Okay, let's dive deep into this comparison between the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro. It’s a classic showdown between a budget-friendly contender and a no-compromise gaming powerhouse. Let’s break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specs, keeping in mind what they mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm, 179g | 163.8 x 76.8 x 8.9 mm, 225g | The ROG Phone is noticeably larger and heavier; the Redmi is more pocketable. |
| Build Material | (Not specified) | (Not specified) | The Redmi Note 11s will be a lower end material but the ROG Phone 8 Pro may not be either. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.78" | ROG Phone offers a more immersive viewing experience; Redmi is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp visuals on both, same pixel density overall. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 409 | 388 | Redmi has a slightly sharper display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 165Hz | ROG Phone has significantly smoother scrolling and animation. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 2500 nits | ROG Phone is far more visible in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | ROG Phone has a massively faster processor for any task, including gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 302,877 | 2,020,000 | ROG Phone is in a completely different league, handling intense gaming and apps with ease. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 750 | ROG Phone has far superior graphics performance for gaming and graphically intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" Samsung | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/1.56" Sony IMX890 | Redmi Note 11S has a higher MP count, the ROG has larger pixel size. ROG is slightly smaller, likely resulting in higher quality images. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" Sony | 32MP, 1/3.2" Omnivision | ROG Phone captures more detailed selfies; Redmi has a slightly larger sensor. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2" Omnivision | ROG Phone offers optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" Sony | None | Redmi captures wider shots; ROG Phone has Wide Angle and Macro Combined lens. |
| Portrait/Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" Omnivision | None | Redmi captures depth information for bokeh effects. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" GalaxyCore | None | Redmi allows for close-up macro shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | None | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3" Omnivision | ROG Phone provides a combined macro/wide angle camera. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps; no stabilization | Up to 8K@24fps w/ EIS and OIS; | ROG Phone captures much higher quality and stabilized video. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5500mAh | ROG Phone has slightly larger battery for longer usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 65W Fast Charging | ROG Phone charges much faster. |
| Battery Features | Reverse Charging | None | Redmi provides reverse charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS Version | Android 11 | Android 14 | ROG Phone has latest software version; Redmi is multiple versions behind. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 7 | ROG Phone offers cutting-edge Wi-Fi, much faster and stable. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | ROG Phone has a newer and more feature rich version of Bluetooth. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 512/1024 GB | ROG Phone provides much more space for apps, media, and games. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 16/24 GB | ROG Phone has ample memory for heavy multitasking and future software. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No storage expansion for either device |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | Hi-Res Audio | DTS/DTS X, 3 Mics, Stereo Speakers | ROG Phone offers better audio processing, sound and capture quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Redmi has a side mounted more secure version of a fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | ROG Phone offers more robust screen protection. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Strengths:
- Budget-Friendly: The Redmi Note 11S is designed for users who want a good smartphone experience without breaking the bank. It provides a decent display and camera setup for the price.
- Lightweight and Compact: It's more comfortable to carry around and handle for extended periods due to its smaller size and lighter weight compared to the ROG phone.
- Good Main Camera: The 108MP main camera on paper offers high resolution images.
- Reverse Charging: It is a convenient feature to charge other devices on the go.
Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro Strengths:
- Raw Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and generous RAM make it a performance monster for gaming and demanding tasks.
- Superior Display: The 165Hz AMOLED screen with 2500 nits brightness ensures smooth and vibrant visuals, especially during gaming and outdoor use.
- Advanced Camera System: Versatile with 8K video capabilities, optical zoom, and impressive stabilization features.
- Cutting-Edge Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 offer the fastest and most reliable connections.
- Massive Storage and RAM: Abundant storage and memory for storing multiple large games and running apps smoothly.
- Top End Audio: Enhanced audio quality with DTS:X surround sound and three microphones for higher quality audio capture.
- Superior Build Quality: High end screen protection technology.
Trade-offs:
- Redmi Note 11S: Its performance is clearly limited compared to the ROG Phone. It will not be as smooth or responsive during heavy tasks or intense gaming. The outdated operating system is a big disadvantage.
- Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro: This phone is significantly more expensive, larger, and heavier than the Redmi Note 11S, making it less convenient for daily carry and budget users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S is Ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those looking for a reliable phone with a decent display and camera for everyday use without the high cost.
- Casual users: Individuals who prioritize battery life and a compact design for easy handling.
- Users with basic needs: Those who primarily use their phone for social media, browsing, and light photography.
- First time smartphone users: Simple to use and learn with all the basics covered.
Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro is Ideal for:
- Hardcore gamers: Those who demand the best performance, display, and cooling for mobile gaming.
- Power users: Users who require top-of-the-line performance for heavy multitasking, video editing, and other demanding tasks.
- Tech enthusiasts: Individuals who want cutting-edge technology, like the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as top quality audio.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Individuals who want to capture high quality photos and video.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What is your budget? The Redmi Note 11S is far more affordable, while the ROG Phone 8 Pro is a premium-priced device.
- How important is performance? For intense gaming or heavy multitasking, the ROG Phone 8 Pro is unparalleled. For basic use, the Redmi Note 11S will be fine.
- How often do you game? If gaming is a primary activity, the ROG Phone's display and cooling system are crucial. If you game occasionally, the Redmi Note 11S will do.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You need a reliable phone for daily tasks and want to save money. Choose the Redmi Note 11S.
- Scenario 2: You are a serious mobile gamer and want the best possible performance, display, and cooling. Choose the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro.
- Scenario 3: You need a phone for heavy multitasking, video editing, and other demanding tasks. Choose the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro.
- Scenario 4: You want the best cameras and video recording capabilities. Choose the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would choose the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro. While I appreciate the value proposition of the Redmi Note 11S, the ROG Phone 8 Pro's sheer power and cutting-edge features are too compelling to ignore. As someone who enjoys mobile gaming and appreciates fast and responsive devices, the ROG Phone 8 Pro ticks all the right boxes. The difference in performance between the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and the Helio G96 is night and day, and the high refresh rate display and excellent camera system offer a superior experience overall. The only drawback is the larger size and price. The ROG Phone 8 Pro will last much longer and will deliver a much more seamless experience.
