Okay, let's dive deep into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi 10 and the Huawei nova Y70 Plus. As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I'm here to break down the specs and give you a clear picture of what each phone brings to the table, focusing on how these specs translate to your everyday use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the key technical specifications, along with their real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 10 | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 162 × 75.5 × 8.9 mm, 181g | 168.3 × 77.7 × 9 mm, 199g | Redmi 10 is more compact and lighter, which may feel more comfortable for one-handed use and extended periods. The Nova Y70 Plus is larger and heavier, may be more challenging to handle |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.75" | The Nova Y70 Plus offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | The Redmi 10’s higher resolution will produce a sharper and more detailed picture, making text clearer and images more vivid. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 405 | 260 | Redmi 10’s higher pixel density results in significantly sharper visuals and better clarity for text and images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | The IPS LCD on the Huawei offers good viewing angles and color reproduction. | |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Redmi 10's smoother refresh rate enhances scrolling and gaming experiences. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both identical peak brightness at 0 nits |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Kirin 710A (14nm) | The Helio G88 in the Redmi 10 should provide faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,600 | 103,500 | Redmi 10 shows superior overall performance, translating into snappier response and better gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 (Arm Mali-G52 MC2) | Mali-G51 MP4 (PowerVR GE8320) | Redmi 10’s GPU will likely offer more robust graphics performance, beneficial for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.8), 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 48MP (f/1.8) | Both have similar apertures, but Redmi 10 has a slightly bigger sensor and pixel size, often resulting in better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) | 8MP (f/2.0) | Similar selfie camera specs, expect similar results for selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP (f/2.2), 1/2.8", 1.14µm | 5MP (f/2.2) | Redmi 10 has a higher resolution wide-angle lens, allowing for more detailed wide shots |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both devices should produce similar results for portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | N/A | Redmi 10’s macro lens enables close-up photography. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion: Yes, 120 fps | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion: Yes, 120 fps | Similar video capabilities for standard recording needs. |
| Features | 4K Video, Quad Camera, RAW | 4K Video, Triple camera, PDAF | Redmi 10 has a quad-camera setup and RAW image support for more versatility in photography, while the Huawei has PDAF for faster focusing. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | The Nova Y70 Plus has a larger battery, which should offer better battery life, but real endurance can vary based on usage. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging, Reverse 9W Wired charging | 22.5W Fast Charging | The Nova Y70 Plus has slightly faster wired charging. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Non-removable | Redmi 10 can be used as a power bank for other devices, a useful backup feature. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Redmi 10 comes with a specific Android version while the Huawei uses a different system. | |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11b/g/n | Redmi 10 offers newer WiFi standard, allowing faster connection when using compatible router |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, LE, APT-X | 5.1, LE, EDR, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Huawei supports more bluetooth codecs, which may results in higher fidelity audio playback on supported devices |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Huawei supports more satellite systems which can lead to a more accurate location |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both support dual sim functionality which provides enhanced flexibility for users using multiple carriers |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB or 128GB | 64GB or 128GB | Both have similar options, allowing users to choose according to their need |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6GB | 4GB | Redmi 10 offers higher RAM options allowing better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No expandable storage | No expandable storage | Both does not support extra storage with the use of MicroSD card |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Basic audio | Redmi 10 offers stereo speakers for a more immersive audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Provides similar level of biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi 10 is equipped with Gorilla Glass 3 providing better scratch resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Redmi 10 offers more sensor options which may support enhanced features. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi 10 Strengths:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and pixel density (1080p vs 720p) and 90Hz refresh rate offer a much sharper and smoother visual experience.
- Better Performance: The Mediatek Helio G88 chipset and higher AnTuTu score translate to faster app loading, better multitasking, and more responsive gaming.
- Enhanced Camera System: The quad-camera setup with a higher resolution wide-angle lens, plus the macro lens, makes it more versatile.
- Reverse Charging: Ability to charge other devices using reverse wired charging at 9W.
- Advanced Wireless Connectivity: Supports newer WiFi standards which may be faster compared to older devices.
- Audio Experience: Offers Stereo speakers which are superior to the Nova's basic audio experience
- Better Screen Protection Comes with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.
- More Sensors: Features Gyroscope, Compass and Ultrasonic proximity sensor
Huawei Nova Y70 Plus Strengths:
- Larger Battery: The 6000mAh battery offers significantly longer battery life, ideal for those who need their phone to last throughout the day.
- Faster Charging: Offers slightly faster 22.5W charging speed.
- Better Location Accuracy: Supports more satellite systems, allowing more precise location tracking.
- Bluetooth Codec Support: Supports advanced bluetooth codecs such as EDR, LDAC, SBC and AAC which may provide higher fidelity audio playback
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Redmi 10: While its performance is better, it has a smaller battery.
- Redmi 10: Does not support any storage expansion
- Nova Y70 Plus: The display resolution and processor are weaker than the Redmi 10, potentially affecting visual quality and performance in demanding scenarios.
- Nova Y70 Plus: Does not support any storage expansion
- Nova Y70 Plus: Lacks stereo speakers and other advanced features such as a gyroscope, compass and ultrasonic proximity sensor
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 10 is ideal for:
- Users who value display quality: Those who consume media, read a lot, or play games will appreciate the higher resolution and smoother refresh rate.
- Gamers: The better performance and GPU will provide a smoother gaming experience.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The versatile quad-camera setup with additional features is a significant advantage.
- Tech-Savvy Users: Those who want advanced features like reverse charging and more sensors
Huawei nova Y70 Plus is ideal for:
- Users needing long battery life: People who prioritize battery endurance over performance or display quality.
- Users with basic needs: Those who need a reliable phone for standard tasks, like calls, texts, and browsing.
- Audiophiles: The inclusion of advanced bluetooth codec support will be important for them.
- Users needing accurate GPS: Those who require accurate location tracking and navigation.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you choose between the Redmi 10 and the Nova Y70 Plus:
- How much do you value screen quality and performance?
- If this is a top priority, the Redmi 10 is the better choice.
- Do you need your phone to last for more than a day without charging?
- If so, the Nova Y70 Plus, with its larger battery, is more suitable.
- What kind of photography do you do?
- If you like to experiment with different perspectives and do close up shots, the Redmi 10 offers more versatility.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Multimedia Lover: The Redmi 10’s superior display makes it ideal for watching videos and playing games, whilst also having a better sound experience due to the stereo speakers.
- For the Power User on the Go: The Huawei Nova Y70 Plus is a better fit with its incredible battery life, and fast charging.
- For the Budding Photographer: The Redmi 10 offers a more versatile and feature rich camera system, allowing you to capture diverse photography options.
My Choice and Why
If I were personally choosing between these two phones, I would lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi 10.
While the Nova Y70 Plus's battery life is undeniably appealing, the Redmi 10's combination of a significantly better display, superior performance, versatile camera system, and advanced features make it a more compelling package for me. As someone who uses their phone for various tasks, including content consumption, occasional gaming, and photography, the Redmi 10's superior tech specifications are more relevant to my daily needs. The added reverse charging feature is a great added bonus as well.
Ultimately, the "better" phone depends on individual priorities. For those who need the absolute best battery life, the Nova Y70 Plus is a solid choice. However, for most users seeking a well-rounded experience, the Xiaomi Redmi 10 offers more value and features.
