shooting capabilities, capturing close-up details. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30/60fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, 720p@960fps | Redmi Note 10S has superior video recording, capable of 4K video as well as high-frame-rate 1080p for smoother slow-motion and general video. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, LAF, Panorama | 4K Video, Night Mode | The G Power offers PDAF & Laser AF, which should result in more reliable and faster focusing. The Redmi Note 10S has 4K video capability and dedicated Night mode, features not on the G Power |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | Redmi Note 10S ships with a more recent version of Android out of the box and is upgradable to Android 13, offering the latest features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac, Dual Band, MiMO | Both support Wi-Fi ac. Redmi Note 10S has additional dual-band support and Wi-Fi MIMO, which can improve performance and range of Wi-Fi connection. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE, HID | Both support similar bluetooth versions, but Redmi Note 10S has support for HID protocol, for better usability with specific devices |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, SUPL | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Redmi Note 10S supports more satellite systems, offering improved GPS accuracy. The G Power supports SUPL which the Redmi does not have. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Redmi Note 10S offers dual SIM support allowing the use of two SIM cards simultaneously, providing flexibility for personal and work numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32GB/64GB | 64GB/128GB | Redmi Note 10S has significantly larger storage options, providing more space for apps, media, and files. The G Power provides either a 32GB or 64GB option. |
| RAM | 3GB/4GB | 6GB/8GB | Redmi Note 10S offers more RAM for smoother multitasking and app performance, particularly the 8GB version. The G Power has far less ram available. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage via microSD, a limitation if you prefer expandable memory. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Redmi Note 10S has superior audio capabilities, featuring Hi-Res audio support and stereo speakers, leading to better audio playback quality compared to the G Power. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Both phones include side-mounted fingerprint sensors for quick and secure unlocking, providing similar security methods. |
| Build Quality | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 10S has a durable screen with Gorilla Glass 3 protection, giving better resistance against scratches and minor impacts. Screen protection info is unavailable for the G Power |
| Sensors | Proximity Sensor | Ultrasonic Proximity | G Power has standard proximity sensor; Redmi Note 10S uses ultrasonic virtual proximity sensor |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) Advantages:
- Slightly Larger Display: The 6.6" screen might be preferred by some for a slightly more immersive viewing experience, although not by a significant amount.
- Wider Aperture on Main & Front Camera: The wider aperture (f/1.7) of the main camera and front camera (f/2.0) theoretically allows slightly better low light performance, although sensor size is not specified.
- PDAF and LAF: The inclusion of Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) and Laser Autofocus (LAF) may offer slightly more accurate and faster focusing in some scenarios, though this may be negligible in most cases.
- Included Charger: The inclusion of a 10W charger in the box is a convenience, although it's a slow charger,
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Advantages:
- Significantly Better Display: The AMOLED screen with higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness offers a far superior visual experience with deeper blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent outdoor visibility.
- Superior Performance: The Helio G95 chipset provides much faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience compared to the Snapdragon 662.
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging is significantly quicker than the 15W charging of the G Power, minimizing charging time.
- Higher Resolution Cameras: Both front and rear cameras capture more detailed images, with more detail captured on the main sensor. The addition of an ultrawide lens increases photographic versatility, allowing for wider perspectives.
- 4K Video Recording: The ability to record videos in 4K adds high video quality, good for vlogging.
- Dual SIM Support: The inclusion of dual SIM slots allows for greater flexibility when managing multiple numbers.
- More Storage and RAM: Larger storage and RAM configurations provide more space and performance for daily usage, multitasking, and app usage.
- Better Audio: The inclusion of stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio gives the Redmi Note 10S better audio playback quality.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 3: Better screen protection improves durability and resistance to everyday scratches.
- Reverse Charging: Allows the phone to act as a powerbank to charge other devices if necessary.
Trade-offs:
- The Motorola G Power (2021) has a larger screen by 0.17", although this will be negligible for most users. The main and selfie cameras on the G Power also have slightly wider apertures.
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S lacks PDAF & Laser AF which may be preferred by some users, as well as a charger included in the box.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) is Ideal For:
- Users on a Tight Budget: It’s a more affordable option, suitable for users on a tight budget.
- Basic Smartphone Users: Ideal for users who primarily need a phone for calls, texts, web browsing, and light social media use.
- Those Needing a Simpler Device: The Motorola G Power (2021) provides a more basic, less feature-heavy experience, suited for non-demanding users.
- Users Who Prioritize Longer Battery Life (Potentially): Although both have the same capacity, the less demanding hardware in the G Power may result in slightly more battery endurance.
Specific Use Cases for Motorola Moto G Power (2021):
- A secondary phone for calls and texting.
- A basic device for elderly or less tech-savvy individuals.
- A low-cost option for those with minimal smartphone needs.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S is Ideal For:
- Users Who Value Display Quality: The AMOLED screen makes this a good device for those who consume a lot of media, prefer high-quality visuals, and use dark mode often.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: The high resolution, pixel density, and stereo speakers make it suitable for watching videos, playing games, and listening to music.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The 64MP main camera, wide-angle lens, and 4K video recording provides better image and video quality as well as more versatility.
- Users Who Need Faster Performance: The more powerful chipset and more RAM provide much better performance for multitasking, gaming, and general app use.
- Users who need faster charging: The 33W fast charging is far better than the 15W charging on the G Power, reducing the time required to charge.
Specific Use Cases for Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S:
- Mobile gamers who want a smooth and responsive experience with decent graphics.
- Users who enjoy watching videos and movies on their phones with vivid colors and deep blacks.
- Users who regularly take photos and videos and value versatile camera options with high quality.
- Users who want a phone with the latest features and security updates with expandable storage.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? If budget is the primary concern and basic smartphone use is adequate, the Moto G Power (2021) might be considered. If the budget can stretch, the Redmi Note 10S offers significant improvements.
- What are my primary use cases? If the phone is mainly for calls, texts, and basic browsing, the Moto G Power (2021) is functional. If gaming, media consumption, or photography are priorities, the Redmi Note 10S is much more suitable.
- How important is the display quality and performance? If display quality and fast performance are highly valued, the Redmi Note 10S is the clear winner. If these are less critical, then the Moto G Power may suffice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget-Conscious): If your budget is very limited, and you only need basic functionality, the Motorola Moto G Power (2021) is the more affordable choice. Be aware that you will be compromising on the screen quality, camera quality and performance.
- Scenario 2 (Multimedia & Photography): For users who want a vibrant screen, better camera, and good audio, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S is the better option. The 4K video is a huge upgrade and the added wide angle lens gives a lot more photography options.
- Scenario 3 (Gaming & Performance): If you need fast performance, smooth multitasking, and good mobile gaming capabilities, the Redmi Note 10S is clearly superior. It provides faster loading times, much smoother gameplay, and an all around better experience.
- Scenario 4 (Basic User): If you only use your phone for calls, texts and very basic use, the G Power may be sufficient. However, the Redmi Note 10S still provides better quality in all areas while still remaining relatively affordable.
My Choice
Given the clear differences, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S. While the Motorola Moto G Power (2021) might be slightly cheaper, the overall value and user experience offered by the Redmi Note 10S is significantly better.
The Redmi Note 10S excels in key areas like display quality, performance, camera capabilities and charging speed. The AMOLED screen, superior processing power, significantly higher benchmark scores, the wide-angle lens, the 4K video recording capability, and the faster 33W charging combine to deliver a much better experience. The inclusion of stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio support adds further value for the entertainment-focused user.
While the inclusion of a charger with the G Power is a convenience, it does not make up for the significant upgrades available with the Redmi Note 10S. Unless budget is extremely restricted, the Redmi Note 10S provides a more versatile and enjoyable user experience overall, and thus is the phone that I would recommend.
