Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G30 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G30 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.2 × 75.7 × 9.1 mm | 163.7 × 76.2 × 8.3 mm | The Moto G30 is slightly taller and thicker, making the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G a bit more compact and pocketable. The G30 has a larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 200g | 204g | Both are similar in weight; negligible difference in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has a significantly sharper display; text and images will be much clearer, less pixelated. |
| Pixel Density | 269 PPI | 395 PPI | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G offers much sharper details in text and images due to much higher pixel density. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has superior display technology with better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. More energy efficient with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G provides smoother scrolling and animations compared to the Moto G30. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has drastically higher peak brightness, making it much easier to see in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Dimensity 920 (6 nm) | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has a much more powerful and efficient chipset leading to better app loading, multitasking, and gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 170,968 | 528,100 | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has dramatically higher benchmark performance, translating to a snappier and smoother overall user experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G68 MC4 | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G's GPU is significantly more powerful for gaming and graphics intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Standard | 64.4MP, f/1.7 | 108MP, f/1.89 | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has higher resolution main camera for more detailed images. The Moto G30 has slightly wider aperture for potentially better low light performance. |
| Selfie | 13MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.45 | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has slightly higher resolution selfie camera but the Moto G30 has a wider aperture for slightly better low light results. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both have a comparable wide-angle lens. |
| Portrait (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Moto G30 features a dedicated depth camera which may enhance portrait mode. |
| Macro | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both phones have comparable macro lens cameras. |
| Video | 1080p@60fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G records video at a higher resolution (4K), and higher framerate slow motion. |
| Features | Quad Camera, PDAF, LAF, RAW | Triple Camera, EIS, Manual, Night Mode, RAW | The G30 has PDAF and LAF while the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G features EIS for video stabilization, and a dedicated Night Mode. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | The Moto G30 has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life between charges. |
| Charging | 15W | 120W | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has dramatically faster charging speeds; from 0-100% in a fraction of the time of the Moto G30. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable, 19min Comfort Mode, 15min standard, QC3+/PD2.0/PD3.0 | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G offers much faster charging with specific modes. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 11 | The Motorola Moto G30 has an upgrade path to Android 12, the Xiaomi does not provide max version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac, Dual-band | 802.11ax (WiFi 6), Dual-band | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G supports the latest WiFi 6 standard for higher speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE, APT-x, LDAC, AAC | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G features the newer Bluetooth standard with higher quality codec support for better audio quality on supported devices. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G supports more satellite systems for potentially better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Both phones support two SIMs; ability to use two numbers simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB or 128GB | 64GB, 128GB or 256GB | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G offers a higher max storage option at 256 GB. |
| RAM | 4GB or 6GB | 6GB or 8GB | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has higher RAM options for better multitasking and smooth performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has superior audio features with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and Stereo speakers which deliver enhanced spatial audio and a more immersive experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G has more practical side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G provides better screen protection from scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G features compass and virtual proximity sensor over the standard sensors on the G30. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G30 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life between charges, suitable for users who need extended usage.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: The inclusion of a dedicated depth sensor may enhance portrait mode shots.
- Lower Cost: The G30 is likely to be more affordable, suitable for budget-conscious users.
- Wider Aperture Main Lens: The main camera's wider f/1.7 aperture could mean slightly better low-light performance.
- PDAF and LAF: Offers phase detection autofocus (PDAF) and laser autofocus (LAF) for potentially faster focusing performance.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED display offers higher resolution, brightness, better contrast, and smoother refresh rate, drastically improving the viewing experience.
- Significantly Faster Performance: The Dimensity 920 chipset offers dramatically better performance for gaming, multitasking, and overall app responsiveness.
- Much Faster Charging: 120W fast charging provides a huge advantage, reducing downtime for charging.
- Higher Resolution Camera: The 108MP main camera captures more detail.
- 4K Video Recording: Ability to record video in 4K resolution.
- Advanced Audio: Enhanced audio experience with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and stereo speakers.
- Advanced Connectivity: Support for WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 with high-quality audio codec support.
- Better Build: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 screen protection.
- More RAM Option: 8GB of RAM allows more applications to be running smoothly.
- More Storage Options: A 256GB storage option is available for users who store a lot of data.
Trade-offs:
- Moto G30: Better battery life might not outweigh inferior overall performance and display experience. The lack of fast charging makes it less convenient for quick top ups. The G30 also lacks a lot of the premium features found in the 11 Pro+.
- Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G: Slightly smaller battery and slightly higher price point are its only real drawbacks. The much faster charging mitigates the smaller battery capacity to an extent.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G30 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for an affordable phone for basic daily use.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: Those needing long battery life between charges and aren't worried about premium features.
Basic smartphone users: People who do not need high performance or advanced audio/video capabilities.
Use Cases:
- Everyday tasks like calling, texting, and light social media browsing.
- Basic photography and videography.
- Users who prefer a larger battery over high-performance features.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G Ideal User:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who want smooth performance for gaming and multitasking.
- Media Consumers: Those who watch a lot of video, play games, or enjoy a high-quality display.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a high-resolution camera with advanced video features.
- Users valuing Fast Charging: Individuals who prefer very quick charging for minimal downtime.
Users who listen to music often: Those who value high quality audio.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming with high frame rates and graphics.
- High-quality video recording and playback.
- Multitasking and heavy app usage.
- Outdoor use where screen visibility is critical.
- Those who value advanced features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Moto G30 is likely significantly more affordable.
- How important is performance and display quality? The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G provides a vastly superior experience.
- What is your charging style? If you frequently top up throughout the day or value quick recharge, the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G is the clear choice. If you prefer longer single use, and charge overnight the G30 may be better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Tight Budget, Basic Use: If you're on a very tight budget and need a basic phone for calls, texts, and occasional social media, the Motorola Moto G30 is the more appropriate choice.
- Scenario 2: Performance and Media are Important: If you enjoy mobile gaming, watching videos, or need a phone for heavy multitasking, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G is the superior choice.
- Scenario 3: Prioritizing Quick Charging: If you are always in a rush, you need the quickest charge speeds you can get, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G with its 120W charging is the better choice.
What I Would Choose and Why
I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G. While the Motorola Moto G30 has a larger battery, the overall user experience provided by the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G is significantly better. The superior AMOLED display, much faster performance, dramatically faster charging, 4K video capability, and advanced audio features make it a much more compelling device. The improved screen, better build quality with screen protection, faster charging and high performance makes this phone far more future proof than the Motorola G30. While it may be slightly more expensive, the benefits it offers outweigh the extra cost, especially considering the long-term value and enjoyment gained from it. The difference in performance is too significant to pass up for the slightly bigger battery and lower price point of the G30.
