1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 74.6 x 8.5 mm | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1 mm | Xiaomi is taller but narrower, Samsung is wider and thicker, influencing one-handed use. |
| Weight | 208g | 222g | Xiaomi is lighter, potentially more comfortable for long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.6" | Xiaomi offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 | 1080 x 2340 | Xiaomi has a significantly sharper display with finer details, resulting in a crisper visual experience. |
| Pixel Density | 515 PPI | 390 PPI | Xiaomi's higher pixel density means text and images look clearer and less pixelated. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks common with AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations for a fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1700 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi's significantly brighter display greatly improves visibility under direct sunlight. Samsung Galaxy M35 brightness is not specified, making it a possible weakness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Snapdragon 888 offers significantly higher performance for demanding tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 854,267 | 578,500 | Xiaomi's higher score indicates faster app loading, smoother multitasking and better gaming performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G68 MP5 | Adreno 660 generally provides higher graphics performance, especially for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 50MP | Both offer high resolution, but sensor differences impact image quality. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.95 | f/1.8 | Samsung's wider aperture may slightly improve low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.12" | 1/2" | Xiaomi's larger sensor is expected to capture more light and detail, resulting in better image quality, especially in low-light situations. |
| Main Camera Sensor Model | Samsung GN2 | Sony LYT-600 | Different sensors, impacting overall image characteristics |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 1.40 µm | 1.00 µm | Xiaomi's larger pixel size can capture more light, potentially resulting in better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 20MP | 13MP | Xiaomi's front camera has higher resolution for sharper selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.3 | f/2.2 | Samsung's slightly wider aperture may provide slightly better low-light selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.12 µm | Samsung has larger pixel size for better low-light selfies |
| Wide Angle Resolution | 13MP | 8MP | Xiaomi's wide-angle camera captures more detailed wide shots. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP | Samsung offers a dedicated macro camera for close-up photography. |
| Telephoto + Macro Lens | 8MP | None | Xiaomi offers a telephoto lens for optical zoom and better close-up shots |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | Xiaomi offers higher resolution video capabilities for more professional video recording. |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | 124 | Not Tested | Xiaomi is expected to have better overall camera performance based on DXOMark scores and features. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | Samsung has a larger battery, which may translate to significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges much faster, quickly replenishing battery power. |
| Wireless Charging | 67W | None | Xiaomi supports very fast wireless charging, providing convenience and flexibility. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Samsung has a newer operating system, which provides more modern features and may have longer software update support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards for fast and reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Samsung offers slightly newer Bluetooth version which can provide better connectivity and power management |
| GPS | Extensive | Standard | Xiaomi supports more satellite systems for potentially more accurate location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both offer the same internal storage capacities. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 6/8GB | Xiaomi's higher RAM capacity can improve multitasking and app performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio | Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos | Both offer high-quality audio; Samsung has Dolby Atmos support for enhanced sound. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Samsung's side-mounted sensor is generally more convenient than a basic sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, and significantly higher brightness makes the display much better for viewing in all conditions.
- Significantly More Powerful Performance: Snapdragon 888 chipset leads to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming experiences.
- Advanced Camera System: Larger main sensor, telephoto lens, and 8K video recording offer greater versatility and higher quality photos and videos, especially in low light.
- Much Faster Charging: 67W wired and wireless charging dramatically reduces charging times.
- Higher RAM options: Up to 12GB of RAM for heavy multitasking.
- More accurate GPS: More advanced GPS system provides more precise location information.
Samsung Galaxy M35 Advantages:
- Significantly Larger Battery: 6000mAh battery should provide longer battery life, which is useful for users who are away from power sources for extended periods.
- Newer Operating System: Ships with Android 14, offering the latest features and potentially longer software support.
- Macro Camera: Dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots.
- Newer Bluetooth version: Bluetooth 5.3 offers potential improvements in battery management.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Generally considered more convenient than a basic fingerprint sensor.
- Dolby Atmos Support: Enhanced sound output for a more immersive audio experience.
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi: Older OS (Android 11) and slightly heavier.
- Samsung: Lower overall performance, less advanced camera system, significantly slower charging speeds, smaller display, and lower screen resolution.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value high-quality photos and videos and need advanced features.
- Media Consumers: People who enjoy watching videos and want the best display quality possible.
- Users needing fast charging: Those who need a quick battery refill on the go.
- Users needing accurate location tracking: Those who rely heavily on GPS for navigation or mapping.
Use Cases for Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro:
- Gaming: Runs graphically intense games smoothly with high frame rates.
- Content Creation: 8K video recording and advanced camera features are great for content creators.
- Outdoor Use: High brightness display is optimal for use in direct sunlight.
- Mobile Productivity: Handles demanding apps and multitasking with ease.
- Long distance Navigation: More precise GPS is useful for travel and exploration
Samsung Galaxy M35 Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who want good features and battery life at a mid-range price.
- Everyday Users: Those who prioritize battery life and need a reliable phone for daily use.
- Users seeking the newest software: Those who value latest OS version and software updates.
- Casual photographers: Those who occasionally take photos for social media, benefit from the macro lens
- Users who use Bluetooth peripherals frequently: Newer Bluetooth version may help with power management
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Daily communication and social media: Good enough performance for most daily tasks.
- Extended travel: Long battery life is ideal for long journeys without frequent charging.
- Casual photography: Macro lens is good for close-up photography.
- General media consumption: AMOLED screen and Dolby Atmos make it decent for viewing content.
- Users valuing more convenient biometric unlock: Side mounted fingerprint is often more convenient to use.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, battery life, etc.)
- What is your budget? (The price difference between these two could be substantial).
- Which features are most important to you? (Performance, camera quality, battery life, display etc.)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance is Paramount
- Recommendation: Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro. Its superior processor and more RAM will provide a smoother and faster experience, especially for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.
- Scenario 2: Battery Life is Key
- Recommendation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy M35. Its much larger battery is designed for users who need a phone that can easily last a full day without recharging.
- Scenario 3: High-Quality Display and Camera are Important
- Recommendation: Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro. The superior display quality and the more versatile, high-performing camera system offers better image and video quality.
- Scenario 4: Balanced Performance and Latest Software are Key
- Recommendation: Choose the Samsung Galaxy M35. While it lacks the raw processing power, it has good everyday performance and newer software with the latest features and security updates.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro. While the Samsung Galaxy M35 has a larger battery and newer Android version, the Mi 11 Pro excels in areas that are crucial to me: performance, display quality, and camera capabilities. As someone who uses their phone for demanding tasks, gaming, and photography, the Mi 11 Pro's Snapdragon 888 chipset, higher resolution and brighter display, and advanced camera system provide a superior experience that outweighs the benefits of the M35's battery and OS. The much faster charging is also a significant plus for my usage patterns. The trade-off in battery life is acceptable as I usually have access to power outlets, and I prefer a faster and more versatile smartphone.
