Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro vs. Xiaomi Poco M4 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed breakdown of the specifications for both phones, emphasizing practical impacts:
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165.3x76.8x9.4 mm | 164x76.1x8.9 mm | Poco M4 5G is slightly more compact and thinner, likely making it feel more comfortable in hand and pocket. X3 Pro is a bit more bulky. |
| Weight | 215g | 200g | M4 5G is lighter, which means it will be easier to use for long periods. The X3 Pro might feel hefty, especially for prolonged use. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.67" | 6.58" | Minimal difference in size, negligible for most users. Both offer large screens suitable for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2408 | Virtually identical, resulting in similarly sharp images. Pixel density is high enough for crisp text and graphics on both devices. |
| PPI | 395 | 401 | Negligible difference. Both screens will appear equally sharp to the naked eye. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both phones will have similar color reproduction and viewing angles as they use same type of screen. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | X3 Pro provides smoother animations and scrolling, which is beneficial for gaming and fast-paced content. M4 5G has a slightly less smooth visual experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is not available in the specs for either phone, limiting this comparison. Actual usage experience in direct sunlight cannot be determined. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 (7nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) | X3 Pro's chipset is significantly more powerful, allowing for smoother performance in demanding tasks like gaming and heavy multitasking. M4 5G is sufficient for daily tasks but not gaming at the highest level. |
| AnTuTu Score | 627,869 | 381,300 | X3 Pro offers much better performance, resulting in faster app loading, smoother gameplay, and overall quicker response times. M4 5G will be significantly slower in app and gaming performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Mali-G57 MC2 | X3 Pro’s GPU provides superior graphics rendering capabilities, improving game performance and graphic-intensive app usability. M4 5G will have lower performance in graphics intensive situations. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2", Sony IMX582, 0.8µm | 13MP, f/2.2, No sensor info and pixel size available | X3 Pro captures much more detailed photos due to higher resolution and larger aperture. It will perform better in low light. M4 5G will likely produce lower quality images due to its lower sensor specs. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2, 1/3.4", Samsung S5K3T2, 0.8µm | 5MP, f/2.2, No sensor info and pixel size available | X3 Pro captures much sharper and more detailed selfies with a much higher megapixel count. M4 5G is lower resolution that will result in less detail in photos |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4", Omnivision OV8856, 1.12µm | None | X3 Pro offers greater versatility with its dedicated wide-angle lens, which allows capturing broader scenes and more people in frame. M4 5G lacks this functionality and is limited to the standard lens. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", Omnivision OV02B1B, 1.75µm | 2MP, f/2.4, No sensor info and pixel size available | Both phones have a basic 2MP depth sensor for portrait mode. The quality of the depth effect will be similar as the sensors are very close in specifications. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", Hynix HI-259, 1.75µm | None | X3 Pro has a dedicated macro lens to take close-up shots. M4 5G lacks this lens limiting its capabilities. |
| Video | 4K@30fps with EIS, up to 960fps slow motion, EIS | 1080p@30fps, no slow motion capabilities | X3 Pro captures higher-resolution video, with smoother stabilization and better slow-motion capabilities. M4 5G is more limited in its video recording capabilities. |
| Features | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | X3 Pro has a more advanced camera system with features like manual focus and continuous shooting. M4 5G has night mode for better low-light shots. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5160mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life, likely lasting a full day for average users. The difference in capacity is negligible. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 18W fast charging | X3 Pro charges faster, reducing downtime. M4 5G will take longer to charge, which can be inconvenient for users who need quick power-ups. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | M4 5G offers the added convenience of reverse charging other devices. |
Other
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 with max version of 12 | Android 12, no max version | M4 5G has a newer operating system out of the box, likely with minor improvements and security enhancements. X3 Pro could have reached the end of its Android updates and therefore not receive future updates. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac, Wi-Fi MiMO, Dual band | 802.11ac, Wi-Fi MiMO, Dual band | Both phones support the latest WiFi standards and therefore the wifi performance is expected to be the same |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.1 with EDR, HID | M4 5G has a slightly newer Bluetooth version, potentially offering marginal speed or battery efficiency benefits. X3 Pro has a wider range of audio codec support for higher quality audio over Bluetooth. |
| Storage | 128GB or 256GB, No expandable | 64GB or 128GB, No expandable | X3 Pro offers significantly more internal storage, which is better for users who store large media files. Lack of expandable storage means users need to select the correct model based on their needs. |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 4GB or 6GB | X3 Pro offers more RAM which will result in better multitasking performance. The X3 Pro will be able to handle more apps and data without lag. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | X3 Pro will offer a much better media consumption experience. Stereo speakers are more immersive. Hi-res audio can provide better quality sound with compatible devices. |
| Security | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer the same basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | X3 Pro offers better scratch and drop resistance due to the more modern screen protection. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Both have a standard set of sensors, with X3 Pro having an Ultrasonic proximity sensor that can lead to better sensing performance. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro Advantages
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 860 chipset offers significantly higher performance, making it ideal for gaming, heavy multitasking, and resource-intensive applications.
- Enhanced Camera System: The 48MP main sensor, 20MP front camera, and presence of wide-angle and macro lenses provide more versatile and higher quality photography options.
- Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate offers a more fluid user experience, especially for scrolling, gaming, and fast animations.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging reduces downtime and is more convenient.
- More Storage/RAM Options: X3 Pro has greater storage and RAM configurations.
- Superior Audio: Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers provide a better media consumption experience.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G Advantages
- Newer Android Version: Ships with Android 12, potentially offering better software features, security, and a longer software support life.
- Lighter Design: The M4 5G's reduced weight makes it more comfortable for prolonged use.
- Reverse Charging: You can use the phone to charge other devices.
- Slightly Better Bluetooth Version: Potential for more efficient and stable connections.
Trade-offs
- X3 Pro: Heavier, older software, lacks reverse charging and may not get further software updates.
- M4 5G: Significantly lower performance, lacks versatility of a triple camera system, slower charging, lower quality audio, and lacks advanced features found on the X3 Pro.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro
- Ideal User: Gamers, power users, photography enthusiasts, individuals who prioritize performance and a smooth user experience.
- Use Cases: High-end mobile gaming, video editing, heavy multitasking, high-quality photography and videography, media consumption.
- Price-to-Value: Offers exceptional performance at its price point, making it a great value for users who need a powerful phone without breaking the bank.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users, everyday users who prioritize portability and battery efficiency over raw power, basic usage.
- Use Cases: Basic social media browsing, communication, light media consumption, basic gaming, and users who need a longer battery life.
- Price-to-Value: A very affordable 5G option, making it attractive for users with a limited budget or who do not need high performance.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions potential buyers should consider:
- How important is performance?
- If High: Choose the Poco X3 Pro for demanding tasks and gaming.
- If Low: The Poco M4 5G is adequate for basic use.
- How crucial is camera quality and features?
- If High: The Poco X3 Pro offers superior versatility and image quality.
- If Low: The Poco M4 5G is sufficient for basic snapshots.
- What is my budget and are specific features essential?
- Budget-Conscious: The Poco M4 5G is more affordable.
- Feature Focused: The X3 Pro provides the best value for money if specific features are important, such as a 120hz screen, faster charging, or stereo speakers.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Gamer: The Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro is the clear winner due to its superior processor and 120hz screen.
- Budget Buyer: The Xiaomi Poco M4 5G provides decent performance for basic daily tasks at a very affordable price.
- Casual User: The Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro provides a smoother and more enjoyable day to day experience.
- Photography Enthusiast: The Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro is the better choice because of its wide and macro lens as well as better overall sensors.
- Long Term User: The Xiaomi Poco M4 5G may have a longer software support life as it is released much later.
Personal Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro. The performance difference is too significant to ignore. The Snapdragon 860 chipset combined with a 120Hz display and a better camera system make it a far more compelling device. While the Poco M4 5G is newer and lighter, the X3 Pro offers a more enjoyable and versatile user experience, especially for my needs, which include demanding apps, photography, and gaming. The lack of future updates is a negative point but considering the price difference and performance gain, it's an acceptable tradeoff.
