Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 vs. Apple iPhone 16 Plus
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164.3 × 74.6 × 8.1 mm | 160.9 × 77.8 × 7.8 mm | Xiaomi is taller, iPhone is wider, both are very similar in size. Xiaomi may feel slightly less wide in hand while the iPhone might feel more compact. The difference in thickness is marginal. |
| Weight | 196g | 199g | Both phones feel similar in weight. This should not be a significant factor for user experience |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.81" | 6.7" | Xiaomi has a slightly larger screen, offering a tiny bit more space for content consumption, gaming, or multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1290x2796 | Xiaomi has significantly sharper image and text quality because of the higher resolution. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 515 | 460 | Xiaomi has visibly sharper display due to much higher pixel density |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both technologies offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, so the difference is marginal. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | Xiaomi provides smoother scrolling and animations which enhances the fluidity of UI and gameplay, while the iPhone will have less smooth animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 2000 nits | iPhone is much better for outdoor use in bright sunlight, making it easier to see the screen. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Apple A18 (3 nm) | Apple's chipset is much newer and has a superior architecture, providing better raw performance, power efficiency and future proofing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 806,139 | 1,753,018 | iPhone will provide significantly smoother and faster performance in all tasks, such as app loading, multitasking and gaming, due to higher processing power |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Apple 5-core GPU | Apple's GPU offers superior graphics processing capabilities, especially for graphically intensive games and applications. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4600 mAh | 4674 mAh | Both phones offer very similar battery capacity which translates to comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 55W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Xiaomi charges much faster, allowing for quick top-ups when you are in a hurry. |
| Features | 50W wireless charging, 10W reverse-wireless, Li-Polymer, 2*2250mAh | 25W Wireless Charging, Li-Ion, Non-removable | Xiaomi has more versatile charging options including much faster wireless charging as well as the ability to charge other devices wirelessly. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 48MP | Xiaomi can capture more detail, but the real-world difference is not always apparent due to the difference in pixel binning and sensor size. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.85 | f/1.6 | iPhone's wider aperture allows it to capture better images in low light conditions. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.33" | 1/1.3" | iPhone sensor is slightly larger, which contributes to better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 20MP | 12MP | Xiaomi has higher resolution selfie camera, but the difference may not be noticeable in practice. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.3 | f/1.9 | iPhone’s wider aperture allows more light, resulting in better quality selfies in low light conditions |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP | N/A | Xiaomi offers an additional ultrawide camera, allowing for wider field of view. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | N/A | Xiaomi offers an additional macro camera which allows for taking close up images |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | N/A | 12MP | iPhone includes a combined ultrawide and macro lens for versatile photography. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Xiaomi can record videos in higher 8k resolution, but iPhone video quality is excellent and includes Dolby Vision HDR and stereo sound |
| Slow Motion | 480 fps | 240 fps | Xiaomi can capture super slow motion at higher frame rate. |
| DXOMark Selfie Scores | Photo: 100, Video: 133, Overall: 112 | N/A | Xiaomi's front camera has been tested by DxOMark and the results indicate it's a decent performer. |
| Features | 8K video, Laser AF | Cinematic mode, Pro Video mode, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Optical Zoom | Xiaomi offers higher resolution video and Laser AF for better focus. iPhone offers Pro video mode, and optical zoom which are lacking in the Xiaomi. |
Software & Connectivity
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | iOS 18 | iOS is known for its user-friendliness, performance, and robust ecosystem. Android offers more customization. |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | iPhone has newer WiFi standard, offering potentially better connection speeds and less interference in compatible networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Newer Bluetooth version in the iPhone will offer a bit better efficiency, reliability, and potential range. |
| GPS | More systems | Fewer systems | Xiaomi offers more accurate positioning due to more satellite system support. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | iPhone supports eSIM for easy switching between carriers, while the Xiaomi allows two physical SIM cards simultaneously. |
Storage, Audio & Security
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB or 512GB | iPhone has an additional 512GB configuration which provides more storage capacity. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 8 GB | Xiaomi can have up to 12GB of RAM, which provides a small advantage in multi tasking over the 8GB iPhone. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, meaning users must choose appropriate storage at purchase. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | iPhone offers Dolby Atmos sound for a more immersive audio experience, and a better microphone array while Xiaomi offers Hi-Res Audio for audiophiles. |
| Security | Fingerprint Sensor | Face Unlock | Xiaomi relies on the traditional fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication. iPhone offers Face Unlock which is usually convenient. |
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Xiaomi’s screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, which is a more premium glass. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Heart Rate, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Barometer | Xiaomi has a heart rate sensor and ultrasonic proximity sensor, while iPhone has a barometer for measuring altitude. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Advantages:
- Higher Resolution Display: Sharper screen with a higher pixel density.
- 120Hz Refresh Rate: Smoother scrolling and animations compared to the 60Hz display on iPhone.
- Faster Charging: 55W wired and 50W wireless charging, greatly surpasses the iPhone's speed.
- More versatile camera system: Includes a dedicated ultrawide and macro lens.
- Higher Video Resolution: Support for up to 8K recording.
- More RAM: up to 12GB of ram, better multi-tasking.
- More GPS satellite system support: More accurate location tracking
- Additional Features: Heart rate sensor, Ultrasonic Proximity, Laser AF, and additional wireless charging options
Apple iPhone 16 Plus Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Apple's A18 chip offers substantially higher processing power and better overall performance.
- Brighter Display: Significantly better visibility in bright outdoor conditions due to higher brightness.
- Better Low Light Photography: Wider aperture lenses and a superior image processing resulting in excellent photo quality even in dark conditions.
- More storage options: 512 GB maximum storage option.
- More advanced audio: Dolby Atmos and noise cancellation microphone offering a better audio experience.
- More advanced connectivity: Wifi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 support.
- eSIM Support: More flexible carrier options using digital SIM.
- Software Ecosystem: iOS provides a seamless user experience, longer support and a strong ecosystem.
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi: While having a great display and versatile cameras, it has a less powerful chipset, lower peak brightness, and an older OS, which may not receive future upgrades.
- iPhone: While having a superior chipset and bright display, it has a much slower charging, lower refresh rate display, less versatile cameras, and it is more expensive.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Ideal User:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who value a high refresh rate and sharper display, faster charging, as well as more versatile camera and connectivity options.
- Multi-Media Consumers: Users who frequently watch videos or play games on their phone.
- Value Seekers: Those who want a great screen and versatile cameras with a variety of options at a lower price compared to the premium offering.
- Android Fans: People who prefer the flexibility and customization offered by the Android operating system.
Apple iPhone 16 Plus Ideal User:
- Performance-Oriented Users: Those who need top-tier processing power for demanding applications, gaming, and seamless multitasking.
- Professional Users: Those who value a consistent user experience and a great camera.
- Ecosystem Loyalists: Those who are deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem and value its seamless performance.
- Outdoor Users: Users who require a screen that is easily visible in direct sunlight.
- Users valuing simplicity: Those who prefer an easy to use OS.
Specific Use Cases:
Xiaomi Mi 11:
- Mobile Gaming with high refresh rate and high performance.
- Watching movies and series on the sharp display.
- Capturing versatile photos and videos with the multiple camera setup.
- Quickly charging the phone.
Apple iPhone 16 Plus:
- Professional Photography and video recording, including cinematic mode.
- Demanding apps and tasks requiring high performance.
- Seamlessly syncing with other Apple devices like iPads or Macs.
- Reliable performance in diverse scenarios.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your priority: Performance or display fluidity? If top-tier processing power is the priority, the iPhone is the better choice, but if you are looking for a smoother display, Xiaomi wins.
- How important is a fast charging and versatile camera system? Xiaomi is better if you need super-fast charging and a more versatile camera system.
- How important is the software experience? If you are looking for the simplicity and ease of use, as well as long term software support offered by Apple, the iPhone is a better choice. If you are looking for customisation and more open approach, Xiaomi is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1 (Budget-conscious): If price is the primary concern, the Xiaomi is the better option, as it offers a lot of features and great user experience for a cheaper price.
Scenario 2 (Heavy Performance User): If you need the best performance for demanding applications or high end gaming, the iPhone is a better choice, even if the screen is not as smooth.
Scenario 3 (Multimedia): If consuming content is the primary use case, the Xiaomi's higher refresh rate display will provide a more fluid user experience.
Scenario 4 (Apple Ecosystem): If you are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem and want seamless integration, the iPhone is the better choice.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Apple iPhone 16 Plus.
Here's why:
- Performance: The Apple A18 chip is a significant leap in performance over the Snapdragon 888. For a long term use, this will translate to a much better user experience in all tasks, particularly in demanding scenarios.
- Ecosystem: The seamless integration with other Apple devices and services is crucial for my workflow and personal tech management.
- Longevity: Apple devices are known to get longer software support compared to the Xiaomi, which guarantees better future proofing.
- Camera Quality: Even though the Xiaomi has a higher megapixel count, the real world image processing on the iPhone is significantly better.
- Screen Visibility: I need a phone that I can use even in bright sunlight, and the brighter screen of the iPhone wins over the smoother display of the Xiaomi.
Although the Xiaomi Mi 11 has a more versatile camera system, a smoother display, and much faster charging, these advantages are not as essential for my needs as the superior performance, consistency, better software and the longer lasting support offered by Apple.
