Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8 mm | 164.3 x 74.6 x 8.5 mm | Xiaomi is slightly taller and thicker, potentially feeling more substantial but less pocketable. |
| Weight | 200g | 208g | Samsung is slightly lighter, which might be more comfortable for extended holding. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.81" | Xiaomi's slightly larger screen offers a marginally more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1440 x 3200 | Xiaomi offers noticeably sharper and more detailed visuals due to its higher resolution, particularly for text and high-resolution images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 394 | 515 | Xiaomi’s significantly higher PPI results in crisper text and images, which is especially important for reading and viewing detailed content. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast; no practical difference in display technology. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations, equally suitable for gaming and everyday use. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1700 nits | Xiaomi is much more readable in direct sunlight, making it a better choice for outdoor use. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) - International | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Xiaomi's Snapdragon 888 generally offers slightly better overall performance and gaming capabilities than the Exynos 2100. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 854,267 | Xiaomi's significantly higher benchmark score translates to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better overall performance in demanding tasks and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 - International | Adreno 660 | Different GPUs will have different performance characteristics; Adreno 660 typically performs better for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" Sony IMX555 | 50MP, f/1.95, 1/1.12" Samsung GN2 | Xiaomi has a higher resolution sensor and larger sensor, potentially resulting in better low-light performance and more detail capture. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" Samsung S5KGW2 | None | Samsung has a dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities and portrait shots; Xiaomi lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, relying on digital zoom. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" Sony IMX374 | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" Samsung S5K3T2 | Xiaomi's higher resolution front camera might capture slightly more detail; Samsung's wider aperture may result in slightly better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" Omnivision OV13B10 | Xiaomi offers a dedicated ultra-wide lens for capturing expansive scenes, while Samsung relies on the standard lens. |
| Wide Angle/Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" Sony IMX563 | None | Samsung has dedicated Wide Angle Macro camera for capturing close-up detail; Xiaomi does not include a Macro-specific sensor in the same configuration |
| Telephoto/Macro | None | 8MP, 1/4.4" Omnivision OV08A10 | Xiaomi has a dedicated Telephoto/Macro lens for close up detail; Samsung does not include a Macro-specific sensor in the same configuration |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 8K@24fps | Both offer high-resolution video recording with stabilization; negligible real-world difference for most users. |
| DXOMark Score | 111 (Mobile), 118 (Photo), 89 (Video) | 124 (Mobile), 118 (Photo), 132 (Video) | Xiaomi generally performs better in camera and video; Samsung has equal photo scores. Xiaomi's Video quality is considerably better based on DXOMark scores. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800 mAh | 5000 mAh | Xiaomi has a slightly larger battery, potentially leading to a bit longer battery life in real-world usage. |
| Charging | 25W | 67W | Xiaomi's much faster charging significantly reduces charging time; much more convenient for users who need quick power boosts. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 67W | Xiaomi's wireless charging is significantly faster than the Samsung. |
| Reverse Wireless | 4.5W | 10W | Xiaomi offers faster reverse wireless charging, which can be useful for quickly topping up accessories like wireless earbuds. |
| Other | |||
| Software | Android 11, upgradable to 15 | Android 11 | Samsung provides software upgrades; Xiaomi's long term software support is unclear. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer the latest Wi-Fi standards for fast internet connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 | Xiaomi's newer Bluetooth standard has better power efficiency and stability. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5) | GPS (L1+L5), QZSS, NavIC | Xiaomi is more precise with more satellite systems, useful in remote areas. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano/eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Samsung offers the flexibility of using an eSIM and a physical nano SIM while Xiaomi does not offer eSIM. |
| Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer sufficient storage options but lack expandable storage. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB or 12GB | Xiaomi provides an additional RAM option; the 12GB RAM option will benefit multitasking and gaming users. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Noise Cancellation | Hi-Res Audio, 3 microphones | Samsung offers a richer and more immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos and noise-canceling microphone; Xiaomi has 3 microphones potentially leading to improved audio quality in calls/recording |
| Security | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer standard fingerprint recognition. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus | Both phones are equally durable and resistant to scratches. |
| Sensors | Barometer | Heart Rate | Both have standard smartphone sensors; Samsung has an additional Barometer while Xiaomi has a Heart Rate Sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- More versatile camera setup: Includes a dedicated telephoto camera for optical zoom and a separate wide-angle/macro lens, offering more shooting flexibility.
- eSIM Support: Allows for a dual-sim setup with a physical sim and an eSIM, beneficial for travelers or those needing two different lines.
- Software Upgrade: Guarantees more long-term software support.
- Dolby Atmos: Enhanced spatial audio output.
- Noise cancellation microphone: Clearer call quality and audio recording.
- Barometer: Enhanced location/environmental sensors.
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Advantages:
- Higher Resolution & Sharper Display: Significantly higher PPI for a crisper, more detailed viewing experience.
- Brighter Display: Much brighter screen for better visibility under direct sunlight.
- Significantly Faster Charging: Both wired and wireless charging are much faster, a major convenience.
- Potentially Superior Performance: Slightly better performance with the Snapdragon 888 chipset and higher AnTuTu scores.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: Larger main camera sensor, potentially capturing better low-light photos with more detail.
- Dedicated Ultra Wide Lens: Enhanced wide-angle photography with dedicated lens.
- Newer Bluetooth: Better power efficiency and more stable Bluetooth connections.
- More Precise GPS: Includes more satellite systems for improved location tracking.
- 12GB RAM option: More RAM can make for a better experience with demanding apps and games.
- Superior Video quality: Significantly better video scores on DxOMark.
- Heart Rate Sensor: Fitness related sensor.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Samsung: Slightly dimmer screen, slower charging, but more versatile camera with dedicated telephoto and macro and long-term software support.
- Xiaomi: Lacks a dedicated telephoto/portrait lens (relies on digital zoom), no eSIM support and the long-term software support is unknown.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Ideal User: Users who value camera versatility with telephoto and macro lenses, prefer guaranteed long-term software support, use dual SIM and eSIM, and value audio quality with Dolby Atmos.
- Use Cases:
- Photography enthusiasts who need a variety of zoom and wide-angle options.
- Users who rely on their phone for communication, requiring clear audio and long-term support.
- Travelers needing dual SIM functionality with eSIM support.
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize display quality and brightness, fast charging, overall performance, and excellent main camera performance.
- Use Cases:
- Gamers and heavy users who need maximum performance and long battery life.
- Frequent media consumers who value a sharp and bright display.
- Users who prioritize extremely fast charging times and convenience.
- Photography users who need great low light performance and prefer an ultra-wide camera.
Price-to-Value Ratio: The Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers significantly more in terms of display quality and charging speeds. The Samsung might be more practical for a user who needs the telephoto and Macro camera features. The final value depends on whether a user values faster charging and better display (Xiaomi) or camera versatility and software support (Samsung).
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize display quality and brightness for outdoor use and media consumption or more versatile camera experience with telephoto lens?
- Is faster charging crucial for your daily use, or is long term software support more important?
- Do you need eSIM support, or is a secondary physical SIM sufficient for your needs?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You're a travel photographer:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G because of the dedicated telephoto and macro lenses, eSIM support, and software support.
- Scenario 2: You're a gamer and media enthusiast:
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro because of its superior display quality, faster performance and significantly faster charging capabilities.
- Scenario 3: You're a daily user looking for the most convenient experience:
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro due to its faster charging and better performance.
My Choice and Why
Personally, I would choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro. While the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G has a more versatile camera setup and an eSIM option, the Mi 11 Pro's advantages in display brightness and resolution, significantly faster charging (both wired and wireless), and overall performance are more crucial for my daily usage. The better main camera sensor, and the presence of an ultrawide lens, along with higher DxOMark score for video recording makes it my preferred option. The Xiaomi is a more complete phone for daily use and is a better value overall for my needs. The lack of a telephoto lens is a trade-off I am willing to make for the improved display and fast charging.
