Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S vs. Blackview A96
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.5 x 74.5 x 8.3 mm | 161.8 x 74.2 x 8.6 mm | Blackview A96 is slightly taller and thicker, negligibly impacting pocketability. |
| Weight | 178.8g | 193.9g | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.5" | Very similar screen sizes, negligible practical difference. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Identical sharpness, both offer detailed viewing. |
| PPI | 409 | 405 | Similar pixel density; both offer sharp images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, more vibrant colours, and superior power efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Blackview A96 provides smoother scrolling and animations, a more fluid experience. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. Blackview A96 brightness is unknown, but expected to be lower. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm) | Helio G99 in Blackview A96 is more power efficient, potentially leading to better battery life during heavy use. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 423,393 | Both phones offer nearly identical performance in everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has a more powerful GPU for graphically intense games. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.79 | 48MP, f/1.6 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S offers higher resolution photos. Blackview A96 has a wider aperture for slightly better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.45 | 16MP | Blackview A96 takes slightly higher resolution selfies. |
| Wide-angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.4 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S captures slightly brighter wide-angle shots. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP Depth | No Depth sensor | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has a dedicated depth sensor which could be useful in some use cases for better bokeh effect |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have similar macro capabilities. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 1440p@30fps | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S records higher resolution videos for sharper footage. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4380mAh | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has a larger battery, likely lasting longer on a single charge. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse charging | None | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S can charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | Android 13 | Blackview A96 ships with a newer version of Android, potentially offering a more modern experience and security features. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 256GB | Blackview A96 has double or quadruple storage capacity for storing more files, apps and media |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB/12GB | Blackview A96 offers more RAM options for better multitasking and handling of resource-intensive applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for memory expansion via SD card |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has slightly better audio quality with Hi-Res audio support |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi MiMO | Wi-Fi display | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has more advanced Wi-Fi technology for faster speeds and better range |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S features enhanced Bluetooth support for faster and more efficient connections to accessories |
| GPS | Galileo | No Galileo | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S provides more precise location tracking due to more satellite support. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Fingerprint (Side Mounted) | Fingerprint (Side Mounted) | Both use side-mounted fingerprint sensors for secure unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has a more durable screen with verified protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Proximity | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has an ultrasonic proximity sensor which can be useful for specific tasks |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Advantages:
- Superior Display Technology: AMOLED screen offers better contrast, more vibrant colours, and better power efficiency, especially in dark mode.
- Higher Brightness: 1100 nits provides significantly better outdoor visibility, crucial for sunny environments.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging reduces charging time significantly compared to the 18W charging of the Blackview A96.
- Reverse Charging: Can charge other devices, making it useful in a pinch.
- Better Main Camera: 64MP resolution for more detailed photos and 4k video capabilities
- Better Video quality: Recording at 4k@30fps vs 1440p@30fps and additional slow motion fps
- Slightly Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio support offers higher quality audio playback.
- Additional GPS Support: Galileo support for better location tracking.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for added durability.
- Additional sensors: Ultrasonic proximity virtual and also Wi-Fi MiMO for better wifi quality and range.
Blackview A96 Advantages:
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate provides a much more fluid user experience during scrolling and animation.
- Newer Android Version: Android 13 out of the box provides the latest features, UI and security updates.
- Larger Storage: 256GB internal storage, for users who have a large amount of media or applications.
- More RAM: Up to 12GB RAM provides better multitasking capabilities, particularly for heavy users.
- Potentially better low-light photography: Slightly wider aperture f/1.6 in main camera could be better at night.
Trade-offs:
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has a superior screen technology (AMOLED) and brightness but a lower refresh rate (60Hz). The Blackview A96 provides a smoother 120Hz refresh rate, but uses an IPS LCD panel, and a brightness level that is not provided
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has smaller storage and RAM, but higher resolution main camera and faster charging speeds.
- The Blackview A96 has a bigger storage and slightly more RAM, but a lower resolution main camera and slower charging speeds.
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S offers additional features such as Reverse charging and an Ultrasonic proximity virtual sensor, while the Blackview A96 doesn't.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Ideal Users:
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who frequently watch videos, browse photos, or play games, benefiting from the AMOLED display and vibrant colours.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Users needing excellent screen visibility in bright daylight due to the high brightness screen.
- Power Users: Benefit from 33W fast charging, reverse charging, and high-resolution camera.
- Users who want quality Audio Hi-Res audio support.
- Users who want precise GPS location Galileo GPS support for more precision.
- Users who value security: Corning Gorilla Glass 3.
Use Cases:
- Outdoor photography and videography in various lighting conditions.
- Streaming video content on the go or in bright environments.
- Gaming, especially those needing good colour accuracy and contrast in dark themes.
- Using the phone as a powerbank for small devices on the go.
Blackview A96 Ideal Users:
- Heavy Multitaskers: Those who need to switch between many apps without lag, benefiting from the larger RAM.
- Content Creators and Collectors: Users who need ample storage for photos, videos, and apps
- Mobile Gamers: Smooth gameplay with 120Hz refresh rate.
- Users who want the newest software: Android 13 out of the box.
Use Cases:
- Multitasking between demanding applications on the go.
- Storing a large media library and various apps without running out of storage.
- Casual gaming with smoother refresh rates.
- Users who prefer a fluid experience with smoother animation.
Price-to-Value:
- The price point of both phones is not provided, therefore, this aspect of the analysis is not applicable.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Display Preference: Do you prioritize vibrant colors and excellent contrast (AMOLED) or a smoother experience (120Hz)?
- Battery and Charging: Do you need fast charging and long battery life?
- Storage and Multitasking: How much storage do you need and how often do you multitask?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Outdoor Use & Media Consumption If you are frequently using your phone in bright sunlight for media, choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S. The AMOLED screen and higher brightness will be significantly better.
- Scenario 2: Smoothness and Heavy Multitasking: If you prioritize a smoother user experience and frequently switch between multiple apps or large files, choose the Blackview A96.
- Scenario 3: Gaming: If gaming is a main priority and you prefer a sharper image with accurate colours go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S but if smoothness is more important to you go with the Blackview A96.
- Scenario 4: Storage & new software: If large local storage and the newest version of Android are a priority for you go with the Blackview A96.
Personal Recommendation
Given my personal preferences and use cases, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S.
My reasoning is as follows:
- Superior Display Quality: The AMOLED display is a big draw for me. I value the contrast, color vibrancy, and energy efficiency, especially when watching videos and reading in dark mode.
- Brightness Advantage: I often use my phone outdoors and the higher brightness is crucial for readability.
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging is a significant benefit, as I prefer quick power-ups when on the go.
- Better Camera and Video: The main 64MP main camera and 4k video capabilities is a plus.
- Slightly Better Audio: The Hi-Res audio support is a small advantage but useful for me when consuming media.
- Reverse Charging: It is nice to have that additional option to charge other smaller devices on the go.
- More accurate GPS: The Galileo GPS is a bonus.
While the Blackview A96 offers the advantage of smoother screen refresh rate and newer software, the display quality, charging speed, higher camera quality and other features are more important to me. I am willing to forgo the 120Hz refresh rate for the benefits of the AMOLED and higher brightness screen, making the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S a better overall fit for my needs.
