1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S | Realme C31 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.5 x 74.5 x 8.3 mm | 164.7 x 76.1 x 8.4 mm | Redmi Note 10S is slightly smaller and more pocketable, while the Realme C31 is larger and may feel bulkier. |
| Weight | 178.8g | 197g | Redmi Note 10S feels lighter for extended use, while the Realme C31 is heavier which may impact comfort. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.5" | Minimal difference in screen size; Both are suitable for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 720 x 1600 | Redmi Note 10S offers a sharper and more detailed display, better for reading, viewing photos, and detailed content. |
| PPI | 409 | 270 | Redmi Note 10S provides a significantly clearer display with less pixelation, resulting in better image quality. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Redmi Note 10S has better contrast, deeper blacks and more vibrant colours, offering a more engaging visual experience; better for dark mode and better viewing angles. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits (Not specified) | Redmi Note 10S is significantly more viewable under bright sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Both offer a standard refresh rate, adequate for everyday use. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 | Unisoc Tiger T612 | Redmi Note 10S has a more powerful chip for smoother multitasking and demanding apps like games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 224,223 | Redmi Note 10S offers a much smoother user experience, especially with gaming and multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G57 | Redmi Note 10S has a better GPU for smoother gaming and graphics rendering. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera (Main) | 64MP f/1.79 | 13MP f/2.2 | Redmi Note 10S captures much more detailed and higher quality images in various lighting conditions. |
| Front Camera | 13MP f/2.45 | 5MP f/2.2 | Redmi Note 10S takes higher resolution selfies and potentially clearer images due to the wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP f/2.2 | Not available | Redmi Note 10S offers more versatility with wide angle shots, capturing more in the frame. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP f/2.4 | Not available | Redmi Note 10S has a dedicated depth sensor for enhanced portrait photos with background blur. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Similar macro lens capabilities on both phones. |
| Black & White Camera | Not Available | 2MP f/2.8 | Realme C31 has an additional sensor for specialized black and white photography. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps | Redmi Note 10S is capable of recording higher resolution 4K videos for much better video quality. Offers slow-motion at 960 fps which is much better for creative video work. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life, both can typically last a full day with moderate usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 10S charges much faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Reverse Charging | Yes | No | Redmi Note 10S can charge other devices, offering an additional level of convenience. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 32/64 GB | Redmi Note 10S offers more storage options, accommodating more files, apps, and media. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 3/4 GB | Redmi Note 10S provides smoother multitasking and improved app performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, which may be a limitation for some users. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 11 | Redmi Note 10S is guaranteed an OS upgrade to Android 13, offering extended support and latest features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11b/g/n | Redmi Note 10S has more modern Wi-Fi standards for faster and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | Similar Bluetooth versions offering standard connectivity features. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | Redmi Note 10S provides superior audio with better sound quality and immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both phones offer similar biometric security with fingerprint sensors. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi Note 10S has better screen protection against scratches and minor impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Redmi Note 10S has an additional fingerprint sensor for more biometric security |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher resolution and brightness offers a much better visual experience, especially in bright sunlight.
- Higher Performance: More powerful processor and GPU results in smoother performance, better multitasking and gaming.
- Better Camera System: Higher resolution cameras with wide angle and portrait modes, along with 4K video recording for high quality photos and videos.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Enhanced Audio: Hi-Res Audio and Stereo speakers offer an immersive and high-quality sound experience.
- Better Software Support: Guaranteed update to Android 13 gives extended feature support.
Realme C31 Advantages:
- Black and White Camera Lens: Offers a dedicated lens for black and white photography.
- Lower Price (Likely): Typically positioned as a budget option, likely more affordable, though specific pricing wasn't provided.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Realme C31 has a basic display which is noticeably inferior in brightness, clarity, and colour reproduction.
- The Realme C31 is significantly slower when compared to the Redmi Note 10S for daily tasks and gaming.
- The Realme C31 has significantly less camera capabilities in terms of video and photos.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize visual experience, performance, and camera quality, and are willing to pay more for those features.
- Use Cases:
- Gaming on the go
- Media consumption (movies, videos)
- Photography and videography (especially in bright sunlight)
- Multitasking between apps
- Users who want a premium experience on a budget.
- Price-to-Value: Offers better value for users who prioritize features like a high quality display, high quality camera, and high performance.
Realme C31:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users with basic smartphone needs.
- Use Cases:
- Basic daily tasks like calls, messaging and browsing.
- Users who need a functional device without demanding performance.
- Users who don't require high quality photos or videos and are looking for a cheap option
- Price-to-Value: Offers a very cheap option, but makes sacrifices in crucial areas such as performance and display quality.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality? (AMOLED with higher resolution vs. basic LCD)
- How important is performance for gaming and apps? (Faster chip vs. slower chip)
- How important is camera quality and video recording for you? (4K video recording, many sensors vs. basic camera, 1080p recording)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget is the primary concern: If you have a strict budget and just need basic smartphone functionality, then the Realme C31 may work. However, the compromises in performance, display and camera are significant.
- Performance and visuals are important: If you want a smooth and enjoyable experience for daily tasks, apps and media consumption, and take high quality photos, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S is the better choice.
- Camera features are essential: If you value a versatile camera setup with high quality photos, 4k video recording and multiple lenses, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S is the better choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the two, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S. Here's why:
- The display quality is a significant factor for me. The AMOLED screen with higher resolution and brightness makes a noticeable difference in everyday use.
- The performance upgrade is substantial. The difference in benchmark scores indicates that the Redmi Note 10S will handle apps and multitasking significantly better.
- I value camera versatility. The Redmi Note 10S provides much better photo and video capabilities with a better quality main camera, wide angle, portrait modes and 4K recording.
- The faster charging is a huge convenience. With the Redmi Note 10S I'm able to get my phone charged back up to 100% faster than the Realme C31.
While the Realme C31 might be more budget-friendly, the compromises it makes in display quality, performance, and camera are too significant for my preference. The Redmi Note 10S offers a much more enjoyable and well-rounded experience for its price.
