Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and the Samsung Galaxy A04. As a tech journalist, I'm less interested in marketing fluff and more in how these devices stack up in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specifications, broken down into meaningful categories and with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Samsung Galaxy A04 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | 164.4 × 76.3 × 9.1 mm | The Galaxy A04 is larger and thicker, potentially less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 179g | 192g | The Redmi Note 11S is lighter, which might feel better over extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.5" | Virtually the same size, a minor difference. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Redmi Note 11S offers a much sharper display, noticeably clearer text and images. |
| PPI | 409 | 270 | Higher PPI on the Redmi Note 11S means a sharper picture with more detail. |
| Technology | AMOLED | PLS LCD | Redmi Note 11S has more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, more visible in direct sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Smoother animations on the Redmi Note 11S, less lag for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 0 nits | The Redmi Note 11S is significantly brighter outdoors, a big advantage in sunny conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 | Helio P35 | The G96 on the Redmi Note 11S is much more powerful, better for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 302,877 | 124,000 | Redmi Note 11S has substantially better overall performance, faster app loads and multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 | The Mali-G57 in the Redmi Note 11S is a more capable graphics processor, beneficial for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP (f/1.9) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Redmi Note 11S captures more detail with its 108MP sensor; slightly less bright photos in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.4) | 5MP (f/2.2) | Much higher resolution selfies with the Redmi Note 11S, slightly brighter images in low light with the Samsung A04. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP (f/2.2) | No | Redmi Note 11S includes a wide-angle lens for more versatile photography. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both devices feature a depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | No | Redmi Note 11S includes a macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps + slow-mo | 1080p@30fps | Both record at the same resolution, but the Redmi Note 11S offers slow-motion. |
| Camera Features | Quad, DIS, Night Mode | Dual, Continuous, Panorama | Redmi Note 11S is better for low-light photography, while the A04 is geared towards continuous shooting and panoramas. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery size. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Standard | Redmi Note 11S charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse Charging | No | Redmi Note 11S can charge other devices, a convenient extra feature. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | The Samsung Galaxy A04 comes with a newer version of Android, potentially offering additional features and better security. |
| Max Version | N/A | Android 13 | The Samsung Galaxy A04 has the possibility of updating to Android 13, which offers some benefits in terms of optimization and functionalities over Android 11 |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac, dual band | 802.11ac | The Redmi Note 11S supports dual band for better wifi coverage and speed. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 (with EDR, HID) | 5.0 | The Redmi Note 11S has more advanced bluetooth features, potentially improving compatibility with peripherals. |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, GLONASS | Redmi Note 11S offers more precise location tracking with extra satellites. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM for easy switching between carriers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 32GB/64GB/128GB | Similar top storage options, but the Redmi Note 11S doesn't offer a lower 32GB tier. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 3GB/4GB/6GB | Redmi Note 11S offers more RAM for better multitasking and app performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res, Stereo | Basic | Redmi Note 11S provides better audio quality with louder and immersive sound. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side fingerprint | Basic | Redmi Note 11S offers a more convenient and secure unlocking method. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | The Redmi Note 11S has a screen that's more resistant to scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Gyroscope, Compass, Ultrasonic Proximity | Accelerometer, Proximity | The Redmi Note 11S has more sensor options which benefits in gaming and general usability. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S Strengths:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen with higher resolution, refresh rate, and brightness offers a significantly better viewing experience.
- Much Better Performance: The Helio G96 chipset and increased RAM make it substantially faster for gaming and multitasking.
- Enhanced Camera System: The 108MP main sensor, wide-angle, and macro lenses offer more creative options and overall better image quality.
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging is a major convenience, allowing you to quickly top up the battery.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers provide a richer sound experience and Hi-Res audio support adds more depth and quality
- More Features: Offers more sensors, biometric authentication, reverse charging, and advanced Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies
- Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 improves the phones screen's resistance to scratches and drops
Samsung Galaxy A04 Strengths:
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 12, potentially offering a more up-to-date experience. (with the possibility of updating to Android 13).
- Slightly Brighter Low Light Selfies: Slightly brighter images in low light in comparison to the Redmi Note 11S selfie camera
- Potentially Lower Cost: Typically, the A04 is positioned as a budget-friendly option.
Trade-offs:
- The Redmi Note 11S lacks expandable storage, which is a limitation for users with large media libraries.
- The Samsung Galaxy A04’s lower resolution and dimmer display can feel limiting for media consumption and gaming.
- The A04 offers a less powerful chipset, resulting in slower performance overall.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S is ideal for:
- Media Consumers: Those who watch videos, play games, and browse social media will appreciate the better display and audio quality.
- Photographers: The more advanced camera system is a big advantage for those who enjoy mobile photography.
- Power Users: The stronger chipset and fast charging will be valuable for those who need smooth performance and reliable battery life.
- Gamers: Those looking for decent gaming performance at a budget will appreciate the strong GPU on this device
- Multitaskers: Thanks to the higher RAM, the phone will be able to run more apps simultaneously in a smoother manner
Samsung Galaxy A04 is best for:
- Basic Users: Individuals who only need basic phone functions like calls, texts, and occasional social media.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those looking for the most affordable option with Android.
- Users Preferring Simple Design: Those who enjoy a basic design with an acceptable display quality
4. Buying Decision Framework
To make the right choice, consider these three questions:
- How important is screen quality to you?
- If you heavily use your phone for watching videos, playing games, and browsing, the Redmi Note 11S’s AMOLED display is a game-changer.
- What level of performance do you need?
- If you play demanding games, use multiple apps simultaneously, or need quick app loading times, the Redmi Note 11S offers a significantly better experience.
- Do you prioritize a fast charging experience?
- If the answer is yes, then the Redmi Note 11S with its 33W Fast Charging will suit you much better
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Casual User on a Budget: The Samsung Galaxy A04 will get the job done for basic tasks, offering a simple Android experience and will probably be cheaper to get.
- For the Media Lover: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S is far better with its superior AMOLED display, and good audio quality, offering a more immersive viewing experience.
- For the Gamer: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S will provide much better performance with its much stronger GPU
- For the Photography Enthusiast: The Redmi Note 11S is the clear choice with its versatile and high-resolution camera setup.
- For the Multitasker: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S with its much more RAM will be much more smoother and faster in performing various tasks
My Choice:
For me, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S is the clear winner. The gap in overall experience between these two phones is significant. The AMOLED display, far superior performance, better camera system, and fast charging make it the better option by far. While the lack of expandable storage is a minor drawback, the benefits of the Redmi Note 11S far outweigh its limitations. It's a phone that offers a premium experience without the premium price. I'm willing to spend a bit more for that much of an upgrade in my daily use experience.
