Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G Power (2021) vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G Power (2021) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 × 75.9 × 9.5 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | Redmi Note 11S is more compact and pocketable; Moto G Power is bulkier. |
| Weight | 206.5g | 179g | Redmi Note 11S is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for long-term handling. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.43" | Moto G Power has a slightly larger screen, which may be preferred for media consumption, but the difference is not major. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Redmi Note 11S has a much sharper display, leading to crisper text and images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 266 | 409 | Redmi Note 11S offers significantly higher pixel density, making the screen look much less pixelated. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Redmi Note 11S has superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, better for media and overall display quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Redmi Note 11S provides smoother scrolling and animations, leading to a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | Redmi Note 11S is significantly brighter, much better for outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 | Helio G96 | Redmi Note 11S has a more powerful chipset, leading to faster app loading and smoother multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 178,220 | 302,877 | Redmi Note 11S offers much better overall performance, especially for more demanding tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Redmi Note 11S's GPU is better suited for graphics intensive tasks such as gaming. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity; expected to have similar battery life but real-world usage can vary due to chipset and screen. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 11S charges much faster, leading to less downtime. |
| Battery Features | 10W Charger in-box | Reverse Charging | Moto G Power includes a charger, Redmi Note 11S can charge other devices and does not include a charger in box |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear Camera Res | 48MP | 108MP | Redmi Note 11S captures images with much higher detail and clarity. |
| Standard Rear Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.9 | Moto G Power's wider aperture allows more light, potentially better low-light shots but is counteracted by the significantly smaller sensor size. |
| Standard Rear Camera Sensor Size | - | 1/1.52" | Redmi Note 11S has a much larger sensor leading to better low-light and overall image quality. |
| Standard Rear Camera Pixel Size | 0.80µm | 0.70 µm | Moto G Power has slightly larger pixels which can also help low light but its not much. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP | 16MP | Redmi Note 11S provides higher resolution selfies with more detail. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.4 | Moto G Power has wider aperture allowing more light to enter in low light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP | Redmi Note 11S has wide angle lens for ultrawide shots |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP | 2MP | Both offer comparable portrait mode quality and depth effects |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | 2MP | Both offer comparable macro capabilities. |
| Video | Up to 1080p 60fps | Up to 1080p 30fps | Moto G Power has the option to record at 60 FPS for smoother videos; Redmi Note 11S can record in slow motion up to 120 fps while Moto G Power is limited to 60 fps |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 11 | Redmi Note 11S ships with a more recent Android version, potentially with newer features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | Both phones support the same standards, ensuring similar Wi-Fi speed and compatibility. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | Both have similar Bluetooth features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Redmi Note 11S has more accurate location tracking as it supports more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM | Redmi Note 11S supports dual SIM cards, which is beneficial for users with multiple lines. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64 GB | 64/128 GB | Redmi Note 11S has much more storage, which is useful for people who download many apps and media. |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 6/8 GB | Redmi Note 11S has more RAM, which is important for multitasking, gaming, and future-proofing. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage via microSD card. |
| Audio | Basic Audio Features | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Redmi Note 11S has better sound quality via headphones and also has stereo speakers for better media consumption. |
| Security | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Both offer similar and reliable biometric security via the side fingerprint sensor |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 11S is more protected from scratches and accidental drops with better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Both phones have a comprehensive suite of sensors, with slight variations in proximity sensor technology. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) Advantages:
- Slightly larger screen: The 6.6" display is marginally bigger, potentially better for media consumption for users who prefer slightly larger screens.
- Slightly wider aperture on main camera: The f/1.7 aperture might capture slightly better low-light images, but this is largely negated by the smaller sensor size.
- Includes a 10W charger in the box: This is convenient for users who don't have a spare charger.
- SUPL for GPS: This is an additional GPS system feature.
- Video 60 FPS: Offers 60 fps video recording.
- Triple Camera: Has triple camera system.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Advantages:
- Significantly better display: The AMOLED screen with higher resolution, pixel density, brightness, and refresh rate offers a far superior viewing experience, essential for media consumption and daily use.
- Much better performance: The Helio G96 chipset and higher RAM provide substantially better overall performance, faster app loading, and smoother multitasking, and better graphics in gaming
- Faster Charging: 33W charging speeds result in much faster battery top-ups, reducing downtime and increasing convenience.
- Superior Cameras: Higher resolution main and selfie cameras, a wide-angle lens, and better image sensor technology provide much better image quality and versatility.
- Dual SIM support: Allows the use of two SIM cards simultaneously, useful for managing multiple lines, or international travelers.
- More storage and RAM: Larger storage options and greater RAM ensure more space for media and smoother performance.
- Hi-Res audio and stereo speakers: Leads to much better audio quality.
- Screen Protection: Uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection which is better for daily usage.
- Reverse Charging: Can charge other devices.
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 11.
- Quadruple camera: Has quadruple camera system.
- Beidou GPS: An additional GPS system feature.
- Slow-motion video: Captures slow motion video at 120 FPS compared to Moto's 60fps.
Trade-offs:
- The Motorola is physically larger and heavier, making it less comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- The Xiaomi does not include a charger in the box, requiring an additional purchase if the user doesn't have one.
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S does not have video recording at 60fps.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G Power (2021) Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life and basic smartphone functionality.
- Users who prefer a slightly larger display for media consumption.
- Users who prefer to have a charger in the box.
- Users who don't need high-end performance, or camera quality.
Use Cases:
- Long periods away from a power outlet, or as a secondary device.
- Basic day-to-day tasks like browsing, calls, and messaging.
- Users who prioritize 60fps video recording.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a high-quality display and good overall performance.
- Users who want good cameras for general use and social media.
- Users who want faster charging and don't mind purchasing a charger.
- Users who want a better multi-media experience with good audio.
- Users who need dual SIM support and a more advanced camera system.
Use Cases:
- Media consumption (videos, games, social media)
- Mobile photography and videography.
- Moderate gaming and multi-tasking.
Price-to-Value:
- The Redmi Note 11S generally offers a better price-to-value ratio, providing a much more premium experience for the price.
- The Moto G Power might be suitable if a user requires a cheap basic phone, or has a specific need for 60fps video recording.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality to you? If you value crisp, vibrant, and bright screens, the Redmi Note 11S is a clear winner due to its AMOLED display.
- Do you need high performance and multitasking capabilities? If you need speed, the Redmi Note 11S with the Helio G96 and more RAM is a much better choice for gaming and overall use.
- What is your budget and how much do you value a charger in the box? The Moto G Power comes with a charger, while the Redmi Note 11S does not, also the Moto G Power is generally cheaper.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Basic User on a Tight Budget - If the budget is very tight, and user needs are basic, then the Motorola Moto G Power (2021) will work.
- Scenario 2: Media Consumption & Photography - If you love watching videos and taking pictures, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S with its AMOLED display, superior camera, and great audio is the clear winner.
- Scenario 3: Performance-Oriented User - If a smooth and snappy experience is desired, for multitasking and gaming, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S should be the obvious choice, with its better chipset, and RAM.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S. The reason for this is that the device offers a significantly better overall user experience. While the Motorola Moto G Power (2021) has its advantages, particularly in battery life, the areas where the Redmi Note 11S excels are more important for my daily use. I prefer a vibrant and sharp display for media consumption and browsing. Additionally, the better processor and higher RAM of the Redmi Note 11S offer a smoother experience for multitasking, gaming, and general phone usage. The camera system is also a significant upgrade, especially with the addition of the wide-angle lens. While the lack of a charger is a downside, this can be easily mitigated with the purchase of a high speed charger. The more advanced features, including the superior audio and screen protection, provide additional value. In conclusion, I prioritize the areas where the Redmi Note 11S offers a clear advantage (display, performance, camera, faster charging, and build quality), and the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.
