Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Mi 11 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Mi 11 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-01 | 2022-11-01 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is a newer model, potentially with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 74.6 x 8.1 mm | 162.9 x 76 x 8.9 mm | Mi 11 is taller and thinner, while the Note 12 Pro+ is slightly wider and thicker; Note 12 Pro+ has a slightly larger volume, may feel bulkier. |
| Weight | 196g | 208.4g | Mi 11 is lighter, which could be more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.81" | 6.67" | Mi 11 has a slightly larger screen, offering a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | Mi 11 has a much sharper display with higher detail, which is beneficial for text, images and videos. |
| Pixel Density | 515 ppi | 395 ppi | Mi 11's higher pixel density translates to noticeably crisper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both have excellent contrast and vibrant colors, negligible difference in daily use. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 900 nits | Mi 11 is significantly brighter, offering better visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | Mi 11 offers better raw performance for demanding tasks, multitasking and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 806,139 | 573,100 | Mi 11 demonstrates higher performance based on benchmarks. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Mi 11's GPU is more powerful, leading to better gaming performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4600 mAh | 5000 mAh | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a slightly larger battery, potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 55W Fast Charging | 120W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ charges significantly faster. |
| Features | 50W Wireless, 10W Reverse Wireless Charging | None | Mi 11 offers more versatile charging options. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 108MP, f/1.85, 1/1.33" Sensor | 200MP, f/1.65, 1/1.4" Sensor | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has higher resolution, but the Mi 11 has a larger sensor with slightly larger pixels. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.3, 1/3.4" Sensor | 16MP, f/2.45 | Mi 11 has higher resolution and slightly better aperture for selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.3, 1/3.06" Sensor | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" Sensor | Mi 11 has higher resolution, while the Note 12 Pro+ has a slightly larger sensor. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.0, 1/5" Sensor | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" Sensor | Mi 11 offers better macro shots due to higher resolution. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps/30fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Mi 11 supports higher resolution video recording, useful for professional content creation. |
| Video Features | HDR, EIS, Slow-motion (480 fps) | EIS, Slow-motion (960 fps) | Both feature video stabilization and slow motion, with differing capabilities. |
| DxOMark | Selfie: 112 | Mobile: 113 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is slightly better at overall camera performance and capturing images and videos |
| Features | Laser AF, AF assist Beam, OIS | PDAF, Night Mode, OIS | Both have OIS, each has some unique features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ launched with a newer Android version but both should be up to date. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, aptX | 5.2, SBC | Mi 11 supports APT-x for better audio, Note 12 Pro+ has SBC. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) , BeiDou (B1, B2), Galileo (E1+E5a), NavIC | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, | Mi 11 has more satellite support for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support Dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256 GB | Both have the same storage options, no expandable storage. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 8/12 GB | Both offer excellent options for RAM, suitable for heavy multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports external storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers, Hi-Res Audio | Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has Dolby Atmos for immersive sound. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a more modern and convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Mi 11 offers superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Heart Rate | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Mi 11 includes heart rate sensor and more advanced proximity sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Mi 11 Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and pixel density leading to sharper and more detailed visuals. Significantly higher peak brightness improves outdoor visibility.
- Better Performance: More powerful Snapdragon 888 chipset and Adreno 660 GPU, offering smoother performance in demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
- Enhanced Camera Features: 8K video recording, a larger sensor on standard camera, laser autofocus and AF assist beam, leading to more versatile photography and videography.
- More Wireless Charging Options: 50W Wireless and 10W Reverse Wireless charging give more versatile battery options.
- Advanced Location Accuracy: More satellite support leading to better location accuracy.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides more scratch and damage protection compared to Gorilla Glass 5.
- Additional sensors: Heart Rate and Ultrasonic proximity.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ Advantages:
- Newer Device: Launched nearly two years after Mi 11, potentially with updated features and software.
- Faster Charging: 120W charging allows for much quicker battery top-ups.
- Larger Battery: Slightly larger capacity (5000 mAh vs 4600 mAh) may offer slightly better battery life.
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Offers enhanced spatial sound experience for a better listening experience.
- Better Main Camera Resolution: 200MP main camera takes higher resolution images.
- More Convenient Fingerprint Sensor: Side-mounted sensor may be easier to access for some users.
- Faster Slow-motion: Up to 960 fps slow-motion.
- Newer OS at Launch: Android 12 out of the box.
- Better Camera DxOMark mobile rating
Trade-offs:
- Mi 11 prioritizes performance and display quality, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ focuses more on fast charging and a slightly better main camera.
- Mi 11 has more charging options while Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has faster charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Mi 11:
- Ideal User: Power users, mobile gamers, content creators, and those who value display quality, performance, and advanced camera features.
- Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming.
- Professional photo and video capture.
- Demanding multitasking.
- Outdoor usage in bright sunlight.
- Users who prefer more wireless charging options.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+:
- Ideal User: General consumers who prioritize a balanced experience, long battery life, fast charging, and a good camera experience.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday social media and browsing.
- Casual gaming and media consumption.
- Users who want a phone with a newer OS and good camera performance.
- Users who prefer faster charging.
Price-to-Value: The price is the major factor that may influence a purchasing decision, since both phones have different focus on their features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality and brightness? (Mi 11 has a significantly superior display)
- Do you prioritize raw performance or battery life/charging speed? (Mi 11 offers better performance, Note 12 Pro+ prioritizes faster charging and slightly better battery life)
- What features are more important to you in a camera? (Mi 11 for more pro-grade features, Note 12 Pro+ for general quality and higher resolution)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: High-End Gaming & Content Creation: Choose the Xiaomi Mi 11 for its superior performance and display.
- Scenario 2: Fast Charging & General Use: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ for its faster charging, slightly better battery life and newer software.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Usage with Value Focus: Consider the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ for its balance between price, features, and general quality if price is a major factor.
My Choice and Why
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Mi 11. My primary reasons are:
- Superior Display: The higher resolution and much higher brightness are critical for my daily usage. I value a sharp and clear display for reading, media consumption, and outdoor use.
- Performance: As someone who often uses resource-intensive apps and plays some games, the Snapdragon 888 and Adreno 660 offer a noticeable performance advantage.
- Camera Versatility: While the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a higher resolution sensor, the Mi 11 provides more pro-grade camera features, such as 8K video, laser autofocus, and a larger main sensor with a larger pixel size. This suits my needs for more flexibility in photography and videography.
- Wireless Charging: I value wireless charging options and reverse wireless charging options.
- Better location accuracy: The additional supported satellite systems make the phone better for navigation.
- Screen protection: Gorilla Glass Victus provides more protection against daily wear and tear and accidental damage.
While the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is a newer device with faster charging and slightly better battery life, for me, the benefits of the Mi 11's display, performance, and camera features are more important. Also, I would prefer a more modern build with a better screen protection and a more robust navigation. I tend to value those features more for my needs.
