Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 74.6 x 8.5 mm | 163 x 76 x 8 mm | Mi 11 Pro is slightly taller and thicker, Note 12 Pro is slightly wider. Mi 11 Pro has a larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 208g | 187g | Note 12 Pro is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.67" | Mi 11 Pro offers a slightly larger viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | Mi 11 Pro has a much sharper display, resulting in crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 515 | 395 | Mi 11 Pro's higher pixel density delivers a visibly clearer display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks; similar viewing experience in terms of panel technology. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1700 nits | 900 nits | Mi 11 Pro is significantly more visible in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | Mi 11 Pro offers significantly faster processing, app loading, and smoother performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 854,267 | 573,200 | Mi 11 Pro has a much higher benchmark score indicating better overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Mi 11 Pro's GPU provides a superior gaming and graphics experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.95, 1/1.12" sensor, 1.4µm pixels | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" sensor, 1.0µm pixels | Mi 11 Pro has a significantly larger sensor for better low-light performance, Note 12 Pro has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Front Camera | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" sensor, 0.8µm pixels | 16MP | Mi 11 Pro has higher resolution for detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" sensor, 1.12µm pixels | 8MP, f/1.9 | Mi 11 Pro offers higher resolution. Note 12 Pro has wider aperture. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" sensor, 1.75µm pixels | Note 12 Pro has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP, 1/4.4" sensor, 1.0µm pixels | None | Mi 11 Pro has telephoto capabilities for zoomed photos. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Mi 11 Pro records in higher resolution, ideal for professional videography. |
| DxOMark Score | Main: 124, Photo: 118, Video: 132 | Main: 102, Photo: 108, Video: 98 | Mi 11 Pro has significantly better overall camera performance, especially in video. |
| Camera Features | 8K, OIS, Laser AF, Optical zoom, more | OIS, Night Mode, Exposure Compensation | Mi 11 Pro has additional features for advanced photography and videography. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life should be expected. |
| Charging | 67W wired | 67W wired | Both offer fast charging. |
| Features | 67W wireless, 10W reverse wireless charging | None | Mi 11 Pro has wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | Note 12 Pro has a newer Android version out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, LE, AptX, LDAC, AAC | 5.2, LE, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Mi 11 Pro supports AptX for better audio quality. |
| GPS | More comprehensive | Standard | Mi 11 Pro has more comprehensive GPS support for increased accuracy in location services. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both offer similar storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 6/8/12GB | Mi 11 Pro options good for multitasking and demanding apps. Note 12 pro offers more RAM options. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 3 Microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Mi 11 Pro has better audio recording and higher quality playback. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Note 12 Pro offers a side-mounted sensor, generally considered more convenient than an in-display sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Mi 11 Pro has better screen protection from scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Heart Rate, Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Mi 11 Pro has an added heart rate sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and brightness for better clarity and outdoor visibility.
- Flagship Performance: Significantly faster processing and gaming due to the Snapdragon 888 chipset.
- Advanced Camera System: Larger sensor, better video recording capabilities, telephoto lens, and higher DxOMark score for overall better photo and video quality.
- Enhanced Battery Features: Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for more convenience.
- Premium Audio: Hi-Res audio for better audio playback and 3 microphones for better audio capture.
- Stronger Build: Gorilla Glass Victus for better screen protection.
- More Comprehensive GPS: More accurate location tracking, beneficial in outdoor usage.
- Heart Rate Sensor: Offers additional health tracking capabilities.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro Advantages:
- Lighter and Slightly More Compact: More comfortable for extended use and portability.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots.
- Newer Android Version: Newer operating system out of the box.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Generally considered more convenient than in-display sensors.
- More RAM Options: Offers more variation in terms of memory.
- Wider Aperture on some Camera Lenses: Better low light performance.
- Exposure Compensation and Night Mode: Additional features for low light shots and better photography.
- SBC Bluetooth Codec: An additional Bluetooth audio codec for more compatibility with Bluetooth devices.
Trade-offs:
- The Mi 11 Pro is significantly more expensive than the Redmi Note 12 Pro.
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro sacrifices performance for a more budget-friendly price.
- Mi 11 Pro is slightly heavier and bulkier than the Redmi Note 12 Pro.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro has a lower resolution display and lower brightness than the Mi 11 Pro.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro lacks telephoto lens and wireless charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Those who require top-tier performance for demanding apps and gaming.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want the best possible photo and video quality, especially in low light.
- Media Consumers: People who prioritize a high-resolution display and good audio quality for media consumption.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate cutting-edge features like wireless charging and advanced camera capabilities.
- Travelers: Those who use their GPS often for directions and need more precise location data.
Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming with demanding graphics and smooth performance.
- Professional-quality video recording in various lighting conditions.
- Enjoying HDR movies and shows with exceptional clarity and detail.
- Power-user workflows, such as video editing, 3D rendering, etc.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for a good balance of features and performance at a more affordable price.
- Casual Photographers: Those who need a capable camera for everyday use but don't require professional-level features.
- Everyday Users: People who need a reliable and comfortable smartphone for general use, including social media, web browsing, and media consumption.
- Users who need convenient security Those who prefer side-mounted fingerprint sensors for ease of access.
Use Cases:
- Daily tasks such as web browsing, email, and social media.
- Casual photography and videography for sharing on social media.
- Watching videos and listening to music on the go.
- General app usage and light gaming.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Mi 11 Pro: Higher price, but offers top-tier performance, camera quality, and display. It is a better value for users who need these premium features.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro: Better value for those who want a competent device without the premium price. It's a solid choice for most general use cases.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Mi 11 Pro is significantly more expensive. If budget is a primary concern, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is the better choice.
- What do you prioritize most? If top-tier performance, display quality, and camera capabilities are most important, the Mi 11 Pro is the clear winner. If general performance, a good camera, a lighter device, and macro lens will suffice, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is sufficient.
- What are your typical use cases? If you are a power user, a photography enthusiast, or a mobile gamer, the Mi 11 Pro excels. If you mostly use your phone for everyday tasks and casual use, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is more than adequate.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Heavy Gaming, Professional Photography): If you need the best performance for demanding games and require high-quality photos/videos, choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro.
- Scenario 2 (Everyday Use, Budget-Conscious): If you want a phone for general use with good performance at a more reasonable price, choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro.
- Scenario 3 (Balanced Use, Photography, More Convenient Security): If you want a balance of good performance, solid camera quality, with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and macro lens, choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would opt for the Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro. My primary use cases involve photography, video editing, and mobile gaming. The Mi 11 Pro's superior performance, notably better camera system (especially the telephoto lens and video capabilities), and higher resolution/brighter display make it a significantly better fit for my needs. Additionally, I appreciate the extra features like wireless charging and the more accurate GPS for my travels. While the Redmi Note 12 Pro is a capable phone, it does not offer the same level of performance, especially in the camera and display department, which are crucial for my usage patterns. I'm willing to spend the extra for a better experience in these areas.
