Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Motorola Edge 40 Neo. I'll break down the specs, highlight the key differences, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specifications, presented in a way that explains what each spec means for your daily use:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Motorola Edge 40 Neo | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-16 | 2023-09-14 | The Edge 40 Neo is a newer device, benefiting from more recent tech. |
| Dimensions (mm) | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 | 159.6 x 72 x 7.9 | Edge 40 Neo is more compact and likely more comfortable in hand. The Note 12 G96 is larger and might feel bulky. |
| Weight (g) | 185 | 170 | Edge 40 Neo is significantly lighter, easier for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.7 | 6.55 | Note 12 G96 has a slightly larger screen for media consumption, while Edge 40 Neo might be better for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both provide a sharp Full HD+ display. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 393 | 402 | Both offer similar sharpness; pixel density difference is negligible in real-world use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | P-OLED | Both are high-quality OLED displays, with very similar color rendition. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 144Hz | Edge 40 Neo provides a much smoother experience, especially for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness (nits) | 650 | 1300 | Edge 40 Neo is significantly brighter, making it much easier to see in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 7030 (6nm) | Edge 40 Neo has a more modern, efficient chipset, leading to better performance and battery management. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 527,666 | Edge 40 Neo offers significantly better performance, smoother multitasking, and better gaming capabilities. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G610 MC3 | Edge 40 Neo has a superior GPU for more graphically intensive tasks and better gaming performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 5000 | Both have the same battery size, but the Edge 40 Neo is expected to have better battery life due to more efficient processor. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 68W Fast Charging | Edge 40 Neo charges much faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer is generally more durable and safer. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.6, 1/2.76" | 50MP f/1.8, 1/1.55" | Edge 40 Neo has a larger sensor size for better light capture and image quality, particularly in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 32MP f/2.4 | Edge 40 Neo captures more detailed selfies with higher resolution. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP f/2.4 | N/A | Note 12 G96 has a dedicated portrait depth sensor for portrait shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | N/A | 13MP f/2.2 | Edge 40 Neo offers more versatile photography with the ultrawide/macro lens. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60/120/240fps | Edge 40 Neo captures higher quality videos and offers more frame-rate options for better cinematic footage. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes (EIS) | Edge 40 Neo has better stabilization resulting in smoother videos. |
| DxoMark Score | N/A | Mobile (103), Photo (102), Video (116) | Edge 40 Neo has a tested score. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Edge 40 Neo has a newer operating system, likely getting more updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Edge 40 Neo supports faster and more reliable WiFi for faster downloads and online gaming. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.4 | Edge 40 Neo has a newer, more power-efficient Bluetooth with better audio quality options. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, etc. | Edge 40 Neo has more accurate and reliable location tracking in diverse environments. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Edge 40 Neo offers flexibility with an eSIM, allowing easy carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128GB | 256GB | Edge 40 Neo comes with more built in storage, suitable for users who have lots of photos, videos and app data. |
| RAM | 4/6/8GB | 8/12GB | Edge 40 Neo has more RAM, ensuring smoother multitasking and responsiveness. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Edge 40 Neo offers enhanced spatial audio and improved voice capture quality. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic | Note 12 G96 has a more advanced side-mounted sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Edge 40 Neo screen is more resistant to scratches and minor damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Edge 40 Neo offers more advanced sensor set. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Slightly Larger Screen: Good for media consumption.
- Wider Aperture Selfie Camera: Potentially better low-light selfies.
- Dedicated Portrait Camera: Adds a depth effect.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More ergonomic placement for unlocking.
Motorola Edge 40 Neo Strengths:
- Superior Performance: Faster chipset, higher AnTuTu score, better for gaming and multitasking.
- Significantly Better Display: Higher refresh rate and much brighter for better visibility, especially outdoors.
- More Advanced Camera System: Larger main sensor, ultrawide/macro lens, higher quality video recording, and OIS.
- Faster Charging: 68W compared to 33W.
- Newer Software and Features: Android 13 with upgrade, newer Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and more advanced GPS.
- eSIM Support: Offers flexibility in mobile carrier usage.
- Larger Storage and RAM: With 256 GB storage and 8/12GB of RAM.
- Better Build Quality: with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection
Trade-offs:
- The Infinix Note 12 G96 is older, meaning it will be less future proof, with a lower refresh rate.
- The Motorola Edge 40 Neo lacks a dedicated depth sensor, but it offers more versatility with its ultrawide/macro lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is Best For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for a large screen experience at a lower price point.
- Casual Users: Those who prioritize a large display for media consumption and don't need cutting-edge performance or camera capabilities.
- Those Who Prefer Side-Mounted Fingerprint Readers: Offers a more advanced side-mounted sensor.
Motorola Edge 40 Neo is Best For:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who need a snappy and responsive device for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Photography Lovers: Those who value versatile and high-quality camera systems, including low-light capabilities.
- On-The-Go Individuals: People who benefit from fast charging and a brighter display for outdoor visibility.
- Tech Forward Users: Those who desire the latest connectivity standards, better audio quality and future-proofed software.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
How important is performance to you? If gaming and heavy multitasking are your primary concerns, the Edge 40 Neo is the clear winner.
What do you value most in a display? If a smooth and bright display for outdoor use is crucial, go with the Edge 40 Neo. The 144Hz refresh rate makes a significant difference in daily use, and it is a significantly brighter panel.
What is your budget? If you're on a tight budget and can compromise on performance, the Infinix Note 12 G96 may be suitable, but it's important to consider how much you are giving up for the cost difference.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For a student on a budget: The Infinix Note 12 G96, if the primary focus is basic use with a large screen. Otherwise, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo provides much better long-term value.
- For a casual user: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is superior, with its better performance, display, and camera.
- For an avid mobile gamer: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is the only logical choice due to its higher performance.
- For content creators: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo with its higher video recording capabilities and camera features is a much better choice.
Conclusion: My Choice
If I had to choose between these two, I would absolutely pick the Motorola Edge 40 Neo. Yes, it is a little bit more expensive but the Motorola Edge 40 Neo provides much better performance across the board. The improved performance, superior display (brighter, smoother), better camera system (larger sensor, 4K recording, wider lens), and more future-proof features (newer OS, faster charging) make it the clear winner for me. The added benefits of the eSIM support and significantly more internal storage are also valuable considerations. While the Infinix has its charm with a slightly larger display and portrait sensor, the difference is nowhere near significant compared to all the other improvements of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo.
Essentially, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo delivers a more modern and premium experience that would enhance daily use significantly, which is my primary focus when considering a smartphone.
