Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and the Google Pixel 8. We'll get into the nitty-gritty, but also keep it real, focusing on how these specs translate into your daily life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table, structured to give you a clear picture of each phone's strengths and weaknesses:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Google Pixel 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm | Redmi is taller and wider; Pixel 8 is thicker, better pocketability |
| Weight | 179g | 187g | Redmi feels slightly lighter |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.2" | Redmi has a slightly larger screen |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp visuals |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 428 PPI | Both are equally crisp |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Vibrant colors on both |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 8 offers smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 2000 nits | Pixel 8 is much more visible in bright sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 | Google Tensor G3 | Pixel 8 is significantly faster and more efficient |
| AnTuTu Score | 302,877 | 876,512 | Pixel 8 handles demanding tasks with ease, Redmi Note 11s is a budget focused device. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8 has a superior GPU for gaming and graphics tasks |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Rear Camera | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31" | Redmi has a higher MP count, Pixel has larger sensor and wider aperture, leading to better low-light performance |
| Front Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | Redmi has a higher MP count, Pixel has larger sensor and wider aperture |
| Additional Rear Camera | 8MP Wide, 2MP depth, 2MP macro | 12MP Wide + Macro | Redmi offers variety, Pixel combines wide and macro lenses with better low-light performance |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Pixel 8 captures higher quality video with stabilization, better for serious video |
| DxOMark Score | Not tested | 148 (Mobile) | Pixel 8 has a very high camera rating |
| Camera Features | Multiple features | More advanced features like OIS, RAW, Noise Reduction, etc. | Pixel 8 has more robust processing, ideal for those wanting more control. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4575mAh | Redmi has a slightly larger battery, but power efficiency of Pixel 8 is very high. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 27W fast charging | Redmi charges a bit faster |
| Features | Reverse charging | Reverse charging | Both can charge other devices |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Pixel 8 has the latest OS and will get updates for years to come, Redmi Note 11S will not |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 7 | Pixel 8 is equipped with modern connectivity standards |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Pixel 8 has newer connectivity and sound codec for a better experience |
| GPS | Yes | Yes, QZSS, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 8 offers more GPS accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Pixel 8 offers eSIM support for better flexibility |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Pixel 8 offers more storage capacity and no option for SD cards. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB | Pixel 8 handles multitasking effectively. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage, so choose your option carefully! |
| Audio & Security | |||
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation mic, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics | Pixel 8 has a richer audio feature set, great for calls, while Redmi 11s offers better audio through headphones. |
| Security | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Pixel 8 has a standard scanner while Redmi has a more advanced side mounted solution. |
| Build & Sensors | |||
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 8 is much more durable |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer, Thermometer | Google Pixel 8 offers a complete set of sensors, great for advanced apps and gaming. |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S:
- Strengths: Larger display, slightly larger battery, faster charging, higher resolution main camera, more cameras on the rear, more affordable price point.
- Advantages: Good for media consumption, general use, photography enthusiasts on a budget.
- Trade-offs: Less powerful processor, lower refresh rate, less bright display, older software.
- Google Pixel 8:
- Strengths: Significantly more powerful processor, much brighter display with higher refresh rate, far better camera performance with pro video modes, advanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 7, modern software and OS updates, better build quality, great DxOMark score, more GPS accuracy, eSIM.
- Advantages: Best for performance, photography and video creation, users who need long-term software support, users who are always outdoors.
- Trade-offs: Smaller display, smaller battery, more expensive, less cameras on the rear.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users who prioritize a large screen and decent everyday performance.
- Users who enjoy media consumption, casual gaming and like to tinker with different cameras.
- Those who don't require top-tier performance or the latest software.
Google Pixel 8 is ideal for:
- Users who need the best performance and speed for gaming and multitasking.
- Photography and videography enthusiasts who want cutting-edge camera features and image quality.
- Users who require a bright display for outdoor use and long-term software updates.
- Tech-savvy users who need reliable performance and the latest features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Performance Needs: How critical is raw power for your daily usage? If gaming and heavy multitasking are priorities, the Pixel 8 is the better choice. If you need just general performance on a budget the Redmi 11s will do fine.
- Camera Importance: Do you rely heavily on your phone's camera for photos and videos? The Pixel 8 provides superior image quality and advanced features, whereas the Redmi 11S offers a higher resolution but not necessarily higher quality in the images taken.
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend? The Redmi Note 11S is a budget-friendly option, while the Pixel 8 is a premium device with a higher price tag, but offering premium value.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Budget Conscious: If you're on a tight budget, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S offers solid performance for the price, great if you are just after a general phone for the basics.
Photography Focused: If camera quality is paramount, especially low-light performance and video, then the Pixel 8 wins by a mile, it really does stand out in this regard.
Performance Driven: If you need the fastest performance for gaming, multitasking, and overall speed, the Pixel 8 with its Tensor G3 chip is far superior.
Long-Term Value: If you care about getting the latest software for years to come, the Pixel 8 is the better option here.
My Choice:
If I personally had to choose, I'd go with the Google Pixel 8. While the Redmi Note 11S is a respectable budget phone, I value a top-tier user experience, and the Pixel 8 offers much more in terms of performance, camera quality, and overall smoothness.
The dramatically better display brightness, the smoother 120Hz refresh rate, the modern Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 capabilities, the far superior Tensor G3 chip and the camera that provides amazing results, are all compelling reasons for me. The guarantee of long-term software updates is also a huge plus.
While it's more expensive, the Pixel 8 represents a better overall value for my needs. I'd happily pay the premium for the enhanced performance, advanced features, and long-term usability, especially with such a robust camera that performs better in low light than most phones. The Redmi 11s is a fine phone but for a much different purpose.
The Google Pixel 8 brings a true flagship experience, while the Redmi 11S is better suited for basic usage on a budget, which may be perfect for others, just not for me.
