Alright, let's break down the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and the Nothing CMF Phone 1. I've got my engineering hat on, but I'm going to explain this like we’re chatting over coffee—no jargon, just the facts and what they mean for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on what it all means in the real world:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Nothing CMF Phone 1 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | 164 × 77 × 8.2 mm | CMF Phone 1 is slightly larger, might feel less compact in hand. |
| Weight | 179g | 197g | Redmi Note 11S is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.67" | CMF Phone 1 has a slightly larger screen, better for immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness, both provide detailed images and videos. |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 395 PPI | Very similar sharpness, neither will look noticeably different in normal use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both phones. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | CMF Phone 1's smoother scrolling and animations will feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 2000 nits | CMF Phone 1 is drastically better for outdoor use in bright sunlight, screen is more visible. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7300 (4 nm) | CMF Phone 1 is significantly faster and more efficient, translates to smoother everyday usage. |
| Antutu Score | 302,877 | 673,000 | CMF Phone 1 is way faster, better for gaming and heavy apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G615 MC2 | CMF Phone 1 has a more powerful GPU, will deliver better graphical performance in games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Expected similar battery life in daily usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Both phones will charge quickly, minimal real-world difference. |
| Features | Reverse Charging | Non-Removable | Redmi Note 11S can charge other devices, adds a bit more versatility. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | 50MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | Redmi Note 11S captures high-resolution images with more detail but may struggle in low light. CMF Phone 1 captures sharp photos and has a better performance in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" | 16MP, f/2.0, 1/3.1" | CMF Phone 1 will perform slightly better in low light due to wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | None | Redmi Note 11S has a wide-angle lens, capturing more in a single frame. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | 2MP, f/2.3, 1/4" | CMF Phone 1 will have slightly better portrait mode performance. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | None | Redmi Note 11S can take close-up shots, a niche but useful feature for some. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | CMF Phone 1 allows for higher quality and smoother videos, better for content creators. |
| Other Features | Quadruple Camera, Digital Image Stabilization, Night Mode | Dual Camera, Noise Reduction, EIS, Panorama | CMF Phone 1 offers higher quality recording and noise reduction capabilities. Redmi Note 11S provides more versatility with a quad camera setup and dedicated night mode. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 14 | CMF Phone 1 is much more up-to-date with newer features and security patches. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (WiFi 6) | CMF Phone 1 offers faster and more reliable WiFi speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | CMF Phone 1 has newer technology, offers more stable connections. |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | CMF Phone 1 has better location accuracy thanks to QZSS. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both can use two SIM cards at once. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | CMF Phone 1 offers more storage space, especially better for photos, videos and files. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Both perform similarly in handling multiple apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither allows for additional storage, limiting users to internal options. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | Redmi Note 11S has enhanced audio experience for better music and video enjoyment. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Redmi Note 11S is slightly more advanced with its side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi Note 11S uses a more durable glass, better for accidental drops and scratches. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Redmi Note 11S offers better virtual proximity, useful for gaming and screen control. |
| ## 2. Key Insights |
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Strengths:
- Versatile Camera System: Offers a 108MP main sensor for detailed shots, a dedicated wide-angle lens, and a macro lens for creative photography.
- Superior Audio: Features Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers for an enhanced listening experience.
- Reverse Charging: Can act as a power bank for other devices, adding a practical benefit.
- Established Brand: Redmi is a familiar name with a wide user base, ensuring more accessibility in terms of accessories and support.
Nothing CMF Phone 1 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Dimensity 7300 chip delivers dramatically better performance for demanding tasks like gaming and multitasking.
- Brighter Display: The 2000 nits brightness is a game-changer for outdoor visibility, especially under direct sunlight.
- Modern Features: Includes up-to-date software (Android 14), WiFi 6 for faster connectivity, and 4K video recording for higher-quality videos.
- Long Term Software Support: Expect to get upgrades till android 16
Trade-Offs:
- Redmi Note 11S: While having a versatile camera setup, its processing power and display brightness lag behind the CMF Phone 1, and it lacks modern features.
- Nothing CMF Phone 1: Missing features like a wide-angle lens and hi-res audio might be a downside for some, and lacks any IP rating.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S
- Ideal for: Casual users who prioritize camera versatility, value good audio quality, and need reverse charging capabilities.
- Use Cases: General photography, music lovers, users who need a reliable backup battery for other devices.
- Price to Value: Offers a lot of features for its budget-friendly price point, especially great for users who don't need the highest-end performance.
Nothing CMF Phone 1
- Ideal for: Power users who demand fast performance, enjoy gaming and media consumption, and need a bright display for outdoor use.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, content creation, frequent travellers or anyone who needs good visibility in sunlight.
- Price to Value: Justifies its slightly higher cost with superior performance, a modern feature set, and a better overall experience, specially if long term software is important to you.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
How important is performance?
- If you need a phone that runs demanding apps and games smoothly, and you need a high brightness screen for outdoors then go with Nothing CMF Phone 1.
- If you primarily use social media, browse the web, or don't use your phone that much, the Redmi Note 11S will do the job for less.
How much do I care about camera versatility vs. video quality?
- If having different lens options is very important and you don't need to record in 4k, choose Redmi Note 11S.
- If you want superior video quality (4k) and better low light photos, choose the Nothing CMF Phone 1.
What's more important: Modern software or enhanced audio?
- If you value the latest software features and want a phone that will receive updates, choose Nothing CMF Phone 1.
- If you're big on music and want the best audio for the money, and don't care as much about OS updates, choose Redmi Note 11S.
Final Recommendation:
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would personally go for the Nothing CMF Phone 1. The significantly better performance, brighter display, and modern software are simply more important for my daily use. While I appreciate the versatility of the Redmi's camera system, the overall user experience on the CMF Phone 1 seems better, and its newer technologies offer more longevity. I also prioritize performance and battery as I tend to use a lot of demanding apps.
While the Redmi Note 11S is a solid budget choice for those who just want a reliable phone with a good audio system and some extra camera capabilities, the CMF Phone 1 simply offers a more compelling overall package for modern use.
