Alright, let’s dive deep into this comparison between the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Huawei nova Y90. We're not just looking at specs on paper; we're exploring how these phones will actually perform in your hands.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, along with what each specification means for you:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Huawei nova Y90 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 163.3 x 74.7 x 8.4 mm | Note 12 G96 is slightly taller and wider; Nova Y90 is a bit thicker. |
| Weight | 185g | 195g | Infinix is slightly lighter; more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have the same large screen size, good for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2388 | Both offer crisp images, minor difference is negligible. |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 391 PPI | Virtually identical; both look sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED offers superior contrast, colors, and deeper blacks. Better for media and dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Nova Y90 will feel smoother in daily use and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits | Infinix Note 12 G96 is much brighter and more visible under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G96 | Snapdragon 680 4G | G96 offers more raw power; Snapdragon 680 is more efficient. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 249,000 | Infinix has slightly faster app loading and smoother overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 610 | Different architectures; G96's GPU is slightly more powerful for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.6 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Infinix captures more light with a wider aperture. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.0 | Infinix has a significantly higher resolution front camera for detailed selfies. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | Not present | Infinix can create a better depth effect in portraits. |
| Secondary Camera | Not Present | 2MP, f/2.4 | Huawei adds a dedicated secondary camera, potentially for Macro or other creative shots |
| Tertiary Camera | Not Present | 2MP, f/2.4 | Huawei adds a dedicated tertiary camera, potentially for Macro or other creative shots |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix records sharper videos, while Huawei limits to Full HD |
| Slow Motion | Yes, 120 fps | No, 30 fps | Infinix has much more capable slow-motion video. |
| Camera Features | Digital image stabilization, Manual Focus, Night Mode | Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting | Different focus options for different needs |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both should last a full day with typical usage. |
| Charging | 33W fast charge | 40W fast charge | Huawei charges faster; less downtime while charging. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Infinix offers a newer Android Version | |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Huawei has a slightly faster WiFi |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.0 | Infinix has a more efficient bluetooth version with more features |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Huawei has better location accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128 GB | Huawei has a standard 128GB while Infinix has an option for 64GB |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 4/6/8 GB | Both devices have sufficient RAM |
| Expandable Storage | Not Present | Not Present | Neither can expand storage |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | Infinix has superior audio quality. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both offer the basic biometric security |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Infinix has a Gyroscope, Huawei has a Compass and ultrasonic proximity sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Both use similar screen protection technologies. |
2. Key Insights
- Infinix Note 12 G96: This phone stands out with its superior AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks, which is a big plus for media consumption. It also boasts better performance with the MediaTek Helio G96, resulting in snappier apps and smoother gameplay. The 16MP selfie camera and the higher quality main camera and video recording are also significant advantages. Additionally, the audio system, featuring DTS and stereo speakers, delivers a much more immersive audio experience compared to the Huawei.
- Huawei nova Y90: This phone has a smoother display with a 90Hz refresh rate, which is better for browsing and scrolling. Its 40W charging is a little faster than Infinix, meaning less time plugged in. It also has a more comprehensive GPS system supporting more satellites for better location tracking.
Trade-offs:
- The Infinix sacrifices the smoothness of a 90Hz refresh rate for a superior AMOLED screen. Also, it does not have expandable storage.
- The Huawei, while offering faster charging and slightly better location accuracy, has a less vibrant display, an older Bluetooth version, and a less powerful processor.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Infinix Note 12 G96: Ideal for users who prioritize display quality, performance, and better camera capabilities. If you’re someone who watches a lot of videos, plays games, or takes lots of pictures, the Infinix is the better choice. It is perfect for content creators and media consumers.
- Huawei nova Y90: This is a solid phone for those who value smooth scrolling, fast charging, and good GPS. This is also better for those who love a more modern and minimalist design and don't require heavy performance.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize display quality for media consumption, or smoother scrolling for everyday use?
- If display quality and vibrancy are crucial, go with the Infinix. If a smoother screen is more important, choose the Huawei.
- Is camera performance a top priority?
- The Infinix excels with a higher quality front camera and better main camera, better for content creators.
- How important are faster charging and precise location tracking to you?
- If those are critical, the Huawei might edge out the Infinix, for people who are always on the move.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The "Media Lover": If you watch videos, movies, or play games a lot, the Infinix Note 12 G96, with its superior AMOLED display, higher resolution video recording, and enhanced audio, is the obvious choice.
- Scenario 2: The "Daily Commuter": If you primarily use your phone for browsing social media, navigation, and need to charge quickly, the Huawei nova Y90 will offer a smoother experience, with better location and charging features.
- Scenario 3: The "Budget Gamer": The Infinix Note 12 G96 has a better processor, and slightly better GPU, as well as a better camera for content creation.
My Pick
If I had to choose, I would go with the Infinix Note 12 G96. While the 90Hz refresh rate on the Huawei is nice, the AMOLED screen on the Infinix is simply too good to pass up. As a tech journalist, I often analyze images, videos, and play a lot of games, and that means the higher brightness and vibrant colors make a huge difference in the visual experience. Additionally, the better camera performance and better audio are important factors for me. The slightly better processor will also improve gaming performance. Although the Huawei has its merits, the overall package offered by the Infinix aligns with my needs.
