1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.3 × 74.6 × 8.1 mm | 163.7 × 76.1 × 7.6 mm | Xiaomi Mi 11 is slightly thicker, while the Samsung A73 is a bit wider. Minimal practical difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 196g | 181g | Samsung A73 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.7" | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers much sharper visuals with a higher pixel count, noticeable in text and image clarity. |
| PPI | 515 | 393 | Xiaomi Mi 11 has significantly higher pixel density leading to sharper and more detailed images |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks typical of AMOLED, similar viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations, great for gaming and media consumption. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi Mi 11 is much brighter, providing better outdoor visibility in sunny conditions. The value for Samsung A73 is not provided, assuming it doesn't reach 1500 nits. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G (6nm) | Xiaomi Mi 11’s chipset offers superior performance, resulting in faster app loading and smoother gameplay. |
| AnTuTu Score | 806,139 | 575,551 | Xiaomi Mi 11 delivers significantly higher performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 642L | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a more powerful GPU for better graphics in gaming and intensive applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 108MP | Both have high resolution main cameras, should provide a good amount of detail. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.85 | f/1.8 | Slightly wider aperture on Samsung A73 may result in slightly better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 20MP | 32MP | Samsung A73 has a higher resolution front-facing camera for more detailed selfies and video calls. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.3 | f/2.2 | Wider aperture on Samsung A73 may provide better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens Resolution | 13MP | 12MP | Negligible difference in wide-angle image quality. |
| Wide Angle Lens Aperture | f/2.3 | f/2.2 | Samsung A73's wider aperture might result in slightly better low-light performance for wide-angle shots |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | No | 5MP | Samsung A73 offers a dedicated depth sensor for improved portrait mode with background blur. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.0 | 5MP, f/2.4 | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a wider aperture, potentially better macro shot quality. |
| Video Resolution | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | Xiaomi Mi 11 can capture significantly higher resolution videos with more frame-rate options. |
| DxOMark Selfie | 112 | N/A | Xiaomi Mi 11 selfie camera has been tested and rated by DxOMark. No data for Samsung. |
| Camera Features | 8K Video, Triple camera, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser AF, AF assist Beam, RAW | Quadruple camera, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Exposure compensation | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers more pro-grade features, while Samsung A73 has more basic features. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 5000mAh | Samsung A73 has a slightly larger battery, potentially leading to slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 55W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Xiaomi Mi 11 charges much faster reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse charging, 50W wireless, 10W reverse-wireless | Bypass Charging | Xiaomi Mi 11 provides more versatile charging options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, max 14 | Android 12, max 16 | Samsung A73 has a more recent Android version and longer support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi MiMO | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Xiaomi Mi 11 has more advanced Wi-Fi capabilities with MiMO support. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 | Xiaomi Mi 11 has a newer version with better connectivity performance. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers more accurate and reliable location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both provide the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 6/8 GB | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers more RAM for better multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both do not support expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi Mi 11 provides high-fidelity audio with Hi-Res support, and better mic recording with 2 mics, while Samsung A73 has Dolby Atmos for immersive audio. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Basic | Both phones offer similar basic fingerprint sensors |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi Mi 11 offers significantly better screen scratch and shatter resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Heart Rate, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor, Geomagnetic, RGB | Xiaomi Mi 11 has heart rate sensor, while Samsung A73 has geomagnetic and RGB sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Snapdragon 888 chipset provides much better performance for gaming and demanding apps.
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density, resulting in a much clearer and detailed screen.
- Brighter Screen: 1500 nits brightness offers excellent outdoor visibility even under direct sunlight.
- Faster Charging: 55W fast charging significantly reduces charging times.
- More Versatile Charging: Includes wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities.
- Better Video Recording: Supports up to 8K video recording.
- Superior Audio Quality: Hi-Res audio support and dual microphones.
- Advanced Wi-Fi and GPS: Includes Wi-Fi MIMO and more satellite system for improved network and location.
- More RAM: Up to 12GB of RAM which is great for multitasking.
- Stronger Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides superior screen protection.
- More Camera Features: Offers more options for video recording and photo taking.
- Additional Sensor: Includes a heart rate sensor.
Practical Implications: The Xiaomi Mi 11 is designed for users who prioritize high performance, a premium display, and versatile charging options.
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G Advantages:
- Lighter Build: More comfortable for extended use.
- Slightly Larger Battery: Potentially better battery life for all-day usage.
- Newer Android Version: Longer software support and access to the newest features.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: Better portrait mode photography.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: Improved selfies and video calls.
- Wider Aperture Cameras: Potentially better low-light performance in standard and wide lenses.
- Bypass Charging: Better charging management while using the phone.
Practical Implications: The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G is suited for users who value a lightweight build, longer software support, and better selfie camera performance.
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi sacrifices some battery capacity and weight for faster charging and high-end performance.
- Samsung opts for a lighter build and slightly better battery life but compromises on display quality and performance compared to Xiaomi.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Ideal User:
- Gamers: Demanding games run smoother on the Mi 11 with its powerful Snapdragon 888 chipset and Adreno 660 GPU.
- Media Enthusiasts: The high-resolution and bright AMOLED display makes for a great viewing experience.
- Power Users: Users who frequently multitask, edit photos and videos, and need the performance offered by the flagship chipset and 12GB of RAM.
- Video Creators: Professional video makers can benefit from the 8K video and the advanced video and photo features.
Specific Use Cases:
- Playing graphically intensive games at high settings.
- Consuming HDR content with vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- Recording high-resolution videos in various lighting conditions.
- Multitasking between various apps without any slowdown.
- Using advanced photo editing apps.
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G Ideal User:
- Casual Users: Users who prioritize an easy to carry smartphone for daily tasks, browsing, and social media.
- Selfie Enthusiasts: The 32MP front camera and wider aperture will be ideal for taking better selfies.
- Users Seeking Long-Term Support: The newer software will be better for people who want to keep using their phone for a long time.
- Users Who Value Portability: Those who want a lighter smartphone that is easier to use for a long period of time.
Specific Use Cases:
- Taking high-quality selfies and portrait shots.
- Browsing social media and other lightweight apps.
- Streaming video and audio.
- Using the phone for all day usage without constantly charging.
- Having a phone that can last multiple years with consistent updates.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Xiaomi Mi 11 generally offers better value for users who prioritize performance and display quality at a potentially higher price point.
- The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G provides a more balanced approach focusing on user-friendliness, portability and battery life at a potentially lower price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance or Portability: Do you prioritize top-tier performance, or a lighter, comfortable phone?
- Display Quality or Battery Life: Do you want the best screen possible, or is battery life your main priority?
- Software Longevity or Camera Versatility: Do you prefer a phone with latest software that will last longer, or a more feature-rich camera?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile Gaming & Performance: Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 for its superior performance, display, and charging.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Use & Long-Term Support: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G for its balanced features, lighter build, and newer software with better support.
- Scenario 3: High-Quality Selfies & Video Calls: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G for its 32MP front camera and wide aperture lens.
- Scenario 4: Premium Visual Experience: Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 for its much sharper display, and great brightness.
- Scenario 5: Need a professional-grade camera: Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 for its 8K video, and extra features.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would select the Xiaomi Mi 11. Here's why:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset is a significant advantage for my needs as I use my phone for gaming and heavy multitasking. The higher AnTuTu score shows its raw power, which is critical for demanding tasks.
- Display Quality: I value a high-quality display and the Mi 11's higher resolution and pixel density will be better for watching videos and reading text. The much brighter screen will also help a lot in outdoor usage.
- Versatile Charging: The faster 55W charging and wireless charging capabilities of the Mi 11 make it more convenient for everyday use.
- Video recording: As a video creator, the ability to record videos in 8K is a plus for me.
- Camera features: The extra features like continuous autofocus, manual focus, and the RAW capture are a plus for me.
- Better Audio: The Hi-Res audio and the dual microphone setup are advantages for me, providing better audio experience.
While the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G has its strengths, particularly its lighter design, newer Android software and better front camera, these are not as significant for my preferences. The performance difference alone makes the Xiaomi Mi 11 a better choice for me personally.
