Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy M55
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 x 76.8 x 9.4 mm | 163.9 x 76.5 x 7.8 mm | M55 is slightly smaller and thinner, making it more pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use. The X3 Pro is noticeably thicker. |
| Weight | 215g | 180g | The M55 is significantly lighter, which enhances comfort during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.7" | Both have similar screen size; negligible difference in daily use |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both offer the same level of sharpness and detail. |
| PPI | 395 | 393 | Nearly identical pixel density; visuals are virtually indistinguishable. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors, leading to a superior viewing experience, especially in dark environments. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations, ideal for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical peak brightness - the value is not informative |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 (4 nm) | The M55's newer 4nm chip offers slightly better performance and power efficiency compared to the X3 Pro's 7nm chip. |
| AnTuTu Score | 627,869 | 698,000 | The M55 achieves better benchmark scores, indicating marginally better performance in demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 644 | The Adreno 644 in M55 offers better graphics processing power, which may translate into smoother gaming and video editing experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.79 | 50MP, f/1.8 | M55 has slightly higher resolution sensor and X3 Pro has slightly wider aperture; real-world picture quality will depend on the processing. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2 | 50MP, f/2.2 | M55 has much higher selfie resolution for more detailed pictures and video calls. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both phones have the same wide angle camera capability. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | X3 Pro has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode, while M55 relies on software. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer a 2MP macro lens, which is adequate for close up shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p up to 960 fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p up to 240 fps | M55 has OIS providing greater video stabilisation |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5160 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both have similar battery sizes, suggesting comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 45W fast charging | The M55 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Both are non-removable |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 14 | M55 offers a newer operating system and likely better long-term software support. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5, MIMO | Wi-Fi 6 | M55 has newer WiFi technology which can provide faster speeds and more stability if supported by your home network |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.2 | M55 has newer Bluetooth which will provide a more stable connection and better efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, NavIC System | M55 has more robust support for satellite navigation systems, giving greater accuracy of location |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both have the same storage options; no expandable storage available |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB | M55 has 8GB as standard, providing better performance in multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos | The X3 Pro has better speakers; the M55 has more immersive sound through headphones. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | The X3 Pro has a more accessible fingerprint reader |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Gorilla Glass 5 | X3 Pro has a newer generation screen protection for scratch resistance |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | X3 Pro has a better range of sensors for use with games |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro Advantages:
- Stronger Build: Gorilla Glass 6 offers better scratch resistance than Gorilla Glass 5
- Wider range of Sensors: The X3 pro has more sensors, ideal for gaming
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers offer better overall audio quality
Samsung Galaxy M55 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED display provides better colors and contrast.
- Marginally Better Performance: Newer chipset and higher benchmark scores for smoother experience.
- Faster Charging: 45W charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Better Cameras: Higher resolution selfie and main cameras
- Better Video Quality: Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) makes videos smoother
- Newer Software: Android 14 provides access to new features and better long term support
- Better Connectivity: Newer WiFi and Bluetooth specifications
Trade-offs:
- The X3 Pro is heavier and thicker which might make it harder to use for longer periods.
- The M55 doesn't have a physical depth sensor which may mean portrait photos are slightly worse.
- The X3 Pro's screen technology is older, meaning visuals aren't as immersive.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro:
- Ideal User: Gamers, users who prioritise audio quality, those who prefer a robust and heavy phone.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming: The X3 Pro's strong processor, high refresh rate, and range of sensors make it great for gaming.
- Multimedia consumption: Stereo speakers and Hi-Res Audio enhance the audio-visual experience.
- Users who like robust phones: The X3 Pro has a solid build and thicker construction.
- Price-to-Value: If available at a significant discount compared to the M55, the X3 Pro still offers good gaming capabilities and a decent display.
Samsung Galaxy M55:
- Ideal User: Mainstream users who want a better display, camera, and faster charging. Users who like a lighter, thinner device.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday use: The better camera, fast charging, and updated software make it perfect for daily tasks and communication.
- Photography and social media: Higher resolution cameras provide better photos and video.
- Media consumption: AMOLED display provides immersive viewing experiences.
- Price-to-Value: The M55 provides a better all-around experience with its superior display, camera, faster charging, and newer software.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my primary use case? (Gaming, photography, everyday use, etc.).
- How important is display quality to me? (Color accuracy, contrast, brightness)
- What are my priorities with Battery and Charging?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy gaming is the priority.
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro - the phone's range of sensors will provide a better gaming experience.
- Scenario 2: High-quality photography and video and overall user experience is the focus.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M55 - the better cameras and OIS will provide more quality.
- Scenario 3: Everyday use, and a better display is desired,
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M55 - the AMOLED display, faster charging, and newer software provide a better overall experience.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy M55. Here's why:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen is a significant advantage for me. The richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast enhance media consumption and overall user experience.
- Faster Charging: 45W charging is a game-changer, significantly reducing downtime and ensuring that I am not constantly waiting for my phone to charge.
- Better Cameras: The higher resolution cameras (both main and selfie) and OIS for video recording will provide better-quality photos and video.
- Newer Software and Connectivity: The latest Android OS and updated connectivity options are important for future-proofing and a more stable user experience.
While the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro offers a very capable chipset for gaming and better sound with its stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio, I find that the overall user experience provided by the Galaxy M55, especially its display quality and camera capabilities, outweighs the benefits of the X3 Pro. The M55 is just a better all-around phone for my needs.
