Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12 Pro and the Redmi Note 11S. I'll break down the specs, highlight the key differences, and then offer some guidance on which phone might be right for you.
Xiaomi 12 Pro vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S: A Detailed Comparison
Here’s a breakdown of the specifications, focusing on what they mean for real-world usage:
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 163.6 x 74.6 x 8.2 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | Xiaomi 12 Pro is slightly larger and taller, might feel less pocketable than the more compact Note 11S. |
| Weight | 204g | 179g | Note 11S is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use, especially one-handed. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-folding smartphones. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.73" | 6.43" | 12 Pro has a larger screen, offering more immersive viewing for media and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2400 | 12 Pro's higher resolution results in sharper images and text, significantly better detail. |
| PPI | 521 | 409 | Higher pixel density on the 12 Pro translates to crisper, more vibrant visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED, delivering rich colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | 12 Pro’s 120Hz refresh rate offers smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the user experience. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1000 nits | 12 Pro is significantly brighter, providing better visibility in direct sunlight, a must for outdoor users. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Helio G96 (12nm) | 12 Pro’s flagship processor delivers far superior speed for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking. The Note 11S is okay for everyday use but will struggle with intense workloads. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,177,498 | 302,877 | 12 Pro has over three times the benchmark performance, indicating a massive speed difference for everyday tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G57 MC2 | 12 Pro’s GPU is significantly more powerful, providing a better gaming experience with higher frame rates and better graphics. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear (Main) | 50MP (f/1.9, 1/1.28") | 108MP (f/1.9, 1/1.52") | Note 11S has higher resolution but 12 Pro has bigger sensor, likely better low-light performance. The Redmi Note 11S has more megapixels, which can be useful in good lighting conditions. |
| Front (Selfie) | 32MP (1/3.14") | 16MP (f/2.4, 1/3.13") | 12 Pro has higher resolution, capturing more detailed selfies, however note 11s has larger pixel size. |
| Wide Angle | 50MP (f/2.2, 1/2.76") | 8MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8") | 12 Pro has a much higher resolution wide-angle lens, resulting in much more detailed and sharper images. |
| Portrait/Depth | 50MP (f/1.9, 1/2.76") | 2MP (f/2.4, 1/5") | 12 Pro has much better depth camera, allowing for significantly better portrait mode pictures. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP (f/2.4, 1/5") | Note 11S has a dedicated macro lens, while the 12 Pro lacks one, which is a disadvantage for macro photography. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | 12 Pro can record higher resolution video and supports more advanced features such as HDR and slow-motion recording. The note 11s will be limited in quality. |
| Features (Camera) | 8K video, OIS, etc. | Quad camera, HDR, etc. | 12 Pro has more advanced features such as OIS, RAW capture, and a more advanced focus system, offering greater flexibility and control, however the 11s has the Quad camera. |
| DxoMark | 129 (Mobile) | N/A | 12 Pro’s camera has been professionally tested, and it's a high performer. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4600 mAh | 5000 mAh | Note 11S has a slightly bigger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 120W Wired, 50W Wireless | 33W Wired | 12 Pro has significantly faster charging, replenishing battery in minutes, wirelessly and wired. |
| Features | Reverse, P1 chip | Reverse | 12 Pro’s advanced charging capabilities, including 50W wireless charging, provide more convenience. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 11 | 12 Pro has a newer OS with the latest features, more recent security patches and improved functionalities. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi ac | 12 Pro has faster Wi-Fi speeds, supporting Wi-Fi 6. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 | 12 Pro has a newer version, with additional features for audio. |
| GPS | Advanced | Basic | 12 Pro supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 64/128 GB | 12 Pro has larger storage options, better for storing more data. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 6/8 GB | 12 Pro offers more RAM, leading to better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage, which might be limiting for users with large media libraries. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 Mics | Hi-Res Audio | 12 Pro offers enhanced spatial audio, higher quality audio playback, better audio separation, immersion, and improved voice capture. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Note 11S has a more advanced, convenient side-mounted sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | 12 Pro’s screen is significantly more durable, providing greater protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Barometer, RGB | None | 12 Pro has more sensors offering a more comprehensive sensor suite suitable for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12 Pro:
- Strengths: The 12 Pro is a performance powerhouse with a top-tier chipset, stunning display, and excellent cameras. The fast charging, both wired and wireless, is incredibly convenient. It has a better screen, more ram and storage, as well as a more advanced sensor suite.
- Competitive Advantages: Best-in-class performance, higher resolution display, significantly faster charging, and more advanced camera features.
- Trade-offs: Heavier, larger, and doesn’t have a macro lens or a headphone jack. It also has a smaller battery than the Note 11S.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S:
- Strengths: The Note 11S offers good value with a decent AMOLED display, long battery life, and a lightweight design. It has a macro lens and a headphone jack.
- Competitive Advantages: Lighter and more affordable, with potentially longer battery life. It also offers good mid-range features at a more accessible price point.
- Trade-offs: The performance is significantly less powerful, and cameras and display are not as high-quality.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12 Pro Users:
- Power Users: Gamers, content creators, or anyone who needs a phone that can handle heavy workloads and demands.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who value cutting-edge tech, top-tier performance, and best-in-class features.
- Visual Experience Lovers: Users who appreciate the vibrant display and advanced camera system.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for good value with a good feature set but don’t need top-tier performance.
- Everyday Users: Individuals who prioritize battery life, a lighter phone, and casual usage such as browsing, social media, and basic photography.
- Audio Jack Lovers: Users who prefer a headphone jack.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is performance? If you need the best performance for gaming or resource-heavy apps, the 12 Pro is the clear winner. If you only do light tasks, the Note 11S will be fine.
- What's your budget? The Note 11S is a much more affordable option. If you're on a tight budget, the 12 Pro might be overkill.
- How crucial are screen and camera quality? If you value a superior display and better camera features, especially in low light, the 12 Pro is the better choice. If you take casual photos, the Note 11S would do the job.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Power User
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12 Pro. The speed and display is crucial for work and play.
- Scenario 2: The Budget-Conscious Casual User
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S. It meets the basic needs and saves a lot of money.
- Scenario 3: The Photographer
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12 Pro. It's cameras are higher quality, giving you the best photos and videos.
- Scenario 4: The On-The-Go Media Consumer
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12 Pro. Its better screen will offer a better experience and the fast charging will have you ready in minutes.
What Would I Choose?
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi 12 Pro. While the Redmi Note 11S has its merits, particularly its more affordable price and slightly larger battery, my priorities would be the superior performance, higher-quality display, and significantly better camera system that the 12 Pro provides.
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I constantly test and use many of the latest devices. Having the ability to seamlessly edit videos, play demanding games, or experience high-resolution content on the go is important. The Xiaomi 12 Pro would align better with those needs. Plus, the significantly faster charging is a huge quality-of-life improvement.
While the price difference is notable, the enhanced user experience offered by the 12 Pro—from smoother multitasking to brighter visuals and a pro-grade camera—would justify the investment for my particular needs and usage patterns. Ultimately, for me, the 12 Pro is more than just a phone; it's a mobile workstation that fits my workflow.
