Okay, let's break down the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Google Pixel 8 Pro. This is a classic David vs. Goliath matchup in the smartphone world, so buckle up!
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Google Pixel 8 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Physical Size | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | 162.6 × 76.5 × 8.8 mm | Pixel 8 Pro is slightly shorter and thicker, but the difference is negligible for most users. |
| Weight | 185g | 213g | Note 12 G96 is significantly lighter, better for extended use and pocketability. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-folding phones. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Identical screen size - comfortable for media consumption and browsing on both devices. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1344x2992 | Pixel 8 Pro's higher resolution offers sharper text and visuals, noticeable for detail-oriented tasks. |
| Pixel Density | 393 ppi | 489 ppi | Pixel 8 Pro's higher pixel density results in noticeably clearer and sharper images, reducing pixel visibility. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but slight differences in calibration may appeal to different preferences. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 8 Pro's 120Hz refresh rate results in smoother animations, making scrolling and gaming more fluid. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 2400 nits | Pixel 8 Pro is much brighter, offering better outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Tensor G3 on the Pixel 8 Pro provides significantly more processing power for demanding tasks, multitasking and AI. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 1,142,984 | Pixel 8 Pro exhibits a vastly higher performance score, promising faster app loading and superior gaming capabilities. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8 Pro's GPU is considerably more powerful, offering better graphics processing for games and demanding apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5050mAh | Comparable capacity, expect similar battery life on paper, but real usage may differ based on software and usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | 30W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | Note 12 G96 is slightly faster charging, but both should charge reasonably fast. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, 23W Wireless Charging, Non-removable | Pixel 8 Pro offers wireless charging and reverse charging, making it a versatile power solution. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard (Rear) | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76" | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31" | Pixel 8 Pro's larger sensor should capture more light, resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Selfie (Front) | 16MP, f/2.0 | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | Infinix has a higher megapixel count and wider aperture, but sensor size and processing play a bigger role in image quality. Pixel 8 Pro has a slightly smaller sensor. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 48MP, f/2.8, 1/2.55" | Pixel 8 Pro boasts a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom, while Infinix lacks this feature. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Infinix includes a depth sensor for enhanced portrait effects, which Pixel 8 Pro achieves through software algorithms. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | N/A | 48MP, f/1.95 | Pixel 8 Pro has a wide-angle + macro lens, while Infinix lacks this versatility. |
| Video | 1440p@30fps; No stabilization | Up to 4K@60fps with OIS and EIS, HDR | Pixel 8 Pro offers higher resolution video recording, stabilization (OIS & EIS) and HDR features, resulting in far superior videos. |
| DXOMark Scores | N/A | Mobile: 153, Selfie: 145 | Pixel 8 Pro's camera has been independently tested with excellent results, proving its high quality. |
| 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 | Noise reduction, Pro Video Mode, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI Engine, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Pixel 8 Pro offers a wide array of camera modes, features, and advanced capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | Pixel 8 Pro's latest Android OS offers newer features, better security, and likely longer software support. |
| Max OS Version | 21 | Google will provide longer-term operating system and security updates. | |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n, Dual-band | Wi-Fi 7, Dual-band, Wi-Fi MiMO | Pixel 8 Pro supports modern Wi-Fi standards for faster, more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Pixel 8 Pro has a newer Bluetooth version with higher quality audio codecs for better wireless sound. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Pixel 8 Pro supports more satellite systems for improved positioning accuracy, especially in challenging conditions. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Pixel 8 Pro has an eSIM option for more flexibility in managing your mobile connections. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256/512/1024 GB | Pixel 8 Pro offers significantly more storage options, catering to different user needs. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 12 GB | Pixel 8 Pro's 12GB of RAM delivers smoother multitasking and app management. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phones support external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Pixel 8 Pro has noise cancellation and 3 mics providing superior audio capturing. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Infinix has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor but Google's fingerprint sensor has many more features such as AI features. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Pixel 8 Pro's screen is well protected against scratches and falls. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer, Thermometer | Pixel 8 Pro has additional sensors for advanced functionalities such as advanced AI features, better health tracking. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96
- Strengths:
- Lightweight Design: The lighter build makes it comfortable for extended periods.
- Faster Charging: It has slightly faster charging.
- Wider Aperture Selfie Camera: Good for low-light selfie capturing.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Generally faster and more reliable than in-display sensors.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Price: This phone is aimed at budget-conscious consumers, offering decent specs at a lower price point.
- Trade-offs:
- Software: With an older version of Android, the Infinix might not have all the latest features.
- Performance: The MediaTek chip is not as powerful as the Google Tensor G3, resulting in slower performance.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
- Strengths:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness for a great visual experience.
- Exceptional Performance: The Tensor G3 chip offers top-tier performance for demanding tasks, and AI features.
- Advanced Camera: Excellent photo and video capabilities, thanks to a larger sensor and advanced features, like telephoto zoom and wide-angle lenses, and Google's famous image processing algorithms.
- Latest Software: Runs the most recent Android version with the promise of long-term software updates.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Ecosystem: Google's ecosystem gives a superior user experience with seamless integration and features.
- Trade-offs:
- Cost: A significantly higher price point.
- Weight: It is notably heavier than the Infinix.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a lightweight phone, and are looking for a reliable device for basic daily tasks such as calls, messaging, browsing, and light social media use.
- Use Cases: Everyday users, students, and those who need a secondary phone.
- Google Pixel 8 Pro:
- Ideal for: Tech enthusiasts, professional photographers, and those who demand the best performance, camera capabilities, and the latest software features.
- Use Cases: High-quality photography and video capture, professional tasks, gaming, advanced AI functionality, and users who value Google's ecosystem.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend? The Infinix is considerably more affordable than the Pixel 8 Pro.
- Performance: How important is top-tier performance for you? The Pixel 8 Pro dominates in this aspect.
- Camera Needs: Are you an enthusiast needing high-quality photos and videos with advanced features? The Pixel 8 Pro is the clear winner here.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Tight Budget, Basic Needs: If you just need a reliable device without breaking the bank, the Infinix Note 12 G96 is sufficient.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast: If photography is your passion and you want the best image quality with a versatile camera system, go with the Google Pixel 8 Pro.
- Scenario 3: Power User: If you need a top-performing phone for demanding games, professional work, and heavy multitasking, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is the only logical choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Google Pixel 8 Pro.
Here's why:
As a tech journalist and phone analyst, my priority is performance and innovation. The Google Pixel 8 Pro offers:
- Cutting-Edge Technology: The Tensor G3 chip, latest Android OS, advanced AI features, and premium camera capabilities are exactly what I look for in a modern phone.
- Photography Capabilities: As someone who needs high-quality photos and videos, the Pixel 8 Pro's camera, thanks to Google's computational photography and versatile lenses, makes the image quality stand out.
- Professional Requirements: I'm often testing new software and needing to multitask across several apps, which the Pixel 8 Pro’s 12 GB of RAM and robust processor handle with ease.
While the Infinix Note 12 G96 is a decent phone at an affordable price point, I'm willing to pay more for the best-in-class experience offered by the Pixel 8 Pro.
