Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.3 × 74.6 × 8.1 mm | 164.2 × 76.1 × 8.1 mm | Similar height and thickness. Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is slightly wider, might feel less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 196g | 201.8g | Mi 11 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.67" | Mi 11 has slightly larger screen for a more immersive experience. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | Mi 11 offers significantly sharper image quality and detail. |
| PPI | 515 | 395 | Mi 11 has a much higher pixel density, resulting in sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks, but Mi 11 benefits from higher resolution. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1200 nits | Mi 11 has better visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | Mi 11 has a much more powerful processor, for faster performance in demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 806,139 | 397,200 | Mi 11 offers significantly better overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 618 | Mi 11 has a more powerful GPU, for better gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.85, 1/1.33" | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | Mi 11 has a slightly wider aperture and larger sensor for better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13" | Mi 11 has a higher resolution and wider aperture, but the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a slightly larger pixel size. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.3, 1/3.06" | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | Mi 11 has a higher resolution. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a slightly wider aperture and larger sensor. |
| Portrait Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has dedicated depth sensor for better portrait effects. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.0, 1/5" | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | Mi 11 has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Mi 11 has higher video quality including 8K recording |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 5020mAh | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has larger battery, potentially offering slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 55W fast charging | 67W fast charging | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G charges faster. |
| Wireless Charging | 50W wireless, 10W reverse | Not available | Mi 11 has wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 14 | Android 11 | Mi 11 will have the latest software support. Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G OS support is unknown. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | Mi 11 supports faster Wi-Fi standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | Mi 11 has newer Bluetooth technology. |
| GPS | More satellite systems | Less satellite systems | Mi 11 offers more accurate and reliable GPS. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 6GB/8GB | Mi 11 has higher RAM options for better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither support expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Mi 11 has slightly better audio recording with two microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint | Side-mounted | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a more convenient and modern side-mounted sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Mi 11 has better protection from scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Heart Rate Sensor | No Heart Rate Sensor | Mi 11 has a comprehensive sensor suite, supporting a wider range of applications. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 offers significantly faster processing and graphics, making it ideal for gaming and demanding tasks.
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density provide a much clearer and more detailed viewing experience.
- Brighter Screen: 1500 nits brightness makes it much more usable in bright sunlight.
- Better Main Camera: Larger sensor and wider aperture results in better low-light performance.
- Advanced Video: 8K video recording is available, along with more video features.
- Wireless Charging: Supports 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse wireless charging.
- Newer Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for faster and more stable connections.
- More RAM Options: Up to 12GB of RAM for improved multitasking.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers better scratch and impact resistance.
- Additional Sensors: Heart Rate sensor provides extra health-related data.
- Better Software Support: Upgradable to Android 14.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G Advantages:
- Longer Battery Life: Larger battery capacity for extended usage.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging enables quicker top-ups.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: For better portrait photography.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More ergonomic and potentially faster access.
- Potentially Lower Price: Typically more affordable than the Mi 11.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Mi 11: Sacrifices a slightly larger battery and faster charging for superior performance and display quality. It also lacks a dedicated depth sensor.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G: Compromises on processing power, display sharpness, and camera quality for longer battery life and lower cost.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11 Ideal Users:
- Gamers: The powerful processor and GPU provide a smoother, more responsive gaming experience.
- Content Creators: 8K video recording and superior display are ideal for content creation and consumption.
- Heavy Multitaskers: The higher RAM options ensure smooth performance when running multiple apps.
- Users in Bright Environments: The higher screen brightness is better for outdoor visibility.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want the best performance and features.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G Ideal Users:
- Everyday Users: Those seeking a reliable phone for daily tasks without breaking the bank.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: Those who need a phone that lasts all day.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Users who want a good overall experience at a lower cost.
- Casual Photographers: Those who mainly use the camera for social media.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your primary use case? (Gaming, content creation, general use)
- How important is performance and display quality to you?
- What is your budget?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High Performance & Gaming: If you prioritize gaming or demanding apps, choose the Xiaomi Mi 11.
- Scenario 2: Battery Life & Affordability: If you need a long-lasting phone and are budget-conscious, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is a better choice.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Usage: If you want a phone with great performance, great display, good camera and all the bells and whistles, even if it's a bit more pricey, Xiaomi Mi 11 is the phone to pick.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Mi 11. My primary needs revolve around performance, display quality and camera quality, which the Mi 11 excels at. While the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a larger battery and faster charging, I believe the superior processor, screen, and camera of the Mi 11 outweigh these benefits. As an avid mobile gamer and someone who edits photos and videos on their phone, the Mi 11's higher performance and better camera features are more important to me. Although it may cost a bit more, the overall user experience would be far better, hence I would choose the Xiaomi Mi 11.
