Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Google Pixel 7 Pro. We'll break down the specs, analyze what they mean in real life, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Google Pixel 7 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-16 | 2022-10-13 | Pixel 7 Pro is newer, potentially with more up-to-date software and features |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, no folding mechanics |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9 mm | Infinix is taller but thinner; Pixel 7 Pro is slightly more compact in hand though thicker |
| Weight | 185g | 212g | Infinix is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for prolonged use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both offer a large display for immersive viewing |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | Pixel 7 Pro offers a sharper, more detailed screen |
| PPI | 393 | 512 | Pixel 7 Pro has a noticeably clearer and crisp display |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant, high-contrast displays |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 7 Pro provides smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1500 nits | Pixel 7 Pro is much brighter, better for outdoor visibility |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 | Google Tensor G2 | Pixel 7 Pro's chip is significantly more powerful, faster |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 831,716 | Pixel 7 Pro offers vastly superior performance for demanding apps and games |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G710 MP7 | Pixel 7 Pro's GPU provides significantly better graphics rendering |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity; both should offer similar endurance |
| Charging | 33W Fast | 23W Fast + 23W Wireless | Infinix charges faster with a cable; Pixel has wireless charging convenience |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse, Wireless | Pixel 7 Pro supports wireless charging and can charge other devices |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76" | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31" | Pixel 7 Pro has a larger sensor and pixel size, better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 10.8MP, f/2.2 | Infinix has more megapixels, but Pixel has better light-gathering capabilities due to larger sensor size |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 48MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | Pixel 7 Pro offers zoom capabilities not available on the Infinix |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.3" | Pixel 7 Pro offers a wide field of view for group shots and landscape shots |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP (Depth) | None | Infinix features depth-sensing for portrait mode effects |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 4K@60fps with HDR & OIS | Pixel 7 Pro shoots at significantly higher quality with stabilization |
| DxoMark | - | Mobile: 147, Selfie: 142 | Pixel 7 Pro's camera performance is highly rated |
| Camera Features | Basic, Night Mode | Pro, RAW, OIS | Pixel 7 Pro features are pro-grade |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Pixel 7 Pro has a newer version of Android with more up-to-date security and features |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Pixel 7 Pro supports faster Wi-Fi with better performance |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Pixel 7 Pro has newer Bluetooth with improved stability and power consumption |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Pixel 7 Pro has more robust location tracking capabilities |
| SIM | Dual Nano | Dual Nano + eSIM | Pixel 7 Pro allows for digital carrier selection and dual sim management |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128GB | 128/256/512GB | Pixel 7 Pro has more internal storage options |
| RAM | 4/6/8GB | 12GB | Pixel 7 Pro has more RAM for better multitasking |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD card expansion |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS, Stereo | Noise Cancel, Stereo | Pixel 7 Pro offers better mic and noise cancellation features |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Infinix has an advanced side mounted sensor. Pixel has basic one |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 7 Pro is more robust due to a superior screen protection |
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Motion | Biometric, Proximity, Motion, Environmental | Pixel 7 Pro has a more robust suite of sensors for richer features |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96
- Strengths:
- Lighter and thinner design makes it comfortable to use for long periods.
- Fast 33W charging capability.
- More affordable price point.
- Decent AMOLED display
- Weaknesses:
- Significantly weaker performance and older chipset.
- Lower-resolution display with a slower 60Hz refresh rate.
- Basic camera capabilities without advanced features like OIS or telephoto lens.
- Runs on older Android 12 OS.
Google Pixel 7 Pro
- Strengths:
- Significantly better performance with a powerful Google Tensor G2 chip.
- Superior display with higher resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and higher brightness.
- Advanced camera system with multiple lenses, OIS, and excellent image processing.
- Latest Android version with guaranteed software updates.
- Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities.
- Enhanced connectivity (Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, extensive GPS)
- Robust protection with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
- Weaknesses:
- Heavier and thicker, which might be less comfortable for some users.
- Slower wired charging speed of 23W
- Higher price point
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life, a large AMOLED screen for media consumption, and a lightweight design.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday social media use and browsing
- Streaming videos and movies on the go
- Basic photography and video capture
- Users who are looking for a secondary phone or a daily driver without demanding tasks
Google Pixel 7 Pro
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize performance, photography, a high-quality display, and the latest software features, and who are willing to invest more for a premium experience.
- Use Cases:
- Heavy mobile gamers and multitasking users
- Professional photographers and videographers
- Users who want the latest Android software and features
- Anyone who wants a powerful and reliable daily driver
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- How much do I value performance and gaming capabilities? If you need a smooth, high-powered experience, the Pixel 7 Pro is the clear winner. If you're fine with basic performance, the Note 12 G96 might suffice.
- How important is camera quality to me? If you take a lot of photos and videos and care about quality, the Pixel 7 Pro's advanced camera system is a significant advantage. For basic needs, the Infinix is adequate.
- What's my budget? The Infinix Note 12 G96 is the much more budget-friendly option. The Pixel 7 Pro demands a premium but offers a high level of features and capabilities.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- For the Budget-Conscious User: Go with the Infinix Note 12 G96 if your needs are basic, and budget is your main concern.
- For the Photography Enthusiast: The Google Pixel 7 Pro is the superior choice, thanks to its advanced camera features and processing.
- For the Power User and Mobile Gamer: The Google Pixel 7 Pro delivers a smooth experience, thanks to its powerful processor and larger RAM
- For the All-Rounder User: If your budget allows, the Google Pixel 7 Pro is a significantly more well-rounded phone.
What Would I Choose and Why?
Personally, I would choose the Google Pixel 7 Pro. Here's why:
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I prioritize performance, camera quality, and the overall user experience. The Pixel 7 Pro offers a much more refined and powerful experience that aligns with these priorities. I love the smooth 120Hz display, the phenomenal camera with its versatile lenses, and the pure Android experience with prompt updates.
While I recognize the value in the Infinix Note 12 G96 for its lower price and lightweight design, the performance and camera trade-offs are too significant for my needs. The Pixel 7 Pro just feels like a significant step up in every category that truly matters to me. Plus, the enhanced connectivity and guaranteed software updates make it a more future-proof and capable device. It's the kind of phone that would make my daily tasks feel seamless and my creative pursuits more rewarding.
