The Xiaomi Redmi 10A has been a mainstay in the ultra-budget smartphone space, but the newer Redmi 11A aims to offer a step up. While both devices target the same price-sensitive consumer, key differences in their processing power and underlying architecture warrant a detailed comparison to determine which offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Xiaomi Redmi 11A is the better choice. Its octa-core 2.0 GHz CPU provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Redmi 10A’s MediaTek Helio G25, translating to smoother multitasking and app loading. While both offer identical 10W charging, the 11A’s more modern processor justifies the slight price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | Not announced yet | 2022, March 29 |
| Status | Cancelled | Available. Released 2022, March 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | 164.9 x 77.1 x 9 mm (6.49 x 3.04 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 194 g (6.84 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1650 pixels (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 106.2 cm2 | 6.53 inches, 102.9 cm2 (~81.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12, MIUI | Android 11, MIUI 12.5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.0µm, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | Yes | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black; other colors | Charcoal Black, Sea Blue, Slate Grey |
| Models | 22120RN86C | 220233L2C, 220233L2G, 220233L2I |
| Price | - | € 60.00 / $ 66.55 |
| SAR | - | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Xiaomi Redmi 11A
- Faster CPU for smoother performance
- Potentially better power efficiency
- More modern processor architecture
- May be slightly more expensive than the 10A
- Still limited by 10W charging
Xiaomi Redmi 10A
- Lowest possible price point
- Functional for basic tasks
- Decent battery life (estimated)
- Slower CPU and overall performance
- Less efficient processor
- May struggle with multitasking
Display Comparison
Both the Redmi 11A and 10A are expected to feature similar LCD panels, likely with a 720p+ resolution. Given the price bracket, neither is expected to boast high brightness or color accuracy. The absence of detailed display specifications in the provided data suggests a focus on cost reduction in this area, meaning users shouldn't expect a premium viewing experience on either device. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both models.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is positioned as a photography powerhouse. The lack of detailed camera specifications suggests both will feature basic camera setups, likely with a primary sensor and potentially a depth or macro lens. Given the market segment, image processing will likely prioritize speed over quality. The Redmi 10A’s camera performance will likely be limited by the Helio G25’s image signal processor (ISP), while the 11A’s ISP, tied to its more modern CPU, may offer slightly improved image processing capabilities. Expect similar results in good lighting conditions, but the 11A may perform better in low light.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPU. The Redmi 11A’s octa-core 2.0 GHz processor represents a clear upgrade over the Redmi 10A’s MediaTek Helio G25. The Helio G25 utilizes a big.LITTLE architecture with 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 cores and 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. While the Redmi 11A’s CPU is also octa-core, the 2.0 GHz clock speed across all cores suggests a more consistent performance level. The Helio G25’s 12nm process node is also less efficient than a more modern node, potentially leading to slightly higher power consumption for similar tasks. This translates to faster app launches and smoother multitasking on the 11A.
Battery Life
Both the Redmi 11A and 10A are equipped with 10W wired charging. This is a relatively slow charging speed by today’s standards, meaning a full charge will take over two hours. While battery capacity isn’t specified, both devices are likely to house a 5000mAh battery, typical for this price range. The Redmi 11A’s more efficient processor may contribute to slightly better battery life, offsetting the identical charging speed.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 11A if you prioritize responsiveness and smoother performance for everyday tasks like social media, browsing, and light gaming. It’s ideal for users who want a phone that feels less sluggish. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 10A if your primary needs are basic communication – calls, texts, and WhatsApp – and you’re looking for the absolute lowest possible price point. It’s a functional device for minimal smartphone usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Redmi 11A handle popular apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the Redmi 11A’s 2.0 GHz octa-core processor should provide a noticeably smoother experience with apps like Facebook and WhatsApp compared to the Redmi 10A. The increased processing power will result in faster loading times and less lag during scrolling and app switching.
❓ Is the Helio G25 in the Redmi 10A sufficient for casual gaming?
The Helio G25 can handle very basic, less demanding games. However, for more graphically intensive titles, you’ll likely experience significant frame rate drops and lag. The Redmi 11A, while not a gaming phone, will offer a slightly better gaming experience due to its faster CPU.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge either the Redmi 11A or 10A with the 10W charger?
Expect a full charge to take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours with the included 10W charger for both devices. 10W charging is a relatively slow standard, so patience is required.
❓ Does either phone support fast charging?
No, neither the Redmi 11A nor the Redmi 10A supports fast charging. Both are limited to 10W wired charging.
