Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Realme 11. I'll break down the specs, discuss real-world implications, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a table comparing the key specifications of both phones, along with explanations of what these specs mean for real-world users:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Realme 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | 165.7 × 76 × 8.1 mm | Very similar sizes, the Realme 11 is just a tad taller and thicker. Likely negligible difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 185g | 190g | Both are fairly lightweight; the Infinix is a bit lighter, making it slightly more comfortable for long usage. |
| Build | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | The Realme 11 offers better protection against scratches and minor impacts. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.72" | Practically the same display size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp and detailed images on both, great for media consumption. |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 392 PPI | Very similar screen sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED offers deeper blacks, higher contrast, more vibrant colors and is generally more power efficient. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The Realme 11 display appears smoother, especially when scrolling or gaming due to its higher refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1000 nits | The Realme 11 screen will be much easier to see outdoors in bright sunlight due to its higher brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm) | The Realme 11's 6nm chip is more modern and energy-efficient than the 12nm G96, providing faster performance in daily tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 389,600 | The Realme 11 has higher benchmark scores, indicating a smoother and faster overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Similar graphics processing capabilities (with minor configuration differences). |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76" | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | Realme 11 has higher resolution and larger sensor, possibly better image quality and low-light performance, especially for detail. The Infinix has a wider aperture which helps with low-light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.0 | Infinix captures higher detail in selfies. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar portrait mode capabilities. |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | The Infinix can record at a higher resolution, but may not be a huge deal since most social media platforms downscale. |
| Features | Triple camera, Manual focus, Night Mode | Dual camera, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting | Infinix offers more camera versatility with the triple lens and dedicated manual controls. Realme offers PDAF for faster focusing, especially in action. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar all-day battery life expected on both phones, depending on usage. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Both phones charge relatively quickly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Realme 11 comes with a newer Android version for better performance, features and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Realme 11 supports a newer wifi standard (ac), potentially faster speeds on compatible networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.1 | Realme 11 has better codec support for better audio quality. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | The Realme 11 offers more accurate positioning with support for additional satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both phones support Dual SIM with dual standby. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Realme 11 offers more storage, especially for heavy users with lots of photos, videos and apps. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 8GB/12GB | Realme 11 has more RAM, excellent for heavy multitasking and demanding games. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | Infinix Note 12 G96 has a slight edge in audio features offering enhanced surround sound, better audio separation and immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both have side-mounted fingerprint sensors for convenient unlocking. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Heart Rate, Geomagnetic | Realme 11 has a more complete set of sensors, which can be useful in apps and activities. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96: Strengths
- Display Technology: The AMOLED screen is a major win, providing better colors, blacks, and contrast.
- Selfie Camera: Higher resolution front camera for detailed selfies.
- Audio Quality: DTS and stereo speakers enhance the sound experience.
- Video Recording: Capable of 1440p resolution recording.
Infinix Note 12 G96: Limitations
- Older Chipset: The Mediatek G96 is less powerful and efficient compared to the Dimensity 6100+.
- Lower Refresh Rate: 60Hz display isn't as smooth as the Realme 11's 120Hz panel.
- Lower Brightness: The display may struggle in very bright outdoor conditions.
- Older Android Version: It comes with Android 12 out of the box, which is less updated.
- No Expandable storage: Limited by internal storage with no way to expand.
Realme 11: Strengths
- Performance: The Dimensity 6100+ chipset offers better performance and efficiency.
- Display: 120Hz refresh rate and much brighter display, making it great for gaming and outdoor use.
- Main Camera: Higher resolution and larger sensor in the primary camera.
- Software: It has the latest version of Android 13 out of the box.
- Connectivity: It has support for newer Wifi standard, and better codecs for Bluetooth
- Storage: More storage and RAM options.
- Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 provides superior protection against scratches and minor impacts.
Realme 11: Limitations
- Display Type: IPS LCD is not as vibrant or contrasty as an AMOLED panel, such as in the Infinix Note 12 G96.
- Audio Features: Basic audio features without any surround sound, DTS, or stereo speaker options.
- Selfie Camera: Lower-resolution selfie camera.
- No Expandable storage: Limited by internal storage with no way to expand.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Best For: Users who prioritize display quality (AMOLED), better audio and like the video recording capability.
- Use Cases: Media consumption (movies, videos), casual gaming, social media, and users who take a lot of selfies.
- Considerations: Best suited for people who don't mind older processors and who don't prioritize performance as much, and users who won't miss expandable storage.
Realme 11:
- Best For: Users who need smooth performance, a very bright display for outdoor use, and a better primary camera.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, photography, general everyday use, and those who need to use their phone in bright conditions.
- Considerations: Best for people who want a snappy phone and don't mind the IPS display, and users who won't miss expandable storage.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your choice:
How important is display quality?
- If you value vibrant colors and deep blacks, the Infinix's AMOLED is better.
- If you prefer a smooth display with high brightness for outdoor visibility, choose the Realme.
Do you need smooth performance for heavy usage, or will a good display and audio be enough?
- For heavy gaming, demanding apps, or multitasking, the Realme's chipset and more RAM will provide better experience.
- If you only need a phone for casual use and prioritize screen and audio quality, the Infinix is more than sufficient.
How important is the main camera and its sensor?
- If you tend to use your primary camera a lot, you might like the Realme's slightly better sensor and resolution.
- If you are okay with 50MP instead of 64MP and a slightly smaller sensor, the Infinix has a decent camera.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Mobile Gamer: Realme 11 for the smoother 120Hz display, better performance, and more RAM.
- Casual User: The Infinix Note 12 G96 might be fine with AMOLED panel if you prioritize screen quality and audio and don't need the most cutting edge performance.
- Photographer: Realme 11 with the better primary camera sensor and PDAF.
- Media Consumer: Infinix Note 12 G96 will provide more enjoyable viewing with AMOLED and DTS audio.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would go with the Realme 11. While I appreciate the Infinix Note 12 G96's AMOLED screen and audio enhancements, the Realme 11 is the more well-rounded device. The newer chipset, 120Hz refresh rate, brighter display, significantly better primary camera sensor, and more storage, are all features that are crucial to me. The improved performance would be a noticeable boost and the display would be much easier to see outdoors. While the Infinix is a strong contender for its target audience, I prioritize a fast and responsive phone with an excellent camera, and the Realme 11 delivers on these fronts more effectively.
