1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | A72 is larger and may be less comfortable for one-handed use; RN11 is more compact |
| Weight | 203g | 179g | RN11 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.43" | A72 offers a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience; RN11 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp, detailed images. |
| PPI | 394 | 409 | Similar pixel density, both displays will look equally sharp |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 1000 nits | RN11 has better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm) | RN11 has slightly better benchmark scores, meaning potentially snappier day-to-day performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 314,000 | RN11 is likely to handle general tasks and some gaming slightly better |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 610 | A72's GPU is slightly more capable, but this difference may not be noticeable in everyday use. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | A72 offers higher resolution photos, potentially better for cropping and detail. |
| Telephoto/Portrait Camera | 8MP, f/2.4 | Not available | A72 has a dedicated zoom lens for better portrait shots and closer zoom. |
| Front Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.4 | A72 offers higher resolution selfies with a wider aperture, potentially performing better in low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | A72 captures wider angle shots with more detail due to higher resolution |
| Portrait mode (depth) | Not available | 2MP, f/2.4 | RN11 has a dedicated depth sensor for bokeh effects |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | A72 has slightly more detailed macro shots due to higher resolution |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@60fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | A72 can record higher resolution videos with better stabilization. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Optical Zoom, PDAF, more | Fewer features | A72 provides a more versatile and advanced camera system. |
| DxoMark | Overall: 92 | Not tested | A72 has a tested and scored camera, and it is a decent score |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones provide similar battery life for daily use. |
| Charging | 25W | 33W | RN11 charges faster, reducing time spent tethered to the charger. |
| Features | 15W Fast Charger Included | Reverse Charging | A72 provides a charger in box, while the RN11 allows charging other devices |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradeable to 12) | Android 11 (upgradeable to 13) | RN11 has a longer software support lifespan |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac, Wi-Fi MiMO | Both offer similar Wi-Fi connectivity, RN11 supports MIMO for better signal in crowded areas |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 LE | A72 has more advanced Bluetooth profiles for various devices, RN11 has low energy bluetooth |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 64 GB, 128 GB or 256 GB | Both have good storage options for most users |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 4 GB, 6 GB or 8 GB | Both offer good RAM options for multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones have no expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | A72 offers slightly better audio quality with Dolby Atmos. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | basic | side-mounted | RN11 has a more modern and convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | RN11 has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | More sensors | Fewer sensors | A72 has more sensors, suitable for all types of usage |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- More versatile camera system: Features a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom, and offers OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), and a better overall sensor package for higher quality photos, especially in challenging conditions, and video recording up to 4K. This makes it great for users who prioritize camera performance.
- Higher resolution selfie camera: The 32MP front camera with a wider f/2.2 aperture results in better selfie quality, and performs better in low light
- Dolby Atmos audio: Delivers a more immersive and premium audio experience. This makes it better for media consumption and those who enjoy listening to music through the speakers.
- More Comprehensive Sensor Suite: It includes more sensors than the Redmi Note 11, leading to enhanced functionality for gaming and apps.
- More Bluetooth Audio Profiles: It has a more comprehensive Bluetooth profile suite to support a wider range of features.
- Better Rear Camera scores: It has a DxoMark score of 92 which is pretty good.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Advantages:
- More compact and lightweight design: More pocketable and comfortable for one-handed usage, making it better for people who dislike larger phones.
- Brighter display: The 1000 nits brightness ensures better visibility in direct sunlight making it good for outdoor usage.
- Faster charging: 33W fast charging will get you back to full charge much faster, so you spend less time on the charger
- Longer software support: It has an upgradeable Android version to 13, making it good for long term use.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Generally considered more convenient and ergonomic than the basic sensor of the A72.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 3: Superior protection from accidental scratches on screen.
- Slightly Better Benchmark Scores: Has a higher AnTuTu benchmark score, suggesting slightly better overall performance.
- Reverse Charging: Can be used to charge other devices, providing versatility.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Camera: The A72 offers more versatile and capable camera system overall, though its software is older, while RN11's camera setup is more basic but slightly faster and with slightly better low-light performance with the pixel size.
- Performance: While both perform similarly in day-to-day tasks, RN11 has slightly better benchmark performance, while the A72 has more advanced camera features.
- Size and Portability: The A72 is larger and heavier, while the RN11 prioritizes compact and lightweight design at the expense of a slightly smaller screen and lacking the telephoto lens
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize versatile camera setups with features like optical zoom, OIS and higher resolution video recording.
- Multimedia Consumers: Those who frequently watch videos, listen to music, and appreciate a better audio experience with Dolby Atmos.
- Users Who Prefer Larger Screens: Those who prefer a large display for watching movies, browsing or gaming.
- Those Who Value Sensor Suite: Users who enjoy advanced apps and features that require a variety of sensors
Use Cases:
- Capturing detailed photos and videos in various conditions.
- Enjoying a more immersive audio experience while watching movies.
- Using the phone as a primary device for media consumption and gaming.
- Gamers who need access to a range of sensors for specific games.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Ideal User:
- On-the-Go Users: Those who prioritize a compact, lightweight phone for easy handling and portability.
- Outdoor Users: Those who frequently use their phones in bright sunlight and value good screen visibility.
- Budget-Conscious Users: Users who value fast charging and good software support.
- Casual Photographers: Those who primarily use their phone for social media photos and are not as concerned with advanced features.
- Users Who Want a More Convenient Security System: Users who prefer side-mounted fingerprint security.
Use Cases:
- Using the phone throughout the day without worrying about battery life.
- Quickly topping up the battery during breaks.
- Comfortable one-handed operation for daily tasks.
- Using the phone as a secondary device for travel or outdoor activities
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize camera versatility and video recording, or daily portability and fast charging?
- Is a larger screen with enhanced audio important to you, or do you prefer a smaller, more pocketable phone?
- How important is having the latest software updates and better screen protection?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Photography Enthusiast: If camera features like optical zoom, OIS, and 4K recording are crucial, the Samsung Galaxy A72 is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: Daily Use & Portability: If a compact, lightweight design, better screen brightness, and fast charging are more important, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 is preferable.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Usage: If you are looking for a phone that has decent performance, and is good for day to day use, then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 is the better choice.
- Scenario 4: Long Term Use: If software longevity and better security are important, then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 is the better choice.
My Choice
I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11.
Here's why:
While the Samsung Galaxy A72 has a more advanced camera system, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 better aligns with my personal priorities. The faster charging is a huge benefit for my busy lifestyle, and the brighter display is essential for outdoor use. The Redmi Note 11 also has the advantage of being more compact and lightweight, making it more comfortable for daily use. Additionally, the longer software support ensures I won't be left behind with outdated security or features too quickly. Though I do value a good camera, the Redmi's camera is sufficient for casual photography and I don't find the advanced features of the Samsung to be a dealbreaker. The modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor is more convenient than a basic sensor, and the Corning Gorilla Glass provides better durability against accidental scratches. The slightly better benchmark scores are a plus too. In the end, the Redmi Note 11 provides a more practical, all around experience with features that directly benefit my needs.
