The Meizu M10 and Samsung Galaxy A11 represent two approaches to the ultra-budget smartphone market. The M10, leveraging Mediatek's Helio P25, prioritizes raw processing power, while the A11 opts for Qualcomm's Snapdragon 450, built on a smaller process node, potentially offering better efficiency. This comparison dives deep into the nuances of each device to determine which offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance in everyday tasks, the Meizu M10 edges out the Samsung Galaxy A11 due to its more powerful CPU cores. However, the A11’s 15W charging and Qualcomm’s generally optimized software provide a smoother, more reliable experience for those less concerned with peak performance.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - Global | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 40 - Global | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 28, 40 - LATAM | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66, 71 - SM-A115U |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, September. Released 2019, October | 2020, March 13. Released 2020, May 01 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.9 x 76.3 x 8.5 mm (6.49 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 161.4 x 76.3 x 8 mm (6.35 x 3.00 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 184 g (6.49 oz) | 177 g (6.24 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.4 inches, 100.5 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 450 nits (typ) | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6757T Helio P25 (16 nm) | Qualcomm SDM450 Snapdragon 450 (14 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T880MP2 | Adreno 506 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), Flyme 8 | Android 10, upgradable to Android 12, One UI Core 4.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/2.0, (wide), PDAF
2 MP, f/2.2
2 MP, f/2.2 | 13 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), AF
5 MP, f/2.2, 115˚ (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Phantom Black, Purplish Red, Sea Blue | Black, White, Blue, Red |
| Models | - | SM-A115F/DS, SM-A115F, SM-A115M, SM-A115M/DS, SM-A115U, SM-A115A, SM-A115AZ, SM-A115U1, SM-A115W, SM-A115AP, SM-S115DL |
| Price | About 180 EUR | About 160 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.52 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Meizu M10
- More powerful CPU cores for faster app loading.
- Potentially better multitasking performance.
- Mediatek Helio P25 offers a performance edge in CPU-intensive tasks.
- Larger 16nm process may lead to higher power consumption.
- Likely slower charging speeds.
- Software support may be less consistent than Samsung.
Samsung Galaxy A11
- More efficient Snapdragon 450 chipset (14nm).
- 15W fast charging for quicker battery replenishment.
- Samsung’s optimized software and image processing.
- Slower CPU clock speeds compared to the M10.
- Potentially less responsive in demanding applications.
- May struggle with heavy multitasking.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature 720p+ LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. However, details like peak brightness and color accuracy are unavailable. The A11’s display is likely tuned for Samsung’s signature vibrant colors, while the M10’s may be more neutral. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like LTPO is expected.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is difficult to assess without detailed sensor information. Both phones likely feature a primary camera alongside depth and macro sensors (the latter often being of limited utility). The A11’s image processing benefits from Samsung’s established algorithms, potentially delivering more consistent results in various lighting conditions. The M10’s camera performance will heavily rely on Mediatek’s ISP capabilities. Without knowing sensor sizes or apertures, it’s difficult to declare a clear winner; however, Samsung’s software optimization generally provides a more refined experience.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Meizu M10’s Mediatek Helio P25 (16nm) features an octa-core CPU with a split configuration: four cores clocked at 2.5 GHz (Cortex-A53) and four at 1.6 GHz. This suggests a focus on burst performance. Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy A11’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 (14nm) utilizes eight Cortex-A53 cores clocked at a uniform 1.8 GHz. The smaller 14nm process of the Snapdragon 450 *should* translate to better power efficiency, reducing heat and potentially extending battery life. However, the higher clock speeds of the P25’s faster cores will likely result in quicker app loading and smoother multitasking, despite the larger node size. The P25’s architecture, while older, offers a performance advantage in raw CPU tasks.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified, but both phones likely house batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range. The key differentiator is charging speed. The Samsung Galaxy A11 supports 15W wired charging, a significant advantage over the M10, which likely relies on slower charging speeds. This means the A11 can replenish its battery much faster, reducing downtime. While the P25’s power draw might be higher, the A11’s efficient chipset and faster charging provide a more convenient user experience.
Buying Guide
Buy the Meizu M10 if you need a phone capable of handling moderately demanding apps and multitasking, and are willing to potentially sacrifice some battery optimization. It’s ideal for users who frequently switch between applications or enjoy light gaming. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A11 if you prioritize battery life, fast charging, and a generally more polished software experience, even if it means slightly slower performance in CPU-intensive tasks. This is the better choice for first-time smartphone users or those who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, and social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 450 in the Galaxy A11 struggle with popular apps like TikTok or Instagram?
While the Snapdragon 450 is a capable chipset, it's at the lower end of the performance spectrum. It will run TikTok and Instagram without issue, but you might experience occasional stutters or longer loading times, especially when multitasking. The Meizu M10’s Helio P25 will handle these apps more smoothly.
❓ Is the 15W charging on the Galaxy A11 a significant advantage in real-world use?
Yes, it is. 15W charging allows the Galaxy A11 to charge considerably faster than the Meizu M10, which likely supports slower charging speeds. This means less time tethered to a wall outlet and more time using your phone. A full charge from 0-100% will take significantly less time on the A11.
❓ Which phone is better for playing mobile games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
Neither phone is ideal for demanding games. Both chipsets will struggle with high graphics settings. The Meizu M10’s Helio P25 might offer slightly better frame rates at lower settings due to its faster CPU cores, but expect significant compromises in visual quality. The A11 will likely require even lower settings to achieve playable frame rates.
❓ How does the software experience differ between the Meizu M10 and Samsung Galaxy A11?
Samsung’s One UI is a more polished and feature-rich software experience compared to Meizu’s Flyme OS. Samsung provides more consistent software updates and a wider range of customization options. Meizu’s software, while functional, may feel less refined and receive fewer updates.
