Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro vs. Huawei nova 11 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro | Huawei nova 11 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.3 × 74.6 × 8.5 mm, 208g | 164.3 × 74.4 × 7.9 mm, 188g | Huawei is slightly thinner and lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.78" | Negligible size difference; Both offer an immersive experience. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1200x2652 | Xiaomi offers a significantly sharper display with finer details, better for text clarity and detailed images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 429 | Xiaomi has noticeably sharper images and text clarity, important for reading and high-detail content. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar display quality, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, ideal for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 1700 nits | 950 nits | Xiaomi is significantly better for outdoor visibility, easily readable under bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Snapdragon 778G 4G (6 nm) | Xiaomi provides noticeably faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 854,267 | 592,297 | Xiaomi's overall higher performance means snappier response and better handling of intensive tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 642L | Xiaomi has a superior GPU for better graphics in games and graphically demanding applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.95, 1/1.12" Samsung GN2 | 50MP, f/1.9, Unknown Sensor | Huawei has a slightly wider aperture, but Xiaomi’s larger sensor and high-end sensor model result in better overall image quality, especially in low-light conditions. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" Samsung S5K3T2 | 60MP, f/2.4, 1/2.8" Omnivision OV60A | Huawei has a higher resolution and slightly larger sensor for potentially better selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" Omnivision OV13B10 | Not available | Xiaomi offers a dedicated ultra-wide-angle lens, allowing for more versatile photography. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | Not available | 8MP, f/2.2, Unknown Sensor | Huawei includes a wide-angle + macro lens which allows for shooting close up macro shots. |
| Telephoto + Macro | 8MP, 1/4.4" Omnivision OV08A10 | Not available | Xiaomi offers an 8MP telephoto camera for optical zoom, beneficial for capturing distant objects. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps, with HDR and EIS | Up to 720p@960fps, with EIS | Xiaomi offers superior video recording quality, making it a better choice for video enthusiasts and professionals. |
| DxOMark Score | 124 (Mobile), 118 (Photo), 132 (Video) | Not available | Xiaomi's superior camera performance is objectively recognized by third-party benchmarks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | Xiaomi likely has better battery life for extended usage throughout the day. |
| Charging | 67W fast, 67W wireless, 10W reverse wireless | 100W fast, Reverse charging | Huawei charges faster with 100W, while Xiaomi offers wireless charging and reverse wireless charging features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Unknown | The Xiaomi device runs on Android 11 and the Huawei does not have a clear version stated, an OS can be a factor when deciding on a phone. |
| Other | |||
| Storage Options | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB, 256GB or 512GB | Huawei offers a 512GB variant for users who need substantial storage. |
| RAM Options | 8GB or 12GB | 6GB, 8GB, or 12GB | Both offer up to 12GB of RAM to choose from. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers the option of additional expandable storage. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 3 Mics | Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi provides better audio output and capture quality due to Hi-Res support and additional microphones. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Xiaomi has superior screen protection for better resistance to scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Heart Rate, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity | Xiaomi offers a heart rate sensor and Huawei a gravity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 5G chipset offers significantly better processing power than the Snapdragon 778G 4G in the Huawei, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Sharper Display: The higher resolution and pixel density on the Xiaomi screen provide a noticeably sharper and more detailed visual experience.
- Brighter Display: With a peak brightness of 1700 nits, the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro is much more visible in bright outdoor conditions.
- Better Main Camera: The larger sensor and higher-end sensor model results in improved image quality, especially in low-light conditions and generally better dynamic range and detail.
- More Versatile Camera System: The inclusion of a dedicated telephoto lens and ultrawide lens allows for more flexible photography options.
- Higher Video Quality: Offers 8K recording, along with better stabilization, which makes it superior for video enthusiasts and professionals.
- Wireless Charging & Reverse Wireless Charging: Xiaomi includes this, while Huawei only includes fast charging and reverse charging.
- Better Audio: Xiaomi has Hi-Res audio and 3 microphones for an overall better audio experience.
- Better Screen Protection: Xiaomi has Corning Gorilla Glass Victus which has better protection than Huawei’s unknown screen protection.
Huawei nova 11 Pro Advantages:
- Lighter and Thinner: The Huawei is more comfortable for extended use due to its thinner and lighter design.
- Faster Charging: The 100W fast charging is significantly quicker than the Xiaomi's 67W wired charging.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: The 60MP selfie camera could offer more detailed selfies, though image quality is impacted by the sensor size.
- Wide Angle + Macro Lens: The Huawei offers a wide-angle lens with macro, while Xiaomi does not.
- More Storage Option: The Huawei offers 512 GB of storage while Xiaomi only offers 128GB or 256GB.
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi prioritizes performance, display quality, main camera and battery life over faster charging speed, while the Huawei focuses on a better design, faster charging speed and selfie camera.
- Huawei users might find the screen and camera to be lower quality compared to the Xiaomi.
- Xiaomi users will need to use wired charging more often because it’s slower than the Huawei.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Ideal User:
- Power Users: Individuals who require top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Media Consumers: Users who prioritize a high-resolution, bright display for enjoying movies, shows, and other visual content.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera system with excellent image quality and video recording capabilities.
- Professionals: Individuals that take a lot of pictures and videos.
- Users that require long battery life: Users who are always on the go and require a large battery.
Use Cases:
- Gaming: The powerful processor and GPU handle demanding games with ease.
- Content Creation: The 8K video recording and excellent image quality make it suitable for content creators.
- Outdoor Usage: The very bright display ensures visibility in bright sunlight.
- Media Consumption: High resolution screen for reading, movies, and other visual media.
- Day to day usage: The larger battery will help throughout the day.
Huawei nova 11 Pro Ideal User:
- Casual Users: Individuals who prioritize design and convenience over top-tier performance.
- Social Media Enthusiasts: Users who take a lot of selfies and often use their phones for social media platforms.
- Users who require faster charging: Users who often need a fast charge due to their active lifestyle.
- Price-Conscious Buyers: Users seeking a good value proposition with balanced features.
- Users that require lots of storage: The Huawei offers a 512 GB model, while Xiaomi maxes out at 256GB.
Use Cases:
- Social Media: The high-resolution front camera excels at taking detailed selfies and video.
- Everyday Tasks: The phone is more than adequate for browsing, social media, and other typical smartphone tasks.
- Quick Charging: The fast charging capability minimizes downtime.
- Macro Photography: The wide-angle macro lens allows for detailed close up images.
- Users that require lots of storage: The 512GB model is perfect for users that need the extra space.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Requirements: Do you need top-of-the-line processing power for gaming and demanding applications?
- Display Priorities: Do you prioritize a sharper, brighter display for media consumption or outdoor visibility?
- Camera Needs: Do you need a versatile camera system with telephoto lens and high quality image output or a high res selfie camera?
- What is the maximum storage needed? Do you need more than 256GB of storage?
- Battery and Charging: Do you prefer a longer battery life or faster charging speeds?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming & Performance: If you need maximum performance for gaming and demanding apps, choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro due to its superior chipset, GPU, and higher refresh rate screen.
- Scenario 2: Photography Focus: If you need better versatility with a telephoto lens, choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro for its excellent main camera and better zoom and wide-angle options. If you want a better selfie experience, and have no preference for a telephoto lens, choose the Huawei nova 11 Pro.
- Scenario 3: Media Consumption & Outdoor Visibility: If you value a sharp and bright display, especially for outdoor usage, choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro due to the higher resolution, pixel density and brightness.
- Scenario 4: Daily Use & Fast Charging: If you value a lighter, thinner phone and faster charging speed, the Huawei nova 11 Pro is the better option.
- Scenario 5: Storage Needs: If you need more than 256GB of storage, then choose the Huawei nova 11 Pro as it has a 512GB storage model.
My Choice and Why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro.
Here's why:
Performance is Key: As a user who often multitasks, plays games, and uses demanding applications, the superior processing power of the Snapdragon 888 5G chipset is a crucial advantage. The faster app loading, smoother operation, and better gaming performance significantly outweigh any benefit from the Huawei's faster charging speeds.
Display Quality Matters: I highly value a sharp and bright display for all types of content, be it reading, watching movies, or browsing the web. The Xiaomi’s higher resolution and brightness offers a better visual experience, especially outdoors.
Versatile Camera: While the Huawei has a high resolution selfie camera and a wide angle + macro lens, the Xiaomi's main camera, with its larger sensor, telephoto lens, ultrawide lens, along with higher quality 8K video recording capabilities make it a more versatile option for capturing high-quality photos and videos in a wide array of scenarios.
Better Audio: I also value audio quality when listening to music or watching videos, and the Xiaomi's Hi-Res audio and additional microphones provide a better audio experience.
Longer Battery Life: I would prefer a phone with better battery life, and the Xiaomi has a 500mAh larger battery.
While the Huawei nova 11 Pro's faster charging and lighter design are appealing, they do not compensate for the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro’s superior performance, display, main camera, and versatility in overall usage. The Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro is the overall better option for me.
