Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date April 28, 2021 February 17, 2023
Release Year 2021 2023

Physical

Volume 108.43 cm³ 113.58 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.42 "/g 2.91 "/g
Weight 190 g 234 g
Height 161.8 mm 163.4 mm
Width 75.3 mm 78.1 mm
Thickness 8.9 mm 8.9 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Chrome Silver
  • Graphite Gray
  • Nighttime Blue
  • Aurora Green
  • Red
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Sky Blue
  • Lime
  • BMW M Edition

Display

Screen Size 6.5 " 6.8 "
Resolution 1080 x 2400 1440 x 3088
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 83.7 % 89.5 %
Pixel Density 405 PPI 500 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness 400 nits N/A
HBM Brightness 500 nits 1200 nits
Peak Brightness N/A 1750 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 118.34 mAh/in² 108.13 mAh/in²
Battery Density 46.11 mAh/cm³ 44.02 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A510)
GPU Mali-G57 MC2 Adreno 740

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 3.2
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0 USB Type-C 3.2, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 13
Maximum OS Version 17

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureXiaomi Redmi Note 10 5GSamsung Galaxy S23 UltraPractical Impact
Design
Launch Date2021-04-282023-02-17S23 Ultra is significantly newer, likely with longer software support.
Form FactorStandardStandardBoth are standard smartphones.
Dimensions161.8 × 75.3 × 8.9 mm163.4 × 78.1 × 8.9 mmS23 Ultra is slightly larger, but both have similar thickness.
Weight190g234gRedmi Note 10 5G is significantly lighter, better for comfortable one-handed use.
Display
Size6.5"6.8"S23 Ultra offers a slightly larger screen for a more immersive experience.
Resolution1080x24001440x3088S23 Ultra has a much sharper display, leading to crisper text and images.
Pixel Density (PPI)405500S23 Ultra's higher pixel density makes the display noticeably more detailed.
TechnologyIPS LCDAMOLEDS23 Ultra's AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency for dark themes.
Refresh Rate90Hz120HzS23 Ultra provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations.
Brightness0 nits1750 nitsS23 Ultra is dramatically brighter, making it much easier to use outdoors in direct sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetMediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm)Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)S23 Ultra's chipset is significantly faster, leading to smoother app performance, gaming, and multitasking.
AnTuTu Score381,3001,521,862S23 Ultra has much higher performance, noticeable in demanding apps and games.
GPUMali-G57 MC2Adreno 740S23 Ultra has a more powerful GPU, resulting in superior graphics performance in games and other graphically intensive tasks.
Battery
Capacity5000mAh5000mAhBoth phones have the same battery capacity, suggesting comparable battery life, but usage varies.
Charging18W fast charging45W fast chargingS23 Ultra charges much faster, reducing downtime.
FeaturesReverse chargingBypass ChargingRedmi Note 10 5G can charge other devices wirelessly, while S23 Ultra can power the phone without charging the battery.
Camera
Standard Camera48MP, f/1.79, 1/2" sensor200MP, f/1.7, 1/1.3" sensorS23 Ultra captures far more detail and performs better in low light.
Telephoto + PortraitN/A12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.52" sensorS23 Ultra offers zoom capabilities and better portrait mode.
Selfie Camera8MP, f/2.012MP, f/2.2S23 Ultra captures higher-resolution selfies, while the Redmi Note 10 5G has a slightly wider aperture.
Telephoto LensN/A12MP, f/4.9, 1/3.52" sensorS23 Ultra offers additional zoom range.
Wide Angle LensN/A12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensorS23 Ultra has a dedicated wide-angle camera, capturing more in each shot.
Portrait Mode2MP, f/2.4N/ARedmi Note 10 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode.
Macro Lens2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" sensorN/ARedmi Note 10 5G offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.
Video Recording1080p@30fpsUp to 8K@30fpsS23 Ultra records higher quality videos with more features like HDR, EIS and Stereo sound.
DXOMarkN/A140 (Mobile)S23 Ultra has a high score, suggesting a very capable camera system.
Camera FeaturesBasic setExtensive setS23 Ultra has optical zoom, OIS, RAW, and more, providing more creative control and options.
Software
OSAndroid 11Android 13S23 Ultra has a more recent operating system, offering better features and security.
Max Android VersionN/A17S23 Ultra is expected to receive many more software updates
Connectivity
WiFi802.11acWiFi 6 (802.11ax)S23 Ultra supports a faster and more reliable WiFi standard.
Bluetooth5.15.3S23 Ultra has a newer Bluetooth version with more features.
GPSBasic GPSAdvanced GPSS23 Ultra offers more accurate location tracking with additional systems.
SIMDual SIM (Nano)Dual SIM (Nano/eSIM)S23 Ultra offers eSIM support, providing more flexibility.
Storage
Internal64/128/256 GB256/512/1024 GBS23 Ultra provides more storage capacity for files and media.
RAM4/6/8 GB8/12 GBS23 Ultra has more RAM for better multitasking.
Expandable StorageNoNoNeither phone supports expandable storage.
Audio
Audio QualityHi-Res AudioHi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation micS23 Ultra offers better audio output through stereo speakers and clearer calls with a noise cancellation mic.
Security
Fingerprint SensorSide-mountedBasicRedmi Note 10 5G features a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor
Build Quality
Screen ProtectionGorilla Glass 3Gorilla Glass VictusS23 Ultra has more robust screen protection against scratches and drops.
Sensors
SensorsBasic setBarometer, Gravity, Hall, GeomagneticS23 Ultra has a more comprehensive set of sensors for advanced functionality.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G Advantages:

  • Lighter Weight: At 190g, it's much more comfortable for prolonged one-handed use.
  • Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient and intuitive unlocking than basic sensors.
  • Reverse Charging: Ability to charge other devices, which can be handy in a pinch.
  • Lower Price: While not provided, its age and specifications typically mean it’s much more affordable.

Practical Implications: Ideal for budget-conscious users needing basic smartphone functionality, who value comfort and physical features over top-tier performance and display.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Advantages:

  • Superior Display: Larger, higher resolution, brighter AMOLED display with a higher refresh rate.
  • Significantly Faster Performance: Top-tier chipset and GPU for smoother app loading, multitasking, and gaming.
  • Much More Advanced Camera System: Higher-resolution sensor, better low-light performance, telephoto and wide-angle lenses, superior video recording capabilities.
  • Faster Charging: 45W fast charging significantly reduces charging times.
  • More Storage and RAM: Higher storage options and more RAM enhance multitasking and future-proofing.
  • Advanced Connectivity: Faster WiFi, newer Bluetooth version, more accurate GPS.
  • Superior Software Support: Newer Android version with guaranteed future updates.
  • Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers, noise cancellation microphone for better sound.
  • More Comprehensive Sensors: Barometer and additional sensors offer more functionality.

Practical Implications: Best for power users seeking the best possible performance, display, camera quality and features. A much better option for demanding applications, creative content creation and professional users.

Significant Trade-offs:

  • Price: The S23 Ultra is expected to be significantly more expensive, placing it out of reach for budget-conscious consumers.
  • Weight: The S23 Ultra is noticeably heavier, potentially less comfortable for extended use or one-handed operation.
  • Portability The S23 is significantly larger and may not be as pocketable as the Xiaomi.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G Ideal User:

  • Budget-conscious users: Those who prioritize affordability over cutting-edge technology.
  • Casual smartphone users: Individuals who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light media consumption.
  • Users who value physical comfort: Prefer a lighter phone that is easier to hold.
  • Users who need basic camera functionality and do not require high-quality photography.

Specific Use Cases:

  • Everyday communication: Calls, texts, email.
  • Light media consumption: Casual browsing, YouTube videos, music.
  • Basic social media use.
  • Users requiring a long-lasting battery.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Ideal User:

  • Power users: Those who require top-tier performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
  • Photography enthusiasts: Users who want the best camera quality and features.
  • Professionals: Users who need high-resolution displays and productivity features.
  • Users who want the latest technology: Desire the best display, performance, and connectivity.
  • Users willing to pay a premium: Those who are comfortable with a higher price for top-of-the-line specifications and experience.

Specific Use Cases:

  • High-end gaming with demanding graphics.
  • Professional photography and videography.
  • Video and photo editing on the go.
  • Multitasking between heavy applications.
  • Business use cases needing top productivity features.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone?
  2. Primary Use: What will you be using your phone for the most (gaming, photography, basic use)?
  3. Key Features: What features are most important to you (display quality, camera, performance, portability)?

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious & Basic Use
    • Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G is the clear choice due to its affordability and suitability for essential tasks.
  • Scenario 2: Premium Performance and Photography
    • Recommendation: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the superior option if the budget allows, due to its unmatched performance and camera system.
  • Scenario 3: Balanced Performance and Price
    • Recommendation: This depends on what your priorities are. If you absolutely need a lighter phone and you are on a tight budget, the Redmi Note 10 5G is your choice. However, if you can push the budget a little more for a much superior experience, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the way to go.

My Choice

If I had to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G is a capable phone for its price point, the S23 Ultra offers a vastly superior user experience across nearly every metric that is important to me:

  • Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is a beast, offering fluid performance for all tasks. The Redmi Note 10 5G's Mediatek chip would be significantly slower for my multitasking needs.
  • Display: As a frequent media consumer, the S23 Ultra's AMOLED display would be a joy to use, thanks to its vibrant colors, high resolution, and excellent brightness.
  • Camera: I am an avid photographer, and the S23 Ultra's advanced camera system with its versatile lenses and pro-level features is something I'd use daily.
  • Software and Updates: I expect to use a smartphone for at least 3-4 years. Samsung's commitment to software updates for its flagship devices is an important factor for long-term usability.

While the S23 Ultra's higher price and weight are drawbacks, I am willing to accept these trade-offs for the vastly superior experience it offers. The Redmi Note 10 5G is a good option for those on a tighter budget, but the S23 Ultra is a much better fit for my particular needs and expectations.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.