1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S and Google Pixel 8 Pro, focusing on practical implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S | Google Pixel 8 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.5 x 74.5 x 8.3 mm | 162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm | Pixel 8 Pro is slightly larger and thicker, may feel less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 178.8g | 213g | Redmi Note 10S is significantly lighter, easier to handle for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.7" | Pixel 8 Pro provides a more immersive viewing experience with slightly larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1344x2992 | Pixel 8 Pro has a sharper display, leading to clearer text and images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 409 | 489 | Pixel 8 Pro offers noticeably crisper visuals, better for detailed content. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both provide vibrant colors and deep blacks, although OLED is more energy efficient |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 8 Pro offers smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming, enhancing fluidity. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 2400 nits | Pixel 8 Pro is much brighter, offering excellent visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4nm) | Pixel 8 Pro's advanced chip results in vastly superior speed, efficiency, and AI capabilities. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 1,142,984 | Pixel 8 Pro performs significantly faster, better for demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8 Pro's GPU provides significantly enhanced graphics performance, superior for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 0.7µm | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31", 1.2µm | Pixel 8 Pro's larger sensor and wider aperture gathers more light and produces superior image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.45, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | Pixel 8 Pro's larger pixels capture more light for better selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 48MP, f/2.8, 1/2.55", 0.7µm | Pixel 8 Pro offers optical zoom, allowing closer shots without quality loss. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 1.14µm | 48MP, f/1.95, Sensor Model not specified | Both offer wide angle capabilities with different configurations. Pixel 8 Pro may have better low light due to wider aperture |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm | None | Redmi Note 10S has dedicated depth sensor, may offer slightly better depth effects. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm | None | Redmi Note 10S allows macro shots, good for extreme close ups. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Pixel 8 Pro provides superior video quality with advanced stabilization. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | Not Tested | Overall: 153, Photo: 155, Video: 149 | Pixel 8 Pro’s camera is confirmed to be of superior quality. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | Not Tested | Overall: 145, Photo: 143, Video: 149 | Pixel 8 Pro's selfie camera scores demonstrate high quality |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5050mAh | Both offer similar battery life, expected to last a full day with moderate usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 10S has a slight edge in charging speed. |
| Features | Reverse Charging | Reverse Charging, 23W Wireless Charging | Pixel 8 Pro offers convenient wireless charging. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 (upgradable to 21) | Pixel 8 Pro provides a newer version of Android and longer OS update support. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 7 | Pixel 8 Pro has faster Wi-Fi speeds, and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Pixel 8 Pro offers enhanced Bluetooth performance with improved codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 8 Pro supports more satellite systems, provides more precise location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 8 Pro offers eSIM for easier carrier switching, Redmi Note 10S is compatible with two physical sim cards |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1024GB | Pixel 8 Pro has vastly more storage options, suitable for storing large media files. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 12GB | Pixel 8 Pro offers smooth multitasking and app loading. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both do not offer memory card slots. |
| Audio & Security | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Noise Cancellation Microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 Microphones | Pixel 8 Pro offers better call quality and audio recording due to microphone enhancements. |
| Security | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Under-Display Fingerprint Sensor | Both provide basic biometric security with the difference in placement and sensor type. |
| Build Quality & Sensors | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Pixel 8 Pro has superior screen protection from drops and scratches. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity, Barometer, Thermometer | Pixel 8 Pro includes a barometer and thermometer and more accurate proximity, offering advanced features and sensor data. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Advantages:
- Lighter and more compact: Easier to hold and carry for extended periods.
- Slightly faster charging: 33W vs 30W may provide a small advantage.
- More Camera Lenses: Includes macro and depth sensors.
- Lower Price Point: Much more affordable, targeting the budget-conscious consumer.
- Dual Physical SIM Cards
Google Pixel 8 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor and GPU for demanding tasks.
- Much Better Display: Sharper, smoother, and brighter screen with higher refresh rate.
- Significantly Improved Camera: Larger sensor, better image quality, telephoto lens, and advanced video features.
- More Advanced Software: Newer version of Android with longer software support.
- Better Connectivity: Supports faster Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions.
- More RAM and Storage: Comes with more RAM and storage options
- Wireless Charging: Includes wireless charging, an added convenience.
- Superior Build Quality: Better screen protection.
- More Sensors: Barometer, Thermometer, more accurate proximity, Magnetometer for advanced features
- eSIM Compatible
Significant Trade-Offs:
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S: Sacrifices performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and software updates for a lower price.
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: More expensive, bulkier, and heavier than the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users, students, and those needing a reliable phone for everyday tasks, social media, and media consumption.
- Use Cases:
- Daily communication (calls, messages).
- Social media browsing and basic photography.
- Casual gaming and video streaming.
- Users who appreciate lighter phones.
- Price-to-Value Ratio: Good value for users who don't need high-end features.
Google Pixel 8 Pro:
- Ideal User: Tech enthusiasts, photography lovers, power users, and those who want the best Android experience.
- Use Cases:
- Professional-quality photography and videography.
- Demanding gaming and multitasking.
- Those who want fast performance and future-proof software.
- Users who utilize advanced sensors and features.
- Price-to-Value Ratio: High-end price justifies cutting-edge features and performance.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions for buyers to consider:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a phone? The Redmi Note 10S is much more affordable, while the Pixel 8 Pro comes at a premium.
- Primary Use: What do you use your phone for most often? Basic tasks or demanding apps, photography, and gaming.
- Future-Proofing: How long do you plan to keep your phone? The Pixel 8 Pro has newer software and longer support, a major advantage.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-conscious & Basic Use: If you need a reliable phone for daily tasks, media consumption, and casual use, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S is suitable and much more affordable.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast If you care about photo quality, and taking great photos of people/nature, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a much better fit.
- Scenario 3: Demanding User If you need performance, multitasking, and cutting-edge features, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is the clear choice, especially for tasks such as mobile gaming.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones for myself, I would choose the Google Pixel 8 Pro, despite the significant price difference. My primary use cases are photography, performance for demanding apps and occasional gaming, and I value the future-proofing offered by the longer software support, and the improved sensor and build quality. The vastly superior camera, smoother display, faster performance, and additional features such as wireless charging of the Google Pixel 8 Pro justify the added expense, as I would be using them daily. While the Redmi Note 10S is a capable phone for the price, it does not compete with the overall quality and user experience offered by the Pixel 8 Pro. The Pixel 8 Pro is a device I can rely on for several years to come, where as the Redmi Note 10S would need to be upgraded sooner to enjoy the latest mobile software.
