Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi 10 and the Sony Xperia 5 IV. We're not just looking at numbers here; we're figuring out what these specs mean for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the key specifications, presented with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 10 | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm | 156 x 67 x 8.2 mm | The Redmi 10 is noticeably larger and thicker, feeling bulkier in hand and pocket compared to the more compact Xperia 5 IV. |
| Weight | 181g | 172g | The Xperia 5 IV is lighter, which may result in more comfortable use during extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.1" | The Redmi 10 provides a larger screen for media consumption and gaming, while the Xperia 5 IV is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2520 | The Xperia 5 IV has a slightly sharper display, but both offer crisp visuals for most daily tasks. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 405 | 449 | The Xperia 5 IV will have slightly finer details and text clarity. |
| Technology | - | OLED | The Xperia 5 IV uses an OLED panel, offering superior contrast, deep blacks, and vibrant colors compared to an unspecified tech in the Redmi 10. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The Xperia 5 IV offers smoother scrolling and animations for a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both devices' brightness is missing in these specs, it seems. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G88 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | The Xperia 5 IV's chipset is much more powerful, providing vastly superior performance for gaming, demanding apps, and overall speed. |
| Antutu Score | 253,600 | 1,021,542 | The Xperia 5 IV is significantly faster, offering a much smoother and responsive experience compared to the Redmi 10. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Adreno 730 | The Adreno 730 in the Xperia 5 IV is a considerable upgrade, allowing for better graphics in games and demanding applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res. | 50MP | 12MP | While the Redmi 10 has higher megapixel count, the Xperia 5 IV's larger sensor size and pixel size typically results in better overall image quality, especially in low light. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.7 | The wider aperture on the Xperia 5 IV lets in more light, potentially improving low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.76" | 1/1.7" | Larger sensor on the Xperia 5 IV captures more light resulting in improved image quality |
| Selfie Camera Res. | 8MP | 12MP | The Xperia 5 IV offers a higher resolution front camera with better light sensitivity. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP | Xperia 5 IV's dedicated telephoto lens offers optical zoom capabilities not available on the Redmi 10. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP | 12MP | Xperia 5 IV's wide lens has larger sensor size than the one on the Redmi 10 |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP (depth) | None | The Redmi 10 has a dedicated depth sensor while the Sony relies on software algorithms. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | None | The Redmi 10 offers a dedicated macro lens, while the Sony doesn't |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@120fps | The Xperia 5 IV's video capabilities are vastly superior, with 4K recording at higher frame rates and HDR support. |
| DXoMark Score | - | 119 (Mobile) | The Xperia 5 IV has a tested and proven camera performance, whereas there's no data on the Redmi 10. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both devices have similar battery capacity, promising similar day-long use, although the Xperia's more powerful processor may draw more power. |
| Charging | 18W | 30W | The Xperia 5 IV charges faster, meaning less time tethered to a charger. |
| Features | 9W reverse charging | Bypass charging | The Redmi 10 can reverse charge other devices with 9W, while the Xperia 5 IV can directly power the phone when plugged in without using the battery. |
| Other | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | The Xperia 5 IV ships with a newer version of Android and is expected to receive further updates to version 13. |
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | The Xperia 5 IV has the newer standard, providing faster wireless speeds, better latency and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | The Xperia 5 IV has the newer standard offering improved range and power efficiency. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM, eSIM | Sony Xperia 5 IV supports eSIM for digital carrier switching. Xiaomi Redmi 10 supports using two SIMs simultaneously. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 8 GB | The Xperia 5 IV offers a smoother multitasking experience with its higher RAM. |
| Storage | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | The Xperia 5 IV offers more base storage. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones don't support expandable storage. |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xperia has higher audio quality. |
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones use similar biometric security technology |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Xperia 5 IV offers better protection for the screen with a more durable glass. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi 10
Strengths:
- Larger Display: A bigger screen for comfortable media consumption.
- Affordability: Positioned as a budget-friendly option.
- Reverse Charging: Can reverse charge other devices, which is useful at times.
Competitive Advantages:
- Lower Price Point: Significantly cheaper, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Depth and Macro Cameras: Offers dedicated sensors for close-up and portrait shots, while not high quality, are versatile.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Weaker Performance: Significantly slower than the Xperia 5 IV.
- Lower Quality Camera System: Lower sensor sizes and older software resulting in lower quality pictures and videos.
- Slower Charging: Will take longer to fully charge.
- Basic Display Technology: Lacks the vibrant colors and deep blacks of an OLED display.
Sony Xperia 5 IV
Strengths:
- Superior Performance: Top-tier processor for smooth and fast operation.
- High-Quality Display: Vibrant OLED panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
- Advanced Camera System: Excellent image quality, optical zoom and 4K recording with HDR and OIS.
- Faster Charging: Charges faster than the Redmi 10, offering more convenience.
- High Quality Audio: Offers the user high-quality and spatial audio experience
- More RAM: Much more RAM leading to faster and more fluent multitasking.
Competitive Advantages:
- Premium Build and Materials: Higher quality glass protection.
- Advanced Video Capabilities: Records 4K video up to 120fps and supports HDR and OIS.
- Better Wireless Connectivity: Supports the newer standard in both Wifi and Bluetooth.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Higher Price: Significantly more expensive than the Redmi 10.
- Smaller Display: While higher resolution, the screen is smaller than the Redmi 10's display.
- Lacks Dedicated Macro Camera: No dedicated sensor for macro shots.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 10
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users looking for a larger screen for general use, casual social media, and light gaming.
- Use Cases: Watching videos, browsing social media, and basic productivity tasks.
- Recommendation: A solid choice for anyone who needs a budget phone without demanding heavy gaming or photography.
Sony Xperia 5 IV
- Ideal User: Tech enthusiasts, content creators, and users who prioritize performance, high-quality visuals and audio and camera capabilities.
- Use Cases: Gaming, photography, videography, content creation and editing, media consumption, and running demanding applications.
- Recommendation: Perfect for those who want a flagship-level experience in a more compact form factor and are ready to pay a premium for that.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to consider when deciding between the Xiaomi Redmi 10 and the Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- What is your budget? If you are on a strict budget, the Redmi 10 is the obvious choice. However, if you can afford it the Sony has much to offer.
- How important is performance? If you plan to do intensive tasks such as high demanding games, the Sony is much faster. If you plan to only use it for social media, the Redmi might be sufficient for you.
- How important are Camera and video quality? If the highest camera quality is a must-have, the Sony Xperia 5 IV would be the obvious choice. If it is not a priority for you, the Redmi 10 might suffice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Casual User: If your priority is browsing, social media, and watching videos, the Xiaomi Redmi 10 will do well, saving you some money.
- Mobile Gamer: For gamers and performance-hungry users, the Sony Xperia 5 IV’s processor will deliver superior performance.
- Content Creator: The Sony Xperia 5 IV is the best choice for people who shoot photos and videos regularly and require high quality, offering better camera quality and video capabilities with OIS, HDR and 4K at high framerate options.
- Budget-Conscious User: If you want the best smartphone possible for the lowest cost, the Xiaomi Redmi 10 would be the best choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would go with the Sony Xperia 5 IV. Here’s why:
As a tech journalist and someone who values the overall user experience, performance is critical for me. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in the Xperia 5 IV offers a substantial performance advantage, ensuring smooth multitasking and enjoyable gaming experiences. Additionally, its superior camera system allows for much higher quality photos and videos, and I value a good camera in my daily life.
While the Redmi 10 is a fantastic budget option, the significant gap in performance, display quality, and camera capabilities make the Xperia 5 IV the more compelling choice for me. The price difference is significant, but for the features offered and my specific needs, the Xperia 5 IV would provide a far more satisfying and capable device.
