Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and the OnePlus Nord 3. I'll break down the specs, highlight the key differences, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the key specifications, focusing on how they impact real-world use.
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | OnePlus Nord 3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | 162 x 75.1 x 8.2 mm | Nord 3 is slightly larger, might feel less comfortable in smaller hands or pockets. |
| Weight | 179g | 193.5g | Redmi Note 11S is lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.74" | Nord 3 offers more screen real estate for immersive viewing and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1240x2772 | Nord 3 provides a sharper and more detailed display. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 409 | 451 | Nord 3's higher PPI results in clearer text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant AMOLED panels, offering great contrast and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Nord 3 has a smoother scrolling experience. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1450 nits | Nord 3 is significantly brighter, making it much better for outdoor use, particularly under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G96 (12 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 9000 (4 nm) | Nord 3’s chip is much more powerful, handling demanding apps and games with ease. |
| AnTuTu Score | 302,877 | 1,103,441 | Nord 3's benchmark scores show that it is much faster in day-to-day use, especially for graphically intense activities. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G710 MC10 | Nord 3’s GPU provides significantly better graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res. | 108MP | 50MP | Redmi Note 11S has higher resolution, but sensor size and pixel size is also important to image quality, Nord 3 performs better. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.9 | f/1.8 | Nord 3's wider aperture allows in more light, generally leading to better low-light performance. |
| Main Sensor Size | 1/1.52" | 1/1.56" | Redmi Note 11S has a slightly larger sensor but both are close. |
| Main Pixel Size | 0.70 µm | 1.00 µm | Nord 3's larger pixels capture more light, leading to improved image quality. |
| Selfie Camera Res. | 16MP | 16MP | Similar front-facing camera setup for both. |
| Wide Angle Res. | 8MP | 8MP | Both have comparable ultra-wide cameras. |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP | None | Redmi Note 11S offers additional depth sensor, which does not make a huge difference on photo quality. |
| Macro Lens Res. | 2MP | 2MP | Both have similar macro cameras for detailed close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@60fps with EIS | Nord 3 captures higher resolution video with better stabilization. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same size battery, meaning similar battery endurance. |
| Charging | 33W | 80W | Nord 3 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging | None | Redmi Note 11S offers reverse charging |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 | Nord 3 comes with a newer version of Android, with further updates confirmed. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Nord 3 supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Nord 3 has a newer Bluetooth version, offering more efficient and better-quality audio connections. |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Nord 3 supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB or 128GB | 128GB or 256GB | Nord 3 offers more internal storage. |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 8GB or 16GB | Nord 3 has more RAM for improved multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio | Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Nord 3 provides a superior audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic | Xiaomi provides a superior side-mounted sensor, offering more advanced security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Xiaomi provides a superior screen protection with Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Xiaomi has a more advanced proximity sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Strengths:
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for extended use.
- Reverse Charging: Can charge other devices, albeit slowly.
- Advanced Proximity Sensor: Slightly better sensor compared to the Nord 3.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More secure fingerprint reading.
- Screen Protection: Superior protection with Gorilla Glass 3.
OnePlus Nord 3 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Dimensity 9000 chip is significantly more powerful.
- Better Display: Larger, sharper, smoother, and much brighter screen.
- Faster Charging: 80W charging dramatically reduces charging times.
- Better Camera: Despite lower megapixel count, the sensor has better quality, delivering superior images.
- Improved Video: Shoots higher-resolution 4K video with stabilization.
- Upgraded Software: Ships with a newer version of Android with future updates confirmed.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6 and newer Bluetooth for faster, more reliable connections.
- More Storage and RAM: Offers more options in terms of storage and RAM.
- Superior Audio: Better spatial and high quality audio with Dolby Atmos.
Trade-offs:
- The Redmi Note 11S lags considerably behind the Nord 3 in performance.
- The Redmi Note 11S has a lower-quality display that will struggle in sunlight.
- The Nord 3 is heavier and slightly bulkier.
- Nord 3 lacks reverse charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Ideal for those needing a decent phone without breaking the bank.
- Light Users: Suitable for users primarily browsing, social media, and basic tasks.
- Users Preferring Lighter Devices: The lighter weight makes it more convenient for daily carry.
- Reverse Charging Users: If you are constantly needing to charge other devices, the Redmi Note 11S may work better for you
OnePlus Nord 3:
- Power Users: Great for gamers, content creators, and anyone needing high performance.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: The better display and audio are perfect for consuming video and audio content.
- Photographers: The superior camera system delivers higher-quality photos and videos.
- Users needing Speed: 80W charging and fast performance provide a more seamless experience.
- Users needing future-proof devices: With the latest Android operating system, the Nord 3 is better prepared for future updates.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you make your choice, ask yourself these questions:
- How important is performance? If gaming, multitasking, and overall speed are key, the Nord 3 is the better choice.
- How much do you prioritize display quality? If you spend a lot of time looking at your screen, the Nord 3's display is a considerable upgrade.
- What's your budget? The Redmi Note 11S is significantly more affordable, if that is a major issue.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You need a phone for social media, basic web browsing, and want to save as much money as possible - Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S
- Scenario 2: You want a phone for gaming and high-performance apps, and you don't mind spending more - Choose the OnePlus Nord 3
- Scenario 3: You're a photography enthusiast who takes photos and videos, and you want the best display possible - Choose the OnePlus Nord 3
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would absolutely go for the OnePlus Nord 3. While the Redmi Note 11S has its merits, the Nord 3 offers a far superior experience in nearly every aspect that matters to me.
Why I would pick the OnePlus Nord 3:
- Performance: The Dimensity 9000 chipset provides a noticeable leap in speed and responsiveness, making everything from launching apps to playing demanding games feel much smoother. As someone who appreciates a fast phone, this is huge.
- Display: The larger, sharper, and much brighter display is a game-changer. It makes consuming content, browsing the web, and even just looking at the phone a much more enjoyable experience. I find myself outdoors a lot, so the superior brightness is a must.
- Camera: While I like the 108 MP resolution, the larger pixels in the Nord 3's sensor result in better overall image quality.
- Battery: The 80W charging is incredibly convenient, meaning I spend less time plugged in.
- Software: The newer Android software version and future updates mean I wouldn't need to replace it as soon.
In my book, the improvements the OnePlus Nord 3 offers, namely in performance, display, and camera, make it well worth the extra cost over the Redmi Note 11S.
