Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro vs. Nothing Phone (2a)
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Nothing Phone (2a) | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 × 76.8 × 9.4 mm | 161.7 × 76.3 × 8.6 mm | Nothing Phone (2a) is more compact and thinner, potentially more comfortable to hold and carry. |
| Weight | 215g | 190g | Nothing Phone (2a) is significantly lighter, reducing fatigue during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.7" | Negligible difference in size, both offer a large viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2412 | Almost identical sharpness; both offer sharp, detailed visuals for daily use. |
| PPI | 395 | 394 | Virtually identical pixel density; displays will appear equally sharp. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Nothing Phone (2a) offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and potentially better battery life with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1300 nits | Nothing Phone (2a) offers vastly superior screen visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7200 Pro (4 nm) | Nothing Phone (2a)'s newer, more efficient chipset may offer slightly better performance and battery efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 627,869 | 688,952 | Nothing Phone (2a) scores approximately 10% higher on AnTuTu, indicating slightly better performance in demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Mali-G610 MC4 | Both GPUs offer good gaming performance, but their architecture is different. Real-world gaming performance may vary based on the game. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Slight difference in resolution. Nothing Phone (2a) has a larger sensor which tends to improve image quality, particularly in low light. |
| Standard Lens Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.88 | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro has a slightly wider aperture, theoretically allowing in more light. |
| Standard Lens Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.56" | Nothing Phone (2a) has a larger sensor which generally allows better light capture and lower noise, improving image quality in most conditions. |
| Standard Lens Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.00 µm | Nothing Phone (2a) has larger pixels, enhancing light gathering, resulting in better low light performance. |
| Selfie Lens Resolution | 20MP | 32MP | Nothing Phone (2a) offers higher resolution selfies, potentially more detail. |
| Selfie Lens Sensor Size | 1/3.4" | 1/2.74" | Nothing Phone (2a) has a larger selfie sensor, resulting in better light capture and potentially better image quality. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP (Dedicated) | 50MP (Wide Angle + Macro) | Xiaomi has dedicated wide angle lens. Nothing Phone (2a) has wide angle and macro combined into one sensor. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | 2MP | No Dedicated | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro has a dedicated depth sensor, which may offer better portrait mode with better background blur. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | 50MP (Wide Angle + Macro) | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. Nothing Phone (2a) uses its wide-angle lens for macro shots, possibly leading to better macro image quality due to higher resolution. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Both offer 4K video at 30fps, adequate for most users. |
| Video Stabilisation | EIS | EIS, OIS | Nothing Phone (2a)'s OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) should provide superior video stabilization, reducing shakiness compared to Xiaomi's EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) only. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, manual focus | Dual camera, OIS, PDAF, RAW, Night Mode | Nothing Phone (2a) has features like OIS, PDAF, RAW support, and Night mode, often resulting in better overall photo and video quality, especially in low light. Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro has manual focus which gives more control over the focus. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5160mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacities, providing comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 45W fast charging | Nothing Phone (2a) charges faster, resulting in shorter charging times. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 14 (upgradable to 17) | Nothing Phone (2a) has much newer OS with longer software support. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Nothing Phone (2a) supports newer Wi-Fi 6 for faster speeds and lower latency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Nothing Phone (2a) has newer Bluetooth, potentially more stable and energy efficient. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), NavIC System | Nothing Phone (2a) has more GPS systems support for better and accurate positioning. |
| Other | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8/12 GB | Nothing Phone (2a) offers more RAM, useful for heavy multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows storage expansion. |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers, Hi-Res Audio | Stereo Speakers, Hi-Res Audio, 3 microphones | Nothing Phone (2a) has additional microphones for better audio capture and clarity. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic Fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint sensors are considered faster and more convenient by some users. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro has more scratch resistant screen protection. |
| Sensors | Ultrasonic Proximity | Proximity, Gravity | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro has additional sensor. Nothing Phone (2a) has a gravity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro Advantages:
- Slightly Wider Main Camera Aperture: The f/1.79 aperture may perform slightly better in very low-light situations.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Sensors: Offers a dedicated macro lens and depth sensor, which can be preferable for some users over relying on a single combined lens.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Some users prefer side-mounted fingerprint sensors to those embedded in the screen.
- Ultrasonic proximity sensor
- Corning Gorilla Glass 6: Offers slightly more protection against scratches.
Nothing Phone (2a) Advantages:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED panel provides better contrast, deeper blacks, and potentially better battery efficiency.
- Significantly Higher Brightness: 1300 nits is crucial for outdoor visibility in bright conditions, making it much better for outdoor use.
- Newer, More Efficient Chipset: The MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro is more modern, offering better performance, particularly in terms of efficiency and thermal management.
- Higher AnTuTu Score: Slightly better overall performance in demanding tasks, which is likely due to newer chipset.
- Larger Main Camera Sensor: The larger sensor (1/1.56") will lead to better low-light performance, superior dynamic range, and less noise in photos.
- OIS (Optical Image Stabilization): Significantly better video stability than EIS alone.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: The 32MP selfie camera will capture more detail than the 20MP of Poco.
- Newer Android OS: Android 14, which comes with a range of feature upgrades and likely longer support lifespan.
- Faster Charging: 45W charging will reduce charging time compared to 33W.
- More GPS support: Better positioning and accuracy due to more satellite systems.
- Newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Faster speeds and more stability compared to older standards.
- More RAM: 12GB RAM will allow for more heavy multi-tasking and better performance for heavy gamers.
- RAW support: Gives more control over photo editing for photographers.
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro: Older hardware and software, heavier, and less impressive display.
- Nothing Phone (2a): Lacks dedicated macro and depth sensors, and does not include a charger in the box.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who are primarily focused on getting the most power for their budget and don't need the latest display tech.
- Users who prefer a side-mounted fingerprint sensor
- Users who value physical buttons: Those who still prefer more physical controls rather than relying on touch interfaces.
- Gamers: Who prioritize a high refresh rate display along with a powerful processor.
- Users who want additional camera sensors: Users who want macro and depth sensors for creative photography.
Specific Use Cases for Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro:
- Mobile Gaming: The Snapdragon 860 provides a powerful processor for smooth gaming performance.
- Daily Multitasking: Can handle most daily tasks and apps with its available RAM, although it's not as future-proof as the Nothing Phone (2a).
- Casual Photography: Decent camera performance for social media and general use, but struggles compared to the Nothing Phone (2a) in challenging conditions.
Nothing Phone (2a) Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize Display Quality: Those who want a superior display for media consumption and general use.
- Users who value camera quality: Those who take photos and videos regularly and need a capable camera system.
- Users who value build quality: Users who want more premium materials and design.
- Users who want longer software support Those who want a phone that will receive updates for a longer time.
- Users who prioritize outdoor visibility: Those who frequently use their phones in bright sunlight.
- Users who want faster charging
- Users who want better audio capture and clarity
Specific Use Cases for Nothing Phone (2a):
- Media Consumption: The AMOLED display is excellent for watching videos, movies, and browsing through photos.
- General Photography: The Nothing Phone (2a) is capable of taking better images compared to Poco, especially in low-light conditions.
- Outdoor Use: The high brightness screen makes it easily usable in bright sunlight.
- Long Term Use: Its newer software and updated hardware will allow it to remain relevant for longer than the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality for you? If you value vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good outdoor visibility, the Nothing Phone (2a) is the clear winner.
- How important is camera quality, and do you need OIS? If you are a frequent photographer or videographer, the Nothing Phone (2a)'s camera with OIS is far superior.
- How important is fast charging and software updates? If you need fast charging times and longer software support, the Nothing Phone (2a) is the better choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget Gamer: If your primary focus is gaming and you have a very tight budget, the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro can still serve you well.
- Casual user seeking best all-around experience: For most general use cases including social media, browsing, photography, and occasional gaming, the Nothing Phone (2a) is better.
- Frequent Traveler/Outdoor user: The Nothing Phone (2a) with its higher brightness screen will be much better for viewing content on the go.
What I would choose and why
I would choose the Nothing Phone (2a).
Here’s why: While the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro might offer a slightly more budget-friendly option, the Nothing Phone (2a) provides a far more well-rounded user experience that better fits my needs and preferences.
Here are the key reasons:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen of the Nothing Phone (2a) is a game-changer. The deep blacks, vibrant colors, and significantly higher brightness levels make media consumption much more enjoyable. Also, it is much better in outdoor visibility.
- Camera Advantage: The Nothing Phone (2a)'s larger sensor and OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) are crucial for better image and video quality. As someone who values good quality photos, especially in low light, the Nothing Phone (2a) is the clear winner.
- Newer Technology and Longer Lifespan: The MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro chipset, Wi-Fi 6, and newer Bluetooth offer better overall performance and ensure future compatibility. The Nothing Phone (2a) also ships with Android 14, guaranteeing a longer software support lifespan.
- Overall User Experience: The Nothing Phone (2a)'s lighter weight, faster charging, and additional microphones significantly enhance the overall user experience.
- More accurate Positioning The additional satellite support provides accurate positioning for navigation.
While I appreciate the dedicated macro and depth sensors on the Poco X3 Pro, I find them less critical than the improvements in display, camera, and software support that the Nothing Phone (2a) provides. In summary, the Nothing Phone (2a) is a more modern, well-rounded smartphone that addresses my key preferences for display quality, camera capabilities, and long term usability.
