Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 151.7 × 71.2 × 7.9 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | The Redmi Note 11 is larger and slightly thicker, which may make the S21 5G more comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 169g | 179g | The S21 5G is lighter, which can be noticeable during extended use and make it more portable. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.2" | 6.43" | The Redmi Note 11 has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same level of sharpness. |
| PPI | 421 | 409 | Virtually identical pixel density. Both appear sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | The S21 5G provides smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the perceived responsiveness of the device. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | The S21 5G's higher brightness significantly improves visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | The S21 5G's chipset is substantially more powerful, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 314,000 | The S21 5G demonstrates significantly higher performance in benchmarks, indicating a large real-world difference in speed. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Adreno 610 | The S21 5G's GPU provides vastly superior graphics processing, resulting in smoother gameplay and better visual effects in apps. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | The Redmi Note 11 offers a larger battery, potentially leading to longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 33W fast charging | The Redmi Note 11 charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Wireless charging, reverse charging | Reverse charging | The S21 5G offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, which the Redmi Note 11 lacks. Note that the S21 does not come with a charger in box. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard (Main) | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | The Redmi Note 11 has a higher resolution sensor but the S21 5G has larger individual pixels (more light intake), often resulting in better low light performance. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" | None | The S21 5G has a dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom and portrait photography. |
| Selfie | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.1" | The Redmi Note 11 has a higher resolution selfie camera while the S21 5G has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle | None | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" | The Redmi Note 11 offers a dedicated ultrawide lens for capturing wide scenes. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | Redmi Note 11 has a depth sensor for portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | Redmi Note 11 has a macro lens for close-up photos. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | None | The S21 5G has a dedicated wide angle camera for versatile photo capture. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | The S21 5G supports significantly higher video resolution and offers better video stabilization. |
| DxOMark Mobile | 111 | N/A | The S21 5G has been rated higher in DxOMark tests. |
| DxOMark Selfie | 132 | N/A | The S21 5G has been rated higher in DxOMark tests. |
| Features | 4K/8K video, OIS, optical zoom, triple camera, RAW, etc. | Quadruple camera, digital zoom etc. | The S21 5G offers a more comprehensive suite of advanced camera features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 | Both start with the same OS, but S21 has more upgrades. |
| Max Android Version | 15 | 13 | The S21 5G is slated to receive more future Android updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | The S21 5G supports the newer Wi-Fi 6 standard for faster, more efficient connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | The S21 5G has more advanced Bluetooth features like apt-x for higher quality audio. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | L1 | The S21 5G supports more satellite bands for enhanced location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 64/128/256GB | Both devices offer similar storage configurations, but the Redmi Note 11 has a 64 GB option. |
| RAM | 8GB | 4/6/8GB | Both phones can be configured with the same amount of RAM |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD card expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | The S21 5G offers better audio features with Dolby Atmos and a noise-canceling microphone. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | The Redmi Note 11's side-mounted fingerprint sensor is generally more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | The S21 5G has significantly better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | The S21 5G includes a barometer, which could be useful for weather or altitude-related apps. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset offers significantly higher processing and graphics power for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
- Better Display: The 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness improve the overall visual experience, particularly in outdoor conditions.
- Advanced Camera System: The inclusion of a telephoto lens, more advanced video capabilities (8K), and better DxOMark scores indicate a higher overall camera quality and more features.
- Premium Features: Offers wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, better protection glass, a newer WiFi standard, and a more comprehensive set of Bluetooth features.
- Longer Software Support: Guaranteed to receive more software updates in the future.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery provides potentially longer battery life, ideal for users who need all-day power.
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging enables faster battery replenishments.
- More Camera Lenses: Has macro, wide angle, and depth sensors for extra versatility.
- More Storage Options: The 64GB version makes this device more affordable.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Offers a more ergonomic and modern unlock experience for some.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The S21 5G sacrifices battery capacity for superior performance and features.
- The Redmi Note 11 trades raw power and camera quality for longer battery life and a more affordable price.
- S21 does not have included charger, and lacks a headphone jack.
- Redmi Note 11 has a slower display and lower brightness, making the screen less smooth and readable in direct sunlight.
- The S21 5G lacks a headphone jack which may be a deal breaker for some.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy S21 5G:
- Power Users: Those who require high performance for gaming, video editing, or demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value camera quality, advanced features, and versatility.
- Multimedia Consumers: Individuals who enjoy high refresh rates, brighter screens, and Dolby Atmos audio for a premium experience.
- Users Seeking Long-Term Software Support: Wanting to get the latest features for longer.
Specific Use Cases:
- Gaming: Smooth high-fidelity gaming experience
- Content Creation: High quality video recording up to 8K
- Outdoor Use: Excellent display visibility in sunlight
- Travel: Can make use of all the GPS options.
Ideal Users for Xiaomi Redmi Note 11:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Those seeking a reliable smartphone at an affordable price point.
- Battery Life Prioritizers: Users who need a phone that can last through a full day of heavy use without frequent charging.
- Casual Users: Individuals who primarily use their phones for social media, browsing, and basic photography.
- Those who appreciate multiple camera lenses: For those who want to have different camera options.
Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday Use: Social media, browsing, calling, messaging
- Travel/Commuting: Extended battery life for long days
- Budget photography: Basic photography with extra lenses
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: How important is raw speed for my daily usage? Do I play demanding games or perform intensive tasks?
- Battery Life: How crucial is all-day battery? Do I have easy access to charging during the day?
- Camera Requirements: Do I prioritize high quality photos and videos, or is basic capture sufficient?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance is King - If you are a gamer or a power user who needs the best performance and doesn't mind charging, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is the superior choice.
- Scenario 2: Battery is Crucial - If long battery life is your priority and you are a casual user, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 is the more practical option.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User - If you want good performance, a decent camera and don't want to break the bank, then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 is the ideal pick.
Which Phone Would I Choose and Why
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G. While the Redmi Note 11's larger battery and lower price are attractive, the S21 5G offers a significantly better overall experience. My priorities are performance, camera quality, and display quality and the S21 provides that with its faster chipset, higher refresh rate screen and more versatile camera system. While I acknowledge that it has a smaller battery capacity, the convenience of wireless charging helps mitigate that drawback. The S21 is the better all-around device for someone who values a premium experience. I use my phone for gaming and media, and value great camera quality for photos and videos and this phone has those priorities covered.
