Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Poco F3 vs. Realme GT Neo 3
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Realme GT Neo 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 163.7 × 76.4 × 7.8 mm | 163.3 × 75.6 × 8.2 mm | The Realme GT Neo 3 is slightly thicker and a bit narrower. These differences are very minor and unlikely to be noticeable in everyday use. |
| Weight | 196g | 188g | The Realme GT Neo 3 is 8g lighter, potentially making it more comfortable for extended periods. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Realme GT Neo 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.67" | 6.7" | Minimal size difference, both offer a large display for immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2412 | Virtually identical pixel density, both offer sharp, clear visuals. |
| PPI | 395 | 394 | Negligible difference in pixel density; both displays will appear very sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both devices. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1000 nits | The Xiaomi Poco F3's brighter display will offer significantly better visibility in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Realme GT Neo 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 8100 (5 nm) | The Realme GT Neo 3's newer chipset generally offers slightly better performance, particularly in graphically intensive tasks and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 800,216 | 855,842 | The Realme GT Neo 3 has slightly higher benchmark scores, indicating better overall performance potential. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G610 MC6 | Different GPUs, with Realme's Mali chip showing slightly better real-world gaming performance potential in some titles. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Realme GT Neo 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | The Realme GT Neo 3 captures slightly more detail with higher resolution, and larger sensor size could result in better low-light images. |
| Main Camera Sensor | Sony IMX582 (1/2") | Sony IMX766 (1/1.56") | The Realme GT Neo 3's larger sensor captures more light, potentially leading to better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.88 | Slightly wider aperture on Xiaomi means better light gathering capability in theory but slightly smaller sensor will impact the final image |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 20MP | 16MP | The Xiaomi Poco F3 has a higher resolution selfie camera; the difference might be noticeable in prints or large displays. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor | Samsung S5K3T2 (1/3.4") | Samsung S5K3P9 (1/3.1") | Realme's larger sensor could provide better low-light selfie performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | 8MP | Realme GT Neo 3 offers a wide-angle lens for capturing broader scenes, which the Xiaomi lacks. |
| Macro Lens | No | 2MP | The Realme GT Neo 3 has a dedicated macro camera for close-up shots, which Xiaomi lacks. |
| Video | 4K@30fps with EIS, various 1080p options | 4K@60fps with EIS, various 1080p options | Realme GT Neo 3 has a slight edge with 4K@60fps recording for smoother videos; both have EIS for stabilization. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes (OIS) | Realme has OIS for more stable video while Xiaomi is missing Optical Stabilization. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Realme GT Neo 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4520mAh | 5000mAh | The Realme GT Neo 3 has a larger battery, potentially leading to longer battery life. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 80W Fast Charging | Realme GT Neo 3 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Charging Features | Supports QC3+/PD3.0 | Dual battery 2*2500mAh, in-box 80W charger | Realme's dual battery system and in-box fast charger provide quicker and more convenient charging. |
Other
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Realme GT Neo 3 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Realme GT Neo 3 has a slightly newer base OS. |
| Storage Options | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | Realme GT Neo 3 offers the option for 512GB of internal storage for users with many files or videos. |
| RAM Options | 6GB/8GB | 6GB/8GB/12GB | The Realme GT Neo 3 has a higher RAM option (12 GB), beneficial for demanding multitasking or games. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage; careful storage management might be needed. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Realme GT Neo 3's dual microphones and noise cancellation offer better audio recording and call quality. |
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | The Xiaomi Poco F3's side mounted fingerprint sensor is generally considered more practical and faster in some instances, although this is very subjective |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Hall, Geomagnetic, Fingerprint | Realme GT Neo 3 has a broader sensor suite for enhanced features. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Realme GT Neo 3 has a more modern Bluetooth version, potentially offering more efficient and stable connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), QZSS (L1 + L5) | The Realme GT Neo 3 supports more satellite systems for potentially more accurate location data. |
| Wifi | Wi-Fi MiMO | Not specified | Xiaomi offers additional WiFi tech features for enhanced speeds in some cases |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco F3 Advantages:
- Brighter Display: 1300 nits brightness offers better outdoor visibility in direct sunlight compared to Realme's 1000 nits.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint Sensor - Arguably faster in some instances compared to basic fingerprint sensor.
- WiFi MiMO - Additional wifi feature for faster speeds.
Realme GT Neo 3 Advantages:
- More Powerful Chipset: The Dimensity 8100 generally provides better performance compared to the Snapdragon 870.
- Larger Battery and Faster Charging: 5000mAh battery coupled with 80W charging provides superior battery life and convenience.
- Better Main Camera: Larger sensor and higher resolution on the main camera, along with a dedicated wide-angle and macro lens, provide more versatile and potentially better image quality, especially in low light.
- More RAM/Storage Options: The option for 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage for heavy users or gaming.
- Modern Bluetooth Version: Features the newer Bluetooth 5.3 for enhanced connectivity
- Additional Camera Features: Features like Optical Image Stabilization, Ultra Steady Video, Phase Detection AutoFocus and additional software features such as RAW and Night Mode improve camera performance.
Trade-offs:
- The Xiaomi Poco F3 sacrifices some camera versatility and battery/charging for a brighter display.
- The Realme GT Neo 3 prioritizes performance and camera versatility, but at the cost of slightly less sunlight visibility on the display.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco F3 Ideal Users:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Users who frequently use their phone in bright sunlight will benefit from its brighter display.
- Price-Conscious Gamers/General users: Those looking for a solid performer for gaming and general usage at a slightly lower price than the Realme.
Users Preferring Side Mounted Sensors: Those that like side mounted fingerprint sensors may prefer this phone.
Specific Use Cases:
- Navigating outdoors in bright sunlight
- Playing games indoors
- Streaming videos
Realme GT Neo 3 Ideal Users:
- Mobile Photographers: Users who prioritize camera versatility and quality, especially in low light.
- Power Users & Gamers: Heavy multitaskers and gamers that need the extra performance and RAM options.
- Users who Value Quick Charging: Those who hate waiting for their phone to charge.
- Users Preferring Better Location Accuracy: Users who frequently need accurate location data.
Users looking for the latest features: Those who like to stay up-to-date on the latest tech, such as the latest Bluetooth Version or additional software features.
Specific Use Cases:
- Capturing photos and videos in various settings.
- Playing demanding mobile games and heavy multitasking.
- Long days without access to a charger.
- Users wanting enhanced location accuracy.
Price-to-Value:
- The Xiaomi Poco F3 is typically more affordable, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious users.
- The Realme GT Neo 3 offers premium features for a slightly higher price, offering a better overall package for those who can justify the cost.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- How important is display brightness for your usage? (Bright sunlight vs. general usage)
- How much do you value camera performance, versatility, and additional features like OIS? (Basic shooting vs. advanced photography).
- How crucial is fast charging and long battery life? (Occasional top-ups vs. all-day battery reliance)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: "Bright Sun User": If you frequently use your phone under direct sunlight and need excellent visibility, the Xiaomi Poco F3 is the better choice.
Scenario 2: "Camera & Power User": If you prioritize camera quality and performance along with fast charging and long battery life, the Realme GT Neo 3 is the more well-rounded option.
Scenario 3: "Budget Gamer": If you are a gamer on a budget who still wants a smooth experience, the Xiaomi Poco F3 is a strong contender with its powerful chipset and brighter display while being less expensive.
My Choice and Explanation
I would choose the Realme GT Neo 3. While the brighter display of the Xiaomi Poco F3 is tempting, the Realme GT Neo 3's comprehensive package is more appealing for my needs. The combination of a faster chipset, significantly better camera with additional lenses and stabilization, much faster charging and bigger battery, larger RAM/Storage options and newer Bluetooth version makes it a much more versatile and future-proof device. Although the Poco F3 is a great phone and the side mounted fingerprint is prefered to some, I value the overall improvements of the Neo 3 more.
