Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Xiaomi Poco X3 GT and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. These two phones sit at different price points and cater to slightly different user needs, but both offer excellent value. Let’s break down the key differences and what they mean for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specifications of each phone, along with their practical implications for users:
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 GT | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 × 75.9 × 8.9 mm | 164 × 76.1 × 8.9 mm | Virtually identical sizes, both are large phones |
| Weight | 193g | 200g | X3 GT is slightly lighter, a little more comfortable for long usage |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.58" | Nearly identical sizes, very similar experience |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2408 | Very similar pixel density, both are sharp and clear |
| PPI | 399 | 401 | Visually indistinguishable in terms of sharpness |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Similar color and viewing angles |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | X3 GT is smoother in scrolling, animation, and gaming |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Neither phone's peak brightness is available, affecting sunlight visibility |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 1100 (6 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | X3 GT has significantly faster CPU, better for demanding tasks |
| Antutu Score | 745,283 | 381,300 | X3 GT is nearly twice as powerful, noticeably faster in everyday use and gaming |
| GPU | Mali-G77 MC9 | Mali-G57 MC2 | X3 GT offers better graphics performance, smoother gaming and editing |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera | 64MP f/1.79 | 13MP f/2.2 | X3 GT's main camera captures more detail and performs better in low light |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.45 | 5MP f/2.2 | X3 GT takes higher resolution selfies with better clarity |
| Portrait Camera | None | 2MP f/2.4 | M4 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps | X3 GT captures higher resolution, smoother slow-motion, and overall more versatile video |
| Camera Features | Triple camera, 4K, RAW, Night Mode, Panorama | Dual camera, 4K, Night Mode | X3 GT has more versatile camera features |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones offer all-day battery life for most users |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | X3 GT charges significantly faster, full charge in a fraction of the time |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Non-removable, Reverse charging | M4 5G allows to reverse charge other devices |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | M4 5G comes with a newer Android version out of the box |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | X3 GT supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.1 LE | X3 GT has a newer Bluetooth version with higher quality codecs |
| GPS | QZSS, BeiDou (B1) | Basic GPS suite | X3 GT offers more accurate location services |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 64/128 GB | X3 GT offers up to 256GB of built-in storage for all media files |
| RAM | 8GB | 4/6 GB | X3 GT has more RAM, better multitasking |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio Features | X3 GT has superior audio features including immersive surround sound |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted Fingerprint | side-mounted Fingerprint | Both have basic biometric security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | X3 GT has much more robust screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Proximity | X3 GT has more sensors for gaming and more advance features |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Poco X3 GT:
- Strengths: The X3 GT is a powerhouse, offering significantly superior performance, a smoother display, a more versatile camera system, much faster charging, better audio, more robust build quality and more accurate location services.
- Competitive Advantages: The Dimensity 1100 chipset provides a massive performance boost over the M4 5G, making it ideal for gamers and heavy users. The 120Hz display and the 67W fast charging are also significant advantages.
- Trade-offs: It's slightly heavier and older than the M4 5G. It lacks a dedicated portrait camera and is not running the latest android version.
- Limitations: No expandable storage and no reverse charging.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G:
- Strengths: The M4 5G is a solid entry-level 5G phone. It is cheaper, has a newer Android version out of the box and includes reverse charging capabilities.
- Competitive Advantages: It's more affordable, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers. It has the newer Android version, and reverse charging.
- Trade-offs: It is significantly slower than the X3 GT with inferior display, camera and audio features. The charging speed is considerably slow.
- Limitations: Limited camera quality and capabilities, basic audio features, basic GPS support and slower charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco X3 GT is best suited for:
- Gamers: The powerful chipset, 120Hz display, and excellent audio make for a fantastic gaming experience.
- Power Users: Those who multitask heavily, edit photos/videos, or need smooth performance for demanding apps will appreciate the X3 GT.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The 64MP camera, 4K recording, and features like RAW support and night mode offer a lot of versatility and advanced photo editing features.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G is best suited for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Perfect for users who need a reliable 5G smartphone without breaking the bank.
- Casual Users: Ideal for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and basic app usage.
- Users Who Value Software Update: If you want a phone that is running the newest Android version this is your phone.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, ask yourself these questions:
- Performance: How important is raw power and smooth performance for my daily usage? If gaming and heavy apps are a priority, the X3 GT is the better choice.
- Budget: What's your absolute budget limit? If you are on a strict budget and don't need the extra bells and whistles, the M4 5G is a good deal.
- Camera: How crucial is a high-quality camera system? If you take a lot of pictures and videos in different lighting scenarios, the X3 GT provides far more advanced capabilities.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Gaming Enthusiast: Go for the X3 GT. The performance and display are tailored for demanding games.
- Budget Shopper: The M4 5G is an excellent budget option.
- Multimedia Lover: The X3 GT’s superior audio, camera and video features are worth the investment.
- Casual User: The M4 5G will provide a smooth and stable user experience for basic tasks.
Final Verdict
If raw power, advanced camera features, and a superior media experience are your priorities, the Xiaomi Poco X3 GT is the clear winner, even at a higher price point. If you need a capable 5G smartphone on a tight budget, the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G offers an excellent value proposition.
What I Would Choose and Why:
Personally, I would choose the Xiaomi Poco X3 GT. As a tech journalist and someone who enjoys gaming and multimedia consumption, the X3 GT's performance boost, smoother display, superior camera capabilities, faster charging, and higher quality audio features are worth the investment. The much improved screen protection would offer peace of mind, and a longer lifespan for the device. The difference in price is justified by a much improved experience, and a significantly faster phone.
