Huawei nova Y90 vs. Xiaomi Redmi 12: A Practical Comparison
Let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Huawei nova Y90 and the Xiaomi Redmi 12, translating the technical jargon into real-world experiences.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Huawei nova Y90 | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 163.3 x 74.7 x 8.4 | 168.6 x 76.3 x 8.2 | Redmi 12 is slightly larger and heavier. |
| Weight (g) | 195 | 198.5 | Negligible difference in hand feel. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.7 | 6.79 | Redmi 12 has a marginally larger screen. |
| Resolution (px) | 1080 x 2388 | 1080 x 2460 | Similar sharpness; Redmi 12 slightly taller due to aspect ratio. |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling, but not as vibrant as AMOLED. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 680 4G | Helio G88 | Redmi 12's Helio G88 generally offers slightly better CPU performance, but the Snapdragon 680 may have better power efficiency. |
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz & 4x1.9 GHz) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz & 6x1.8 GHz) | Both handle daily tasks well; Redmi 12 might be slightly faster in demanding applications. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Comparable GPU performance; differences may be noticeable in demanding games. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB (as reviewed) | Both sufficient for multitasking and smooth operation. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera (MP) | 50 | 50 | Similar resolution, image quality depends on sensor and processing. |
| Features | Triple Camera, LED Flash | Triple Camera, LED Flash, Slow Motion 120fps | Redmi 12 offers slow-motion video recording. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 5000 | Both offer ample battery life for a full day of use. |
| Fast Charging | 40W | 18W | Nova Y90 charges significantly faster. |
2. Key Insights
- Performance: While both phones handle daily tasks efficiently, the Redmi 12's Helio G88 might offer a slight edge in demanding applications. However, the Snapdragon 680 in the Nova Y90 is known for its power efficiency, potentially leading to longer battery life in certain usage scenarios.
- Display: Both phones feature large IPS LCDs with 90Hz refresh rates, resulting in smooth scrolling and animations. Neither offers the vibrant colors and deep blacks of AMOLED displays, but they are perfectly acceptable for everyday use.
- Camera: Both boast a 50MP main camera. Real-world image quality will depend on factors beyond resolution, including sensor quality, image processing algorithms, and lens optics. The Redmi 12's standout feature is its ability to record slow-motion video at 120fps.
- Charging Speed: The Nova Y90's 40W fast charging is a clear winner, significantly reducing downtime compared to the Redmi 12's 18W charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Huawei nova Y90: Best suited for users who prioritize faster charging and a slightly more compact form factor.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12: A good choice for budget-conscious users who value slow-motion video recording and potentially slightly better performance in demanding apps.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- Is fast charging a top priority? If yes, the Nova Y90 is the clear winner.
- Is slow-motion video recording important? If yes, the Redmi 12 is the better choice.
- Which ecosystem do you prefer? Consider if you prefer Huawei's AppGallery or have a strong reliance on Google Mobile Services (GMS) which the Redmi 12 (with some potential regional variations) offers.
My Choice: Xiaomi Redmi 12
While the Huawei nova Y90's 40W fast charging is incredibly tempting, I would personally choose the Xiaomi Redmi 12. The slightly improved performance, slow-motion video capability, and the generally wider app ecosystem availability via Google Mobile Services are more compelling factors for my usage. The price difference, even with the faster charging of the Nova Y90, further solidifies the Redmi 12 as the better value proposition in my opinion. As a tech journalist, having access to a broader range of apps and services is crucial, making the Redmi 12 a more practical choice for my needs.
