Alright, let's dive deep into the specs of the Huawei nova Y70 Plus and the Xiaomi Redmi 12. I'm going to break it down as if we're chatting over coffee, focusing on what actually matters for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these phones stack up, with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 168.3 × 77.7 × 9 mm | 168.6 × 76.3 × 8.2 mm | Y70 Plus is a bit wider and thicker, might feel slightly bulkier in hand; Redmi 12 is a touch slimmer and more compact. |
| Weight | 199g | 198.5g | Practically the same weight; both are in the typical range for phones of this size. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.75" | 6.79" | Virtually the same display size; negligible difference for daily use. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2460 | Redmi 12 has a significantly sharper screen with more detail; noticeable in text clarity and image quality. |
| PPI | 260 | 396 | Redmi 12's display is much crisper due to higher pixel density; less "blocky" look. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use LCD, so no major difference in color or viewing angles between the two. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Redmi 12's 90Hz refresh rate will result in slightly smoother animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is identical, however the performance of the display in direct sunlight is an unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Kirin 710A (14 nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12 nm) | Helio G88 is newer and more efficient, resulting in better performance and power management. |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,500 | 249,400 | Redmi 12 is significantly faster; will perform better in gaming, app launching, and multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G51 MP4 (PowerVR GE8320) | Mali-G52 MC2 (Arm Mali-G52 MC2) | Redmi 12's GPU will provide better graphics performance, especially in gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.8) | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm) | Redmi 12 may have slightly better image quality due to newer sensor. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) | 8MP (f/2.1) | Y70 Plus has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 5MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8", 1.14µm) | Redmi 12's wide-angle shots should be of noticeably higher quality due to the more modern sensor. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | Y70 Plus has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode (background blur). |
| Macro Camera | None | 2MP (f/2.4) | Redmi 12 has a dedicated macro lens to take close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Similar basic video capabilities; both lack stabilization capabilities. |
| Additional Features | PDAF, Panorama | RAW | Redmi 12 supports RAW photos, giving more editing flexibility. Y70 Plus has a dedicated PDAF system for improved autofocus speeds. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 6000mAh | 5000mAh | Y70 Plus has a larger battery, likely providing significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 22.5W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Y70 Plus charges a bit faster; however the difference may be negligible in everyday use. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Redmi 12 can reverse charge other devices at 9W. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi 12 has the latest Android OS, offering access to newer features and security updates. | |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Redmi 12 supports newer WiFi standards (802.11ac), leading to faster and more reliable speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Redmi 12 has newer Bluetooth for more efficient wireless connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Y70 Plus has additional support for QZSS. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB or 128GB | 128GB or 256GB | Redmi 12 offers larger storage options; better for storing more media. |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB | Redmi 12 can have up to double the RAM compared to the Y70 Plus; better multitasking and app retention. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones do not support expandable storage via MicroSD card. |
| Other | |||
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Both phones offer side-mounted fingerprint sensors. |
| Audio Quality | Basic | Basic | Both phones offer similar audio performance. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Redmi 12 has more sensors, including a gyroscope and compass. |
2. Key Insights
Huawei nova Y70 Plus: The Battery Champion
- Strengths: The most significant advantage of the Huawei nova Y70 Plus is its massive 6000mAh battery. If battery life is your primary concern, this phone will likely last much longer on a single charge than the Redmi 12. It also has a dedicated depth sensor for its portrait camera and PDAF for faster autofocus.
- Competitive Advantages: The Y70 Plus focuses on battery life above all else, making it a good fit for users who frequently find themselves far from a power outlet.
Xiaomi Redmi 12: The Performance All-Rounder
- Strengths: The Redmi 12 wins on many fronts: a higher resolution screen (sharper and more pleasant), faster processor, more RAM, newer software, and a newer Wifi Chipset. The camera also features more modern and higher quality sensors than the Y70 Plus.
- Competitive Advantages: The Redmi 12 is a more balanced phone, with better performance and a crisper display. If you do not prioritise battery above all else, the Redmi 12 is the better phone.
Trade-offs & Limitations
- Huawei nova Y70 Plus: The lower-resolution display and slower processor might feel a little sluggish compared to modern standards. The lack of expandable storage may be a limitation if you have large amounts of media.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12: The 5000 mAh battery, although a reasonable size, may not last as long as the Y70 Plus if you’re a heavy user. The 18W charging may also take slightly longer compared to the Y70 Plus.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Huawei nova Y70 Plus: Best for users who prioritize battery life above all else. Good for travelers, those who use their phones heavily without frequent access to charging, and those on a tighter budget. Perfect for people who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, browsing, and social media without needing top performance.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12: This is the better choice for users who want a more balanced experience with a sharper display, better performance, and modern software. Ideal for those who value a phone that feels snappy, offers good quality photos, and will be used for light gaming and multimedia consumption.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you choose:
- How important is battery life to you?
- If you need your phone to last all day (or more) with heavy usage, go for the Huawei nova Y70 Plus.
- How much do you value screen quality and smooth performance?
- If a crisp, responsive display and fast performance are important, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 is the clear winner.
- Do you need more storage or the latest Android experience?
- If storage is a concern, and you prefer to have the latest Android experience, choose the Xiaomi Redmi 12.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (The Road Warrior): You're constantly on the go, far from power outlets.
- Recommendation: Huawei nova Y70 Plus, due to its massive battery capacity.
- Scenario 2 (The Casual Gamer/Media Enthusiast): You enjoy light mobile gaming and watching videos.
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi 12, due to its superior display, faster processor, and more capable GPU.
- Scenario 3 (The Everyday User): You need a reliable phone for social media, calls, and basic tasks.
- Recommendation: If you prioritize battery life, go with the Huawei nova Y70 Plus. If you want better performance, go with the Xiaomi Redmi 12.
Final Thoughts - Which Would I Choose?
If I had to pick one for my own use, I'd go with the Xiaomi Redmi 12. While I appreciate the massive battery on the Huawei, the overall experience with the Redmi 12 seems much more modern and well-rounded. The crisper display, smoother performance, and slightly better camera system make a big difference to the day to day usability. I also value having access to the latest Android operating system, which means that I will have the most recent security features, making it the right pick for me.
That being said, if I was someone who frequently used my phone for long periods of time without the ability to charge it (like when travelling), I would consider the Huawei nova Y70 Plus.
