Smartphone Comparison: Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 160.8 × 78.1 × 7.4 mm | 164.2 × 76.1 × 8.1 mm | Xiaomi is taller and thicker, Apple is wider. Xiaomi has larger volume, might feel bulkier. |
| Weight | 228g | 201.8g | Xiaomi is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Build | Unknown Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi's screen is more resistant to scratches and minor impacts. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones |
Display
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Minimal difference, both offer large viewing experiences. |
| Resolution | 1284x2778 | 1080x2400 | iPhone has a significantly sharper display with more detail. |
| Pixel Density | 458 ppi | 395 ppi | iPhone's display is noticeably clearer and crisper. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Xiaomi provides smoother animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 1200 nits | Both are equally bright, excellent for outdoor visibility. |
Performance
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | iPhone offers much faster performance for demanding tasks and gaming. |
| Antutu Score | 1,121,803 | 397,200 | iPhone has dramatically better benchmark performance, indicating a much snappier experience. |
| GPU | Apple GPU (4-core) | Adreno 618 | iPhone has a more powerful GPU, handling graphics-intensive tasks and gaming better. |
Camera
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.6, 1.7µm pixels | 108MP, f/1.9, 0.7µm pixels | Xiaomi has higher resolution for detail, iPhone has wider aperture for better low-light. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Xiaomi has higher resolution, while iPhone has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | None | iPhone offers optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.4 | 8MP, f/2.2 | iPhone captures wider photos with higher resolution; Xiaomi has a wider aperture. |
| Portrait Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Xiaomi has a dedicated lens for depth effect in portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | Xiaomi has a lens dedicated to close-up photography. |
| Video | Up to 4K 60fps, HDR, Stereo sound | Up to 4K 30fps | iPhone provides more versatile video recording options. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes | No | Apple offers OIS for smoother videos. |
| Slow Motion | 240fps | 960fps | Xiaomi offers much higher slow-motion frame rates. |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | 131 (Photo: 131, Video: 130) | Not tested | iPhone has a DxOMark score, while Xiaomi's not tested |
| DXOMark (Selfie) | 132 (Photo: 127, Video: 140) | Not tested | iPhone has a DxOMark score, while Xiaomi's not tested |
Battery
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 3687 mAh | 5020 mAh | Xiaomi has a significantly larger battery, potentially longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 20W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | MagSafe, Qi Wireless charging | Reverse Charging | iPhone offers wireless charging. Xiaomi can charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer |
Other
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | iOS 14.1 (upgradable to 18) | Android 11 (no information on max version) | Different user interfaces and app ecosystems. Apple provides a longer software update lifespan. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | iPhone supports newer standards, potentially faster speeds and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.1 | Similar Bluetooth capabilities. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | iPhone supports more satellite systems, for improved accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | iPhone has the flexibility of eSIM. |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB | iPhone offers a 512GB option for higher storage requirements. |
| RAM | 6 GB | 6GB, 8GB | Xiaomi has an 8 GB RAM option for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports storage expansion. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | iPhone has enhanced spatial audio. Xiaomi offers Hi-Res audio. |
| Security | Basic | Fingerprint (side-mounted) | Xiaomi offers biometric fingerprint security. |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Each has different sensor configurations. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Performance: The A14 Bionic chip provides much faster processing speeds, better multitasking, and more efficient handling of demanding apps and games.
- Higher Resolution and Sharper Display: The higher resolution and PPI on the iPhone result in a noticeably sharper and more detailed screen.
- Superior Camera System: The telephoto lens, better video stabilization, and high DxOMark scores makes for a more versatile camera.
- More Robust Video Features: Offers a wider range of HDR video recording options and superior video stabilization.
- Premium Build and Features: Offers MagSafe charging, a more comprehensive GPS system, and features like Dolby Atmos audio.
- Longer Software Support: Apple provides longer software update cycles, extending the device's usable life.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G Advantages:
- Significantly Larger Battery: 5020 mAh battery offers potentially much longer battery life between charges.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging drastically reduces charging times.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate results in smoother scrolling and animations.
- More Camera Lenses: Includes macro and depth sensors, allowing more creative shooting options.
- More RAM Options: A variant with 8 GB of RAM is available, improving multitasking and app handling.
- Lighter Design: 26.2 grams lighter, more comfortable for extended use.
- More Modern Design: Newer than the iPhone, with newer camera technologies.
- Cost Effective: Typically sold at a lower price point.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Performance vs. Battery Life: iPhone offers top-tier performance at the cost of a smaller battery and slower charging. Xiaomi prioritizes battery and charging speeds but sacrifices significant performance.
- Camera Versatility vs. Raw Power: iPhone has better optical zoom and video stabilization but loses out on dedicated macro and portrait lenses offered by the Xiaomi.
- OS Ecosystem: iPhone uses iOS, whereas Xiaomi uses Android. This can be a dealbreaker for someone used to one ecosystem or the other.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Ideal User:
- Power Users: Those who need the highest performance for gaming, video editing, or other demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who need a versatile camera system with optical zoom and superior video capabilities.
- Ecosystem Users: Existing users within the Apple ecosystem who appreciate the seamless integration.
- Users who need long term support: Users who prefer longer software support
- Those Prioritizing Display Quality: Users who demand a sharp and detailed display.
Specific Use Cases:
- Professional video recording and editing.
- Mobile gaming at the highest graphical settings.
- Users who want a seamless experience across Apple devices.
- Reliable performance for work and productivity applications.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for the best value for their money with good performance.
- Battery-Focused Users: Those who need a long-lasting battery that can get them through a full day.
- Casual Gamers: Users who want a smooth gaming experience without the need for top-tier performance.
- Creative Photographers: Those interested in experimenting with different camera lenses like macro and portrait mode.
- Android Enthusiasts: Users familiar with the Android ecosystem, wanting flexibility and customization.
Specific Use Cases:
- All-day usage without worrying about battery life.
- Capture close-up photos and videos with the macro lens.
- Casual social media and content consumption.
- Users who are happy with good gaming performance without needing the best available.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case for the smartphone? (Gaming, photography, everyday use, etc.)
- What do you value most: top performance or extended battery life?
- Are you invested in a specific operating system ecosystem (iOS or Android)?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: "I need the best performance for gaming and heavy apps": Choose the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max for its superior processor, GPU, and overall performance, even if it means sacrificing on battery and faster charging.
- Scenario 2: "I need a long-lasting battery, and great daily use": Go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G. The larger battery and fast charging will greatly enhance daily use, even if it is a less powerful chip.
- Scenario 3: "I want a versatile camera to experiment with": Consider the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G which provides greater versatility with its multiple lenses. However, if you need a top tier image quality, the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max should be chosen instead.
- Scenario 4: "I am tied to a specific ecosystem": Choose either the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max for the iOS ecosystem, or the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G for the Android ecosystem.
My Choice and Why
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Here's why:
While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G presents a compelling package with its larger battery, faster charging, and versatile camera setup, my priorities lean more towards performance, a better display and overall quality. The iPhone 12 Pro Max's superior A14 Bionic chip ensures a smooth, lag-free experience that will remain relevant for years to come. The significantly sharper display, superior camera system (especially with the telephoto lens), and robust video features, combined with a longer software support makes it a better long-term investment for my daily needs. I'm also deeply entrenched in the Apple ecosystem, and the seamless integration between Apple devices is a significant advantage for me.
Even though the Xiaomi has a bigger battery, I am willing to compromise for the features that the Apple phone provides.
