Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G and the Samsung Galaxy M35. I'll break down the specs, offer insights, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key technical specifications, with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Dimensions | 162 × 75.5 × 8.9 mm | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm | Redmi is slightly narrower and thinner, feels more compact. M35 is wider and a bit thicker. |
| Weight | 181g | 222g | Redmi feels noticeably lighter, more comfortable for long use. M35 is heavier, might feel substantial. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Practically the same size; both good for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both Full HD; differences aren't really noticeable. |
| PPI | 405 | 390 | Both have very similar pixel density, providing sharp and detailed visuals |
| Technology | (Not specified) | AMOLED | M35's AMOLED gives richer colors, deep blacks, better contrast, and better power efficiency with dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | M35's 120Hz display provides smoother scrolling and animations, a more fluid experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Seems to be an issue with data, can't compare brightness |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Exynos 1380 (5nm) | M35's 5nm chip is significantly faster, more energy-efficient; better app loading, multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,100 | 578,500 | M35 scores over double the Redmi in benchmarks, making it much more capable for gaming and heavy tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G68 MP5 | M35's GPU is much more powerful, better graphics performance for gaming. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | M35's larger battery will likely provide much longer battery life. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | M35 will charge faster thanks to its 25W charging speed. |
| Features | Reverse charging | N/A | Redmi offers reverse charging so can be used as a portable power bank |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" Sony LYT-600, 1.00µm pixels | Both have good 50MP main sensors. M35 should have better low-light and dynamic range capabilities due to the sensor and larger pixel size. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm pixels | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixels | M35's 13MP sensor should offer more detailed selfies; Redmi has wider aperture, possibly better low light |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Similar wide-angle performance. |
| Macro | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar macro performance. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps with EIS | M35 allows for recording much sharper video. M35 has advanced video stabilization (EIS) for clearer videos |
| Camera Features | RAW | 2x2 OCL, Pro Video Mode, OIS, Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI Engine, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | Redmi captures in RAW, good for photography. M35 has advanced features such as Pro Mode, OIS for stability, and additional features due to its AI powered processor. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | M35 comes with a newer OS and likely has a longer update life cycle. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | M35 supports the faster, more efficient Wi-Fi 6, better for congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.3 | M35 has a newer Bluetooth version, better audio codecs, more connection options and energy saving |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | M35 has support for more satellite positioning systems, for better location accuracy |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB | 128/256 GB | M35 has more storage options. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 6GB/8GB | M35 offers more RAM, better multitasking and background app handling. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | M35 has advanced audio with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio, better overall audio quality. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Side Fingerprint sensor | Side Fingerprint sensor | Both have similar biometric security features. |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 uses superior screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Hall, Geomagnetic | M35 has a comprehensive sensor suite suitable for gaming and additional features. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G Strengths:
- Lighter and More Compact: Its lighter weight (181g) and more compact dimensions make it more comfortable for extended use, especially for those with smaller hands.
- Reverse Charging: The Redmi Note 11 can act as a portable power bank for other devices.
Samsung Galaxy M35 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 1380 (5nm) chipset blows the Redmi's Helio G88 out of the water. Expect significantly better app loading, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience.
- Better Display: The AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides richer colors, deeper blacks, and much smoother animations.
- Longer Battery Life: The 6000 mAh battery, combined with the more efficient chipset, should provide significantly better battery endurance than the Redmi Note 11 4G.
- Better Camera Capabilities: It has a better main sensor, better video recording (4K with EIS), and more advanced camera features like OIS, Pro Video Mode, and AI enhancements.
- Faster Charging: 25W fast charging gets the phone topped up much quicker than Redmi's 18W.
- Newer Software: Runs on Android 14, ensuring a newer UI and longer update life cycle.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio for better spatial sound and high-quality audio playback.
- Better Connectivity: The M35 has faster Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Better Build Quality It has superior screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G: While it’s more affordable, its performance is significantly lower than the M35, and its screen and camera tech are outdated. The lack of expandable storage is also a limitation.
- Samsung Galaxy M35: Heavier and bulkier than the Redmi. It also lacks the reverse charging feature of the Redmi Note 11.
- Both: Neither has expandable storage and neither has detailed brightness specifications.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G:
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a lighter, compact design and are primarily looking for basic smartphone tasks.
- Use Cases: Everyday browsing, social media, calls, and casual multimedia consumption. Good for older folks or those who prefer something not as heavy or large.
- Price-to-Value: It provides decent value for its price, but you’ll notice the performance and display limitations compared to the M35.
Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Ideal For: Users who want excellent performance, better display quality, a superior camera experience, and great battery life, and are willing to pay more.
- Use Cases: Gaming, photography, videography, media consumption, and multitasking. Also, a good option for business use, due to better connectivity and performance.
- Price-to-Value: It’s priced higher but offers significantly more value in terms of performance, features, and overall experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- How important is performance for you? If you’re just doing basic tasks, the Redmi is fine. If you want fast app loading and smooth gaming, the M35 is the clear winner.
- How important is display quality? If you value a vibrant, immersive display, the Samsung's AMOLED screen is far superior.
- Do you need great battery life? The M35’s larger battery will allow you to use your phone heavily for a full day, or even two days for lighter users.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget Buyer: If you want a smartphone for under 200 bucks, then Redmi Note 11 4G is your option.
- Scenario 2: The Media and Gaming Enthusiast: The M35 with its great display, speakers, battery life and strong processor is the ideal choice.
- Scenario 3: The On-The-Go Professional: M35 has better performance and connectivity. You'll be able to multitask, have longer battery life and better connectivity with the M35.
My Pick
If I were buying a phone today, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy M35. Here's why:
- Performance: As someone who uses phones for all kinds of tasks including gaming, the huge leap in performance with the M35 is crucial. The Exynos 1380 is just in a different league compared to the Helio G88.
- Display: I am all in with a great display on a phone, and the AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate on the M35 is a game-changer.
- Battery and Charging: The larger battery, combined with the faster 25W charging, means I won't be constantly worrying about battery life.
- Overall Value: The M35 offers way more in terms of performance, display, battery, and camera features, making it the better value for money, even with a higher price.
While I appreciate the Redmi Note 11's compact design and reverse charging, the Galaxy M35's superior all-around performance, display, and feature set make it the clear winner for me. It’s the kind of phone that will keep me happy for years, which is what really matters.
