Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. As a tech journalist, I always try to get past the marketing fluff and figure out what these numbers mean for you, the user. Here’s a breakdown of what makes these two phones tick:
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-12-01 | 2022-10-07 | Poco M4 5G is newer, potentially longer software support |
| Dimensions | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm | Poco M4 5G is slightly taller and wider, but both share the same thickness |
| Weight | 181g | 200g | Redmi Note 11 4G is noticeably lighter, better for one-handed use |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.58" | Virtually identical screen size, minimal difference |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2408 | Both offer sharp, detailed visuals, no noticeable difference in daily use. |
| Pixel Density | 405 PPI | 401 PPI | Equally sharp displays, the difference is imperceptible |
| Technology | N/A | IPS LCD | Poco M4 5G uses a common LCD tech; Redmi Note 11 4G is not specified, potentially less vibrant |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical peak brightness, no difference in display brightness |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Poco M4 5G's 7nm chip is more efficient, faster in demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,100 | 381,300 | Poco M4 5G is significantly faster, better for gaming & multitasking |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Poco M4 5G has the more powerful graphics processor, better gaming potential |
| CAMERA | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP f/1.8 | 13MP f/2.2 | Redmi Note 11 4G has a higher-resolution primary camera, better for detail |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | 5MP f/2.2 | Redmi Note 11 4G captures higher-resolution selfies |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP f/2.2 | No | Redmi Note 11 4G has a wide-angle lens for more expansive shots |
| Portrait Lens | No | 2MP f/2.4 | Poco M4 5G has a dedicated depth sensor, for better portrait photos |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | No | Redmi Note 11 4G has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both offer similar video quality, suitable for basic use |
| Slow Motion | 120fps | 30fps | Redmi Note 11 4G is capable of faster slow-motion recording |
| Camera Features | Triple Camera, RAW | Dual Camera, Night Mode | Redmi Note 11 4G has more camera options, Poco M4 5G performs better in low light |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery endurance |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Both charge at the same speed. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging, 9W Reverse Wired charging | Reverse charging | Redmi Note 11 4G can reverse charge other devices wired |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12 | Poco M4 5G comes with a more recent Android version out of the box |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac + MIMO | Poco M4 5G has additional MIMO support for stronger connections |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE + APT-x | 5.1 LE + EDR + HID | Both are very similar; Redmi Note 11 supports better audio and Poco M4 5G offers data rate improvements and easier connections |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB | 64GB / 128GB | Both phones share the same maximum storage option of 128GB; Poco M4 5G has a lower storage option |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 4GB/6GB | Both phones suitable for moderate multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone provides the option to expand the storage. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Audio Quality | Stereo Speakers | Basic | Redmi Note 11 4G has a richer audio experience with stereo speakers |
| SECURITY | |||
| Security Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint sensor | Both use fingerprint sensor technology for quick access |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass 3 | Both are equally protected by Gorilla Glass 3 |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Ultrasonic Proximity | Proximity | Redmi Note 11 4G has a unique Ultrasonic Proximity sensor; Poco M4 5G has standard proximity sensor |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 4G:
- Strengths: The Redmi Note 11 4G stands out with its superior camera setup, particularly with a higher-resolution primary sensor, a dedicated wide-angle lens, and a macro lens. It also offers stereo speakers for a more immersive audio experience. The inclusion of 9W reverse wired charging adds versatility.
- Competitive Advantages: It is lighter and more comfortable to hold for extended periods. The enhanced slow-motion video capability, coupled with RAW photo support, caters to creative users.
- Trade-offs: The Redmi Note 11 4G falls behind in performance due to its less powerful chipset and older operating system.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G:
- Strengths: The Poco M4 5G shines with its significantly faster performance, thanks to the 7nm Dimensity 700 chipset, which is a boon for gaming and multitasking. It runs a newer Android version and has a more robust GPU.
- Competitive Advantages: 5G support makes it future-proof, while its modern chipset ensures smooth and efficient performance for everyday use. The dedicated depth sensor enhances its portrait photography capabilities.
- Trade-offs: The camera is a step below the Redmi Note 11, with fewer lenses and a lower-resolution primary sensor. The omission of stereo speakers is also a downside for those valuing audio quality.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Redmi Note 11 4G:
- Best for: Casual photographers and multimedia enthusiasts who prioritize camera quality and sound. Users who value a light, comfortable phone for daily use and the ability to reverse charge other devices.
- Use Cases: Capturing high-resolution photos and videos, enjoying music and movies with immersive sound, and using the phone for extended periods without hand fatigue. Great for social media creators.
Poco M4 5G:
- Best for: Gamers, power users, and anyone who values fast performance and a smooth user experience. Good for users who want a newer Android version and are looking for a future-proof budget phone.
- Use Cases: Playing demanding games, multitasking between multiple apps, and enjoying fast internet speeds on 5G networks. Great for students and budget conscious individuals.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, ask yourself these three questions:
- How important is camera quality? If capturing detailed photos and videos is your top priority, the Redmi Note 11 4G might be the better choice, especially with its triple camera setup. However, if you only need a solid camera the Poco M4 5G will be fine.
- How much do I prioritize performance? If you need the fastest performance for gaming, multitasking, and general responsiveness, the Poco M4 5G is the way to go.
- What do I value more; audio or performance? If high quality audio and a immersive experience are important to you, the Redmi Note 11 4G is the best pick. However, if performance is your priority then the Poco M4 5G is the better pick.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Casual User: If you’re a casual user and mostly use your phone for social media, web browsing, and messaging, the Poco M4 5G would be a great pick.
- The Budget Conscious Gamer: For the budget-conscious gamer looking for smooth performance, the Poco M4 5G is the clear winner due to its more powerful chipset.
- The Content Creator: If you regularly capture photos and videos for social media, the Redmi Note 11 4G’s superior camera system, slow motion recording, and audio capabilities make it a strong contender.
My Pick
If I had to choose, I'd go with the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. While I appreciate the Redmi Note 11 4G’s superior camera and audio, the Poco M4 5G’s more powerful chipset and newer Android version are more compelling for daily use. As a tech journalist, I appreciate a device that can keep up with the latest apps and games, and the Dimensity 700 chipset provides a smoother and more responsive experience. Plus, the 5G support is a nice touch, adding a level of future-proofing. Ultimately, the Poco M4 5G strikes a better balance of modern features and performance for the modern user.
