1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Huawei nova 9 SE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 × 76.8 × 9.4 mm | 164.6 × 75.6 × 7.9 mm | Poco X3 Pro is slightly larger and thicker, may feel bulkier in hand. Nova 9 SE is slimmer and more pocketable. |
| Weight | 215g | 191g | Nova 9 SE is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. Poco X3 Pro is heavier, might feel less comfortable for some. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.78" | Nova 9 SE offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2388 | Both have similar sharpness, differences are negligible in real-world use. |
| PPI | 395 | 387 | Pixel density is similar; both displays will look equally sharp. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both have same panel technology; expect similar color accuracy and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Poco X3 Pro offers smoother scrolling and animations due to the higher refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is identical, but we do not have usable data; neither phone is expected to have an advantage here. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 860 (7 nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Poco X3 Pro has a significantly more powerful chipset, offering superior performance in apps and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 627,869 | 248,000 | Poco X3 Pro shows much higher performance, suitable for heavy multitasking and intensive gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 610 | Poco X3 Pro has a more capable GPU, resulting in better graphics performance, particularly in games. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5160mAh | 4000mAh | Poco X3 Pro has much larger battery capacity which should translate to longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 66W Fast Charging | Nova 9 SE charges much faster which is beneficial for quickly topping up the battery. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Nova 9 SE allows charging other devices but neither has a replaceable battery. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | Nova 9 SE has higher resolution sensor that can capture more details, while the Poco X3 Pro has wider aperture for better low-light. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2, 1/3.4" | 16MP, f/2.2 | Poco X3 Pro has higher resolution selfie camera, potentially leading to more detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" | N/A | Poco X3 Pro has a dedicated wide-angle lens, which is useful for landscape and group photos. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode, performance should be similar. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have dedicated macro lens, the performance should be similar. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2 | Nova 9 SE has a single lens that serves both wide-angle and macro purposes. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | Poco X3 Pro offers higher resolution video recording, providing more detail in recorded footage. |
| Additional Features | Standard features | Ultra stable video, PDAF, RAW, Night Mode | Nova 9 SE has advanced video stabilization, faster focus, raw capture, better night mode which gives extra flexibility. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 11 | Poco X3 Pro has a newer Android version and update while it's unconfirmed if the Nova 9 SE will have an update to Android 12 or later. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (WiFi 6) | Nova 9 SE has faster WiFi with lower latency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 | Both offer standard Bluetooth connectivity; Poco X3 Pro offers additional codecs (A2DP, LE). |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, BeiDou(B1) | Nova 9 SE has more GPS standards, potentially better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM usage. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both offer identical internal storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 6/8GB | Both are identical on RAM options, with similar performance in multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | Poco X3 Pro offers better audio quality and immersive experience with stereo speakers, while the Nova 9 SE offers basic audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Both have similar fingerprint sensor placement for security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Unknown | Poco X3 Pro has superior screen protection, offering greater durability. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Poco X3 Pro has more sensors, and can have more virtual features, while the Nova 9 SE has basic sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 860 chipset and Adreno 640 GPU provide much better performance, making it better for gaming and heavy tasks.
- Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate offers a smoother visual experience.
- Larger Battery: The 5160mAh battery provides longer usage time between charges.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers offer an enhanced audio experience.
- Higher Resolution Video: Records video up to 4K resolution.
- Wide-angle Lens: Dedicated wide-angle lens enhances versatility.
- Stronger Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass 6 provides superior scratch and shatter resistance.
Practical Implications: The Poco X3 Pro is suited for users who prioritize raw power, gaming, and media consumption, with its stronger chipset, higher refresh rate display, and better audio experience. It will last longer between charges.
Huawei nova 9 SE Advantages:
- Faster Charging: 66W fast charging allows for very quick battery top-ups.
- Lighter Design: Its lighter weight and thinner profile make it more comfortable to carry and hold.
- Better Main Camera: Higher resolution 108MP sensor potentially captures more details.
- More Camera Features: Features such as Ultra Stable Video, PDAF, RAW Capture, and dedicated night mode enhance camera versatility.
- Newer Wi-Fi: WiFi 6 support offers faster wireless speeds and better network performance.
- Reverse Charging: Can be used to charge other devices.
- GPS Standards: More GPS standards, potentially better location accuracy.
Practical Implications: The Nova 9 SE appeals to users who prioritize a lightweight design, fast charging, and a versatile camera system with additional features such as RAW mode and enhanced video stability. It's ideal for users who frequently use GPS or require charging other devices.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Poco X3 Pro compromises camera features (RAW, PDAF) for performance and overall higher resolution recording, while the Nova 9 SE sacrifices some raw power and battery for better photography and charging speeds.
- The Poco X3 Pro is heavier and bulkier but boasts a larger battery and better protection, while the Nova 9 SE is lighter and more portable but lacks expandable storage and superior screen protection
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro Ideal Users:
- Gamers: The powerful chipset, Adreno 640 GPU, and 120Hz refresh rate make it suitable for demanding mobile games.
- Power Users: Those who need a device for heavy multitasking, running demanding apps, and media editing.
- Media Consumers: The larger battery, high resolution video, and superior speakers cater to users who watch videos or stream content on the go.
- Users Who Want Durability: With Gorilla Glass 6, this device offers better scratch and shatter resistance.
Use Cases:
- Playing intensive mobile games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile.
- Editing videos or photos.
- Watching high-definition movies on the go.
- Long hours of heavy use away from a charger.
Huawei nova 9 SE Ideal Users:
- Social Media Enthusiasts: A versatile camera system with features like RAW and PDAF is perfect for taking and sharing photos and videos.
- On-the-Go Users: The lighter build and fast charging make it convenient for users who are often on the move.
- Users Needing a Secondary Device Charger: Reverse charging is useful for topping up other devices in a pinch.
- Users Who Prefer Lighter, Thinner Phones: More comfortable to carry for extended use.
Use Cases:
- Taking photos and videos for social media.
- Quickly charging the phone during short breaks.
- Using GPS for navigation.
- Charging wireless earbuds or other small devices.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Both phones offer good value for their price, with the Poco X3 Pro leaning towards performance and the Nova 9 SE towards camera and practical features. Actual pricing would vary per market.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case for the phone? (Gaming, photography, everyday usage)
- How important is battery life vs. charging speed? (Do you need long battery or quick top-ups?)
- Do you prefer a bulkier phone with better performance or a lighter, more portable one? (Comfort vs. power)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming and Performance Focused: If your main focus is gaming or demanding tasks, choose the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro. Its powerful hardware will provide smoother and faster experiences.
- Scenario 2: Photography and Social Media Focused: If you prioritize camera quality and features, along with a sleek design, choose the Huawei nova 9 SE. Its versatility in camera features is more suitable for creating content.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Everyday Use: If you need a balanced phone that offers a good mix of features, consider your preferences. If you value smoother performance and bigger battery, then the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro is better. If you want faster charging and prefer lighter phones, then the Huawei nova 9 SE is the better option.
- Scenario 4: Long Term Use/Durability: If you want the phone to last for longer with its screen in good condition, then the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro is the better choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would lean towards the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro. My primary need is for a device that can handle demanding tasks smoothly, which is something that the X3 Pro has shown to be far superior at in the benchmarks. While I appreciate the better camera system and fast charging of the Nova 9 SE, the significant performance gap, superior screen protection, and better speakers makes the X3 Pro a more appealing option for my personal usage. I also value having a phone that can last a full day, which the large battery on the X3 Pro will help achieve.
