Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G and the Samsung Galaxy A04. As a tech journalist, I aim to provide an analysis that goes beyond the spec sheet, focusing on how these devices actually perform in everyday use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a comprehensive look at the key specifications, and most importantly, what they mean for you:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 162 × 75.5 × 8.9 mm | 164.4 × 76.3 × 9.1 mm | Redmi slightly shorter & slimmer. A04 slightly taller, may feel bigger in hand. |
| Weight | 181g | 192g | Redmi is noticeably lighter, which enhances comfort over extended use. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass 3, plastic | Unknown, plastic | Redmi has better scratch protection. A04 lacks specified screen protection |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.5" | Identical screen sizes, suitable for browsing and multimedia. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Redmi provides sharper, clearer text and images. A04 has a lower pixel count. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 405 | 270 | Redmi's screen looks significantly crisper. Details are more pronounced. |
| Technology | Unknown | PLS LCD | Both should provide decent color reproduction and viewing angles, no significant difference expected. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Redmi's display appears smoother during scrolling, gaming, and general navigation. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones are expected to have similar brightness, but this data is incomplete. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Mediatek Helio P35 (12nm) | Redmi is noticeably faster, apps launch quicker, and better overall multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,100 | 124,000 | Redmi delivers much smoother performance. A04 will feel sluggish in comparison. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 | Redmi is better for gaming, smoother graphics. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Both have a good primary sensor. Similar basic photo quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Redmi takes higher-res selfies. Better low light due to wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 8MP, f/2.2 | None | Redmi excels at capturing wider scenes. |
| Depth Sensor | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | A04 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photos |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi allows for close up macro photography |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, Slow-mo 120fps | 1080p@30fps, No Slow-mo | Both will capture clear video, but Redmi has slow-motion. |
| Camera Features | 4K video, Triple camera, Digital Stabilization, RAW | Dual camera, Panorama | Redmi offers a more versatile camera system with advanced features. A04 is more basic. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should provide similar battery life on a single charge, lasting a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | No Fast Charging | Redmi charges faster and includes reverse charging, very useful on the go. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Redmi’s Li-Polymer is considered more efficient and safer in most cases. |
| Reverse Charging | 9W reverse wired charging | None | Redmi can be used to charge other devices via wire. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | A04 runs on a newer Android version out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 b/g/n/ac | Redmi supports dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Display for better connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, Apt-X | 5.0 | Redmi has a newer version for faster connection and better audio. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS | Redmi offers more accurate location tracking thanks to added support for Beidou and Galileo. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both offer dual SIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB | 32/64/128 GB | A04 comes with different storage options. |
| RAM | 4/6GB | 3/4/6GB | Both offer similar choices for multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | None | None | Neither phone supports external memory expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Speakers | Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio Features | Redmi's sound output will be fuller and more immersive. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side Fingerprint sensor | Basic security features | Redmi offers a quick and secure way to unlock with fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint, Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity: Ultrasonic | Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer | Redmi has a more complete sensor suite for gaming and better user experience. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G Strengths
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate provide a significantly better viewing experience.
- Stronger Performance: The Helio G88 chipset and Mali-G52 MC2 GPU offer much faster performance and smoother graphics than the A04.
- Better Camera System: With a versatile triple camera setup, including a wide-angle lens, and enhanced selfie camera, Redmi excels in photography.
- Faster Charging and Reverse Charging: The 18W fast charging and the ability to charge other devices are highly convenient features.
- Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers provide a better audio experience.
- More Features: It has features such as a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, compass, gyroscope, and an ultrasonic proximity sensor.
- More WiFi capabilities: It can connect to dual-band wifi and supports wifi display.
- More GPS compatibility: It can connect to more satellites than the A04.
Samsung Galaxy A04 Strengths
- Newer Software: It comes with Android 12 out of the box (upgradable to 13), meaning that it will receive more updates than Redmi.
- Depth Camera : Provides additional portrait photography capabilities.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Redmi Note 11 4G: Lacks a depth sensor, but gains a macro and wide angle lens. It is also running an older version of Android.
- Samsung Galaxy A04: Performance and display are significantly weaker, and it also lacks fast charging, reverse charging, a good audio system, fingerprint scanner and some sensors.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize display quality, performance, and camera versatility on a budget.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, watching videos, social media browsing, and capturing quality photos and videos.
- Value: Offers superior specifications at a very competitive price point, making it an excellent mid-range choice.
Samsung Galaxy A04
- Ideal for: Users with very basic needs who are looking for an ultra-affordable entry-level smartphone.
- Use Cases: Basic communication, light browsing, and running simple apps.
- Value: Good choice for people on a tight budget and who want a basic Android experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to guide your decision:
- How important is display quality? If you value sharp images and smooth scrolling, the Redmi Note 11 4G is the clear choice.
- Do you need good performance for gaming and multitasking? If so, the Redmi's superior chipset and GPU make a significant difference.
- What's your budget and how much can you compromise on features? If the budget is very tight and you only need the basics, the A04 is an option, but the Redmi offers much more for the money.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Budget Gamer: Choose the Redmi Note 11 4G for its superior graphics and smooth performance.
- Basic User on a Tight Budget: The Samsung Galaxy A04 is an option if you have to keep the price point ultra low, though the user experience will be far inferior to the Redmi.
- Photography Enthusiast: The Redmi Note 11 4G offers the most versatile camera setup, including a wide-angle lens and superior selfie camera capabilities.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would absolutely go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G.
Here's why:
- The Display Difference is Huge: The higher resolution and 90Hz refresh rate of the Redmi create a visibly smoother and more enjoyable user experience, which is something I value a lot.
- Performance Matters: I'm not a heavy gamer, but I appreciate a phone that can handle multitasking and apps smoothly. The Redmi offers a clear performance advantage with its superior chipset and GPU, making it much more pleasant to use every single day.
- Versatile Camera Setup: Having the extra wide-angle lens and higher quality selfie camera on the Redmi would be very useful for travel and daily use.
- Practical Features: The 18W fast charging and reverse charging is a feature that I would use a lot. Also, stereo speakers can make a big difference on a daily basis when listening to content without headphones. The side mounted fingerprint sensor adds an extra layer of comfort when unlocking the phone.
While the Samsung Galaxy A04 is newer with a slightly more up-to-date version of Android out of the box, its benefits simply do not offset the massive performance and quality differences in display, performance, camera, and other features. For the price, the Redmi Note 11 4G is simply the better phone.
