Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 vs. Motorola Edge 30
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Motorola Edge 30 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.3 × 74.6 × 8.1 mm | 159.4 × 74.2 × 6.8 mm | Xiaomi Mi 11 is slightly larger, thicker, and less pocketable. Edge 30 is slimmer and more comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 196g | 155g | Motorola Edge 30 feels significantly lighter, reducing fatigue during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.5" | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers a more immersive viewing experience, better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a significantly sharper and more detailed display, improving text clarity and image quality. |
| PPI | 515 | 405 | Xiaomi Mi 11's higher pixel density results in a noticeably clearer image. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but the Mi 11's higher resolution makes a visible difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz | Motorola Edge 30 has slightly smoother scrolling and animations, though most users won't notice a huge difference. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits (Not specified) | Xiaomi Mi 11 is far superior for outdoor visibility, making it usable in bright sunlight (Motorola Edge 30's max brightness is not available) |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G+ 5G (6nm) | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers better performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing due to its high-end chipset. |
| AnTuTu Score | 806,139 | 609,900 | Xiaomi Mi 11 is significantly faster in benchmarks, resulting in quicker app launches and smoother multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 642L | Xiaomi Mi 11's better GPU provides better graphics for gaming and GPU-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 4020mAh | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers longer battery life for heavy users, reducing the need for mid-day charging. |
| Charging | 55W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Xiaomi Mi 11 charges faster, allowing quicker top-ups when needed. |
| Features | Reverse, Wireless charging | Non-removable | Xiaomi Mi 11 provides more battery flexibility, including the ability to charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.85, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" | Xiaomi Mi 11 has higher resolution for capturing detailed images, but the Motorola Edge 30 with larger pixel size might perform better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" | 32MP, f/2.25, 1/3.14" | Motorola Edge 30 has a higher resolution selfie camera and wider aperture, potentially resulting in better photos in challenging light conditions. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.3 | Not present | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a dedicated wide-angle lens for group shots or landscapes. |
| Portrait Mode | Not present | 2MP, f/2.4 | Motorola Edge 30 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode, creating a blurred background effect. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.0 | Not present | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a dedicated macro lens for capturing close-up details. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | Not present | 50MP, f/2.2 | Motorola Edge 30 has a wide-angle camera that doubles as a macro lens, offering versatility |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Xiaomi Mi 11 has higher video resolution, useful for professional video work. |
| DXOMark Selfie | Main score: 112 | Not tested | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a good DxOMark rating for its selfie camera. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 14 | Android 12, upgradable to 13 | Motorola Edge 30 has a more recent Android version out of the box, however Xiaomi has a longer life-cycle in terms of updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | Both have similar Wi-Fi capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 | Both have modern Bluetooth, Motorola has SBC as an added protocol |
| GPS | More Satellite systems | Less Satellite systems | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers more precise location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer good storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 6/8 GB | Xiaomi Mi 11's 12GB RAM option improves multitasking and gaming performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither has expandable storage, limiting long term options. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Both have good audio capabilities, but the Xiaomi is tuned for Hi-Res, and Motorola is tuned for Dolby. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both provide basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a more durable screen. |
| Sensors | |||
| Heart Rate, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Proximity | Xiaomi Mi 11 includes sensors for additional features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, PPI, and brightness result in a sharper, more vibrant screen that is better suited for outdoor use.
- More Powerful Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset and higher AnTuTu scores deliver better performance for demanding tasks.
- Larger Battery & Faster Charging: Longer battery life and faster charging provide greater user convenience.
- More Flexible Charging: Offers wireless, reverse wireless, and faster charging speeds.
- Advanced Camera System: Offers 8K video recording, and a dedicated wide-angle and macro lens, providing versatility in shooting options.
- Better Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior drop and scratch protection.
- More RAM: Has an option for 12GB RAM compared to Motorola's max 8GB.
- More sensors: Offers Heart Rate sensor, ultrasonic proximity sensor
- Longer Software Support: The Xiaomi Mi 11 has an additional year of software support.
Motorola Edge 30 Advantages:
- Lighter and Slimmer Design: More comfortable for extended use and pocketability.
- Higher Refresh Rate: Smoother scrolling and animations.
- Potentially Better Selfie Camera: Higher resolution and wider aperture may result in better low light photos.
- Portrait mode lens: Offers a dedicated lens for depth sensing for Portrait Mode.
- Wide Angle and Macro lens: Offers a versatile all-in-one option
- More Up to date OS: Ships with a more recent version of Android.
- Added Bluetooth Protocol: Supports SBC for lower quality audio transmission over Bluetooth
Significant Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi Mi 11: Larger size and weight may not be ideal for everyone.
- Motorola Edge 30: Lower resolution display and brightness may not be suitable for heavy media consumption or outdoor use.
- Xiaomi Mi 11: No dedicated Portrait Mode camera.
- Motorola Edge 30: Lacks some higher end features like dedicated macro and wide angle lenses.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Ideal User:
- Power Users: Gamers, content creators, and multi-taskers who need maximum performance.
- Media Consumers: People who watch a lot of videos or browse social media and prioritize display quality.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want versatility in their camera system, high resolution video and overall high image quality.
- Outdoor Users: People who need a screen that is visible in bright sunlight, and a more durable phone.
- Users wanting long term support: Those who want to have a phone with more longevity.
Specific Use Cases: Gaming, High-Resolution Video Recording, Outdoor Photography/Videography, Media Streaming, Power-user multitasking
Motorola Edge 30 Ideal User:
- Casual Users: People who prioritize ease of use and a comfortable, light phone for daily tasks.
- Social Media Users: Those who take a lot of selfies.
- Budget Conscious: May be more affordable, offering good performance at a lower cost.
- Users who prioritize a smooth display and up to date software: Want an up to date OS with a 144hz display
Specific Use Cases: Social Media Consumption, Everyday Photography, Casual Gaming, On-The-Go Usage
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, photography, general use, etc.)
- How important is display quality, and is outdoor brightness a necessity?
- Is battery life and fast charging a priority?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: "I want the best performance and display." Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11. Its higher-end chipset and screen make it a clear winner for gaming and media consumption.
- Scenario 2: "I value a comfortable and lightweight phone for everyday use." Choose the Motorola Edge 30. Its slim design and lighter weight make it easier to carry and use, and has a better base OS.
- Scenario 3: "I need a camera for multiple purposes" Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11. While the Motorola has a dedicated depth sensor, the Xiaomi Mi 11 excels due to its higher resolution for pictures and video, the inclusion of additional lenses, and its OIS capabilities
- Scenario 4: "I am on a budget and want a reliable phone" Choose the Motorola Edge 30. It is a more budget oriented phone that still has good features, including a good processor, screen, and camera setup.
What I would choose and why:
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally choose the Xiaomi Mi 11. While the Motorola Edge 30 has some advantages such as its lighter weight, slightly higher refresh rate, and more up-to-date OS (at least out of the box), the Xiaomi Mi 11 presents a compelling overall package that suits my typical use case scenario.
My reasoning is as follows:
- Superior Display: As a media consumer, I would definitely prioritize the higher resolution, PPI, and brightness of the Xiaomi Mi 11 display. This makes for a much better experience when watching videos, browsing the web, and viewing pictures. The increase in nits makes the phone more functional in outdoor environments.
- Performance: I do enjoy playing some mobile games and also multi-tasking on my phone. The additional power of the Snapdragon 888 would definitely be a more welcome choice for me and would extend the longevity of the phone.
- Camera: While the Motorola has a slightly better selfie camera and a dedicated depth sensor, the versatility of the Xiaomi Mi 11's camera setup overall is very desirable. I appreciate having a wide-angle and macro lens, and the ability to record in 8k is a major plus for me.
- Battery: The increased battery capacity is a practical benefit, as is the addition of wireless charging.
Overall, the Xiaomi Mi 11, while slightly older, edges out the Motorola Edge 30 for my preference due to its superior display, performance, and camera capabilities, which align better with my priorities.
