1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Xiaomi 12X | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 148 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | Zenfone 8 is more compact, slightly thicker. 12X is larger, thinner. The size difference can impact comfort for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 169g | 176g | Zenfone 8 is slightly lighter (7g), which might be preferable for those seeking the most lightweight option. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.28" | Xiaomi 12X offers more screen real estate for media consumption and multitasking. Zenfone 8 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Identical sharpness; both offer sharp visuals. |
| PPI | 446 | 419 | Zenfone 8 has slightly higher pixel density, although difference might be imperceptible to the naked eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both provide vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer fluid scrolling and smoother animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1100 nits | Both are bright enough for outdoor visibility in most conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5nm) | Snapdragon 870 5G (7nm) | Zenfone 8's 888 offers slightly better raw processing power, while 870 is still very capable for everyday tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 815,210 | Zenfone 8 shows better benchmark performance but in day-to-day use, both are very fast. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 650 | Zenfone 8’s GPU offers better graphics performance, ideal for demanding games. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 64MP | 50MP | Zenfone 8 has a higher-resolution sensor. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | 1/1.56" | Xiaomi 12X has a slightly larger sensor, which typically results in better light gathering for low light situations. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80µm | 1.00µm | Xiaomi 12X has larger pixels on the main sensor, which can mean better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Res | 12MP | 32MP | Xiaomi 12X captures more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.93" | 1/3" | Zenfone 8’s front sensor is slightly larger. |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 1.22µm | 0.70µm | Zenfone 8’s selfie camera has larger pixels. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | 13MP | Xiaomi 12X offers versatility with a wide-angle lens. |
| Macro Lens | No | 5MP | Xiaomi 12X includes a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12MP | No | Zenfone 8 provides a combined wide-angle + macro, offering versatility. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 8K@24fps | Similar high-quality video capture capabilities. |
| DXOMark | 116 | - | Zenfone 8's camera performance is rated by DXOMark, while the 12X lacks a rating. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4500mAh | Xiaomi 12X has a larger battery, meaning potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 30W | 67W | Xiaomi 12X charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 | Both have the same OS version out of the box. |
| Max OS Version | Android 13 | - | Asus Zenfone 8 has an additional major OS update. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support latest WiFi standards, offering high speed internet on compatible networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | Zenfone 8 has a newer Bluetooth version which may lead to more stable connections with accessories. |
| GPS | More Systems | Fewer Systems | Zenfone 8 has potentially higher accuracy and reliability for navigation. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both provide dual SIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer identical storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16 GB | 8/12 GB | Zenfone 8 has more RAM options, especially for higher end users. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res, Noise Cancellation, Stereo Speakers, 3 Mics | Hi-Res, Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 Mics | Zenfone 8 has a slight advantage for calls, while 12X provides the Dolby Atmos effect for enhanced audio. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus | Both offer the same level of screen protection. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- More Compact & Lighter: Easier to handle one-handed and more pocketable.
- Slightly Better Performance: Snapdragon 888 and Adreno 660 offer better raw power for gaming.
- Higher RAM Option: Up to 16GB, useful for heavy multitasking.
- More GPS support: Greater precision in navigation, especially in urban environments.
- Better Audio Recording: Additional microphone and noise cancellation may benefit calls or video recordings.
- DXOMark Camera Rating: Provides some benchmark for camera performance.
- Additional major OS upgrade: Android 13 is supported
Xiaomi 12X Advantages:
- Larger Display: Better for media consumption, browsing, and gaming.
- Larger Battery: Offers longer battery life on a single charge.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging reduces downtime.
- More Versatile Camera: Dedicated wide-angle and macro lenses provide more shooting options.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: Useful for taking more detailed selfies.
- Dolby Atmos: Enhanced audio listening experience.
Trade-offs:
- Asus Zenfone 8: Slightly smaller screen and smaller battery, no dedicated macro or wide angle lens.
- Xiaomi 12X: Larger and heavier, slightly slower performance, older Bluetooth version.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8:
- Ideal User: Someone who values compactness, performance, and good audio. Gamers or users who push their phones to the limit, will benefit from the raw power and additional RAM. People who want to take advantage of the latest version of Android.
- Use Cases: Gaming, audio recording, heavy multitasking, one-handed use, travel and navigation.
- Price-to-Value: Offers premium performance in a compact package, potentially good value for its target audience.
Xiaomi 12X:
- Ideal User: Media consumers, casual gamers, and those who prioritize battery life and camera versatility.
- Use Cases: Watching videos, social media, photography, general everyday use.
- Price-to-Value: Offers a more well-rounded set of features at a potentially more accessible price point than some premium phones.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Size Preference: Do you prefer a more compact phone or a larger screen for media consumption?
- Performance or Battery: Is raw performance more important, or do you prioritize battery life and faster charging?
- Camera Versatility: Do you need a dedicated wide-angle and macro lens or a combination wide-angle/macro lens?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gamer/Heavy User: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8 for its superior performance, higher RAM options, better navigation capabilities and additional OS update.
- Scenario 2: Media Enthusiast/Casual User: Choose the Xiaomi 12X for its larger display, versatile camera system, larger battery, and fast charging.
- Scenario 3: Compact Phone Preference: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8 due to its significantly smaller form factor.
- Scenario 4: Budget-Conscious Buyer: Research current pricing; if the Xiaomi 12X is significantly cheaper, it could be a better value choice given its capable hardware.
My Choice
Given my preference for a compact device with high performance, I would choose the Asus Zenfone 8. While the Xiaomi 12X offers some compelling features like a larger display and versatile camera, the Zenfone 8's smaller size, better performance, and audio features fit my needs better. The higher RAM option also makes it more suitable for my daily use and the additional OS update ensures it stays up to date longer. The slight downgrade in battery life is acceptable in exchange for a more pocketable, performance-oriented device.
