1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Asus Zenfone 8 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+, focusing on practical implications:
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 148 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm, 169g | 162.9 x 76 x 8.9 mm, 208.4g | Zenfone 8 is much more pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use; Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is larger and heavier, better for media consumption. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ provides a more immersive experience for movies and games; Zenfone 8 is better for portability and one-handed operation. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Identical sharpness, but the Zenfone 8's smaller size means higher pixel density. |
| Pixel Density | 446 ppi | 395 ppi | Zenfone 8 offers a slightly sharper visual experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar display quality; both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both displays provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 900 nits | Zenfone 8 offers better visibility under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G | Dimensity 1080 | Zenfone 8 has a significantly faster processor, better for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 573,100 | Zenfone 8 provides a much smoother and faster experience overall. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Zenfone 8's GPU offers superior gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", IMX686 | 200MP, f/1.65, 1/1.4", ISOCELL HPX | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers higher resolution and better low-light performance due to larger sensor. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93", IMX663 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a slightly better selfie camera on paper, but sensor model and pixel size are not available. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 (combined) | 8MP, f/2.2 (dedicated) | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a dedicated ultra-wide lens for wider shots; Zenfone 8 has wide angle but combined with macro |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | Up to 8K @ 24fps | Up to 4K @ 30fps | Zenfone 8 can record higher resolution video with professional capabilities. |
| DxOMark | Main: 116, Photo: 120, Video: 118 | Main: 113, Photo: 117, Video: 117 | Zenfone 8 generally provides better photo and video quality based on DxOMark scores. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers much longer battery life. |
| Charging | 30W | 120W | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has dramatically faster charging capabilities, reducing downtime. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has newer OS, meaning better support and features. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer similar storage options; neither has expandable storage. |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16 GB | 8/12 GB | Zenfone 8 offers more RAM on the high end, which can be useful for heavy multitasking. |
| Other | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res, Stereo, 3 Mics, Noise Canceling | Hi-Res, Dolby Atmos, Stereo | Zenfone 8 has better noise cancellation and voice capture. Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has Dolby Atmos. Both have stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio |
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi has a more convenient fingerprint sensor placement |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Zenfone 8 has superior screen protection, more resistance against scratches and cracks. |
| Sensors | More sensors | Basic set of sensors | Zenfone 8 is better suited for advanced gaming and augmented reality apps |
| ## 2. Key Differences Analysis |
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers a significant advantage in processing power and gaming performance, resulting in smoother and faster app loading and better multitasking.
- Sharper Display: Higher pixel density leads to a crisper visual experience despite a smaller screen.
- Better Outdoor Visibility: The brighter display ensures good readability even in direct sunlight.
- Higher Video Recording Resolution: 8K video recording capability allows for professional-grade video content creation.
- Better Audio Features: The 3 microphones and noise cancellation mean better call quality and sound recording.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides superior scratch and shatter resistance.
- More Sensors: Offers better support for motion based applications and AR/VR experiences
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ Advantages:
- Larger Display: Provides a more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming.
- Significantly Larger Battery: Offers much longer battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging.
- Much Faster Charging: 120W charging dramatically reduces charging times, meaning less time tethered to a charger.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: The 200MP camera sensor captures more detail and offers better low light performance.
- Dedicated Wide and Macro Lens: More flexibility in capturing images with the dedicated wide angle and macro lens.
- Newer Operating System: Android 12 (upgradable to 14) provides the latest Android features.
Trade-offs:
- Zenfone 8: Sacrifices battery life and screen size for superior performance and portability.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro+: Sacrifices processing power for better battery life and a larger display.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Asus Zenfone 8:
- Gamers: The powerful Snapdragon 888 and Adreno 660 provide superior gaming performance.
- Power Users: The chipset and high RAM options ensure smooth multitasking and demanding application performance.
- Those Prioritizing Portability: The compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for one-handed use and portability.
- Users Needing High Quality Video: 8k video recording means the phone could be used for video creation.
- Users Prioritizing Display Quality: The combination of high ppi, high brightness and superior screen protection offer better overall screen experience
Ideal Use Cases for Asus Zenfone 8:
- Mobile gaming with demanding graphics.
- Running resource-intensive applications.
- Frequent outdoor use where screen visibility is crucial.
- Video recording of professional level content
- Frequent commuting where portability is key.
Ideal Users for Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+:
- Media Consumers: The large display is great for watching videos and movies.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage.
- Users Needing Fast Charging: The 120W charging quickly replenishes the battery.
- Photography enthusiasts: Those wanting to experiment with a 200MP camera and dedicated wide and macro lens
- Users wanting latest software features: Comes with newer Android OS version
Ideal Use Cases for Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+:
- Binge-watching videos and movies.
- Traveling or outdoor activities with limited access to power outlets.
- Capturing detailed high-resolution photos and videos.
- Extensive use during day with less need for charging
- Users who want the latest Android version with all associated features
Price-to-Value:
- Asus Zenfone 8: Offers premium performance at a slightly higher cost, appealing to performance-focused users.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+: Provides good all-round value with a focus on display, battery, and camera, at a lower price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance or Battery? Do you prioritize top-tier performance or all-day battery life?
- Screen Size or Portability? Do you prefer a large, immersive screen or a compact, portable phone?
- Camera versatility or Performance? Do you prioritize highest camera resolution and flexibility, or better overall picture quality?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile Gamer: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8 for its superior gaming performance and higher refresh rate.
- Scenario 2: Frequent Traveler: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ for its long battery life and fast charging.
- Scenario 3: Media Enthusiast: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ for its large, immersive display.
- Scenario 4: Camera Enthusiast: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ for its dedicated wide and macro lens, and higher MP camera
- Scenario 5: Professional Content Creator: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8 for its professional video recording features
- Scenario 6: User Prioritizing Portability: Choose the Asus Zenfone 8 for its smaller form factor and better pocketability
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would select the Asus Zenfone 8. Although the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a larger display, better battery life, and faster charging, my primary use case revolves around performance, media consumption and portability.
The Zenfone 8's superior Snapdragon 888 chipset and higher pixel density display provide a noticeably smoother experience that I value more than the larger screen or longer battery life of the Redmi Note 12 Pro+. As someone who plays mobile games and often uses resource-heavy applications, the raw power of the Zenfone 8 is highly beneficial. The better video recording capabilities are also very appealing as I am a content creator. Furthermore, I highly value a compact phone with better pocketability.
