While data shows that Apple captured seven of the top ten spots[1] for global smartphone sales in 2021, Xiaomi's Redmi brand held secured two of the three remaining spots. For the past few weeks we had the chance to test out two of the new Redmi Note 11 Series phones, the Redmi Note 11S and 11 Pro 5G.
These two phones are priced just below $400, but have compelling design elements and solid specifications. For those looking for a more affordable phone[2] then one of these two may be a good fit. There are a ton of similarities between the two phones with a couple of minor feature differences that may sway you to one over the other. The phone are priced about $85 apart, but the lower cost Note 11S may be the better buy for US customers.
- 120 Hz refresh rate
- High quality fit, finish, and design
- 3.5mm audio port and IR blaster
- Capable rear camera system
- Solid battery life
- Limited 5G connectivity in the US
- Android 11
Despite the word Note in the name of these two phones, neither support a stylus. The Redmi brand is the more affordable series in the Xiaomi lineup and there are a few specifications that make them budget phones. One of the best places to find Redmi phones is in the Amazon Xiaomi store[3].
Hardware
I was sent both phones in the Graphite Gray color and when they are face down on a surface I have to look for the 5G branding to figure out the difference. The Note 11 Pro 5G[4] is larger and has a back panel that is flat while the Note 11S has curves around the edges that transition into the sides of the phone.