Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | S21+ is slightly larger and thinner; Note 11S is more compact and slightly thicker, making it a little easier to handle one-handed, especially for smaller hands. |
| Weight | 200g | 179g | Note 11S is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and carrying in pockets. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.43" | S21+ offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same sharpness; text and images will appear equally clear on both screens. |
| PPI | 394 | 409 | Both phones have similar pixel density, meaning the display sharpness is almost identical. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both displays provide vibrant colors, deep blacks, and great contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | S21+ offers smoother scrolling and animations, making the user experience feel more fluid, especially during gaming or fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | S21+ is much brighter, offering significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | S21+ has a much more powerful processor, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 302,877 | S21+ offers substantially higher performance, leading to a noticeably faster and smoother experience in demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G57 MC2 | S21+ has a more powerful GPU, which is important for smooth gaming and graphically intensive applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | Note 11S has a slightly larger battery, offering the potential for marginally longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 25W | 33W | Note 11S charges faster, reducing the time spent plugged into the wall. |
| Features | Wireless charging, Reverse Wireless, No Charger | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | S21+ offers convenient wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for accessories. Note 11S does not include wireless charging options. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 12MP, f/1.8 | 108MP, f/1.9 | Note 11S has much higher resolution, which can result in more detail in good lighting conditions. S21+ has wider aperture, better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0 | Not Available | S21+ has a dedicated telephoto lens, enabling optical zoom capabilities for close up shots, while Note 11S has no such lens. |
| Selfie Lens | 10MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.4 | Note 11S has higher resolution, which can provide more detail, while S21+ has slightly wider aperture for potentially better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 8MP, f/2.2 | Note 11S has a dedicated wide-angle lens, allowing for capturing more of a scene in a single shot. |
| Portrait Mode | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4 | Note 11S has a dedicated depth sensor which helps with portrait mode photos, while S21+ does not. |
| Macro Lens | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4 | Note 11S has a dedicated macro lens, allowing for detailed close-up shots of small objects. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | Not Available | S21+ has a dedicated wide angle and macro lense combined, allowing for versatility. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | S21+ can record much higher quality video, suitable for professional use or high-resolution viewing. The Note 11S has basic video recording capabilities. |
| DxOMark | Mobile: 111 | Not Available | S21+ camera is significantly better in terms of overall quality, image quality and video quality. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 15) | Android 11 | S21+ offers longer software support and upgrades. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | S21+ supports faster Wi-Fi standard, ideal for faster downloads and streaming. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with Apt-X, more profiles | 5.0 with EDR | S21+ supports more Bluetooth audio codecs and profiles providing more advanced features. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | Standard GPS | S21+ offers more accurate GPS with dual-band support. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ supports eSIM, allowing you to switch carriers digitally. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | S21+ offers higher storage options, ideal for those who need a lot of space for photos, videos, and apps. |
| RAM | 8GB | 6/8GB | S21+ offers consistent RAM, and potentially better multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows expandable storage, you should choose a configuration based on your needs. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise Cancellation | Hi-Res Audio | S21+ offers a more immersive and high-quality audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint | Note 11S features a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor. S21+ has basic fingerprint sensor functionality. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | S21+ offers superior screen protection from scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Includes barometer | Ultrasonic Proximity Virtual | S21+ includes additional environmental sensors, while note 11S uses ultrasonic proximity virtual. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Much faster processor and GPU leading to better gaming and app performance.
- Better Display: Brighter display with smoother 120Hz refresh rate for improved outdoor visibility and a more fluid user experience.
- More Advanced Camera System: Telephoto lens for optical zoom, higher video recording capabilities (up to 8K), and generally better image quality (as indicated by DxOMark).
- Wireless Charging: Offers both wireless and reverse wireless charging capabilities, providing convenience for wireless accessories.
- Enhanced Audio Features: Dolby Atmos and Noise cancellation for higher quality audio playback and clearer calls.
- Premium Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection and an additional environmental sensor like a barometer for altitude tracking.
- Better Software Support: Longer software support and upgrades with the ability to upgrade to Android 15.
- More Advanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, better GPS accuracy, and support for eSIM.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Advantages:
- Lower Weight: More comfortable for extended use.
- Faster Charging: Charges faster with 33W charging, minimizing downtime.
- Larger Battery: Offers slightly better battery life due to larger battery.
- Higher Resolution Primary Camera: 108MP main sensor can capture more detailed photos in good lighting conditions.
- Dedicated Additional Camera Lenses: Features dedicated wide-angle, macro, and depth sensors for extra flexibility.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Provides more advanced and accessible biometric security.
- Lower Cost: Typically available at a lower price point.
Trade-offs:
- The S21+ sacrifices the lower cost and slightly better battery life for significantly higher performance and camera quality.
- The Note 11S offers a more budget-friendly option, but with substantial compromises in performance, display quality, and camera versatility.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize performance and speed for gaming and demanding apps.
- Photography and videography enthusiasts who want a versatile camera system with high-quality results.
- Users who value a premium display experience with high brightness and smooth refresh rate.
- Tech enthusiasts who want the latest connectivity features and wireless charging.
- Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming, video editing, content creation, professional photography.
- Heavy multitasking, extended use outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Users who prefer a premium build quality and longer software updates.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S:
- Ideal Users:
- Budget-conscious users who want a capable phone with a decent camera.
- Users who value longer battery life and faster charging.
- Users who need a lighter phone and dont need to do heavy tasks.
- Users who want a versatile camera with different dedicated lens modes.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday social media, browsing, photography, and casual gaming.
- Users who prefer a good set of features at a more affordable price point.
- Users who use their phone for extended periods without readily accessible charging points.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your budget? The Note 11S is significantly more budget-friendly.
- How important is performance for you? If you prioritize smooth, fast performance, the S21+ is the clear choice.
- How important is the camera experience? If you need optical zoom, higher video quality, and superior low light, the S21+ is the better option. If you are okay with average quality for day to day use then the Note 11S is fine.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Power User): You need a phone for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking. Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G for its superior performance, better display and more versatile camera.
- Scenario 2 (Budget Conscious): You want a reliable phone for everyday use without breaking the bank. Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S for its lower cost, decent performance, and capable camera.
- Scenario 3 (Photography): You want the best camera for everyday use, photos, videos and social media. Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G for better image quality, video quality, and versatility.
- Scenario 4 (Casual User): You primarily use your phone for social media, browsing, and basic tasks. Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S which will handle these tasks and provide additional features.
- Scenario 5 (Value User): You would like the most bang for your buck, focusing on getting the most value for the price you pay. Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S is the better value choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S presents a compelling option for budget-conscious users, the S21+ offers a significant upgrade in overall experience that aligns with my preferences and needs.
Here's why:
- Performance: As a heavy user who does a lot of multitasking, gaming and video editing, the Exynos 2100 chipset is far more desirable, and the higher benchmark score and more powerful GPU would be beneficial to me.
- Display: I highly value a high-quality display, especially when it comes to brightness and fluidity. The brighter display with 120Hz refresh rate on the S21+ offers a much better visual experience, particularly when I'm using my phone outdoors.
- Camera: While the 108MP camera on the Redmi Note 11S sounds good on paper, the S21+ camera is more versatile, with better quality in lower light and the added benefit of an optical telephoto lens and 8K video recording.
- Build and Features: The premium build quality of the S21+, and the additional features like Wireless Charging, Dolby Atmos and longer software support make it a much better option for the long run.
Ultimately, my choice would be based on a desire for better performance and more advanced features, even if it comes at a higher price. The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G, for me, represents the better overall package, and a more seamless user experience.
