Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro vs. Nokia G21
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro | Nokia G21 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-04-02 | 2022-02-15 | Nokia G21 is newer, potentially longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 164.3 × 74.6 × 8.5 mm | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | Similar size, Nokia G21 slightly wider. |
| Weight | 208g | 190g | Nokia G21 is lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.5" | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers a more immersive viewing experience with larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 720x1600 | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has a significantly sharper, clearer display. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 270 | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has noticeably crisper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro provides deeper blacks, higher contrast, more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1700 nits | 0 nits (Unspecified) | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro provides much better visibility in bright sunlight. Nokia G21 brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has significantly faster performance, better for gaming and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 854,267 | 253,300 | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro provides significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking and better overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has much better graphics performance for demanding games. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5050mAh | Similar battery size, suggesting comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 67W fast charging | 18W fast charging | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging, 67W wireless charging, 10W reverse wireless charging | In box charger 10W | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has more versatile charging options, Nokia G21 only includes basic charger. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.95, 1/1.12" sensor (Samsung GN2), 1.40 µm pixel size | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor (Samsung S5KJN1), 0.64 µm pixel size | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has a larger sensor, allowing for better low-light performance. Nokia G21 has a wider aperture. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" sensor (Samsung S5K3T2), 0.80 µm pixel size | 8MP, f/2.0, Unknown sensor, Unknown pixel size | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers higher resolution front-facing photos and videos. Nokia G21 has wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" sensor (Omnivision OV13B10), 1.12 µm pixel size | Not Available | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro can capture wide angle shots for broader perspectives. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4, Unknown sensor, Unknown pixel size | Nokia G21 has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4, Unknown sensor, Unknown pixel size | Nokia G21 can capture detailed close-up shots with a macro lens. |
| Telephoto + macro | 8MP, 1/4.4" sensor (Omnivision OV08A10), 1.00 µm pixel size | Not Available | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro can take zoomed photos and detailed macro shots. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, HDR, EIS | 1080p@30fps | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers professional quality video capabilities. |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K Video, OIS, Optical zoom, Laser AF, PDAF, RAW | Digital zoom, Autofocus, HDR, Front flash | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers a more comprehensive range of photography tools. |
| DxOMark Score | 124 (Mobile), 118 (Photo), 132 (Video) | Not Available | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro is confirmed to have good photo/video performance according to DxOMark. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 (Upgrade to 13) | Nokia G21 is expected to receive more software updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | 802.11a/b/g/n | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro supports faster Wi-Fi 6 standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE, aptX, LDAC, AAC | 5.0 LE | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro supports advanced audio codecs for better quality. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro supports more satellite systems for superior location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM, Dual Standby | Dual Nano SIM, Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 64 GB or 128 GB | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers more internal storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 4 GB or 6 GB | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | 2 microphones | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro provides superior audio quality and capture. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Nokia G21 offers more convenient fingerprint sensor placement. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers a superior level of screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Heart Rate, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro has a more comprehensive suite of sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Display: Larger, higher resolution AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, much brighter for outdoor use.
- Significantly Better Performance: High-end Snapdragon 888 chipset for smooth multitasking, gaming and overall faster performance.
- Advanced Camera System: Larger sensor, telephoto, and wide-angle lenses for versatile photography, 8K video recording.
- Faster Charging: 67W wired and wireless charging, with reverse charging capabilities.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 with better audio codecs and more GPS satellite support for location accuracy.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio, stereo speakers, and 3 microphones for an immersive experience.
- Superior Build: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for better screen protection.
- More Sensors: Including Compass, Gyroscope, Heart Rate.
Practical Implications: The Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro offers a premium user experience with a flagship display, superior performance, and versatile camera features. It's ideal for power users, gamers, and photography enthusiasts.
Nokia G21 Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: Easier to handle for long periods.
- More Software Updates: Likely to receive longer software support and version upgrades.
- Dedicated Depth & Macro Cameras: Offers more creative photography options.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Potentially more convenient for unlocking the phone.
Practical Implications: The Nokia G21 is a budget-friendly option offering a more simple experience with a focus on practicality. It's ideal for users who prioritize a reliable and long-lasting phone with sufficient performance for daily tasks.
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro: Higher price, heavier.
- Nokia G21: Lower performance, basic camera, screen quality, slower charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Ideal User:
- Power Users: People who need top-tier performance for multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who desire a versatile camera system with professional features.
- Media Consumers: Individuals who enjoy high-quality media playback on a vibrant and sharp display.
- Tech-Savvy Users: Those who want the latest tech features, and advanced connectivity.
Use Cases:
- Playing graphics-intensive games.
- Creating and editing high-resolution photos and videos.
- Consuming media on a bright and vibrant display.
- Quickly charging the device with its fast charging capabilities.
Nokia G21 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who need a reliable phone at an affordable price.
- Casual Users: Individuals who primarily use their phone for basic tasks and communication.
- Users Seeking Longevity: Those who prefer a device with longer software support.
- Users who need long-lasting battery: Users that prioritize battery over high-end performance.
Use Cases:
- Basic web browsing and social media.
- Simple photo and video capture.
- Day to day communication.
- Users who need a long-lasting battery for multi-day use.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro is likely more expensive.
- What are my primary use cases? Gaming and photography vs. basic tasks and battery life.
- How important are display quality, camera features, and performance to me? Prioritizing premium features vs. basic functionality.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High Performance & Photography Priority: If you need the best performance, camera versatility, and a superior display, and you are willing to pay for it, then the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro is the best option.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious & Everyday Use: If you need a reliable phone for daily tasks with long battery life and a more budget-friendly cost, then the Nokia G21 is a solid choice.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Experience: If you are looking for a middle ground then neither of the phones might suit your needs, since both of them cater to very different use cases.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro. While the Nokia G21 is a respectable budget option, the Mi 11 Pro's superior display, significantly better performance, advanced camera system, and faster charging would make a noticeable difference in my daily usage. As someone who uses my smartphone for intensive tasks like content creation and gaming, the performance of the Snapdragon 888 and the versatile camera system of Mi 11 Pro would be essential. The screen quality is also a massive upgrade.
