1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 163.6 × 75.8 × 8.8 mm | Redmi Note 11S 5G is slightly taller and thicker, potentially less comfortable for small hands. |
| Weight | 189g | 195g | A52 5G is slightly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible difference in screen size; both are similar for daily use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same sharpness; visuals will appear equally detailed. |
| PPI | 407 | 399 | Virtually identical pixel density; negligible difference in perceived sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | A52 5G has richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast. Better for media consumption and outdoor visibility. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | A52 5G provides smoother scrolling and animations, more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is unknown. Unable to determine visibility in different lighting conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8 nm) | Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a newer, slightly more efficient chip, likely leading to better performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 384,853 | 438,700 | Redmi Note 11S 5G offers marginally better performance in daily tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Different GPUs; Redmi Note 11S 5G might have a small edge in some games. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 11S 5G likely provides longer battery life for daily usage. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 11S 5G charges faster, useful for quick top-ups. |
| Features | QC2.0 and AFC | Non-removable | A52 5G supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 and Adaptive Fast Charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", IMX682 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", S5KJN1 | A52 5G captures more detailed photos, performs better in low light due to larger sensor. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", IMX616 | 13MP, f/2.4, N/A | A52 5G has significantly better selfie camera with higher resolution and wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", S5K3L6 | 8MP, f/2.2, N/A | A52 5G captures wider shots with more detail. |
| Portrait (depth) | 5MP, f/2.4, N/A | N/A | A52 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, N/A | A52 5G captures better macro shots with more detail. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS | Up to 1080p@60fps | A52 5G records higher resolution videos. |
| DxoMark | N/A | Main: 65, Photo: 50, Video: 83 | Only Redmi Note 11S 5G has been tested, giving a limited perspective on real-world camera performance. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Quadruple Camera | Triple Camera | A52 5G offers OIS for better stabilization and a quadruple camera setup for versatile photography options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 11 | A52 5G has more software updates, potentially leading to a longer lifespan. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac, Dual Band | 802.11ac, Dual Band | Similar WiFi capabilities; both are suitable for most users. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, LE, A2DP, EDR, HID, ANT+ | 5.1, LE, A2DP, aptX, LDAC, AAC | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a newer version of Bluetooth and supports high quality codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo | A52 5G supports more satellite systems, potentially leading to more accurate positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM usage; similar functionality for users requiring multiple numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB | A52 5G offers more storage options (256GB vs 128GB max), catering to users with large media libraries. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 4GB/6GB | A52 5G provides more RAM for smoother multitasking and handling heavier applications. |
| Expandable | No | No | Both phones do not offer expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Redmi Note 11S 5G offers more complete audio enhancements, providing better sound experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a faster more convenient side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass 3 | A52 5G is more durable, with better protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | A52 5G has more sensors, enabling a broader range of applications. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate offers better colors, contrast, and smoother visuals.
- Better Camera System: Higher resolution sensors, larger sensor size, optical image stabilization (OIS), and dedicated depth sensor offer better image quality and versatility.
- More Software Updates: Samsung offers better software support with an upgrade to Android 14.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 offers superior screen protection.
- More RAM and Storage Options: Up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage provides smoother multitasking and more space for media and apps.
More Sensors: Hall, Gyroscope, and Geomagnetic sensors give more functionality.
Practical Implications: Better for users who prioritize display quality, photography, and long-term software support.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G Advantages:
- Better Performance: More efficient chipset and higher AnTuTu score provides slightly better processing power.
- Longer Battery Life: Larger 5000mAh battery provides extended usage time.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging reduces charging time.
- Better Audio Quality: Features high-res audio, stereo speakers, and dual microphones.
Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1 with high quality codecs, provides improved connectivity.
Practical Implications: Better for users who prioritize battery life, performance and audio quality.
Significant Trade-offs:
- A52 5G: Less battery capacity and slower charging compared to Note 11S 5G.
- Note 11S 5G: Inferior display and camera system compared to A52 5G, lack of software support and older Gorilla Glass 3.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:
- Content Creators/Consumers: Users who value a high-quality display for media consumption and a versatile camera system for photography and videography.
- Multitaskers/Gamers: Users who need more RAM for smoother performance and a high refresh rate display.
- Long-Term Users: Those who prioritize software updates and long-term support.
Ideal User for Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G:
- Heavy Users on the Go: Users who need long battery life and fast charging.
- Budget Conscious Gamers: Users who are looking for the best performance within their budget.
- Audio Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize a good audio experience with stereo speakers and high-res audio.
Specific Use Cases:
- Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos for social media.
- Watching movies and videos with vibrant colors and smooth motion.
- Playing graphically demanding games.
- Long-term use with consistent software updates.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G:
- All-day use without needing to recharge frequently.
- Playing games and running performance-intensive apps.
- Listening to music on the go with good quality.
- Users who prioritize value for money.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality and camera versatility? If you prioritize these, the A52 5G is the better choice.
- How important is battery life, performance and audio? If you value battery and audio performance the Note 11S 5G is preferable.
- Do you plan to keep the phone for an extended time? If so, the A52 5G's software support may be a better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: You are a photography enthusiast. The Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is the better choice due to its superior camera system, especially in low light and with the use of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
Scenario 2: You travel frequently or use your phone extensively. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G would be the better choice, offering longer battery life, faster charging, and a great audio experience.
Scenario 3: You want a balanced phone for all-around use. This depends on your priorities. If you prefer better display and camera, the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is recommended. If you are looking for better battery life and performance, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G is better suited.
My Choice and Why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G.
Here's why:
- Display Quality: As someone who consumes a lot of media and appreciates visual fidelity, the AMOLED panel with its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and 120Hz refresh rate is a significant advantage. The difference between AMOLED and IPS LCD is very noticeable, especially when watching videos or playing games.
- Camera Versatility: While the Xiaomi has a decent camera, the A52 5G's combination of higher resolution sensors, larger sensor sizes, optical image stabilization (OIS), and more features gives a better overall experience and the ability to capture quality photos.
- Long-term Software Support: The fact that the A52 5G receives software updates up to Android 14 is important for longevity. It ensures the phone stays secure, efficient, and with access to newer features for longer period.
- Brand Reputation: Samsung is known to provide good software experience, often more polished and consistent than Xiaomi's offering.
While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G excels in battery life and performance, for my personal use cases I value the superior display and camera experience of the A52 5G. The slightly lesser battery life and charging speed is something I am willing to compromise on in favour of a better camera and display.
