Alright, let's break down the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 and the Samsung Galaxy A35. As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I’m not just looking at specs; I want to understand how these devices fit into real life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on what these specs mean to you, the user:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | 161.7 x 78 x 8.2 mm | The A35 is a bit taller and wider, which might feel less comfortable in smaller hands. |
| Weight | 179g | 209g | Redmi Note 11 is notably lighter, which is better for extended periods of use. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard phone builds |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.6" | A35 has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both provide similar sharpness; negligible difference in pixel density. |
| PPI | 409 | 390 | Both have very similar pixel density, but the Redmi Note 11 has slightly sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | A35 delivers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 0 nits | Redmi Note 11 has superior outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | A35’s Exynos chip is noticeably more powerful for gaming, multitasking and demanding apps. |
| AnTuTu Score | 314,000 | 578,500 | A35 is significantly faster; smoother app experience, better gaming performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G68 MP5 | A35’s GPU offers better graphics processing, leading to improved gaming and video editing |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Sensor | 50MP, 1/2.76" | 50MP, 1/1.96" | A35's larger sensor gathers more light, improving low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.4 | 13MP, f/2.2 | A35’s wider aperture should allow for slightly brighter selfies in low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both are comparable. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | Redmi Note 11 offers a dedicated depth sensor. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4 | A35 has a higher-resolution macro camera, capturing more detail in close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | A35 provides higher resolution video with electronic image stabilization. |
| DxOMark Score | Not Tested | 104 | A35 is the only one with a score for reference and better performance overall. |
| Camera Features | Quad camera, Digital IS | Triple cam, OIS, EIS, 4K Video | A35 offers significantly more advanced features including OIS and 4K recording. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life, roughly a full day of moderate use for both. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 11 charges a bit faster. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging | Non-removable | Redmi Note 11 can be used to charge other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | A35 has a more up-to-date OS, providing the latest features, improved performance, and enhanced security. |
| Max Version | 13 | 18 | Samsung has more software update, and will be more relevant for longer |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (WiFi 6) | A35 supports faster Wi-Fi, improving download and upload speeds. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | A35 has the latest bluetooth standard offering better connection, range, speed and efficiency |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A35 has a more comprehensive GPS suite leading to more accurate positioning and navigation. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both have similar configurations |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Both provide good performance for most use cases. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | A35 provides better audio quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Basic fingerprint | Redmi Note 11 has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | A35 offers superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Hall, Geomagnetic | A35 offers a bit more advanced suite of sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11: Strengths
- Lightweight and Comfortable: The lighter design of the Redmi Note 11 makes it comfortable for extended use.
- Superior Outdoor Visibility: The 1000-nit display shines brightly even in direct sunlight.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging gets you topped off quickly
- Reverse Charging: Can be used as a portable power bank for other devices
Samsung Galaxy A35: Strengths
- Performance Powerhouse: The Exynos 1380 chipset delivers significantly better performance for gaming and demanding applications.
- Smoother Visuals: The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations silky smooth.
- Superior Video Quality: 4K video with EIS will make your videos more crisp.
- Enhanced Audio: Features like Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio provide a richer sound experience.
- Future Proofed: Newer OS and Bluetooth technology means longer support and better connectivity.
- Better Camera: Larger camera sensors and advanced features for better photos and video quality
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Redmi Note 11: The older chipset means slower performance than the A35, and an older version of Android which limits the phone's lifespan.
- Samsung Galaxy A35: It's heavier and larger, which might not be ideal for everyone. It has a more basic fingerprint sensor, and the display does not have a superior peak brightness compared to the Xiaomi.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11:
- Budget-Conscious Users: A great phone for those looking for good value and who prioritize a light phone and a bright screen.
- Casual Users: Ideal for everyday tasks, browsing, and social media.
- Users Needing a Device for Bright Environments Ideal for use in bright sunlight where it can take advantage of it's high peak brightness.
- Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Power Users: Best for users who want high performance, gaming capabilities, and high-quality cameras.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who watch a lot of videos and enjoy high-quality audio.
- Users Who Want Long-Term Software Support: The better software means the phone will be relevant for longer.
- Camera Lovers: The camera array has better sensors and features for better photos and videos
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Do you prioritize performance or affordability? If you need a phone that can handle demanding tasks and games, the Galaxy A35 is the clear winner. If you want something more affordable and don’t need top-tier performance, the Redmi Note 11 is good enough for casual use.
- How important is camera quality? If you take a lot of photos and videos, the Galaxy A35 offers better quality, features and overall performance, making it a significant step up.
- Do you mind a larger, heavier phone? If you prefer a lighter device and prioritize comfortable long-term handling, the Redmi Note 11 is more suitable. The A35 is heavier and larger, which may not fit some hands comfortably.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User on a Budget: If you mainly use your phone for social media, browsing, and messaging, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 is a great value option. Its lighter design and bright screen will handle those needs just fine.
- Scenario 2: Gaming and Media Enthusiast: If you want to play games and watch videos, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is worth the investment. Its powerful processor, smoother screen, better speakers and superior camera will provide you with more enjoyment.
- Scenario 3: Professional on the Go If you need long term support and good overall performance for work and play, the Samsung Galaxy A35 will serve you better. It's better camera and newer OS mean that it will perform better for longer.
My Choice
If I were picking between these two, I'd go with the Samsung Galaxy A35. While I appreciate the lighter design of the Redmi Note 11 and it's faster charging, the A35's overall performance, more refined camera, and software features win me over. The faster processor, smoother screen, and superior audio make the Galaxy A35 more compelling for my everyday needs. As an analyst, I need a device that can keep up with demanding tasks and it's better camera also means more flexibility when taking photos and videos for work. The longer support provided by the Samsung also means better security and relevance for longer. The A35 is the better all-around performer, even if it's a bit bulkier.
