Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G and the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra. This isn't just about specs; it's about how these phones fit into your life. We'll break down the numbers, discuss what they mean in the real world, and help you decide which device might be the right fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G | Motorola Edge 50 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-12-01 | 2024-05-15 | The Edge 50 Ultra is significantly newer, boasting modern features and technologies. |
| Dimensions | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm | 161.1 x 72.4 x 8.6 mm | Redmi Note 11 4G is slightly larger and thicker, might feel less premium compared to the slim Edge 50 Ultra. |
| Weight | 181g | 197g | Redmi Note 11 4G is lighter, which could be more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build Quality (Screen) | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Edge 50 Ultra has a much more durable screen, more resistant to scratches and cracks. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | Edge 50 Ultra's display provides a slightly larger viewing area, better for media and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1220x2712 | Edge 50 Ultra offers significantly sharper visuals with greater pixel density. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 405 | 446 | Edge 50 Ultra’s display will be noticeably crisper. |
| Technology | - | P-OLED | Edge 50 Ultra has superior display technology offering better color accuracy, deep blacks and wide viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 144Hz | Edge 50 Ultra's higher refresh rate means smoother scrolling and animations, significantly better for gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2500 nits | Edge 50 Ultra's display is far brighter, providing excellent visibility under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (4nm) | Edge 50 Ultra's processor is significantly faster and more efficient, offering vastly superior performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,100 | 1,523,879 | Edge 50 Ultra will handle demanding apps and games much more easily and provide better multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Adreno 735 | Edge 50 Ultra’s GPU will deliver much better graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/1.3" sensor | Edge 50 Ultra has a wider aperture and a larger sensor for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/2.76" | Edge 50 Ultra offers significantly higher resolution and wider aperture for sharper selfies, and better low-light quality. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 64MP, f/2.4, 1/2" | Edge 50 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom shots. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 50MP, f/2.0, 1/2.76" | Edge 50 Ultra’s wide-angle lens captures significantly more detail with a wider aperture and higher resolution |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi Note 11 4G includes a macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@60fps, HDR, EIS | Edge 50 Ultra records videos at much higher quality and offers electronic image stabilization. |
| DXOMARK | None | 146 (Mobile), 150 (Photo), 134 (Video) | Edge 50 Ultra has a high score in DXOMARK test which demonstrates excellent camera performance. |
| Camera Features | Basic, RAW | Advanced, OIS, Dual Capture, Night Mode, RAW | Edge 50 Ultra provides more advanced shooting features with OIS, Dual Capture, and Night Mode |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | Redmi Note 11 4G has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering better endurance. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 125W Fast Charging | Edge 50 Ultra charges much faster, making it much more convenient. |
| Features | 9W Reverse wired charging | 50W Wireless, 10W Reverse Wireless | Edge 50 Ultra has far superior wireless charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14, Upgradeable to Android 17 | Edge 50 Ultra has a more recent version of Android and is upgradeable. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Edge 50 Ultra has a significantly faster WiFi, offering better connection and performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.4 LE, LDAC | Edge 50 Ultra has a newer, more efficient Bluetooth version and supports LDAC for higher quality audio. |
| GPS | Basic | Advanced | Edge 50 Ultra has more accurate GPS tracking due to advanced GPS systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Edge 50 Ultra supports eSIM for flexible carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB | 512GB or 1024 GB | Edge 50 Ultra offers much more storage for users who take a lot of photos, videos, and have a lot of apps. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB | 12 GB or 16 GB | Edge 50 Ultra offers significantly more RAM, making it much better for heavy multitasking and demanding games. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Edge 50 Ultra offers much better audio with Dolby Atmos and 3 microphones, delivering a premium immersive audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 11 4G includes a more advanced side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Both phones share some sensor features, while Redmi Note 11 4G has a virtual proximity sensor and Motorola Edge 50 Ultra has a dedicated proximity sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G:
- Strengths: The main strength of this phone is its larger battery and lighter build, potentially offering extended use time and more comfort. It also features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Competitive Advantages: It's the budget-friendly option of the two, and includes a Macro lens for close-up photography
- Trade-offs: The biggest trade-offs are its older processor that leads to less smooth performance, lower-quality display, less capable camera, and older software.
Motorola Edge 50 Ultra:
- Strengths: This phone shines in nearly every performance category. It boasts a cutting-edge chipset, vastly superior display, advanced camera system, ultra-fast charging, and premium build quality.
- Competitive Advantages: The Edge 50 Ultra dominates in all aspects of specifications and features, from performance and visuals to photography. It provides a high-end experience with features such as a telephoto lens, 144Hz display, and 125W fast charging.
- Trade-offs: The main trade-off of this phone is it's smaller battery compared to the Redmi Note 11 4G and that it is the heavier phone of the two.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G: This phone is best suited for users who are budget-conscious and prioritize longer battery life over cutting-edge performance. It's ideal for basic daily tasks, casual browsing, and simple photography.
- Use Cases: Everyday communication, social media, occasional photos, and light gaming.
- Motorola Edge 50 Ultra: This phone is designed for users who demand high performance, excellent camera quality, and a premium user experience. It's perfect for heavy mobile gamers, content creators, and anyone who wants the best mobile tech has to offer.
- Use Cases: High-performance gaming, professional photography and videography, multitasking, demanding applications, media consumption, and professional use.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to consider when deciding between these phones:
- What is your primary use case?
- If it's everyday tasks and long battery life, the Redmi Note 11 4G could be sufficient.
- If it's performance-intensive tasks and quality media, the Edge 50 Ultra is the better choice.
- How important is camera quality to you?
- For basic photography, the Redmi Note 11 4G may be acceptable.
- For advanced and high-quality photography and video, the Edge 50 Ultra is far superior.
- What is your budget?
- If you are on a tight budget, Redmi Note 11 4G is the budget-friendly option.
- If you are looking for the best, budget is not the main factor, then Edge 50 Ultra is the way to go.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Budget-Conscious User: If you need a reliable phone for basic tasks, occasional photos, and value a long-lasting battery, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G is a good fit. It covers the basics without breaking the bank.
- The Multimedia Enthusiast: If you love watching videos, playing graphically intensive games, or engaging with high-quality photography and video, the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra is the clear winner. Its superior display, performance, and camera make it a media powerhouse.
- The Power User: If you demand top-tier performance, multi-task frequently, and need a phone that won't lag during heavy usage, the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra is the better option. Its significantly better processor, more RAM, and storage will ensure smooth operation and future proofing.
My Choice:
If I had to pick between the two, I would go with the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra. While the Redmi Note 11 4G is definitely a good choice for the budget-conscious, the Edge 50 Ultra represents a significant leap in performance, camera quality, and display technology. As someone who values a seamless, high-performance mobile experience, the Edge 50 Ultra is the better device. Its powerful processor, advanced camera system, and stunning display cater perfectly to my needs as a tech journalist and enthusiast.
The higher price tag is justified by the premium experience it delivers. The vastly improved camera, stunning screen, and blazing-fast performance outweigh the slightly smaller battery size. I also value the future-proof aspect with the Android 17 upgrade. For me, it’s about the best overall performance and tech, and the Edge 50 Ultra checks every box.
