Sony Xperia 5 III vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date October 8, 2021 February 9, 2022
Release Year 2021 2022

Physical

Volume 87.54 cm³ 95.71 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.63 "/g 3.59 "/g
Weight 168 g 179 g
Height 157 mm 159.9 mm
Width 68 mm 73.9 mm
Thickness 8.2 mm 8.1 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Black
  • Green
  • Pink
  • Pearl White
  • Twilight Blue
  • Graphite Gray

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 6.43 "
Resolution 1080 x 2520 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 21:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 81.4 % 84.5 %
Pixel Density 449 PPI 409 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A 700 nits
HBM Brightness N/A N/A
Peak Brightness N/A 1000 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 120.94 mAh/in² 120.93 mAh/in²
Battery Density 51.4 mAh/cm³ 52.24 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4500 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) Mediatek MT6781 Helio G96 (12 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-X1 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Adreno 660 Mali-G57 MC2

Connectivity

USB Version 3.1 2.0
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.1, OTG, Video Output USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 11
Maximum OS Version 13

Comparison Summary

Sony Xperia 5 III vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S: A User-Centered Perspective

Let's move beyond the numbers and delve into the user experience offered by the Sony Xperia 5 III and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S. Instead of a spec sheet showdown, we'll embark on a narrative journey, exploring how these devices translate technology into tangible user benefits.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeatureSony Xperia 5 IIIXiaomi Redmi Note 11SUser Experience Impact
Interface DesignClean, minimalist Android skinMIUI, feature-rich, customizableXperia offers a purer Android experience; Redmi provides more customization options.
Interaction FlowSmooth, thanks to 120Hz OLED and Snapdragon 88890Hz AMOLED, smooth but less responsiveXperia's superior processor and refresh rate contribute to a noticeably smoother, more fluid experience.
Accessibility FeaturesStandard Android accessibility optionsMIUI specific accessibility featuresBoth offer basic accessibility; MIUI might have specific additions.
Design ErgonomicsCompact, lightweight (168g)Larger, slightly heavier (179g)Xperia is more pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use; Redmi offers a larger screen for media consumption.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Scenario: A Day in the Life:

Imagine a freelance photographer using the Xperia 5 III. The compact design easily slips into their bag, ready for spontaneous shots. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth framing and focus adjustments, capturing fleeting moments with precision. The dedicated camera button provides a tactile, familiar experience, mimicking professional cameras.

Now picture a student using the Redmi Note 11S. The large AMOLED screen immerses them in online lectures and vibrant multimedia content. The long-lasting 5000mAh battery ensures they stay connected throughout the day, eliminating battery anxiety. The customizable MIUI allows them to personalize their phone, reflecting their individual style.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

User Personas:

  • The Power User: The Xperia 5 III's flagship processor and smooth display cater to demanding tasks and gaming.
  • The Casual User: The Redmi Note 11S's long battery life and large screen are perfect for everyday use and media consumption.
  • The Photographer/Videographer: Xperia's dedicated camera button, advanced video capabilities (4K@120fps), and manual controls offer a professional experience.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

Beyond the Specs: While the Xperia 5 III boasts superior hardware, the Redmi Note 11S offers excellent value. The choice hinges on individual priorities. Prioritize performance and a premium, compact design? Choose the Xperia. Need a long-lasting battery, a larger display, and affordability? The Redmi Note 11S is a compelling option.

My Choice: The Sony Xperia 5 III

While the Redmi Note 11S is a fantastic device for its price, I would choose the Sony Xperia 5 III. My decision stems from a deep appreciation for its user-centered design philosophy. The compact form factor, clean Android experience, blazing-fast performance fueled by the Snapdragon 888, and the buttery smooth 120Hz display resonate with my preference for a seamless and intuitive mobile experience. The emphasis on photography, with features like the dedicated shutter button and advanced video capabilities, aligns perfectly with my personal interests. Though pricier, the Xperia 5 III offers a refined, user-focused experience that justifies the investment for me. It feels like a tool crafted with intention, prioritizing user needs over sheer specification boasting. It's a phone designed to enhance, not complicate, my digital life.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.