Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Huawei nova 11: A Practical Showdown
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm | 161.3 × 75 × 6.9 mm | Xperia is more compact, easier for one-handed use; nova 11 is slimmer but wider. |
| Weight | 169g | 168g | Negligible difference—both feel light. |
| Build Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Unknown | Xperia has better drop/shock protection. |
Display
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6" OLED | 6.7" OLED | Nova 11 offers more screen real estate for media. |
| Resolution | 1080x2520 (457 PPI) | 1084x2412 (391 PPI) | Xperia’s sharper display is better for text clarity. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Nova 11’s smoother scrolling benefits gamers & UI fluidity. |
| Brightness | Unknown (likely ~600nits) | 950 nits | Nova 11 is vastly superior in sunlight visibility. |
Performance
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 5G | Snapdragon 778G 4G | Nova 11’s 778G is ~114% faster (per Antutu)—better for multitasking & gaming. |
| RAM Options | 6GB | 6/8/12GB | Nova 11’s 12GB variant future-proofs heavy usage. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128/256/512GB | Nova 11 offers flexibility for media hoarders. |
Camera (Key Differences)
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8) | 50MP (f/1.9) | Nova 11 captures more detail; Xperia’s wider aperture better in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.2) | None | Xperia wins for landscape shots. |
| Telephoto | 8MP (f/2.4) | None | Xperia’s zoom is useful for portraits. |
| Selfie | 8MP (f/2.0) | 60MP (f/2.4) | Nova 11’s ultra-HD selfies are sharper but struggle in dim light. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 720p@960fps (slow-mo) | Xperia for vloggers; nova 11 for dramatic slow-motion clips. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Similar endurance. |
| Charging Speed | 18W | 66W | Nova 11 charges 3.6x faster (0–100% in ~35 mins vs. ~2 hrs). |
| Extras | None | Reverse charging | Nova 11 can power earbuds/smartwatches in a pinch. |
Connectivity & Extras
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable) | EMUI (no Google Services) | Xperia has full app access; nova 11 relies on Huawei’s ecosystem. |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Nova 11 better for crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Slightly faster pairing on nova 11. |
| Security | Side-mounted FP sensor | Basic FP sensor | Xperia’s placement is more intuitive. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 10 III Wins If You…
✅ Prefer a compact, durable phone – Easier one-handed use + Gorilla Glass 6.
✅ Need Google Services – Full Play Store access vs. Huawei’s workarounds.
✅ Shoot ultrawide/telephoto – More versatile camera setup.
Huawei nova 11 Wins If You…
✅ Want flagship-tier performance – Snapdragon 778G demolishes the 690 in speed.
✅ Demand a smoother display – 120Hz makes scrolling/gaming buttery.
✅ Prioritize fast charging – 66W vs. 18W is a game-changer for busy users.
Trade-Offs
- Xperia’s aging chipset struggles with demanding apps/games.
- Nova 11 lacks Google Apps – Dealbreaker for some.
- Xperia’s cameras are more versatile, but nova 11’s 50MP sensor captures finer details.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
For the Practical User
Pick Xperia 10 III if you value:
- Pocket-friendly design.
- Reliable software updates (Android 13).
- Niche features like a headphone jack (if included) and microSD (if applicable).
Pick nova 11 if you prioritize:
- Speed (gaming/multitasking).
- Gorgeous OLED screen (despite lower PPI).
- Blazing charging (66W).
For the Power User
- nova 11 is the clear winner – More RAM, stronger GPU, and future-proof storage options.
For the Photographer
- Xperia for versatility (ultrawide + telephoto).
- nova 11 for selfies & main camera resolution.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I need Google Apps? → If yes, Xperia.
- Is charging speed critical? → nova 11.
- Do I prefer a bigger screen or compact body? → nova 11 vs. Xperia.
Scenario-Based Picks
- Student on a budget → Xperia (long-term software support).
- Mobile gamer → nova 11 (120Hz + Snapdragon 778G).
- Travel photographer → Xperia (better zoom/ultrawide).
Final Verdict: What I’d Choose
Winner: Huawei nova 11 (for most users).
- Why? The smoother 120Hz display, vastly superior chipset, and ultra-fast charging outweigh the lack of Google Services for anyone who can adapt to Huawei’s ecosystem. The Xperia’s compact size and camera versatility are appealing, but its sluggish performance and slower charging feel outdated in 2024.
However, if Google apps are non-negotiable, the Xperia 10 III remains a solid, if aging, choice.
