Okay, let's dive deep into the trenches and pit these two very different contenders against each other: the Infinix Note 12 G96, a budget-friendly workhorse from 2022, and the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra, a 2024 powerhouse packed with the latest tech. Let’s break down their specs and see which phone comes out on top for whom.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key specifications of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra, with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-16 | 2024-04-14 | The Zenfone 11 Ultra is nearly two years newer, benefiting from more recent technological advancements. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are traditional smartphone designs; no foldables here. |
| Dimensions (mm) | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 | 163.8 x 76.8 x 8.9 | The Zenfone is slightly shorter and thicker, but both share similar width; it's not a significant difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 185g | 224g | The Infinix is noticeably lighter, which makes a difference when using it for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.78" | Very similar screen sizes; both offer a large, immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Identical resolution on both phones, so similar clarity and sharpness. |
| PPI | 393 | 388 | Very close pixel densities; both will deliver sharp visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED displays, promising rich colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 144Hz | The Zenfone's higher refresh rate makes animations and scrolling incredibly smooth. A huge difference in perceived snappiness. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 2500 nits | The Zenfone's display is far brighter, making it much more usable under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | The Zenfone has a vastly superior, cutting-edge processor, resulting in dramatically faster app loading, multitasking, and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 1,532,000 | The Zenfone's benchmark score is nearly 5 times higher, demonstrating its superior performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 750 | The Zenfone's GPU is vastly superior, promising better gaming performance and graphics rendering. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5500mAh | The Zenfone has a larger battery, which typically translates to longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 65W Fast Charging | The Zenfone's charging is much faster, refilling the larger battery quicker. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable, 15W Wireless, 10W Reverse wired | The Zenfone provides additional flexibility with wireless and reverse charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP (f/1.6, 1/2.76") | 50MP (f/1.9, 1/1.56") | The Zenfone has a larger sensor, which should result in improved image quality in various lighting conditions, despite the slightly narrower aperture. |
| Front Camera Resolution | 16MP (f/2.0) | 32MP (f/2.5, 1/3.2") | The Zenfone has a higher-resolution selfie camera that captures more details. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 32MP (f/2.4) | The Zenfone offers an additional lens for optical zoom, increasing its versatility. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP (f/2.2) | The Zenfone captures a wider field of view, useful for group photos and landscapes. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | The Infinix has a depth sensor for enhancing portrait shots, but this is a less common feature. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | Up to 8K@24fps | The Zenfone is capable of significantly higher-resolution video recording, suitable for professional video creation. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Gimbal, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), PDAF Omnidericional, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | The Zenfone boasts a far more advanced camera system with optical stabilization, and more advanced focus options and shooting modes. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | The Zenfone has a newer Android version, meaning access to the latest features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11n | WiFi 7 | The Zenfone supports newer Wi-Fi standards with significantly higher speeds and lower latency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.4 LE | The Zenfone has a newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, Multi-system | The Zenfone utilizes more satellite systems for greater location accuracy, especially in dense urban areas or remote places. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128GB | 256/512GB | The Zenfone has significantly more internal storage, which is useful for storing large media libraries and gaming. |
| RAM | 4/6/8GB | 12/16GB | The Zenfone has significantly more RAM, allowing for smoother multitasking and better handling of resource-intensive apps. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, so choosing the right storage variant matters. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Noise Cancellation, Stereo Speakers | The Zenfone offers higher-quality audio, clearer calls, and better separation/immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Infinix has a faster side-mounted fingerprint reader. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | The Zenfone has significantly better screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall | The Zenfone has additional sensors for advanced features. |
2. Key Insights
- Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths: Its main strength is its affordability. It has a decent AMOLED display, acceptable performance for daily tasks, a reasonably large battery, and a lightweight design, making it comfortable to hold and use.
- Competitive Advantages: The price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious users. Its depth sensor and side mounted fingerprint reader are also nice to have.
- Limitations: Its processor is relatively weak, and it lacks modern features like high refresh rate, advanced camera capabilities, and faster charging. The lack of expandable storage can be a limitation for some users.
- Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra:
- Strengths: Its strengths are overwhelming in raw performance, a fantastic display with high refresh rate and brightness, a top-tier camera system, blazing-fast charging, modern connectivity options, a generous amount of RAM and storage, and a more durable build.
- Competitive Advantages: Its class-leading performance, advanced camera setup, and the latest features make it a powerhouse that can handle demanding tasks with ease. The more modern operating system and wireless charging is also a big plus.
- Limitations: The Zenfone's main drawback will be its price and its added weight when compared to the Infinix.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Infinix Note 12 G96: This phone is best suited for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a functional smartphone for basic tasks like calling, texting, browsing, and media consumption without breaking the bank.
- Casual users: People who do not play intensive games or rely heavily on the camera and don't need the latest features.
- Users prioritising lightness: Those who appreciate a lightweight device.
- Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra: This phone is ideal for:
- Power users: Those who need the absolute best performance for gaming, multitasking, video editing, or professional use.
- Photography enthusiasts: Users who want the best mobile camera experience with advanced features and great image quality.
- Tech enthusiasts: People who want the latest features, the newest technology, and the fastest connectivity.
- Users with a larger budget: Those who are willing to pay extra for a top-tier experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help users decide between these phones:
- What is your budget? The Infinix is significantly more affordable, while the Asus is a premium device. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the Infinix is the clear winner.
- How important is performance? If you want a phone that can handle demanding games and resource-intensive apps flawlessly, the Zenfone is the obvious choice. The Infinix is sufficient for basic tasks but may struggle with more complex usage.
- What features are most important to you? If you want a high refresh rate screen, an advanced camera system, wireless charging, and the latest software, you will be much happier with the Zenfone. If a large screen with a good display and a simple camera system is enough, the Infinix may suffice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: You are a student with a limited budget who needs a phone for browsing, social media, and some light gaming.
- Recommendation: The Infinix Note 12 G96 should be sufficient and save you money.
Scenario 2: You are a professional who uses their phone for work, high-quality photography, and gaming on the go.
- Recommendation: The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra is the obvious choice. Its high performance and advanced features will greatly enhance your workflow and enjoyment.
Scenario 3: You are a casual user who wants good battery life, a decent camera, and a fluid experience without paying a premium price.
- Recommendation: The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra is the better option, but may not be the value choice for this scenario. Consider if the premium price justifies a more modern and well-rounded experience.
My Personal Choice:
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra. Yes, it comes with a premium price tag, but the leap in performance, display quality, camera prowess, and overall modernity is something I value. As a tech journalist, I need a phone that can keep up with my workflow, capture high-quality images and videos, and provide a smooth, enjoyable user experience. The Zenfone is simply in a different league, and while the Infinix is a decent budget option, the Zenfone is a flagship through and through.
