Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 vs. Xiaomi 11T Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi 11T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2021-01-01 | 2021-10-05 | Xiaomi 11T Pro is newer, potentially with longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 74.6 x 8.1 mm | 164.1 x 76.9 x 8.8 mm | Mi 11 is slimmer and narrower, might feel slightly more comfortable for single-handed use. 11T Pro is slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 196g | 204g | Mi 11 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable during extended use. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi 11T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.81" | 6.67" | Mi 11 offers a slightly larger screen which could be preferred for media consumption or gaming, but the difference is not dramatic. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | Mi 11 has a sharper display with more detail and clarity, especially noticeable when viewing text or high-resolution images. |
| PPI | 515 | 395 | Mi 11 has a significantly sharper image and text, providing a premium visual experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, making the user interface feel more fluid, also benefiting fast-paced gaming. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1000 nits | Mi 11 is much brighter, making it significantly easier to see the display in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi 11T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Both offer top-tier performance capable of handling demanding tasks, including gaming and multitasking, but with slight differences in thermal efficiency and sustained performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 806,139 | 863,489 | 11T Pro has slightly better benchmark performance, but real world performance differences may be minor for most tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 660 | Both offer similar graphics processing power, ensuring a smooth gaming experience. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi 11T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.85, 1/1.33" sensor, 0.8µm pixels | 108MP, f/1.75, 1/1.52" sensor, 0.7µm pixels | Mi 11 has a larger sensor for better light sensitivity and detail, though 11T Pro has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light. Differences likely subtle in good lighting. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" sensor, 0.8µm pixels | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.06" sensor, 1.0µm pixels | Mi 11 has a higher resolution but slightly smaller pixel size, while 11T Pro has larger pixels for better low-light performance; Mi 11 has a wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP, f/2.3, 1/3.06" sensor, 1.12µm pixels | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" sensor, 1.14µm pixels | Mi 11 has a higher resolution, but both should perform well in daylight, with slight differences in low light performance (11T Pro slightly better due to larger pixel size and wider aperture). |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.0, 1/5" sensor, 1.12µm pixels | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5" sensor, 1.12µm pixels | Mi 11 has a wider aperture, potentially slightly better macro shots. |
| Video | Up to 8K@60fps (w/HDR & EIS), Slow-mo 480 fps | Up to 8K@30fps (w/HDR & EIS), Slow-mo 960 fps | Both offer excellent video capabilities, with 11T Pro providing higher framerate in slow-mo. Mi 11 offers slightly higher frame rate on 8K video and different video stabilization (Yes vs No). |
| DxOMark | Selfie: 112 (Photo: 100, Video: 133) | Mobile: 108 (Photo: 110, Video: 126), Selfie: 121 (Photo: 111, Video: 137) | 11T Pro has a higher selfie overall score, better selfie video performance, and slightly better mobile photo scores based on available data. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi 11T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 5000mAh | 11T Pro has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering slightly longer battery life between charges. |
| Charging | 55W fast charging | 120W fast charging | 11T Pro charges significantly faster, allowing you to quickly top up the battery. |
| Features | 50W wireless, 10W reverse wireless, Reverse charging, 2*2250mAh cells | Two 2500mAh cells | Mi 11 supports Wireless charging and reverse charging capabilities, offering more versatility compared to the 11T Pro which is missing these features. |
Other
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi 11T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 11, Max Android 14 | Android 11, Max Android 13 | Mi 11 is expected to receive one more major OS update, leading to longer software support and newer features. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, dual-band | Wi-Fi 6, dual-band | Both offer fast Wi-Fi speeds, suitable for most modern networks, though slightly newer standards may be slightly faster but are not commonly available. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2, with A2DP, LE, aptX, LDAC, AAC | Bluetooth 5.2, with A2DP, LE, aptX, LDAC, AAC | Both offer advanced audio codecs for high-quality audio transmission to wireless headphones and speakers. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Mi 11 has a more complete set of GPS satellite systems for higher accuracy in location-based services, which may be beneficial in areas with poor signal coverage. |
| Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB, no expandable storage | 128 GB or 256 GB, no expandable storage | Neither phone offers expandable storage, requiring users to select an appropriate storage size at purchase based on needs. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Both have ample RAM for multitasking and demanding applications. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | 11T Pro includes Dolby Atmos for a more immersive audio experience and enhances spatial audio; both offer good quality stereo sound and are capable of delivering high quality audio. |
| Security | Basic Fingerprint | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | 11T Pro has a more convenient and faster side mounted fingerprint sensor compared to in display sensor, which can be unreliable. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both provide excellent protection against scratches and damage on the screen. |
| Sensors | Heart Rate, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Barometer, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Mi 11 has an additional heart rate sensor which can be useful to some users. 11T Pro has an additional barometer sensor which is useful for outdoor activities. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM, Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both have Dual SIM support, meaning users can have two SIM cards active at the same time. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Advantages:
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density (1440p, 515 PPI) provide a noticeably clearer and more detailed viewing experience.
- Brighter Display: Significantly higher peak brightness (1500 nits) improves outdoor visibility in sunlight.
- Wireless Charging: Offers both fast wireless charging (50W) and reverse wireless charging, increasing convenience.
- Better GPS Support: Features additional satellite systems for better accuracy.
- Heart Rate Sensor: Unique feature that may be helpful to some users.
- Slightly Slimmer and Lighter: More comfortable to hold, which can be important for extended use.
- Potentially Longer Software Support: Expected to receive an additional major Android OS update (up to Android 14).
Xiaomi 11T Pro Advantages:
- Faster Charging: Significantly faster 120W charging dramatically reduces charging times.
- Better Benchmark Performance: Slightly higher benchmark scores suggest marginally better performance.
- Larger Battery: Slightly larger 5000mAh battery might provide slightly longer battery life.
- Better Selfie Camera: Slightly better overall selfie score (from Dxomark), a slightly larger sensor pixel, and a better video performance.
- Better Overall Mobile Camera Performance: Higher photo score (from Dxomark)
- Dolby Atmos Support: Enhanced audio experience with wider soundstage, clearer audio and enhanced spatial audio.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Can be faster and more convenient than an in-display sensor.
- Barometer: Useful for outdoor activities and more accurate weather tracking.
- Higher slow motion framerate: Capable of filming slow motion at 960fps.
Trade-offs:
- Mi 11: Trades slightly slower charging, slightly larger size, and a lack of Dolby Atmos for a superior display, wireless charging, and more accurate GPS.
- 11T Pro: Trades higher quality display, wireless charging, and a heart rate sensor for faster charging and improved audio and selfie camera.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Ideal User:
- Media Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize a high-quality display for watching videos and consuming content.
- Outdoor Users: Those who often use their phone in bright sunlight and need excellent screen visibility.
- Wireless Charging Fans: Users who appreciate the convenience of wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- Power users needing more software support: Users who prefer to keep their phone longer and desire the newest Android update.
- Health Conscious Users: Users who might benefit from the heart rate sensor.
- Users who prioritize better GPS Accuracy: Users who need accurate location tracking.
Xiaomi 11T Pro Ideal User:
- Gamers: Who appreciate fast charging and good benchmark performance.
- Frequent Chargers: Users who need to quickly top up their battery throughout the day.
- Audiophiles: Those who prioritize better audio quality with a wide sound stage and immersive listening experience.
- Selfie Enthusiasts: Users that value a better selfie camera for better quality photos and videos.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Who could benefit from the barometer.
- Users wanting the latest technology and a more convenient fingerprint sensor: Users that value fast charging, more accurate fingerprint sensors and the latest video recording technology.
Use Cases:
- Mi 11: Watching HDR videos, editing photos in bright sunlight, charging on the go with a wireless charger, better and more accurate GPS location tracking for navigation.
- 11T Pro: Gaming with fast charging between matches, watching media with enhanced spatial audio, taking selfies/videos for social media, going on outdoor adventures.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is display quality (sharpness and brightness)? If display quality is the highest priority and better outdoor visibility is important, the Mi 11 is better.
- How much do you value fast charging and battery life? If fast charging and long battery life are more important, 11T Pro is a better option.
- Do you need wireless charging or a heart rate sensor? If wireless charging and a heart rate sensor are needed, the Mi 11 is better. If a side mounted fingerprint scanner and better audio are needed, 11T Pro is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You watch a lot of videos outdoors and want the best possible display. Recommendation: Xiaomi Mi 11
- Scenario 2: You need the fastest possible charging speeds and the latest technology, and care about audio quality. Recommendation: Xiaomi 11T Pro
- Scenario 3: You want a balance of good display, decent battery life, and good performance and you value wireless charging. Recommendation: Xiaomi Mi 11.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Xiaomi 11T Pro. Although the Mi 11 has a sharper and brighter display, I value the faster charging speed, better audio, and enhanced video capabilities of the 11T Pro more. As a gamer and frequent user of audio, these advantages would enhance my experience more than a slightly better display. Additionally, I prefer the convenience of a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. While the Mi 11 has better GPS and more software updates, those are not as impactful to my daily usage.
