Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Poco F3 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip3 offers a unique, compact form factor when folded, while the Poco F3 is a standard slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 163.7 x 76.4 x 7.8 mm | 166 x 72.2 x 6.9 mm | Poco F3 is wider and slightly thicker, potentially making it feel less comfortable in small hands. Flip3 is taller but narrower and thinner when unfolded. |
| Weight | 196g | 183g | Flip3 is lighter, making it slightly easier to handle for extended periods. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.67" | 6.7" | Both offer similar screen real estate; the difference is negligible. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2640 | Z Flip3's slightly higher resolution provides a marginally sharper image. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 395 | 426 | Z Flip3 will display slightly crisper text and images due to its higher PPI. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Not specified | Poco F3's AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors. Lack of information on Z Flip3 display tech makes it difficult to do full comparison. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animation, enhancing user experience. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1200 nits | Poco F3 is slightly easier to view under direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7 nm) | Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Z Flip3's chipset offers slightly better performance and improved power efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 800,216 | 898,700 | Z Flip3 is expected to perform slightly better, especially in demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 660 | Z Flip3's GPU offers marginally improved graphics performance, beneficial for gaming and video editing. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 12.2MP | Poco F3 captures more detailed images in well-lit conditions due to higher resolution. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.8 | Both have similar light-gathering capabilities, minimal difference in low light. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/2.55" | Poco F3's larger sensor could capture more light and details. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.40 µm | Z Flip3's larger pixel size can capture more light per pixel, improving low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 20MP | 10MP | Poco F3 captures more detailed selfie photos. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.4 | Slightly wider aperture of the Z Flip3 may slightly benefit low-light selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.4" | 1/3.2" | Z Flip3’s slightly larger sensor can capture more light per pixel. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | 13MP | Z Flip3 offers an additional camera for ultra-wide shots. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p up to 960fps (EIS) | 4K@60fps, 1080p up to 240fps (HDR), 720p@960fps (HDR) | Z Flip3 offers 4K 60fps recording with HDR, while Poco F3 records up to 960fps in 1080p. Z Flip3 offers image stabilization compared to EIS on the Poco F3. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Available | 111 (Mobile), 118 (Photo), 110 (Video) | Z Flip3 has been tested by DXOMark, providing an objective measure of its camera capabilities. |
| Features | Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Manual focus | Dual camera, OIS, PDAF | Poco F3 features a triple camera with more control. The Z Flip3 has OIS for better image stability and PDAF for faster focus. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4520mAh | 3300mAh | Poco F3's significantly larger battery offers much better battery life. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | Poco F3 charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | QC3 + / PD3.0 Fast Charging protocol | Reverse Charging | Poco F3 is compatible with fast charging protocols for broader compatibility, Flip3 can charge other devices wirelessly. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco F3 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: Offers significantly better battery life, ideal for heavy users and all-day use.
- Faster Charging: Reduces charging time, offering more convenience.
- Brighter Display: Provides better outdoor visibility.
- AMOLED Display Technology: Delivers superior visual quality with deeper blacks and vibrant colors.
- Higher Resolution Main & Selfie Camera: Captures more details in good lighting conditions.
- Better Audio Quality: Enhanced audio with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res.
- Lower Price: Generally more affordable, offering better value for money.
- Triple camera: Allows for more versatile photos due to the number of lenses.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Offers a unique and compact form factor, making it highly portable.
- More Advanced Chipset: Provides slightly better overall performance, especially in demanding tasks.
- Higher Resolution Screen: Slightly sharper screen with higher pixel density.
- Wider Angle lens: Ability to take ultra-wide shots.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Enhanced image and video stabilization.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Allows users to wirelessly charge other devices.
- Premium Build Quality: Features superior screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus.
- eSIM Support: Provides the flexibility to switch carriers digitally.
- Better Video Performance: Offers higher quality video recording (4k@60fps).
Significant Trade-offs:
- Poco F3: Lacks the foldable convenience, slightly inferior chip, smaller main camera pixels and lacks OIS.
- Z Flip3: Significantly weaker battery life, slower charging, and higher price.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco F3 - Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users: Seeking high performance without a premium price tag.
- Heavy users: Requiring long battery life for extended use throughout the day.
- Gamers: Benefiting from its high refresh rate, decent chipset, and good audio.
- Multimedia Consumers: Appreciating the vibrant AMOLED display and high-quality sound.
- Users focused on performance: Prioritizing a fast and responsive smartphone for everyday tasks.
Specific Use Cases for Poco F3:
- All-day usage without battery anxiety.
- Gaming on the go with smooth graphics and high refresh rate.
- Watching videos and consuming multimedia content with superior visual quality.
- General smartphone usage, web browsing, social media, and communication.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G - Ideal User:
- Fashion-forward users: Valuing unique design and compact form factor.
- Early adopters: Interested in innovative technology and flexible displays.
- Users prioritizing portability: Appreciating its pocket-friendly size when folded.
- Those who value brand prestige: The premium Samsung brand carries a certain weight.
- Users wanting to take high-quality videos: The OIS is excellent for videos.
Specific Use Cases for Z Flip3:
- Easily fitting in small pockets or bags when folded.
- Taking pictures and videos with a unique perspective due to the foldable design.
- Showcasing the unique design to others.
- Quickly checking notifications or capturing pictures while folded.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Xiaomi Poco F3 offers a better price-to-performance ratio, providing more features for less money.
- The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is a premium device focused on design and innovation, justifying its higher price for some consumers.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case? (e.g., gaming, photography, portability)
- How important is battery life to you? (All-day battery or charging more frequently)
- What is your budget? (Value-oriented or willing to pay for premium features)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy user, limited budget: Choose the Xiaomi Poco F3. It offers excellent performance, battery life, and display quality at a more affordable price point.
- Scenario 2: Portability and unique design are key: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G. Its foldable design provides a convenient, compact form factor and is a status symbol.
- Scenario 3: High-quality photos/videos: Both phones take excellent photos. Consider the Z Flip3 for its OIS.
Personal Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Xiaomi Poco F3. My primary concern is battery life and overall value for money. While the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is an innovative and stylish device, its smaller battery, higher price, and marginally better performance are not sufficient to outweigh the Poco F3's superior battery life and comparable performance. I value practical features that enhance daily use, and the Poco F3 simply offers a better user experience based on my needs and priorities, combined with better value for money.
