The vivo Z5x and Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro Premium represent distinct approaches to the mid-range smartphone market. The Z5x aimed for affordability with a capable processor, while the K20 Pro Premium pushed the boundaries with a flagship Snapdragon 855+ chipset. This comparison dissects the core differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro Premium is the clear winner. Its Snapdragon 855+ delivers significantly superior performance, especially for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. While the Z5x offers a more budget-friendly entry point, the K20 Pro Premium’s power justifies the price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA 800 & TD-SCDMA | CDMA 800 & TD-SCDMA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, May. Released 2019, June | 2019, September. Released 2019, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), glass back (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 162.4 x 77.3 x 8.9 mm (6.39 x 3.04 x 0.35 in) | 156.7 x 74.3 x 8.8 mm (6.17 x 2.93 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 204.1 g (7.20 oz) | 191 g (6.74 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.53 inches, 104.7 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.39 inches, 100.2 cm2 (~86.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | Super AMOLED, HDR10 |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 360 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 360 Silver) | Octa-core (1x2.96 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 485) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM710 Snapdragon 710 (10 nm) | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855+ (7 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 616 | Adreno 640 (700 MHz) |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie), Funtouch 9 | Android 10, MIUI 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | No |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM, 512GB 8GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Laser AF, Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Triple | 16 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.8", 1.12µm, AF
8 MP, f/2.2, 16mm (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.4, 53mm (telephoto), 1/4.0", 1.12µm, PDAF, 2x optical zoom
13 MP, f/2.4, 12mm (ultrawide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/120/240fps, 1080p@960fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | Motorized pop-up 20 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.4", 0.8µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio
|
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (G1), BDS (B1), GALILEO (E1+E5a) |
| Radio | No | Yes |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 27W wired, QC4 |
| Type | 5000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Dark Gray, Blue | Carbon black, Flame red, Glacier blue, Summer Honey, Pearl White |
| Models | V1911A, V1919A, 1919 | - |
| Price | About 200 EUR | About 450 EUR |
vivo Z5x
- More affordable price point
- Sufficient for basic smartphone tasks
- Potentially longer battery life due to less powerful chipset (depending on battery capacity)
- Significantly slower performance compared to the K20 Pro Premium
- Less capable camera system
- Slower charging speeds
Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro Premium
- Exceptional performance with Snapdragon 855+
- Faster charging with 27W QC4
- Superior camera capabilities
- Higher price tag
- Potentially more heat generation under heavy load
- May offer less battery life than Z5x depending on usage
Display Comparison
Neither device's display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the K20 Pro Premium’s positioning as a higher-end device, it likely features a higher-quality panel with potentially better color accuracy and peak brightness. The Z5x, targeting a lower price point, likely utilizes a more cost-effective display solution. Bezels are likely comparable, reflecting design trends of the time.
Camera Comparison
Without specific camera sensor details, a detailed comparison is challenging. However, the K20 Pro Premium, being a premium model, likely features a larger main sensor and more sophisticated image processing algorithms. The Snapdragon 855+ also includes a more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) capable of handling more complex image processing tasks. While the Z5x may offer acceptable image quality in good lighting conditions, the K20 Pro Premium is expected to deliver superior low-light performance and dynamic range.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro Premium’s Snapdragon 855+ (7nm) is a substantial upgrade over the vivo Z5x’s Snapdragon 710 (10nm). The 855+ boasts a Kryo 485 core clocked at 2.96 GHz, compared to the 710’s 2.2 GHz Kryo 360 Gold core. This translates to a significant performance advantage in CPU-intensive tasks. The 7nm process node of the 855+ also contributes to better thermal efficiency, reducing throttling during sustained workloads. Gamers and users running demanding applications will experience a noticeably smoother experience on the K20 Pro Premium.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified for either device. However, the Redmi K20 Pro Premium’s 27W wired charging with Quick Charge 4 (QC4) support is a significant advantage over the Z5x’s 18W charging. This means the K20 Pro Premium will recharge much faster, minimizing downtime. Even if the Z5x has a slightly larger battery, the faster charging of the K20 Pro Premium will likely result in a more convenient user experience.
Buying Guide
Buy the vivo Z5x if you prioritize affordability and primarily use your phone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light multimedia consumption. You’ll get a functional device without breaking the bank. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro Premium if you’re a power user, gamer, or frequently engage in resource-intensive activities. The Snapdragon 855+ provides a substantial performance boost and future-proofs your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 710 in the vivo Z5x struggle with graphically demanding games like PUBG or Genshin Impact?
Yes, the Snapdragon 710 will likely struggle with high settings in demanding games. You'll likely need to lower graphics settings and frame rates to achieve a playable experience. The K20 Pro Premium’s Snapdragon 855+ is far better equipped to handle these titles at maximum settings.
❓ How much faster is the 27W charging on the Redmi K20 Pro Premium compared to the 18W charging on the vivo Z5x?
The 27W charging on the K20 Pro Premium will significantly reduce charging times. While exact times depend on battery capacity, you can expect a 0-100% charge to be considerably faster – potentially 30-60 minutes quicker – compared to the Z5x. This is especially beneficial for users who frequently need to top up their battery quickly.
❓ Is the performance difference between the Snapdragon 710 and 855+ noticeable in everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
For basic tasks like browsing and social media, the difference may not be immediately apparent. However, the K20 Pro Premium will feel snappier and more responsive when multitasking or switching between apps. The 855+ provides headroom for future software updates and demanding applications.