The Huawei MatePad 11 has consistently been a strong contender in the mid-range tablet market. With the release of the 2023 model, the question arises: is the upgrade worth it? We're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of the MatePad 11 (2023) and its predecessor, the 2021 version, to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The MatePad 11 (2023) offers a noticeable performance boost thanks to the Snapdragon 870, making it the better choice for demanding users. However, the 2021 model remains a compelling option for those prioritizing value and a vibrant display, especially if budget is a primary concern.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | N/A |
| 3G bands | N/A | N/A |
| 4G bands | N/A | N/A |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, March 23 | 2021, June 02 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, March 31 | Available. Released 2021, July 13 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 253.7 x 165.3 x 7.2 mm (9.99 x 6.51 x 0.28 in) | 253.8 x 165.3 x 7.3 mm (9.99 x 6.51 x 0.29 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 480 g (1.06 lb) | 485 g (1.07 lb) |
| | Stylus support (magnetic) | Stylus support (magnetic) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 2560 x 1600 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~275 ppi density) | 2560 x 1600 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~276 ppi density) |
| Size | 11.0 inches, 348.3 cm2 (~83.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.95 inches, 347.7 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 120Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (1x3.2 GHz Kryo 585 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 585 & 4x1.80 GHz Kryo 585)Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-A77 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A77 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-A77 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A77 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8250-AC Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm)Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G (7 nm+) | Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 (7 nm+) |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 650 |
| OS | HarmonyOS 3.1 | HarmonyOS 2.0, upgradable to 3.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, f/1.8, PDAF | 13 MP, f/1.8, PDAF |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) |
| | Tuned by Harman Kardon | Tuned by Harman Kardon |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.1, OTG | USB Type-C 3.1, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 22.5W wired
5W reverse wired | 22.5W wired
5W reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 7250 mAh | Li-Po 7250 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, White, Purple | Matte Gray |
| Models | DBR-W10 | DBY-W09 |
| Price | About 300 EUR | About 400 EUR |
| Tests |
|---|
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 1200:1 |
| Loudspeaker | - |
-21.1 LUFS (Excellent)
|
Huawei MatePad 11 (2023)
- Improved Performance (Snapdragon 870)
- Slightly Brighter Display (assumed)
- Future-Proofed Chipset
Huawei MatePad 11 (2021)
- More Affordable
- Excellent Display Quality
- Good Battery Life
- Older Chipset (Snapdragon 865)
- Slightly Dimmer Display (measured)
Display Comparison
Both MatePad 11 models feature a 10.95-inch IPS LCD display with a 1200:1 contrast ratio. The 2023 model boasts a slightly brighter display (497 nits measured for the 2021, assumed similar for 2023) and potentially improved color accuracy, though this is difficult to quantify without direct testing. Both offer a crisp and vibrant viewing experience, making them suitable for media consumption.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is generally similar between the two models. Both feature a 13MP rear camera and a 8MP front camera. Image quality is adequate for video calls and casual snapshots, but neither tablet excels in this area. Expect similar results in terms of detail, color reproduction, and low-light performance.
Performance
This is where the 2023 model shines. It utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G chipset, a significant upgrade over the Snapdragon 865 5G in the 2021 model. The 870 offers noticeably faster processing speeds and improved graphics performance, resulting in smoother multitasking, quicker app loading times, and better gaming experiences. The 2021 model is still capable, but the 2023 provides a more future-proofed experience.
Battery Life
Both tablets are equipped with a 7250mAh battery, offering comparable battery life. Expect around 10-12 hours of mixed usage on both devices. The 22.5W wired charging and 5W reverse wired charging are consistent across both generations.
Buying Guide
The Huawei MatePad 11 (2023) is ideal for users who need a tablet for multitasking, gaming, or creative tasks. It's a worthwhile investment for those seeking enhanced performance. The Huawei MatePad 11 (2021) is a great choice for students, casual users, and those on a tighter budget who still want a quality Huawei tablet experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Huawei MatePad 11 (2023) worth the upgrade from the 2021 model?
If you prioritize performance and future-proofing, then yes. The Snapdragon 870 offers a significant speed boost. However, if you're on a budget and satisfied with the 2021's performance, the upgrade might not be necessary.
❓ Do both tablets support Huawei's M-Pencil and Smart Keyboard?
Yes, both the MatePad 11 (2023) and 2021 models are compatible with Huawei's M-Pencil and Smart Keyboard, offering a versatile productivity experience.
