1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.3 x 76.8 x 9.4 mm | 164.4 x 76.3 x 9.1 mm | Negligible size difference. X3 NFC is slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 215g | 192g | A04 is noticeably lighter, potentially more comfortable for one-handed use and extended periods. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | X3 NFC likely more resistant to scratches and impacts. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.67" | 6.5" | Slightly larger screen on X3 NFC, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | X3 NFC has a much sharper display, better for detailed images, text, and video. |
| PPI | 395 | 270 | X3 NFC has noticeably crisper text and images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | PLS LCD | IPS LCD typically offers better viewing angles and color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | Smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experience on X3 NFC. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is identical, however this appears to be missing data, and will affect outdoor visibility |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G (8nm) | Mediatek Helio P35 (12nm) | Snapdragon 732G is significantly more powerful, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 328,145 | 124,000 | X3 NFC offers a drastically superior user experience overall. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 618 provides significantly better graphics performance for gaming and demanding apps. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.89 | 50MP, f/1.8 | X3 NFC captures more detailed photos; A04 has a slightly wider aperture for potentially better low-light performance, but this is secondary to the large MP difference |
| Ultrawide Lens | 13MP | None | X3 NFC allows for wider field-of-view photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2 | 5MP, f/2.2 | X3 NFC captures significantly more detailed selfies. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps | 1080p@30fps | X3 NFC can record higher-resolution video. |
| Features | Quad Camera, 4K Video, EIS, Night Mode | Dual Camera, Panorama | X3 NFC offers more versatile shooting options and advanced features like image stabilization and night mode. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5160mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life expected, potentially lasting a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | No Fast Charging Specified | X3 NFC charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
Other
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 10 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | A04 has a more recent Android version out of the box, although both phones will reach Android 12/13 eventually. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (ac), Dual-Band, MIMO | Wi-Fi 5 (ac) | X3 NFC has better Wi-Fi capabilities due to MIMO Support. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.0 | Minor advantage to X3 NFC with newer Bluetooth |
| Security | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | None Specified | X3 NFC offers more convenient and secure unlocking. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC Advantages:
- Significantly Better Performance: The Snapdragon 732G offers a vastly superior experience compared to the Helio P35 in terms of speed, multitasking, and gaming.
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, PPI, 120Hz refresh rate, and better technology (IPS LCD) result in a sharper, smoother, and more vibrant viewing experience.
- Better Camera System: Higher resolution sensors, an ultrawide lens, and 4K video recording provide more versatility and higher quality photos and videos.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Enhanced Security: Fingerprint sensor for convenient and secure unlocking.
Practical Implications: The Poco X3 NFC is better for users who value performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and fast charging. It's suitable for gaming, media consumption, and photography.
Samsung Galaxy A04 Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: Slightly more comfortable for extended use.
- Newer OS at Launch: Comes with a slightly newer version of Android out of the box.
- Potentially Better Low Light Photos: Has a slightly wider aperture in the main camera
- Lower price: Possibly more budget-friendly (this depends on current market prices).
Practical Implications: The Galaxy A04 is geared towards basic smartphone use, prioritizing portability and having the latest OS (at launch).
Significant Trade-offs:
- Choosing the Galaxy A04 means sacrificing a lot of performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and fast charging for a slightly lighter device and a possibly lower price.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC:
- Gamers: The powerful processor and 120Hz display provide a smooth and responsive gaming experience.
- Media Consumers: The high-resolution display and stereo speakers are great for watching videos and movies.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The versatile camera system offers a variety of shooting options and high-quality images.
- Power Users: Those who need a phone that can handle multitasking, demanding apps, and heavy usage.
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A04:
- Budget-conscious users: Looking for a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light browsing.
- Users who prioritize portability: The lighter weight makes it more comfortable for carrying around.
- Users who value simplicity: A basic phone without a lot of extra features can be easier to use.
Specific Use Cases:
- Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC: Playing graphics-intensive games, watching 4K videos, taking high-quality photos and videos, using demanding apps, multitasking between multiple apps.
- Samsung Galaxy A04: Making calls, sending texts, browsing social media, checking email, and using basic apps.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is performance? If you plan to play games or use demanding apps, the Poco X3 NFC is the better choice.
- How important is display quality? If you value a sharp and smooth display for watching videos and browsing the web, the Poco X3 NFC is the better choice.
- What is your budget? If you are on a very tight budget, the Galaxy A04 might be a more affordable option (depending on current pricing).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming and Media Consumption: Choose the Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC for its superior performance, display, and audio.
- Scenario 2: Basic Smartphone Use on a Budget: If price is a primary concern and you only need a phone for basic tasks, the Samsung Galaxy A04 might suffice.
- Scenario 3: Photography and Videography: The Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC provides a more versatile camera system.
Conclusion - Which phone I would choose and why
I would choose the Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC.
Here's why:
The performance difference between the Snapdragon 732G and the Helio P35 is simply too significant to ignore. Even for everyday tasks, the snappier performance and smoother multitasking of the Poco X3 NFC would make a noticeable difference in user experience. The superior display quality, particularly the 120Hz refresh rate, would be a huge plus for media consumption and gaming. While the Galaxy A04 is lighter, the benefits of the Poco X3 NFC far outweigh the minor inconvenience of carrying a slightly heavier device. Ultimately, the Poco X3 NFC provides a much better value for the money, offering a premium experience at a mid-range price point. Even though it is an older phone, the specifications are better than the Samsung, providing a better user experience!
