Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro vs. Nothing Phone (2)
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | Nothing Phone (2) | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 x 76.5 x 8.1 mm | 162.1 x 76.4 x 8.6 mm | Redmi Note 10 Pro is taller but thinner; Nothing Phone (2) is slightly more compact, but thicker, impacts in-hand feel and pocketability |
| Weight | 193g | 201.2g | Xiaomi is lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use; difference is noticeable but not drastic |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.7" | Negligible difference; both offer similar screen real estate for content consumption |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2412 | Virtually identical sharpness; both provide clear viewing experience |
| Pixel Density | 395 PPI | 394 PPI | Nearly identical; both have sharp and clear displays |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar quality; Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 1600 nits | Nothing Phone (2) display is significantly brighter, offering better visibility in direct sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 732G (8nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Nothing Phone (2) offers substantially better performance, faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 397,200 | 1,135,786 | Nothing Phone (2) has much higher performance; Redmi Note 10 Pro good for everyday use, but Nothing Phone (2) is much better for intensive tasks |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 730 | Nothing Phone (2) has a more powerful GPU, resulting in superior graphics performance for gaming and demanding apps |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" | Xiaomi has higher resolution, but the Nothing phone has a wider aperture and larger pixels, which can result in better low light performance and dynamic range; different sensors, image quality differs |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13" | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/2.74" | Nothing Phone (2) has higher resolution and slightly larger sensor, which should result in sharper, better quality selfies |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.2 | 50MP, f/2.2 (Wide Angle + Macro) | Xiaomi offers a dedicated wide angle, while Nothing Phone (2) offers a combined Wide Angle + Macro lens that may provide more flexibility |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | Combined with wide angle | Xiaomi has a dedicated macro lens, Nothing Phone (2) combines it with the wide angle, potentially better for versatility |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP, f/2.4 | No dedicated depth sensor | Xiaomi has a dedicated depth sensor; Nothing relies on software |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Nothing Phone (2) offers more advanced video features with HDR, OIS, and EIS; both support 4K, but Nothing provides stabilization and higher frame rates |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5020mAh | 4700mAh | Redmi Note 10 Pro has a slightly larger battery; likely to have slightly better battery life, but it can vary with usage |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 45W fast charging, 15W wireless, 5W reverse wireless | Nothing Phone (2) charges faster and offers wireless and reverse wireless charging, more convenient |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 (upgradable to 16) | Nothing Phone (2) has a newer OS and will receive more updates; potentially better user experience over time |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Nothing Phone (2) supports newer WiFi standard, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and better performance in crowded networks |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Nothing Phone (2) uses a newer Bluetooth version for better connectivity and range. |
| GPS | Standard GPS Systems | Standard GPS Systems + QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), NavIC | Nothing Phone (2) supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy, especially useful in challenging environments |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Nothing Phone (2) offers higher storage options, especially useful for media-heavy users |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8/12 GB | Nothing Phone (2) has more RAM for superior multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports storage expansion |
| Audio & Security | |||
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo speakers | Hi-Res, Stereo speakers, 3 microphones | Both phones have good audio capabilities, Nothing has 3 microphones for better calls and recordings |
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint | Basic fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 10 Pro has a more advanced sensor |
| Build Quality & Sensors | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | Redmi Note 10 Pro uses a superior screen protection |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro features a ultrasonic proximity sensor while the Nothing Phone (2) comes with a normal proximity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro Advantages:
- Slightly Lighter: The Redmi Note 10 Pro is marginally lighter, which may be noticeable during extended use.
- Larger Battery: The slightly larger battery may provide marginally longer battery life.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Sensors: It offers a dedicated macro lens and depth sensor for specific photography needs.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: A more advanced and conveniently placed fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocks.
- Screen Protection: Redmi Note 10 Pro uses Gorilla Glass 5 for better screen protection
Nothing Phone (2) Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset provides significantly faster performance, better for gaming and demanding apps.
- Significantly Brighter Display: With 1600 nits, it offers better outdoor visibility, a big plus for bright sunlight viewing.
- More Advanced Video: Offers 4K recording at 60fps with HDR, OIS, and EIS, for better video quality and stabilization.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Charging: The 45W fast charging and wireless charging capabilities make it more convenient to charge.
- Newer OS and More Software Updates: The Nothing Phone (2) comes with a newer Android version (13), and can be upgraded to Android 16.
- Larger Storage and RAM Options: It has up to 512GB of storage and 12GB of RAM for heavier users and demanding tasks.
- Newer connectivity: WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 offers faster and more reliable connectivity
- More GPS Systems: Offers better GPS accuracy with more satellite systems
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro: While it's cheaper and has slightly better battery capacity, it lacks the raw power and advanced features of the Nothing Phone (2).
- Nothing Phone (2): While it has superior performance, it's more expensive and has a slightly smaller battery than the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro. It also lacks dedicated depth and macro sensors, as well as screen protection.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a decent performing phone at a lower price.
- Casual users: People who prioritize battery life for everyday tasks and don't require high-end performance.
- Users needing specific camera features: Those who regularly use macro and depth sensors for photography.
- Users that prioritize a lighter phone: Those seeking a phone that is lighter than most other phones.
Use Cases:
- Daily social media use, browsing, emails, and calling.
- Taking casual photos and videos in good lighting.
- Light gaming and moderate multitasking.
- Users on a tight budget who still need a reliable phone.
Nothing Phone (2) Ideal User:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Those who need a phone for heavy gaming, video editing, and demanding tasks.
- Users wanting a premium experience: Those looking for better performance, display quality, and charging options.
- Photography enthusiasts: Those who want more advanced video features and good low-light capabilities.
- Users needing modern connectivity: Those seeking the latest WiFi and Bluetooth standards.
Use Cases:
- High-end gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
- Frequent photography and videography, especially in challenging lighting.
- Users who require a fast, reliable and versatile phone.
- Users who will benefit from modern connectivity standards.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro: Offers very good value for budget-conscious buyers who don't need top-tier performance.
- Nothing Phone (2): It is expensive but justified by its high-end features, performance and premium quality.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: Do you need a phone for high-end gaming and demanding tasks, or will basic tasks suffice?
- Budget: What is your maximum budget for a new smartphone?
- Camera Priorities: Do you prioritize specific camera features like dedicated macro lenses, or do you need better overall camera quality and video?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If you're on a tight budget, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro is a great option, offering decent performance and battery life for everyday use.
- Scenario 2: Performance Seeker: If you need top-tier performance for gaming and demanding apps, the Nothing Phone (2) is the clear winner.
- Scenario 3: Camera Enthusiast: If you take lots of photos and videos, especially in low light or require advanced video features, the Nothing Phone (2) is a better choice.
- Scenario 4: Balanced User: If you are looking for a well rounded phone at an affordable price, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro is a good option, however the Nothing Phone (2) is still better if you can afford it.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would pick the Nothing Phone (2). While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro is a great value for its price, the Nothing Phone (2)'s superior performance, brighter display, faster charging, and more advanced camera features make it the better choice for my needs. I prefer the long-term value of the Nothing Phone (2)'s updated software and better connectivity options, as well as the faster and smoother user experience. Despite the higher price, the long-term value is worth the investment.
