Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro vs. Google Pixel 8
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro | Google Pixel 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 74.6 x 8.5 mm | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm | Mi 11 Pro is larger, may be less comfortable in smaller hands. Pixel 8 is more compact, easier to handle. |
| Weight | 208g | 187g | Pixel 8 is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.2" | Mi 11 Pro's larger display is better for media consumption, gaming. Pixel 8 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2400 | Mi 11 Pro's higher resolution offers sharper visuals, more detail. |
| Pixel Density | 515 ppi | 428 ppi | Mi 11 Pro has a sharper, more detailed display |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1700 nits | 2000 nits | Pixel 8 is significantly brighter, offering better outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8 offers more modern AI capabilities, but both offer good overall performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 854,267 | 876,512 | Similar performance for most daily tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Both offer good gaming performance with different architectures |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 50MP | Similar resolution, but the sensors and processing differ. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.95 | f/1.69 | Pixel 8 has a wider aperture, better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.12" | 1/1.31" | Mi 11 Pro has a larger sensor for better light capture. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 20MP | 10.8MP | Mi 11 Pro offers a higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.3 | f/2.2 | Pixel 8 offers slightly wider aperture for better low light. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.4" | 1/2.65" | Pixel 8 has a larger sensor for better low light performance |
| Wide Angle Camera | 13MP | 12MP (Macro) | Mi 11 Pro has a dedicated wide-angle lens, Pixel 8 has wide angle with macro. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP | None | Mi 11 Pro has dedicated telephoto lens. |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps | Mi 11 Pro supports higher resolution for video recording |
| DxOMark Score | 124 | 148 | Pixel 8 has a significantly better camera performance according to DxOMark. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4575mAh | Mi 11 Pro has slightly larger battery for potentially longer use. |
| Charging | 67W Wired, 67W Wireless | 27W Wired | Mi 11 Pro offers much faster wired and wireless charging. |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (67W) | No | Mi 11 Pro offers much faster wireless charging |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Pixel 8 has the newer OS with longer support. |
| Max OS Version | Not specified | Android 21 | Pixel 8 will receive more updates and has better longevity |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7 | Pixel 8 has the newer WiFi standard for faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Pixel 8 has a more modern Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | More systems, Dual band | Fewer systems, Single band | Mi 11 Pro has more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 8 supports eSIM for easier carrier switching. Mi 11 Pro supports two physical SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 8GB | Mi 11 Pro has option for more RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation microphone | Mi 11 Pro offers Hi-Res Audio, Google Pixel 8 offers noise cancellation |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint biometric security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both offer the same protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Heart Rate, Compass | Barometer, Thermometer, Magnetometer | Different sensor sets for different functions |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Advantages:
- Larger, Sharper Display: The 6.81" display with 1440x3200 resolution provides an immersive and detailed visual experience, great for media consumption and gaming.
- Faster Charging: 67W wired and 67W wireless charging is significantly faster, allowing for quick top-ups.
- More Versatile Camera System: Dedicated telephoto lens and more physical camera sensors provide more diverse photography options.
- Potentially More RAM: 12GB of RAM available for smoother multitasking and demanding applications.
- More Precise GPS: Supports more satellite systems for better accuracy.
- Hi-Res Audio: Better quality audio output
- Dual Physical SIMs: Ability to use two physical SIM cards simultaneously
Google Pixel 8 Advantages:
- More Compact & Lighter: Easier to handle and carry, more pocketable.
- Brighter Display: Significantly better outdoor visibility due to higher peak brightness.
- Superior Camera Performance: Significantly higher DxOMark score indicates better photo and video quality.
- Newer Software: Android 14 out of the box with longer OS updates, providing a more modern user experience.
- Newer Connectivity: WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 offer faster and more efficient connections.
- eSIM Support: Facilitates easier digital carrier switching for international travel.
- Noise Cancellation Microphone: For clearer calls in noisy environments
- Environmental Sensors: Includes barometer and thermometer for advanced environmental data
Significant Trade-offs:
- Mi 11 Pro: The larger size and weight may not be comfortable for all users. The camera performance isn't as good as the Pixel 8 despite the more sensors. It will also have a shorter software lifespan as it is running older software.
- Pixel 8: The smaller display and slower charging may be a disadvantage for users who prefer larger screens or need quick battery top-ups. The limited ram might be an issue for heavy multi-taskers
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro:
- Media Enthusiasts: Users who consume a lot of video content or play games, appreciating the larger, sharper display.
- Power Users: Those who want fast charging and potentially higher RAM for demanding tasks.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prefer more camera lens options, even if the overall quality is slightly below Google Pixel 8.
- International travelers: Benefit from Dual physical SIM cards for easy switching.
Ideal User for Google Pixel 8:
- Everyday Users: Those who prioritize a compact, easy-to-handle phone with a great camera for everyday photography.
- Software Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest Android features and long-term software support.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a bright display for visibility in direct sunlight.
- Travelers: Benefit from eSIM support for switching carriers abroad.
Specific Use Cases:
- Mi 11 Pro: Watching movies, playing graphic-intensive games, extended gaming sessions, complex photography scenarios requiring specific lenses, long journeys with the benefit of fast charging and good gps.
- Pixel 8: Taking quick snapshots, outdoor photography, staying up-to-date with the latest Android features, international travel, commuting with ease thanks to the lightweight design, making calls in noisy areas with noise cancellation microphone
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Screen Size & Portability: Do you prefer a larger screen for media consumption or a more compact, pocketable device?
- Camera Quality vs. Versatility: Do you prioritize image quality or the flexibility of multiple lenses?
- Software Updates and Connectivity: Do you prefer a phone with a longer software lifespan or better connectivity standards?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Multimedia Consumption & Gaming Focus: If your primary use is watching videos and gaming, the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro's larger, sharper display and faster charging are better suited for your needs, even if the overall camera quality is a step below the Pixel 8.
- Scenario 2: Daily Photography & Portability Focus: If you prioritize a great camera experience for everyday use and appreciate a compact device that's easy to handle, the Google Pixel 8 is a better choice, particularly with its better image quality and updated software.
- Scenario 3: Software Updates and Connectivity: If you prioritize software updates, security and longer software support with faster wifi and bluetooth, the Google Pixel 8 is a better choice.
- Scenario 4: Frequent International Travel: If you travel frequently and need easy access to international calling and data services, the Google Pixel 8's eSIM support might be a compelling factor.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Google Pixel 8.
While the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers some compelling advantages like faster charging, a larger display and a telephoto camera lens, the Pixel 8's strengths align more closely with my priorities. The better camera performance, superior display brightness, more modern software with longer support, newer connectivity standards (WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3), and a compact design are the key factors for my choice. The Pixel 8 offers a better overall daily experience with consistent performance, a better camera for everyday photography, and the assurance of longer software support which is important for long term usability. While the Mi 11 Pro's larger screen and faster charging are appealing, the overall improvements and modern features of the Pixel 8 are more compelling in my opinion.
