Google Pixel 7A Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G

Google Pixel 7A
Google Pixel 7A
Starting at

Refurbished price:£128.00

Versus £649.99 new

See options
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£102.00

Versus £599.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 7A, released in May 2023, and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, launched in January 2022, are both smartphones designed to offer a comprehensive mobile experience. While the Pixel 7A focuses on a streamlined Android experience with advanced computational photography, the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G emphasizes a large, fluid display and rapid charging capabilities. Both devices operate on the Android platform, but they offer distinct approaches to software integration and hardware priorities.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors. The Pixel 7A, being a more recent release, benefits from a longer guaranteed update period.

  • Release Timeline: The Google Pixel 7A was released in May 2023, making it a newer device compared to the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, which launched in January 2022. This difference in release date impacts their respective software support cycles.
  • Software Longevity: The Pixel 7A is expected to receive five years of OS and security updates, extending its support until at least May 2028. In contrast, the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G typically receives security updates for at least two years, with some models potentially longer, and user reports suggest around two years of major software updates.
  • Repairability: The Pixel 7A initially received a repairability score of 4/10 from iFixit, later uprated to 5/10 after Google provided service manuals. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G boasts a higher repairability index score of 7.8 out of 10, indicating easier access to components like the battery and screen for repairs.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app navigation to demanding applications. Both devices offer capable hardware, but they approach processing power and battery management differently.

  • Processing Capabilities: The Google Pixel 7A is powered by Google's Tensor G2 processor, which is designed to handle demanding apps and multitasking smoothly, particularly excelling in AI-driven tasks and image processing. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G processor, providing efficient performance for everyday use and 5G connectivity.
  • Battery Behavior: The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G includes a larger 5000 mAh battery, which users report can last through a full day or even almost two days with moderate use. The Pixel 7A has a 4385 mAh battery, with user experiences varying; some find it lasts a full day, while others report average battery life and quicker drain with heavy use or features like always-on display.
  • Storage and RAM: Both devices offer 8 GB of RAM in some configurations, contributing to smooth multitasking. The Pixel 7A comes with 128 GB of non-expandable internal storage. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G offers storage options of 64 GB or 128 GB, with the added flexibility of expandable storage up to 1TB via a microSD card.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both the Pixel 7A and Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G offer vibrant viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Google Pixel 7A features a 6.1-inch OLED display, providing deep blacks and vibrant colors in a more compact form factor. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G boasts a larger 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display, offering an expansive viewing area.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both phones offer a Full HD+ resolution (2400 x 1080 pixels for the Pixel 7A and 1080 x 2400 pixels for the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G), ensuring sharp and clear visuals for content consumption and daily use.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Pixel 7A features a 90 Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G steps up with a 120 Hz refresh rate, providing an even more fluid visual experience, and offers higher peak brightness levels for better outdoor visibility. Both displays are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, with the Pixel 7A using Gorilla Glass 3 and the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G featuring Gorilla Glass 5.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1080 x 2400

Screen type

OLED

Super AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and both smartphones offer multi-lens setups with different strengths in photography and videography.

  • Rear Camera System: The Google Pixel 7A features a dual-camera setup with a 64 MP main lens (with optical image stabilization) and a 13 MP ultrawide lens, known for its computational photography prowess that enhances image quality. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G comes with a triple-camera system, including a 108 MP main sensor, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens.
  • Photography Performance: The Pixel 7A is praised for its exceptional camera quality, particularly in everyday photography and portrait shots, often compared favorably to higher-end phones. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G's 108 MP main camera can capture detailed images, though some users note it can sometimes overexpose scenes. Its secondary cameras, including the ultrawide and macro, are considered less impressive by some reviews.
  • Video Recording and Audio: The Pixel 7A supports 4K video recording at 30 or 60 frames per second, offering good stabilization. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G is limited to 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second, lacking 4K capability. Both phones feature stereo speakers, with the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G noted for good audio quality for media consumption.

Main camera

64 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

13 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility. These include connectivity, physical ports, and biometric security.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity, enabling faster mobile data speeds. The Pixel 7A includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, along with a USB-C 3.2 port. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth 5.1, featuring a USB-C 2.0 port and retaining a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the Pixel 7A.
  • Biometric Security: The Pixel 7A utilizes an under-display fingerprint reader and face recognition for unlocking. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
  • Build and Handling: The Pixel 7A has dimensions of 152 x 72.9 x 9 mm and weighs 193.5 g, offering a comfortable grip for many users. It also has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G is slightly larger and heavier at 164.2 x 76.1 x 8.1 mm and 202 g, with an IP53 rating for dust and splash resistance.

Weight

193 g

202 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.67

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Google Pixel 7A and Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G cater to different user priorities, each excelling in specific areas. Users frequently praise the Pixel 7A for its exceptional camera system, which consistently delivers high-quality photos, and its clean, intuitive Android software experience with a long update commitment. However, some users have noted mixed experiences with battery life, with some finding it average, and there have been reports of the device getting warm during use. Additionally, some Pixel 7A units have experienced battery swelling issues.

The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G is often lauded for its impressive 120 Hz Super AMOLED display, offering a smooth and vibrant visual experience, along with its robust battery life and exceptionally fast charging capabilities. The inclusion of expandable storage and a 3.5mm headphone jack are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects. Criticisms often revolve around its video recording limitations (no 4K) and a shorter software update commitment compared to the Pixel.

Users prioritizing a top-tier camera, a compact form factor, and extended software support will find the Google Pixel 7A well-suited to their needs. Its focus on computational photography and a pure Android experience makes it appealing for those who value software integration and image quality. Conversely, individuals who prioritize a large, high-refresh-rate display, long battery life with rapid charging, and expandable storage may lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G. This device is also a strong contender for users who appreciate the continued inclusion of a headphone jack.

Both models offer compelling features, and choosing between them depends on which aspects align best with individual usage patterns. For those considering a more sustainable choice, exploring quality-assured refurbished options for either device can provide an eco-friendly alternative.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons