Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. These two phones seem remarkably similar on paper, but let’s uncover the nuances that make a difference in everyday use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the key specs, comparing the two phones and explaining their real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-23 | 2022-10-07 | Virtually identical release timeline. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-folding phones. |
| Dimensions | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm | Identical size, similar feel in hand. |
| Weight | 200g | 200g | Both are moderately hefty, should feel balanced. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.58" | 6.58" | Good for media and everyday use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2408 | Sharp visuals for the size. |
| PPI | 401 | 401 | Pixel density is more than adequate. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Good color reproduction and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | (Data Missing) Needs more info, this could effect outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Efficient performance for daily tasks, some gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,300 | 381,300 | Similar overall performance benchmark. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Identical graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 13MP | Redmi 10 5G should produce sharper more detailed images in good lighting. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/2.2 | Redmi 10 5G performs better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 5MP | 5MP | Similar selfie capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.2 | Redmi 10 5G slightly better in low light. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP | 2MP | Similar portrait mode quality. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Standard video recording quality. |
| Camera Features | Extensive | Extensive | Both have wide array of features, including 4K Video, Digital zoom, and HDR. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should easily last a full day. |
| Charging | 18W Fast | 18W Fast | 18W is adequate but not very fast, will take some time to recharge fully. |
| Features | Reverse, Non-removable | Reverse, Non-removable | Can use the phone to charge other devices but cannot swap battery. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 | Both on same operating system. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | Supports dual band Wi-Fi for fast connection. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE | Good for audio and other connections, low energy. |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Accurate GPS location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Accommodates two SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 64/128 GB | Sufficient storage for most needs. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 4/6 GB | Good for moderate multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Features | Redmi 10 5G has much better audio quality with greater immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Fast and convenient access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Good scratch resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Full Suite | Full Suite | Full sensor suite for all modern features. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G Strengths:
- Superior Main Camera: The 50MP main camera with f/1.8 aperture should deliver much sharper images, particularly in low-light, compared to the Poco M4 5G’s 13MP sensor.
- Enhanced Audio: The inclusion of Hi-Res Audio and Stereo Speakers gives the Redmi 10 5G a distinct advantage for media consumption and audio quality.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G Strengths:
- Solid Overall Package: The M4 5G provides a balanced set of features with a reliable performance at a very similar price, making it good value for money.
- Value: The phone provides a good balance for users looking for a solid phone on a budget
Similarities and Trade-offs:
- Performance: Both phones use the same Dimensity 700 chipset, meaning their performance is almost identical in terms of speed.
- Display: Both devices have identical IPS LCD panels with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering a similar visual experience.
- Battery: The 5000mAh battery and 18W fast charging are identical, leading to similar battery life.
- Storage: Both offer up to 128 GB of storage, but neither phone supports expandable storage.
- Design: They have the same dimensions and weight, and offer a similar build quality with the same level of screen protection, so feel very similar.
- Software: Both phones launch with Android 12.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G:
- Ideal User: This phone is excellent for users who prioritize camera quality and multimedia enjoyment with great sound, especially those who often take pictures and listen to music or watch movies on their phones.
- Use Cases: Great for social media enthusiasts who frequently take pictures, anyone who enjoys higher fidelity audio, or for those who watch videos on their phone.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G:
- Ideal User: Great for those who want a reliable 5G smartphone at a great value. It suits casual users who need a phone that performs all daily tasks without a hitch.
- Use Cases: A good all-around choice for daily use, social media, and moderate gaming, without needing the best camera or sound features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your buying decision:
- How much does camera quality matter to you? If you take pictures often or need good low-light performance, the Redmi 10 5G’s superior 50MP main sensor will make a difference.
- Do you often listen to music or watch videos on your phone? If so, the Redmi 10 5G’s Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers would provide a significantly better experience.
- Is getting the most for your money your main goal? The Poco M4 5G is a solid phone and offers very similar performance at likely a lower price point due to its slightly lower specifications.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Photographer: If taking great photos is a priority, the Redmi 10 5G with its better camera and low-light performance is the better choice.
- For the Audiophile: If you listen to music or enjoy watching videos, the Redmi 10 5G’s hi-res audio and stereo speakers are a great upgrade from the standard audio on the M4 5G.
- For the Budget-Conscious User: If you want the best performance for the money, the Poco M4 5G is a good choice. It provides a good balance of all features for a more affordable price.
Final Choice
Personally, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G. The better main camera and superior audio output are important to me. While the phones are very similar in many aspects, the significantly enhanced camera and audio on the Redmi 10 5G provides enough of a difference to justify it. Even though the price difference may be a bit more, I think the improvements in the camera and audio provide a lot of value. It also would be suitable for a wide variety of users, from social media enthusiasts to media consumers. The better low light performance would be especially good in many use cases.
