Alright, let's dive deep into this comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G and the Samsung Galaxy A35. We've got two solid contenders here, each with its own set of strengths and trade-offs. I'm going to break down the specs, the real-world implications, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on what these numbers mean for you.
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-12-01 | 2024-03-15 | A35 is significantly newer, implying newer tech and software support. |
| Dimensions (mm) | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 | 161.7 x 78 x 8.2 | A35 is slightly wider; Note 11 4G is slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 181g | 209g | Note 11 4G feels lighter in the hand, more comfortable for long sessions. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Similar screen sizes - minimal difference in actual viewable area. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Very similar resolutions for sharp text and images. |
| PPI | 405 | 390 | Identical pixel density; both offer similar sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | A35 has a much superior AMOLED display with vibrant colors and deep blacks | |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | A35 offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have the same peak brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G88 (12 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | A35 has a newer, more efficient processor offering better performance and battery management. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,100 | 578,500 | A35 offers much faster performance for apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G68 MP5 | A35 has a more capable GPU for better gaming performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have large batteries for all-day use. |
| Charging | 18W | 25W | A35 charges faster. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Non-removable | Note 11 4G can act as a power bank; both have non-removable batteries |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.8 (1/1.96" GN8) | Both have 50MP main cameras; A35 has a more advanced sensor for better image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | 13MP f/2.2 | A35 has a higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.2 | Same ultrawide camera specs on both phones. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 5MP f/2.4 | A35 has a higher-resolution macro camera for finer detail. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@60fps with EIS | A35 records at a higher video quality with better image stabilization. |
| DxOMark Score | N/A | Mobile: 104 | A35 has better camera performance based on DxOMark testing. |
| Camera Features | RAW | Pro Video Mode, OIS, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | A35 has more advanced camera features, including OIS and Pro mode. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | A35 offers a newer OS and more updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | A35 has newer Wi-Fi for faster wireless speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | A35 has newer Bluetooth for better stability and audio. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A35 supports more satelite systems improving GPS accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | A35 has a 256GB storage option, double the storage compared to Note 11 4G. |
| RAM | 4GB or 6GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | A35 offers more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | A35 has better audio capabilities. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Redmi offers a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | A35 uses a more robust screen protection technology. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Compass, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Proximity | Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Proximity, Hall, Geomagnetic | A35 comes with more sensors for advanced features. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A35's Strengths:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen is a huge win, offering much better contrast, colors, and power efficiency, particularly for dark mode.
- Significantly Better Performance: The Exynos 1380 chip is leagues ahead, resulting in a much smoother experience with apps, multitasking, and gaming. The AnTuTu score difference tells the story.
- Better Cameras: The A35's camera system offers superior video recording, more advanced features (like OIS), and better image quality overall, supported by the DXOmark score.
- Faster Charging: 25W charging gets you back on your feet more quickly than 18W.
- Newer Software: Android 14 is a big plus for features, security, and updates.
- Advanced Connectivity: The A35 comes with newer Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 6) and Bluetooth 5.3, which translate into faster and more stable wireless connections.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support provides enhanced sound.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G's Strengths:
- Lighter and More Compact: This is a genuinely more comfortable phone to hold and use one-handed.
- Reverse Charging: Can act as a power bank for other devices.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: It offers an advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Trade-Offs and Limitations:
- Redmi Note 11 4G's Older Technology: The older chipset, display, and software make it less future-proof. The performance will feel sluggish compared to the A35.
- A35's Weight: The A35 is noticeably heavier and slightly wider, which might be a problem for some users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G is ideal for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: If price is the top priority, this phone is the cheaper of the two.
- Users Who Prioritize Lightweight Feel: The lighter build is comfortable for one-handed use and extended periods.
- Basic Functionality: If your needs are basic and you are not a heavy user of games and multimedia this is a solid choice.
Samsung Galaxy A35 is best for:
- Users Who Value Performance: The Exynos 1380 chipset makes a huge difference in app loading and multitasking, perfect for those who demand snappy performance.
- Camera Enthusiasts: If taking great photos and videos is important, the A35's camera system with OIS is the way to go.
- Multimedia Lovers: The AMOLED display and superior audio make this a joy for watching videos, browsing photos, and listening to music.
- Tech-Savvy Users: If you value the latest OS and software updates, this phone is the clear winner.
- Future-Proofing: Its newer tech means it'll stay relevant for longer.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions that can help you decide which phone is right for you:
- How important is top-tier performance? If you're a gamer or need to run demanding apps, the A35's faster processor is a must.
- What is more important: price or quality? If you are on a tight budget and don't need cutting edge features, the Note 11 4G is the more affordable option.
- How important is multimedia consumption and great cameras? If you watch a lot of videos, enjoy photography, the A35 will give you a much better experience.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User on a Budget: If you primarily use your phone for calls, texts, browsing, and basic social media, and if price is your biggest concern, the Redmi Note 11 4G is a reasonable choice.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast: If taking high-quality photos and videos is important to you, the Samsung Galaxy A35’s superior camera system is a clear winner.
- Scenario 3: Power User and Gamer: If you want a phone that can handle demanding apps and games with smooth performance, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is the better investment.
- Scenario 4: All-Rounder: If you want an all-around solid smartphone experience with great screen, better overall performance, decent camera and the latest software features, the A35 is the clear winner.
Final Verdict:
If I had to pick one for myself, I would undoubtedly choose the Samsung Galaxy A35. It's the better phone in almost every way that matters to me as a user. The performance difference alone is significant, and the AMOLED display is just so much more enjoyable. Yes, it's a bit heavier and wider, but the trade-offs are well worth it for the far superior overall experience, not forgetting it offers faster charging and better camera with OIS for those less-than-perfect shots. While the Redmi Note 11 4G might be acceptable for a very tight budget, the A35 feels like a phone you will be happy with for the next few years, thanks to its future-proof technology and better software support.
It all boils down to what you need and value most in a phone. I hope this detailed breakdown helps you make the best decision for yourself.
