Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G vs Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date November 1, 2021 January 7, 2022
Release Year 2021 2022

Physical

Volume 103.53 cm³ 91.64 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.27 "/g 3.62 "/g
Weight 204 g 177 g
Height 163.7 mm 155.7 mm
Width 76.2 mm 74.5 mm
Thickness 8.3 mm 7.9 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Forest Green
  • Mysterious Black
  • Timeless Purple
  • White
  • Graphite
  • Lavender
  • Olive

Display

Screen Size 6.67 " 6.4 "
Resolution 1080 x 2400 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 86.1 % 86.7 %
Pixel Density 395 PPI 403 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 700 nits N/A
Peak Brightness 1200 nits N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 101.15 mAh/in² 109.86 mAh/in²
Battery Density 43.46 mAh/cm³ 49.11 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4500 mAh 4500 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Mediatek Dimensity 920 (6 nm) Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) - Version 1
CPU Octa-core (2x2.5 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-X1 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) - Version 1
GPU Mali-G68 MC4 Adreno 660 - Version 1

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 N/A
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, OTG USB Type-C, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 12
Maximum OS Version 16

Comparison Summary

Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G: A User-Centered Perspective

Let's move beyond the numbers and delve into the heart of what makes these phones tick – the user experience. We'll explore how design choices translate into real-world usability, painting a picture of how each device fits into your life.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeatureRedmi Note 11 Pro+ 5GSamsung Galaxy S21 FE 5GUser Experience Impact
Interface DesignMIUI 12.5 (Android 11)One UI 4.0 (Android 12)MIUI offers extensive customization, while One UI prioritizes a clean, modern aesthetic. Impact depends on individual user preferences.
Interaction Flow120Hz AMOLED display, side-mounted fingerprint120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X, under-display fingerprintBoth offer smooth scrolling. Under-display fingerprint feels more modern, while side-mounted offers potential ergonomic advantages.
Accessibility FeaturesStandard Android accessibility optionsOne UI enhanced accessibility suiteOne UI generally offers a more robust set of accessibility features, potentially benefiting users with specific needs.
Design ErgonomicsLarger, heavier (204g)Slimmer, lighter (177g)S21 FE offers better one-handed usability due to its lighter weight and smaller dimensions.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Scenario: Imagine capturing a fleeting moment – a vibrant sunset, a child's laughter. The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G boasts a 108MP main camera, promising incredible detail. However, the S21 FE 5G, with its advanced image processing powered by the Snapdragon 888, might deliver superior overall image quality in challenging lighting conditions. Think of it as a painter with a vast array of colors (Redmi) versus a master artist who knows how to blend them perfectly (Samsung).

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

User 1: A Tech-Savvy Student: The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G's fast charging and large battery might appeal to a student's on-the-go lifestyle. The lower price point is also a significant advantage.

User 2: A Professional Photographer: The S21 FE 5G's superior camera performance, particularly in video recording with its optical image stabilization, would be more valuable to a professional who demands high-quality results.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

Choosing between these devices hinges on your priorities. If customization, battery life, and affordability are paramount, the Redmi excels. If camera prowess, a refined user interface, and a premium feel are more important, the S21 FE 5G is the better choice.

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G

While the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G offers impressive specs for its price, the S21 FE 5G provides a more holistic and refined user experience. The superior processor, enhanced camera capabilities with OIS, more up-to-date software with longer support, and the sleek design contribute to a device that feels more premium and future-proof. The slightly higher price tag is justified by the noticeable difference in overall performance and user experience, aligning more closely with my emphasis on design, usability, and long-term value. The user experience feels more polished and considered, making it a more enjoyable device to interact with daily. It's like choosing a well-tailored suit over a ready-to-wear garment - both serve their purpose, but one elevates the overall experience.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.