OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11: Detailed Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | Nearly identical size, both easy to handle. |
| Weight | 170g | 179g | Nord CE 5G is slightly lighter, but difference is marginal. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 11 has better scratch resistance. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Redmi’s side sensor is more convenient than in-display. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panel | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.43" AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling in both, no advantage either way. |
| Peak Brightness | 700 nits | 1000 nits | Redmi Note 11 is much better in sunlight. |
| Resolution & PPI | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2400 (409 PPI) | No noticeable difference in sharpness. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G (8nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm) | Nord CE 5G is faster & supports 5G. |
| Antutu Score | 385,000 | 314,000 | ~23% faster performance in benchmarks. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 610 | Better gaming on Nord CE 5G. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4/6/8GB | More RAM options & higher max on Nord CE 5G. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2" sensor) | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor) | Nord CE 5G has better low-light performance. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Similar, slight edge to Redmi in aperture. |
| Extra Lenses | 2MP B&W | 2MP Macro + 2MP Depth | Redmi offers more versatility. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.45) | 13MP (f/2.4) | Nord CE 5G has better resolution. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Nord CE 5G far better for video. |
| DXOMark Score | 84 (Photo: 89) | N/A | Nord CE 5G has verified superior camera quality. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 11 lasts longer. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 33W | Small difference, Redmi slightly faster. |
| Extras | – | Reverse charging | Redmi can charge other devices. |
Software & Connectivity
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Identical software support. |
| 5G Support | Yes | No | Nord CE 5G is future-proofed. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 (AptX, LDAC) | 5.0 | Nord CE 5G better for wireless audio. |
| GPS Support | GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, NavIC | GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou | Nord CE 5G has better location tracking. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✅ Better Performance – Faster chipset (Snapdragon 750G) and GPU (Adreno 619) for gaming & multitasking.
✅ Superior Camera – Larger sensor, 4K video, and higher resolution selfies.
✅ 5G Support – Future-proof connectivity.
✅ More RAM Options – Up to 12GB vs. Redmi’s 8GB.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Strengths
✅ Brighter Display – 1000 nits vs. 700 nits (better outdoor visibility).
✅ Bigger Battery – 5000mAh vs. 4500mAh (better endurance).
✅ Better Build Protection – Gorilla Glass 3 vs. unknown screen protection.
✅ More Camera Lenses – Extra macro & depth sensors for versatility.
Trade-Offs
⚠ Nord CE 5G – Smaller battery, no reverse charging.
⚠ Redmi Note 11 – Slower chipset, no 5G, inferior GPU, lower camera quality.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Best for OnePlus Nord CE 5G:
- Power users who want better performance, 5G, and smoother multitasking.
- Mobile photographers & videographers (4K video, better low-light shots).
- Gamers (faster GPU, more RAM).
Best for Xiaomi Redmi Note 11:
- Battery-focused users who need all-day endurance.
- Outdoor users (better sunlight visibility).
- Budget-conscious buyers who don’t need 5G or high-end performance.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need 5G & better performance? → Nord CE 5G
- Is battery life & screen brightness a priority? → Redmi Note 11
- Do I care more about camera quality or versatility? → Nord CE 5G (quality) vs. Redmi Note 11 (extra lenses)
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best Value for Performance + Camera: Nord CE 5G
- Best Budget Longevity + Display: Redmi Note 11
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
- Why? Faster performance, better camera, 5G, and superior RAM options make it a longer-lasting device. The Redmi Note 11 has better battery life and brightness, but the Nord CE 5G’s chipset and camera advantages outweigh those benefits for me.
However, if you don’t care about 5G and just want a cheaper phone with great battery life, the Redmi Note 11 is a solid alternative.
