Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022). These two smartphones, while both vying for your attention in the mid-range category, offer distinct experiences based on their engineering choices. Let’s break down what each brings to the table.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specifications, focusing on their real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | 168.9 × 75.8 × 9.3 mm | Redmi Note 11S is more compact and pocketable. G Stylus 5G is taller and heavier, may be less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 179g | 215g | Redmi Note 11S is significantly lighter and more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.8" | G Stylus 5G has a larger screen for media consumption and productivity; Redmi Note 11S is easier to handle for smaller hands. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2460 | Both offer sharp visuals. Negligible difference in pixel density. |
| PPI | 409 | 395 | Practically identical pixel density, both look very sharp |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED on Redmi Note 11S provides more vibrant colors, deeper blacks and better contrast. G Stylus 5G display is an overall step down. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Motorola G Stylus 5G feels slightly smoother in scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 0 nits | Redmi Note 11S has much better sunlight visibility. G Stylus 5G may struggle under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Snapdragon 695 in G Stylus 5G is more energy-efficient and provides better overall performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 302,877 | 385,000 | G Stylus 5G has a noticeable lead in benchmark performance, resulting in snappier app loading and general use. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 619 | Snapdragon in G Stylus 5G offers better graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP (f/1.9, 1/1.52") | 50MP (f/1.9, 1/2.76") | Redmi Note 11S has higher resolution and larger sensor, potentially capturing more detail and better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.4, 1/3.13") | 16MP (f/2.2) | Both have similar selfie camera resolution. Moto G Stylus has wider aperture, better in lower light conditions |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8") | 8MP (f/2.2) | Very similar wide-angle cameras |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP (f/2.4, 1/5") | None | Redmi Note 11S has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4, 1/5") | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both phones have similar macro lens setups, good for close-up shots |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps, EIS | G Stylus 5G offers 1080p at 60fps with EIS, providing more flexible and stable video recording, Redmi Note only does 30 fps |
| Camera Features | Quad Camera, Digital Image Stabilization | Triple Camera, OIS, Night Mode 2.0 | Motorola has better video stabilization and Night Mode 2.0, while Xiaomi has a quad camera. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both phones should offer similar battery life for general use. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Standard Charging | Redmi Note 11S charges faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Non-removable | Redmi Note 11S can act as a power bank for other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | Motorola G Stylus 5G ships with a newer version of Android, likely receiving better updates and security patches. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi MiMO | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both support Wi-Fi 5 standard, Redmi Note 11S has Wi-Fi MiMO |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.1 LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Motorola G Stylus 5G has a more modern Bluetooth with better audio codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Motorola G Stylus 5G has support for more satellite systems for potentially better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Single SIM | Redmi Note 11S supports using two SIM cards, which is great for travelers or users with multiple numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 256GB | Moto G Stylus 5G offers double storage capacity. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB | Both have ample RAM for multitasking, though Motorola has a fixed 8GB ram |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | 2 microphones | Redmi Note 11S has superior audio playback, while Motorola G Stylus 5G may offer slightly better voice recording quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer a convenient way to unlock the phone. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi Note 11S has known screen protection from scratches and impacts, while the Moto G Stylus's is not known. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Xiaomi has more sensors, including compass and ultrasonic proximity sensor |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S:
- Strengths:
- Vibrant AMOLED Display: The AMOLED screen is a huge advantage, offering superior color reproduction, contrast, and power efficiency, especially for those who use dark themes.
- Fast Charging: The 33W fast charging is a major plus, allowing for quick top-ups.
- Superior Camera: The 108MP main camera sensor is a clear advantage for photos.
- Dual SIM and Reverse Charging: Offers versatility with two SIM slots and the capability to charge other devices.
- Better Build Quality: The Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen provides known screen protection, a huge plus for those accident prone.
- Limitations:
- Older Android Version: Ships with Android 11, which may limit future updates and features.
- Less Powerful Chipset: The Mediatek Helio G96 is not as efficient or powerful as the Snapdragon 695.
- No EIS on Videos: The lack of electronic image stabilization on the video camera can be a downside.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022):
- Strengths:
- Snappier Performance: The Snapdragon 695 offers superior overall speed and efficiency.
- Larger Display: The larger screen is excellent for media consumption, gaming, and stylus-based productivity.
- Newer Android OS: Ships with Android 12, promising a better software experience and future updates.
- Better Bluetooth Codecs: Improved Bluetooth connectivity with APT-x and LDAC support for higher-fidelity audio.
- Built-in Stylus: While not a spec comparison, the built-in stylus allows for a great note taking experience.
- Video Stabilization: EIS on video recording, alongside 60fps capture, offers a better experience for videos.
- Limitations:
- IPS LCD Display: While large, the IPS LCD panel is inferior to AMOLED in terms of color, contrast, and power efficiency.
- No Fast Charging: Charging speeds are standard, requiring more time to recharge.
- Single SIM: No dual SIM support for users needing two numbers on the same phone.
- No known screen protection A major downside, as an accident will most likely cause the screen to crack.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S:
- Best For: Users who prioritize display quality (AMOLED), camera performance, and fast charging.
- Use Cases: Great for media consumption (vibrant display), casual gaming, photography enthusiasts, travelers who need dual SIM support, and users who value fast top ups.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022):
- Best For: Users who value performance, a large display, and long battery life.
- Use Cases: Ideal for productivity tasks (stylus input), heavy media consumption, gaming, and users who prioritize the latest software and Bluetooth codecs.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How Important is Display Quality to You? If you crave vibrant colors, deep blacks, and superior power efficiency with a dark theme, the Redmi Note 11S's AMOLED display is a big advantage. If screen quality is not important to you, the Moto's display will be sufficient.
- Do You Need the Stylus and How Important Is Performance? If the stylus, higher performance and latest software is essential, the Moto G Stylus 5G is a clear choice.
- How Much Do You Value Fast Charging? If you need quick top-ups, the Redmi Note 11S's 33W fast charging is a must. If not, the Moto's charging will be sufficient for you.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Creative Type: If you often use your phone for taking photos and enjoy media with rich colors, the Redmi Note 11S is the better option due to its superior camera and AMOLED display.
- The On-the-Go Professional: If you are always multitasking, need the stylus for quick notes, a bigger display and better performance, the Moto G Stylus 5G is the clear choice.
- The Tech Enthusiast: If performance, the latest software, and modern audio codecs are essential to you, the Moto G Stylus 5G is the better option.
Final Decision
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would go with the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022). While the AMOLED display on the Redmi Note 11S is alluring, the Moto G Stylus 5G provides a better overall experience due to the snappier Snapdragon chipset, newer software, great sound, and a much bigger battery, and also has the stylus to use for quick note taking. I am not a major picture taker, so while the Redmi camera is better, the Moto's is sufficient for my needs. The Moto is also great for watching videos on a bigger screen. While the fast charging is an advantage for the Redmi, the longer battery life on the Moto means I can charge once in the morning and be good for the whole day. So, for me, the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) wins!
